Summer of Brave by Amy Noelle Parks - ADVISABLE

Summer of Brave by Amy Noelle Parks, 232 pages. Albert Whitman and Company, 2021. $17 

Content: G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

12yo Lilla Baxter-Willoughby does not lie, she just keeps a lot of things to herself. She does not tell her divorced parents how much she hates moving between their two apartments - having two bedrooms, but not really a place that is hers.  Lilla also keeps peace with her best friend and does not tell Vivi that she got the junior camp counselor job that Vivi wanted. Lilla is worried her life will be ruined if she starts saying how she really feels and what she really wants. During this summer of brave, Lilla and her best friends have a dare to write down every time they tell a lie or an omission. Lilla comes to realize that she tells way more lies (by omission) than she realized she did. She almost buckles under all the pressure from her parents, the camp counselor and her friends. She finally comes up with a brilliant way to let everybody know. 

I loved this book! I would recommend it to all students, 5th grade and up. Definitely a MUST READ. I could not put this book down. For me, it was a one-sitting read.

 Ellen-Anita, LMS 

Traitors Among Us by Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch - ADVISABLE

Traitors Among Us by Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch, 264 pages. Scholastic Press, 2021. $8. 

Content: PG (some torture) 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Maria and Krystia thought they were finally safe in an American Zone refugee camp in Germany. However, one night some Soviet enforcers arrive and basically kidnap the girls after Sophie, the Hitler’s Youth daughter from the Huber farm, outs their hiding place. Now they and Sophie and a father/son pair have been dragged to the Soviet Zone and interrogated by the brutal guards. Not only do the Soviets despise the Nazis, they also can’t stand the idea that anyone who should “belong to them”, should try to find a new life for themselves. All of the new prisoners are desperate to escape, but it will take cunning and luck to survive. 

I love the new dimensions that Skrypuch has added to the WWII story. The arc of the Marie/Krystia story has been entertaining and educational. Just the right amount of tension. I do hope the girls have finally found a safe refuge! 

 Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Up North: A Millie Story by Martha Langager Klopp - ADVISABLE

Up North: A Millie Story by Martha Langager Klopp, 197 pages. Odin's Opus Publishing, 2020. $10. 978-1733208925 

Content: G 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Millie invites her best friend Cora to their cabin in the northwoods for a week during the summer. This week is going to be awesome: swimming, canoeing and exploring the beautiful lake and the islands. They haven't been there long when Millie's yellow lab, Angus disappears. Angus has a medical problem and needs medicine; they need to find him quick. In their search for Angus they discover a mysterious hermit on a small island and that another visitor by the lake wants to buy up all the land and the forests around the lake to build a big resort. Can the girls find Angus and stop the developer?

 Up North is a fast and easy read. I was glad to read the second book in the Millie saga. Millie and Cora are brave and adventurous. They even use some magic potions they learned about in the first book. I recommend this book and I think girls from 5 - 8th grade would really enjoy this story. Millie and Cora are pretty mature for their age and put good thoughts into their actions. Millie's parents are great, they trust Millie and let her and Cora keep searching for Angus.

 Ellen-Anita, LMS https://amzn.to/3jvFPsD

Ghost Girl by Ally Malinenko - ADVISABLE

Ghost Girl by Ally Malinenko, 275 pages. Katherine Tegen (Harper), 2021. $17. 9780063044609 

Content: G (some scares) 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Zee and her older sister, Abby, had been keeping it together since their father took on a long haul trucking job upstate, but it’s been a while since he came home. And now the queen mean girl at school, Nellie, has ramped up her verbal bullying and gets Zee suspended when she can’t take it any more. Then a huge storm kicks up and a new principal rolls in – Principal Scratch. Zee immediately dislikes him, but no one else in the whole town will listen to her warnings – except her best frirnd, Elijah, and evil Nellie. They will have to defeat Scratch on their own. 

While definitely dark in places, Ghost Girl reminds me of a really good Buffy episode. Your readers who love ghost stories will embrace it. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS

The Star Outside My Window by Onjali Q. Rauf - ADVISABLE

The Star Outside My Window by Onjali Q. Rauf, 284 pages. Delacorte Press (Random), 2019. $17

Content: G (domestic abuse mentioned) 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

10yo Aniyah and her brother Noah are in a foster home after the sudden disappearance of their mother. They had been playing a game of hide-and-seek from their father. On some level Aniyah realizes her mother has died, but knows that people aren't gone forever when they die. She knows her mom will be a bright star in the sky and that she will find a way to contact them. Aniyah is a star hunter and she knows all the constellations on paper. Every night she watches the sky for a new star. When a bright new star appears, it is a huge world event. Aniyah knows that she must name the star with her mother’s name. Millions of people from all around the world send in suggestions. Will Aniyah be able to convince people that only she knows the real name?

 A very powerful, well written book with great character development. At the edge of Aniyah's conscience is what has happened in her life. She has lost the memory and her voice. There is a great cast of characters in the book that want to help her. This is a heart-warming story that will ring true for children and adults alike. I think this would be a great read-aloud too. There would be a lot of things to discuss and we can learn from this to be kinder and to listen carefully to what others are trying to tell us. I could not put this book down. Each new chapter is headed with a constellation, with the names in the back matter, among other helpful guides.

 Ellen-Anita, Librarian https://amzn.to/37qRjIh

Poultrygeist by Eric Geron, illustrated by Pete Oswald - ESSENTIAL

Poultrygeist by Eric Geron, illustrated by Pete Oswald. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2021. $17. 9781536210507

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

The chicken is very innocently crossing the road when it suddenly finds itself on The Other Side! 

A feast for the eye and for the ear! Oswald’s color palete hits just the right note. I really, really wanted this book to glow in the dark – it feels like it should, but I’m ok that it doesn’t. Plus he adds so many visual treats for those with sharp eyes. Geron doesn’t slack either. The text is chockful of puns - so many that the 9th grade teacher I was showing it to wants me to keep it so he can read with his classes. The chicken even breaks the 4th wall. This will be a favorite! 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS

Gopher Golf by Karl Beckstrand and Jordan Brun - ADVISABLE

Gopher Golf by Karl Beckstrand, illustrated by Jordan Brun. WORDLESS PICTURE BOOK. Premio Publishing and Gozobooks, 2021. $12. 9781951599102

 BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

 AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Feast upon the wordless antics of two gophers playing golf and all the things that happen while they do. 

The darling illustrations and full of life. Children will love coming up with their own stories about. I could see looking at the pictures with a young child, having them tell the story and then writing down what they say. In a few days or a few weeks, do this over again and keep the stories the child tells and read it back to them. This might even be a fun project for Kindergarten and 1st grade students. 

 Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

Rodeo Red by Maripat Perkins and Molly Idle - ESSENTIAL

Rodeo Red by Maripat Perkins, illustrated by Molly Idle. PICTURE BOOK. Peachtree Publishing, 2021. $8. 9781682632031 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Rodeo Red loves to ride her horse everywhere. Everywhere they go they take Rodeo Red's hound dog Rusty with them. They have a lot of fun adventures together. That is, until Slim came along and stole Rusty. Rodeo Red tried every trick in the book to get Rusty back, but the sheriff and the deputy put a stop to that. What will Rodeo Red to do? Can she finally get Rusty back for good?

A delightful book, with delightful illustrations full of feeling. It is easy to tell how Red feels from the illustrations. The cowboy language lends authenticity to the story. I found the book to be original and fun. I loved this story of sibling rivalry and had to smile and giggle several times. Enjoy it with your children and grandchildren.

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

Quiet Please! by Jennifer Richard Jacobson and Paula Franco - OPTIONAL

Quiet Please! (Twig and Turtle #3) by Jennifer Richard Jacobson, illustrated by Paula Franco. 102 pages. CHAPTER BOOK. Pixel + Ink (TGM Development Corp), 2020. $15. 9781645950455 

Content: G 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL -- OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Twig and her family of four, plus a dog, all live in a tiny house. This can be really special, but it can also cause some difficulties, especially when Twig needs some peace and quiet in order to log reading hours for her class competition. 

The third book in this series of three (so far), this will likely appeal to young school-age girls who like to read about other young school-age girls. It is an easy-to-understand story, even without reading the first two books in the series. Each chapter is a repeat of the chapter before, which made it simple to breeze through, but difficult to thoroughly enjoy. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

You are Always Loved by Madeline Dean and Harry Cunnane and Holly Clifton-Brown - ESSENTIAL

You are Always Loved: a story of hope by Madeline Dean and Harry Cunnane, illustrated by Holly Clifton-Brown. PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2021. $18. 9780593309247 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

A little bunny is lost in the forest during a rainstorm. He has lots of friends that help him and he realizes that even when things are difficult and uncertain, one thing stays the same. He knows that he is loved.

This tender story of unconditional love is delightful. A darling story about little bunny and the friends that help him. The illustrations are beautiful and heartwarming. A darling book and a good read aloud for young children. I hope you read this to your children or/and grandchildren. 

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

Penny for Your Thoughts by Erica-Jane Waters - ADVISABLE

Penny for Your Thoughts (Miss Bunsen's School for Brilliant Girls Book #3) by Erica-Jane Waters. 121 pages. Albert Whitman & Company, 2020. $6. 9780807551387 

Content: G 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL -- ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

The students at Miss Bunsen's School for Brilliant Girls are on an unplanned field trip to answer an anonymous letter promising a large amount of money. What they actually get is a large number of problems, and they may lose their school because of it. 

 Although part of a series, this book is easily understandable and quite enjoyable even on its own. There is enough description and certainly enough drama to captivate a reader right from the get-go. There are many messages about girl-power, friendship, respect, and the importance of feelings written into the story, all served with a touch of subtle humor and playfulness. It is whimsical yet wonderfully relatable. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

The Square Root of Possible by Lyn Sisson-Talbert and David E. Talbert - ADVISABLE

The Square Root of Possible: a Jingle Jangle Story by Lyn Sisson-Talbert and David E. Talbert. PICTURE BOOK. Razorbill (Penguin), 2020. $18. 9780593203835 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Journey Jangle dreams of becoming a great inventor like her grandfather, Jeronicus Jangle. She sets off in search of her grandfather. When she finds him, she is disappointed to find that he only has a old and dusty pawn shop. Journey decides to add her own special touch and happy disposition to work to help her grandfather put special magic into Christmas and the toy workshop.

Journey is happy and whimsical and she spreads good will wherever she goes. It is a fun book and the illustrations are just delightful. The book is based on a Netflix Film and it might be fun to read the book with your child and then watch the movie together. 

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

The Pet Parade by Dori Hillestad Butler and Kevan Atteberry - ADVISABLE

The Pet Parade (Dear Beast Book #2) by Dori Hillestad Butler, illustrated by Kevan Atteberry. PICTURE BOOK. Holiday House, 2021. $16. 9780823444939 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) -- ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Andy is going to participate in his last pet parade. Simon, his pet cat, doesn't really like parades, but he REALLY doesn't like being left out. Simon writes letters to the other pets so he can find out what's happening in the parade and learns what the best prize of all is. 

This is so darling. A lot is going on in the text of the book, with the various character styles and personalities of all the animals writing letters to each other. It is a unique way to delve into a story, though, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This works well as a read aloud for younger children and a read alone for those with the vocabulary and decoding skills. Either way, this is a very engaging story, told entirely through written correspondence, which is a unique thing to see in these days of texts and quick emails. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

It's Girls Like You, Mickey by Patti Kim - ESSENTIAL

It's Girls Like You, Mickey by Patti Kim, 233 pages. Atheneum (Simon), 2020. $18 

Content: G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Mickey has always had a lot of confidence, but this year she is nervous about starting 7th grade. Her best friend Ok moved. Mickey and Ok have kept up their friendship by writing letters and postcards to each other. Who will she sit by at lunch? Things look better when a new Korean girl is placed in her class, Sun Joo. Soon they are best friends and do everything together. Mickey and Sun Joo get into some hilarious situations as Mickey tries to teach Sun Joo English and Sun Joo tries to teach Mickey some Korea. One day Sydney, the mean girl, decides that she will be Sun Joo's friend. Mickey feels bad. Can they work this out? Can they all three be friends? Mickey's mom smokes too much and Mickey is trying to get her to stop that bad habit. Mickey also takes care of her younger brother, Benny. When mom loses her job, what will they do? 

I laughed out loud and I also shed some tears. Mickey is spunky and she has guts and grits. Mickey is not afraid to just be herself. She helps her mom, takes care of her brother and she is sure her dad has left for good. The story is well written, characters and strong and believable. I could not put this book down. I felt like I was ""right there"" with Mickey. This was a powerful book and the author writes 7th grade girls so well!

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

They Only See the Outside by Kalli Dakos and Jimothy Oliver - ESSENTIAL

They Only See the Outside by Kalli Dakos, illustrated by Jimothy Oliver. PICTURE BOOK/POETRY. Magination Press, 2021. $17. 9781433835193 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL – ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

A book of poetry, some rhyming, and some free form, this is written expressly for children but will delight adults, as well. The topics, illustrations, and words all speak to young souls and their many experiences with friends, school, and family. 

These poems are an absolute joy to read and think through. They are insightful and touching. Ms. Dakos has a gift of understanding and insight. Her poems are a wonderful way to expose young children to the power of poetry. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

A Feel Better Book for Little Sports by Brockman, Bowen, and Ng-Benitez - ADVISABLE

A Feel Better Book for Little Sports by Holly Brockman and Leah Bowen, illustrated by Shirley Ng-Benitez. PICTURE BOOK. Magination Press, 2021. $17. 9781433836947 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

The book is about sports activities that young children often take part in. It talks about how you should participate in the sport of your choice and do it for the enjoyment of doing it. It is important to focus more on the enjoyment of what you do instead of focusing on winning and loosing. It shows children how to be "a good sport" and to put their best effort into what they do. It is important to be kind even if you are tough at the same time. 

I liked that the story was written in rhyme. I flowed easy and the beautiful and colorful illustrations showed the story in pictures and it is easy to follow for young children. A couple of my young grandchildren have participated in sports and they loved this book when I read it to them. We discussed the story, the pictures and connected it to the sports they played. They said how much fun they had even when they lost the game. I think children will love having this read to them, and maybe it will encourage some children to participate in sports activities.

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

To the Future, Ben Franklin by Mary Pope Osborne - ADVISABLE

To the Future, Ben Franklin (Magic Tree House #32) by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by AG Ford, 89 pages. Random House Children's Books (Penguin Random House), 2019. $6. Content: G 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL -- ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Annie and Jack magically travel back in time to Old Philadelphia, looking to help someone named Dr. Ben. They eventually discover that they are to encourage Benjamin Franklin to sign the United States Constitution, but first they get to show him the wonders of modern-day America. To anyone familiar with the Magic Tree House series, this book reads exactly as expected, apart from Morgan le Fay's appearance near the end of the book. 

 Fans of this book will be either devotees of the Magic Tree House series, or someone interested in Ben Franklin (or both). It is a fanciful way to imagine a well-known character out of his time and a nice way to look at America as making a lot of progress since its inception. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

Lord Help Me: Inspiring Prayers for Every Day by Emme Muniz and Brenda Fifueroa - GIFT

Lord Help Me: Inspiring Prayers for Every Day by Emme Muniz, illustrated by Brenda Fifueroa. PICTURE BOOK. Crown Books (Random), 2020. $19. 9780593120088 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - GIFT 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: ADVISABLE

 Even children have very busy lives and a lot of things happening with pressures from school and from home, from friends and others. Sometimes everything seems rushed and chaotic. In all of this it is good to always keep a prayer in your heart to help you through the day and to help you get to sleep at night. I loved this book. It is simple and so poignant. The author is a young girl and I like how she remembers to pray to God to help her with things in her daily life. I even gained strength and faith from her simple and profound prayers. This is a great book for everyone.

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

The Homework Squad's ADHD Guide to School Success - OPTIONAL

The Homework Squad's ADHD Guide to School Success by Joshua Shifrin, illustrated by Tracy Nishimura Bishop. 129 pages. NON-FICTION/CHAPTER BOOK. Magination Press, 2021. $15. 9781433833755

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS -- OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW

Journal prompts, chapter challenges, and helpful tips and tricks begin each chapter of this handbook to how to best handle homework challenges. Short pop-up blurbs from illustrated characters share encouragement and wisdom from their own experience. 

Written specifically for students who are blessed with the challenges of ADHD, there is a lot of information on each page and in each chapter. But therein lies a potential problem: there is A LOT of information on each page! If staying focused and on task is already a challenge, reading through the vast amount of text in this book may prove to be more than many readers are up for, especially if reading this book is on top of homework they already have! 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

What the Kite Saw by Anne Laurel Carter and Akin Duzakin - ESSENTIAL

What the Kite Saw by Anne Laurel Carter, illustrated by Akin Duzakin. PICTURE BOOK. Groundwood Books, 2021, $19. 9781773062433 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

A small boy lives in country of turmoil and war. One day soldiers come and take his father and his brother away. Big tanks roll noisily through the streets and tell people to stay inside and that anyone caught outside will be shot. It is hard not to be scared and the boy’s little sister won't stop crying. On a windy day after the curfew is lifted the boy meets his friend in the park. He has an idea and shares it with his friends. He goes home and make a big kite. He tells the kite about all the things it might see. After dark the next night he flies his kite high in the air. Soon there are other kites. Then a lot of shots and kites start falling out of the sky. Will the boys kite make it? What will it see?

 This was great, and it reminded me of stories my mom told from when she was a little girl in Norway during WWII. Soldiers in the streets, curfew, rations, curtains to black out all light, soldiers and shots fired. The story is beautifully told eloquently tell the story. The story is wonderfully supported with amazing illustrations. Many children live where there is war this brings their story and their plight to life. I highly recommend this book. 

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

Follow Your Art, by Trish Granted and Manuela Lopez - ADVISABLE

Follow Your Art (Jeanie & Genie #3), by Trish Granted, illustrated by Manuela Lopez, 121 pages. CHAPTER BOOK. Little Simon (Simon and Schuster), 2021. $18. 

Content: G

 BUYING ADVISORY: EL – ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

 Jeanie and Willow have a tricky problem to solve when one of Willow's magic tricks brings all the art for the school art show to life! Jeanie and her genie friend, Willow, must figure out a way to keep all the art inside the gym, but things keep escaping into the classrooms of Rivertown Elementary. 

This is a fun book for readers familiar with the Jeanie and Genie books, although the story is easy enough to understand without having read the first two books. Like the others, it has short chapters, an engaging story, and fun illustrations. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

Sonata for Fish and Boy by Milan Pavlovic - ESSENTIAL

Sonata for Fish and Boy by Milan Pavlovic. WORDLESS PICTURE BOOK. Groundwood Books, 2021. $19. 9781773061610 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

A boy sits on a park bench, playing his violin. A fish hears the music and it is beautiful. the fish jumps out of the water and the music carry the boy and the fish on great adventures. They fly over other musicians, over houses and birds until they soar among planets. In a forest of huge dandelions they hear music. As the follow the music the come to a small cottage. Inside the cottage is band playing beautiful music. The boy and the fish are swept up in the music and tumble back to their park bench.

I was so excited to read the newest book by this great artist. It is a wordless picture book, but a picture is worth 1,000 words. I am sure children will retell the story in their own words, while looking the pictures. It would be fun to hear how different and how similar their stories would be. It might also be a fun project for writing to have students write the story in their own words, like a poem, like a rhyme and look for differences and similarities in their stories. What a cute book! 

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

The Woodcarver's Daughter by Yona Zeldis McDonough - OPTIONAL

The Woodcarver's Daughter by Yona Zeldis McDonough, 110 pages. Kar-Ben Publishing (Lerner Publishing Group), 2021. $18. 

Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (mention of pogroms, beatings) 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL – OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Batya and her family decide to emigrate from Russia to America to escape the persecution that has been heaped upon the Jewish people of their village. The Breittelmann family faces further difficulties once they are in the United States and must work hard to find a way to have happiness in their new home. 

This is an engaging story, filled with enough history and drama to keep the reader engaged. The story is likely to appeal to a female audience, and it has a definite "girls-can-do-anything" message. You'd have to hand sell it, though, because the cover is decidedly unappealing.

 Keri, elementary school teacher 

When Mom's Away by Layla Ahmad and Farida Zaman - ESSENTIAL

When Mom's Away by Layla Ahmad, illustrated by Farida Zaman. PICTURE BOOK. Second Story Press, 2021. $19. 9781772601756 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

 When mom has to go away for awhile to care for people in the hospital with Covid-19, a little girl is sad. Mom is a doctor and she is needed at the hospital to care for all the sick people. The garage is made into a bedroom for mom. She can't come in the house and risk making the girl and her dad sick with the nasty virus. The little girl and her dad keep busy cooking together, keeping things clean, washing hands and wearing masks when they go outside. They do all they can to stay healthy and busy. She even gets to help her grandparents.

The whole Covid-19 pandemic has been hard on everyone, but this book helps build confidence and strength in working together when things are hard. The little girl is very brave through all this, mom gone, not attending school in-person, but doing on-line school. 

 Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

France Treasure Quest by Steven Wolfe Pereira and Susie Jaramillo - ADVISABLE

France Treasure Quest (Tiny Travelers) by Steven Wolfe Pereira and Susie Jaramillo. NON-FICTION/BOARD BOOK. Encantos, 2021. $13. 9781945635342 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K – ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

This isn't a travel-guide, but rather a non-fiction book of facts about France. The treasure quest is for hidden pictures and interesting gems of information to be found on each page. I learned many new facts through reading this book. The cartoon-like illustrations belie the amount of information in the book, as does the board-book design. It is well-constructed for little hands but filled with loads of information for older or more inquisitive readers. There is quite a contrast between the look of the book and the amount of information contained in it. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

A Garden to Save the Birds by Wendy McClure and Beatriz Mayumi - ESSENTIAL

A Garden to Save the Birds by Wendy McClure, illustrated by Beatriz Mayumi. PICTURE BOOK. Albert Whitman and Company, 2021. $17. 9780807527535 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Callum, Emmy and mom hear a big "bump" on the window. By the time they get outside the bird that hit the window is trying to get up and fly away. Many birds are not as lucky as that bird. That night they read all they can find on birds. They find out that windows look like the sky to the birds. There aren't as many birds as there used to be. Learning all they can they go about making a bird friendly back yard. They build bird houses, set out a heated bird bath that will not freeze in the winter. They make their yard into a sanctuary for birds.

What a neat story! We love to watch the birds in our back yard and we have a bird friendly yard. It was fun read about all the ways we can help birds by making friendlier yards for them. It will be a great way to get children excited about making a difference. The illustrations are gorgeous and go really well with the story. It is a beautiful book. Enjoy!

 

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

Moose, Goose, and Mouse by Mordecai Gerstein and Jeff Mack - ADVISABLE

Moose, Goose, and Mouse by Mordecai Gerstein, illustrated by Mordecai Gerstein and Jeff Mack. PICTURE BOOK. Holiday House, 2021. $19. 9780823447602 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre- K, EL (K-3) – ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Three friends--a moose, a goose, and a mouse--all live together in a house. There are problems with the house, though, and all three of them dream of finding someplace different to live. They go on an adventure to find the perfect house and find out that dreams can come true. 

What a fun and darling book! Written in rhyme, the story has a sing-song quality that goes well with the fantastical nature of the characters and their search for a new home together. The colors are vibrant, as is the sense of fun throughout this book. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

When Father Comes Home by Sarah Jung - ESSENTIAL

When Father Comes Home by Sarah Jung. PICTURE BOOK. Orchard Books, 2020. $19. 9781338355703 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

 June lives with his mom, his brother and his father. June's father flies far away and is gone for long periods of time. June's favorite fruit is a tangerine. One day father says they are going to plant a tangerine tree. June is so excited. Father explains that next time he comes home the tree will be bigger, and so will June. Then one day it's time for goodbye again as dad flies off to work. June is worried something will happen to the tangerine tree and that if it does, will father even come home again?

Sometimes it is hard for children to understand why a parent is gone so much. When they are back together again things are wonderful. I loved this book and its beautiful illustrations. I hope to see more books from this talented author/illustrator. A really worth while reading experience. 

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

Line and Scribble by Debora Vagrig and Pia Valentinis - ADVISABLE

Line and Scribble by Debora Vagrig, illustrated by Pia Valentinis. PICTURE BOOK. Chronicle Books, 2021. $19. 9781797201870 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre- K, EL – ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Line and Scribble choose to do things differently from each other. Despite their differences, Line and Scribble can still be friends, and can even enhance each other's view of things. 

Although only illustrated in black and white, with just a touch of red, this book is full of vibrancy and imagination. The words are simple and clear as the drawings yet hold a lot of meaning. Young students may not yet grasp all there is to understand about importance of differences, but they will surely appreciate the camaraderie and value in recognizing contrast. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

Hear the Wind Blow by Doe Boyle and Emily Paik - ESSENTIAL

Hear the Wind Blow by Doe Boyle, illustrated by Emily Paik. PICTURE BOOK. Albert Whitman and Company, 2021. $17. 9780807545614 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Wind is just air that moves. Sometimes the wind is just a soft whisper, a summer breeze. Other times the wind makes the trees sing and sometimes the wind comes with the force of a hurricane. A beautifully written poem all about the wind, each stanza describing one of the thirteen levels of the Beaufort scale of Wind Force. 

Wow! There was a lot to learn in this book and the information was presented in a way that was fun and easy to understand. The illustrations are beautiful and even show the wind in the movements in the pictures. In the back of the book is a chart explaining the Beaufort Wind Force Scale. In the back of the book is also a glossary as well as titles of books for further reading. I think the author and illustrator did a superb job when creating the lovely book.

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

Camp Time in California by Mary Pope Osborne - ADVISABLE

Camp Time in California (Magic Tree House #35) by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by AG Ford, 91 pages. Random House Children's Books (Penguin Random House), 2021. $14. 

Content: G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL -- ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

A wild and wonderful camping trip with a seasoned group of Rough Riders is what Jack and Annie experience in their magical trip back to California in the early 1900s. Jack and Annie find out they are traveling with Theodore Roosevelt--the President of the United States of America!--as well as with John Muir. The two kids are pivotal in helping these adults find a way to preserve the natural beauty of California and other parts of the USA for generations to come. Book #35 of the Magic Tree House series is exactly what one would expect: Jack and Annie save the future and allow the reader to learn more about history through the adventures Jack and Annie have in each story. Not a bad way to introduce a lot of important events and characters of history, but not a surprising story to read, either. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

United States Treasure Quest by Steven Wolfe Pereira - ADVISABLE

United States Treasure Quest by Steven Wolfe Pereira & Susie Jaramillo, illustrated by MeiyeeTan and Abigail Gross. BOARD BOOK. Tiny Travelers, 2021. $13. 9781945635311 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Travel through the Great United States discovering treasures in every place. The journey starts in Washington, D. C. on the 4th of July. People gather to celebrate freedom with flags and fireworks. In this book you will travel and see a Native American gathering, visit the spectacular Grand Canyon, celebrate New Years in Times Square, New York, attend a football game, celebrate Thanksgiving and so much more. 

Small children will love having this read to them. On each page there are so many things to discover, look for and talk about. This cute book will become a family treasure to all who read it, and read it to your little ones. I highly recommend this cute, colorful, and informative book.

 Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

Ben Yokoyama and the Cookie of Endless Waiting - HIGH

Ben Yokoyama and the Cookie of Endless Waiting (Cookie Chronicles #2) by Matthew Swanson and Robbie Behr, 306 pages. Alfred A. Knopf (Random House), 2021. $13. 

Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content G; Violence: G 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Third grader Ben Yokoyama has opened up another fortune cookie which reads, “Good things come to those who wait.” Taking the fortune seriously, Ben stops doing everything, like chores, homework, and even facing the truth. Instead of good things, Ben seems to be in increasing trouble. Another fun read. You do not have to read the first book to be able to jump right into this one. Relatable themes of friendship and change make this relevant. Ben’s relationship with Walter, the strange kid in class, brings depth to the story. The illustrations add to the storyline for an entertaining ride. 

 Michelle in the Middle 

Ben Yokoyama and the Cookie of Doom by Matthew Swanson and Robbie Behr - HIGH

Ben Yokoyama and the Cookie of Doom (Cookie Chronicles #1) by Matthew Swanson and Robbie Behr, 273 pages. Alfred A. Knopf (Random House), 2021. $13. 

Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content G; Violence: G 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Ben Yokoyama is a third grader who gets a fortune in a cookie that says, “Live each day as if it were your last.” Ben, convinced that his last day of earth is upon him, decides to accomplish every goal and dream on his bucket list. Ben’s “last day” is full of adventures and misadventures as he races the clock to midnight. 

 With illustrations on practically every page, the story clips along. Ben’s storyline is funny and witty and filled with great characters as well as great similes. Everyone should have a friend like Janet in their lives. For every kid (and adult) who has ever wondered about the veracity of fortune cookies, this is a fun, imaginative read. 

 Michelle in the Middle 

The Visitor by K.S. Applegate, Michael Grant and Chris Grine - HIGH

The Visitor (Animorphs, The Graphic Novel #2) , by K.S. Applegate, Michael Grant and Chris Grine, 202 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Graphix (Scholastic). 2021. $13. 9781338538373

Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content G; Violence: PG 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Earth is secretly under attack by parasitic aliens called Yeerks. Rachel and her friends could be the planet’s only defense since they stumbled upon a downed spacecraft that gave them the power to morph into any animals they touch. Mr. Chapman, their assistant principal is a human host to a high ranking Yeerk and seems to be their best lead. Rachel takes the lead on this one, but getting closer to the Yeerk leader is dangerous. 

Good graphics will make this book appealing to a whole new group of readers. This is an ongoing storyline, so be prepared for it to continue. Tense and full of action, this should make fans happy. 

 Michelle in the Middle 

Katie the Catsitter by Colleen AF Venable and Stephanie Yue - HIGH

Katie the Catsitter by Colleen AF Venable, illustrated by Stephanie Yue, 218 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Penguin Random House. 2021. $21. 

 Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content G; Violence: PG 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

12yo Katie is desperately trying to raise money to attend summer camp with her friends. She tries a variety of jobs until she gets a gig cat sitting not one or two cats, but 217 of them! These are no ordinary cats and their owner may not be who she appears to be either. Katie has to deal with unruly cats, their owner who may or may not be a super villain, and try to save a friendship by getting to summer camp. 

This is a delightful romp through a universe that has weird and wonderful super villains and heroes. I love that Katie and her mother have a great relationship and that friendships change and that’s okay. Katie grows as a character and I will definitely want to read the next book, though this one ended very satisfactorily. Humor makes this fun. Caution, if your couch goes missing, check for cats. 

 Michelle in the Middle 

Manu by Kelly Fernandez - ADVISABLE

Manu by Kelly Fernandez, 192 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Graphix (Scholastic). 2021. $13. 

Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content PG; Violence: PG 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL - AVERAGE 

Manu is taken in by nuns as a baby. The nuns run a school of magic for girls, who are witchlings. Manu’s magic is pretty powerful and the headmistress believes she has the potential to help other people with it, though Manu would rather use it for pranks. When one prank goes bad, Manu’s best friend, Josefina wishes for Manu’s magic to disappear. Manu uses a dangerous spell to bring it back, but the spell brings back more than just the magic she bargained for. 

 The author draws from her Dominican Republic background and weaves Spanish words and culture into Manu’s story that makes this appealing. There are instances of demonic possession and Manu and Josephina are attracted to each other. There is a wide-open door for another book as Manu struggles to find who she really is and how she fits in. 

 Michelle in the Middle 

The Coldfire Curse by Jordan Quinn and Ornella Greco - HIGH

The Coldfire Curse (Dragon Kingdom of Wrenly #1) by Jordan Quinn, illustrated by Ornella Greco, 139 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Little Simon (Simon & Schuster, Inc), 2021. $18. 

Content: G

 BUYING ADVISORY: EL– ADVISABLE 

 AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Ruskin is the King's pet dragon. But Ruskin is also the only scarlet dragon, and he is needed to stop the Coldfire Curse from freezing everything over in neighboring Crestwood. Ruskin learns about his true power and worth, but ultimately finds his greatness by working together with his friends. 

Readers of the Wrenly series are sure to enjoy this graphic novel rendition about the dragons in the kingdom, centered around the Prince's pet dragon, Ruskin. Written as a classic hero's tale, the words are simple and the storyline is easy to follow through dialogue and illustrations. 

 Keri, elementary school teacher 

Home Sweet Forever Home by Rachel Alpine and Addy Rivera Sonda - ADVISABLE

Home Sweet Forever Home (The Invincible Girls Club #1) by Rachel Alpine, illustrated by Addy Rivera Sonda. 140 pages. CHAPTER BOOK. Aladdin (Simon & Schuster,) 2021. $18. 

Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: G 

 BUYING ADVISORY: EL – ADVISABLE 

 AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

3rd grader Lauren loves the dogs she gets to work with at the local animal shelter and wants to do more to help the animals find their forever homes. She and her friends come up with many ideas about how to help and never give up, despite many challenges in their way. 

This is the first book in the Invincible Girls Club series. It introduces the four friends and shows the starting point for their service club. It can be read as a stand-alone book, but readers will likely want to continue with the series. A highlight of the book is the way that Lauren uses positive self-talk to face and conquer her fears, as well as the way she finds support in family, friends, and adults in the community. A bonus to this book is the appendix (of sorts) at the end of the book which highlights women in a variety of professions and how they demonstrate their unique talents and abilities as invincible girls. Additionally, there is a list of practicable ways that readers could choose to act and help shelter dogs. These two things are my favorite parts of the book. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

Spring Cakes by Miranda Harmon - HIGH

Spring Cakes by Miranda Harmon, 32 pages. EARLY READER/GRAPHIC NOVEL. Holiday House, 2021. $15. 9780823447534 

Content: G

 BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) – ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Three kittens are looking forward to their special day of making Spring Cakes with Mom, but first they have to gather ingredients. But one of the necessary ingredients is magic roses from the witch...will the kittens be brave enough to get them? 

 Written and illustrated in graphic novel format, this is bound to be of interest to young readers. The pictures are vibrant and the dialogue in word bubbles is easy to follow. My students thought that it was a good adventure story since the kittens' mom sent them out on their own to gather the ingredients from different places without her. 

Keri, elementary school teacher and her third grade students 

Copycat Science by Mike Barfield - ADVISABLE

Copycat Science by Mike Barfield, 96 pages. NON-FICTION. QED Publishing, 2020. $16. 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS – ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Ten categories of STEM topics are explored through the example and examination of what many famous scientists, engineers, and mathematicians have already done throughout history to discover the way things work. Illustrated as a comic strip, each historic figure is described with a brief biography, followed by a companion page that depicts step-by-step directions to explore one of their experiments on your own. The content of this book is both engaging and educational. The wording is clear, and the experiments are all feasible for young (and old) scientists alike. Even if one were not to try any of the experiments, their descriptions add to the understanding of how great each of these people were in the development of their field.. 

My third graders found the material a bit above their comprehension level, but were fascinated by the illustrations of the experiments; they are so clear and understandable that even students this young could use the book to guide their own STEM activities. 

Keri, elementary school teacher and her third grade students 

Mimic Makers by Kristen Nordstrom and Paul Boston - ADVISABLE

Mimic Makers: Biomimicry Inventors Inspired by Nature by Kristen Nordstrom, illustrated by Paul Boston, 45 pages. NON-FICTION. Charlesbridge, 2021. $18. 9781580899475 

 BUYING ADVISORY: EL – ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Nine inventions and their developers are introduced with special attention to how the ideas were born or made better because of what these ten people saw in nature and then mimicked in their scientific work. This is an intriguing book, with carefully written overviews of a variety of inventions, all of which were inspired by copying something observed in nature. The explanations are easy to understand, the illustrations are colorful and eye-catching, and the invitation to become a mimic-maker oneself is strong. 

 Keri, elementary school teacher 

Big Brain Book by Leanne Boucher Gill - OPTIONAL

Big Brain Book: How it Works and All its Quirks by Leanne Boucher Gill, Phd, 224 pages. NON-FICTION. Magination Press, 2021. $25. 9781433830457 

 BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS – OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW 

This is, indeed, a big book about the brain and how it works. There are three sections to the book which are further separated into short chapters, each of which is written to answer a specific question about the brain. There are a multitude of text features to help guide the reader through, as well as a final short summary and a "Now What?" section to invite further exploration of the chapter topic. A well thought out, well laid out, well designed book, this is incredibly eye-catching. It is also extremely informative. It is, however, large, wordy, and likely to appeal only to a very narrow audience. It is described as being written for kids who are interested in the brain, and it has met its mark in every way. It isn't an overly easy or generally appealing book to most elementary or middle school readers, unless they have a specific reason to want to research or learn more about the brain. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

Baby Blue by Judi Abbot - ADVISABLE

Baby Blue by Judi Abbot, 32 pages. Magination Press (American Psychological Association), 2021. $17.

Content: G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Baby Blue lives in a bright, blue world and loves riding his blue bike. One day, Baby Blue rips open his blue world to find another bright world shining through. This new world is scary, and Baby Blue isn’t quite sure what to do with it.

Knowing that this book is published by the APA made me read Baby Blue’s story in a different way than I think I would have otherwise. I think teaching kids coping skills like the ones Baby Blue uses is important, and Abbot uses the example of Baby Blue to do it here. The simplicity of the illustrations create a comforting atmosphere for readers, showing that these lessons are also simple and can be emulated by all readers.

Reviewer: Carolina Herdegen

The First Wish by Trish Granted and Manuela Lopez - HIGH

The First Wish (Jeanie & Genie #1) by Trish Granted, illustrated by Manuela Lopez, 121 pages. CHAPTER BOOK. Little Simon (Simon and Schuster), 2021. $18. 9781534474659 

Content: G

 BUYING ADVISORY: EL – ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Jeanie is a quiet, focused, responsible second grade student at Rivertown Elementary. She is well on her way to receiving good grades and awards until one day, a new girl moves to town and is in Jeanie's school class. Willow Davis makes things a little bit hectic, but also very magical for Jeanie. 

 This is a fun book for emergent readers who are ready for short chapters and an engaging story. There isn't much in the way to attract a young male audience, but young girls are likely to enjoy reading about the experiences of Jeanie and Willow's unique friendship and school adventures. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

Tater Invaders! by David Fremont - HIGH

Tater Invaders! (Carlton Crumple Creature Catcher #2), by David Fremont, 114 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Pixel+Ink (TGM Development Corp.), 2020. $18. 

 Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (physical combat)

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL – ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Carlton Crumple is the creature catcher for Shady Plains. He has crafted a super machine (cobbled together from his parents' lawnmower and vacuum cleaner) and is on his way to save everyone from the Tot Bot invasion. 

This book is crazy. The storyline is frenetic. The illustrations are bold and busy. Kids will love it. It is wild and fantastical and sounds similar to just about every story I hear my students tell each other when they create their own narrative plots. Although the vocabulary is sometimes challenging, children from about age 7 will be able to read through the book and still be sufficiently sucked into this wacky tale of good versus evil. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

A Giant Mess by Jeffrey Ebbeler - ADVISABLE

A Giant Mess by Jeffrey Ebbeler. EARLY READER. Holiday House, 2020. $20. 9780823446391 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) – ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Molly gets a taste of her own medicine when a giant thinks that she is one of HIS toys. Will she learn her lesson and keep her own room clean? 

While I, as an adult, found this book choppy and ridiculous, my third grade students had the following to say: "I liked it because I can totally relate," "This was decent because it had a fair plot," "I liked it because is was a good lesson to learn," and three "I liked it because it was really funny." 

Keri, elementary school teacher and her third grade students 

Sabrina Sue Loves the Sea by Priscilla Burris - ADVISABLE

Sabrina Sue Loves the Sea by Priscilla Burris. EARLY READER (LEVEL 1). Simon Spotlight (Simon & Schuster), 2021. $18. 9781534484252 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K – ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Sabrina is a chicken on a farm who dreams of being at sea. Her dream becomes reality. Then she realizes how good it is to have experiences, but also how good it is to be home again. 

This is a short and sweet story with a good message. The words are simple to read, with cute illustrations. Some of my third-grade students had this to say about the book: "I loved it because normally chickens and farm animals don't go to sea or have dreams, so that was good to think about," "I really liked this book because of the personification in it," and "I like it because of the illustrations of the chicken." 

Keri, elementary school teacher and her third-grade students 

There's a Dragon in My Closet by Dorothea Taylor and Charly Palmer - OPTIONAL

There's a Dragon in My Closet by Dorothea Taylor, illustrated by Charly Palmer. PICTURE BOOK. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers (Simon & Schuster), 2017. $18. 9781534476462 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL – OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW 

A dragon is living in a young boy's closet. This dragon is tricky--sometimes it makes messes in the boy's room, but other times it leaves nice notes and treats (even though it signs it's name like the boy's mom). The boy is a little bit afraid of the dragon, but knows that deep down the dragon is his secret friend. 

Palmer's illustrations are rich and intriguing, full of vivid colors. The story is a bit confusing, though, since it is never quite clear why the boy wants to keep this secret friend (that he has told his parents about multiple times) when the dragon frightens him and causes mischief. The rhyming is a bit forced, and this may add to the dissonance of the storyline. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

My Day with the Panye by Tammi Charles and Sara Palacios - ADVISABLE

My Day with the Panye by Tammi Charles, illustrated by Sara Palacios. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick Press, 2021. $18. 9780763697495 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) – ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Little Fallon, a young girl in Haiti, is invited to go with her mother to market. It is an honor to be invited, and even more of an honor when Fallon's mother allows her to wear the Panye, a basket on her head, to carry the groceries home. 

An excellent look at an important aspect of another culture, this book has beautiful illustrations and a lovely story about growing up and following in the footsteps of family and friends in a community. 

Keri, elementary school teacher