Welcome Back, Maple Mehta-Cohen by Kate McGovern - ESSENTIAL

Welcome Back, Maple Mehta-Cohen by Kate McGovern, 278 pages. Candlewick Press, 2021. $17 

Language: G (1 swear); Mature Content: G; Violence: G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL-ESSENTIAL; MS-ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Intelligent, creative Maple Mehta-Cohen, has always faked her way through school, hiding the fact that when she looks at words,she can’t understand them. But her qfifth grade teacher noticed and now she has to repeat fifth grade, while her best friends move on to sixth grade. Maple feels embarrassed, and as she starts fifth grade again, she secretly tells Jack Wells, who is new and also in the lowest reading group, that she is repeating fifth grade as a special teacher’s helper. Now she is in the middle of a story of mystery and intrigue, not unlike the stories that she loves to create.

This was a cute story about learning differences, discovering your talents, family and friendship. Maple is a storyteller, and the author does a great job of having one voice for the narrative, and another voice for Maple’s stories. I felt like some of the characters should have been more developed, but Maple is well developed and it’s her story, so that is good. This story would be an essential read aloud for any older child with a learning difference to help them discover that their disability is not the most important part of who they are. Maple is a Hin-Jew, as her parents call her - Dad is Indian; Mom is Jewish.

Reviewer: J. Rosskopf 

The Night Bus Hero by Onjali Q. Rauf - OPTIONAL

The Night Bus Hero by Onjali Q. Rauf, 239 pages. Delacorte (Random), 2022. $17. 

Content: G 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

10yo Hector is always up for jokes and pranks. When he is bested by a homeless man in the park, however, Hector takes things too far and sends the man’s entire cart of belongings into the pond. The next time Hector sees Thomas, the homeless man, something strange happens – all the lights in downtown London are clicked off and something important is stolen. No one will believe Hector when he tries to tell, especially Mei Li, a girl from Hector’s grade, who knows Thomas from her work at a homeless food kitchen. The more Hector tries to prove Thomas is the culprit, the less sure Hector is that Thomas really is the bad guy. 

If the book sounds complicated, that’s because it is. And the bit of magical realism/mechanical magic in the book don’t help – Hector is not very interesting and the book didn’t hold my attention. Hector and his family default to white (no descriptions) and while there are some ethnic sounding names, none of that matters within the context of the book. 

 Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Bearnard Writes a Book by Deborah Underwood and Misa Saburi - ADVISABLE

Bearnard Writes a Book by Deborah Underwood, illustrated by Misa Saburi. PICTURE BOOK. Henry Holt (Macmillan), 2022. $19. 9781250261458 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Now that Bearnard has his own book, he wants his BFF Gertie to have a book too. He needs some help though, so he follows the map of Storybook Land thru the library for research - Character City, Setting Village, Problem Plaza. With a stop at The Writer’s Room, Bearnard thinks he might be done, but realizes his story is short and boring. Luckily, he can REVISE! 

What a cute look at the story-writing process! I would even read this to any level that teaches Creative Writing. 

 Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

With Great Power: The Marvelous Stan Lee by Annie Hunter Eriksen and Lee Gatlin - OPTIONAL

With Great Power: The Marvelous Stan Lee by Annie Hunter Eriksen, illustrated by Lee Gatlin. Page Street Kids, 2021. $19. 9781645672852 

BUYING ADVISORY: ADULTS – ESSENTIAL; EL - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Born in 1922, Stan Lee was Stanley Lieber, a skinny kid living in a tiny apartment in the Bronx. At 16 he took is first job as an errand boy at Timely Comics, working up to editor before he turned 20. After decades of formulaic heroes, in the 1960’s Lee and his collaborators introduced the Fantastic Four, ushering in the Marvel era of flawed superheroes based on Lee’s deep love of mythology and horror from his own childhood. 

A definite for adult lovers of all things Marvel. Kids will see it more as a novelty. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

The Animal Toolkit by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page - ESSENTIAL

The Animal Toolkit by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Houghton Mifflin, AUGUST 2022. $18. 9780358244448 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Jenkins and Page explore several animals that use tools in their daily life. The illustrations convey the right feel – much better than photographs. I was worried that the text might be too much, but after the intro, it is just right and has plenty of humor to balance the facts. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

The Spots and the Dots by Helen Baugh and Marion Deuchars - ESSENTIAL

The Spots and the Dots by Helen Baugh, illustrated by Marion Deuchars. PICTURE BOOK. Anderson Press, 2020. $18. 9781728438900 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

The red Spots and the blue Dots live on opposite sides of a hill. Both the Spots and the Dots are scared and suspicious of each other, until one baby red Spot and one baby blue Dot meet. 

 This adorable story about the red Spots and the blue Dots teaches children to not be scared of people different from them. It’s simply illustrated, with bright greens, reds, and blues, and the author does a great job keeping the story entertaining with rhythmic text. 

 ELLSBELLS 

Sunrise Dance by Serena Gingold Allen and Teagan White - ADVISABLE

Sunrise Dance by Serena Gingold Allen, illustrated by Teagan White. BOARD BOOK. Chronicle Books LLC, 2021. $13. 9781452174051 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Through this interactive tale, come see what many playful animals do to get ready for a beautiful and fun new day. 

This simple board book teaches children about different animals and their environments. It invites the child to go have adventures and to play. The illustrations are beautiful but slightly muted in color for a children's book, however, there are multiple pull-tabs in the board book to keep any young child entertained. 

ELLSBELLS 

Trees by Tony Johnson, illustrated by Tiffany Bozie - ESSENTIAL

Trees by Tony Johnson, illustrated by Tiffany Bozie. PICTURE BOOK. Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2021. $18. 9781534475175 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Come jump into the life and unique characteristics of trees. Trees reach for the sky, trees grow strong, trees give shade, trees give us a place to read and a place to play. Come learn more about the majestic world they create for us. 

 The strong point of Johnson's book is the awe-inspiring illustrations. Each new page compels the reader to go on a hike, climb a tree, or simply spend more time in nature. Each page has a different type of tree with a description of each tree in the back of the book. Along with beautiful illustrations, the poetic text invites the children to truly celebrate and embrace trees and nature as friends. 

ELLSBELLS 

The Froggies Do Not Want to Sleep by Adam Gustavson and Adam Gustavson - ADVISABLE

The Froggies Do Not Want to Sleep by Adam Gustavson, illustrated by Adam Gustavson. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2021. $17. 9781580895248 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K -ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

It is time for the froggies to go to sleep, but they have a different idea! They are having much more fun with burping contests, practicing their accordions, or jousting like knights. Their adventures take them from underwater seas to outer space, until some tickles and squeezes from a certain alien life form bring them back to bed. 

This picture book is full of fun and exciting moments for an energetic child to enjoy during bedtime. The text is simple yet engaging. Each illustrated page exhibits the creative and comical adventures the froggies go on, which is sure to make any child giggle. Both parent and child will love reading this book for those bedtimes when snuggles and quiet time won’t quite cut it. 

 Reviewer: ELLSBELL

The Book of Rules by Brian Gehrlein and Tom Knight - ESSENTIAL

The Book of Rules by Brian Gehrlein, illustrated by Tom Knight. PICTURE BOOK. Farrar Straus Giroux (Macmillan), 2021. $19. 9780374314545 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

If you don’t follow the Book’s rules, Dennis will eat you. 

Warning! DO NOT READ AHEAD – Dennis might eat you! I do not want to give anything way for the first time you read Gehrlein’s book. I promise, not only will you love it, but you will read it to many, many classes soon and in the future. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

The Bad Mood by Moritz Petz and Amelie Jackowski - ADVISABLE

The Bad Mood by Moritz Petz, illustrated by Amelie Jackowski. PICTURE BOOK. North South, 2021. $18. 9780735844643 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

When Badger wakes up in a bad mood, he decides that everyone around needs to know. He doesn’t realize until later, that his bad mood acted as a catalyst that sent everyone else into funks too. Maybe he can do something to make a change for good this time? 

Petz’s book starts off as an excellent example of how contagious a bad mood and rudeness can be. The abrupt end, with Badger throwing a party for everyone and a super short apology, lacks the depth that even a couple of more pages with a less superficial “party” solution would have made this essential. I like the illustrtaions – they have a moodiness to them that is different from the cartoon-like illustrations I am used to. 

 Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Walking for Water: how one boy stood up for gender equality by Susan Hughes and Nicole Miles - ADVISABLE

Walking for Water: how one boy stood up for gender equality by Susan Hughes, illustrated by Nicole Miles. Kids Can, 2021. $18. 9781525302497 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

While Victor and his friends run off to school, his twin sister Linesi and the other girls in their African village still have to haul water so that their mothers can concentrate on other chores. When his teacher one day talks about “equality”, Victor realizes that if she can’t get to school, Linesi will never have the same chances he will. Maybe there is something he can do to change that. 

At first I was skeptical about Hughes “feel good” story – a nice dream, I thought. But the back matter explains that this is based on the true story of a boy in a small Malawi village who did change things for his sister and other village girls. That makes this a precious story how something small can lift-up everyone. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Linty: a pocketful of adventure by Mike Shiell - ESSENTIAL

Linty: a pocketful of adventure by Mike Shiell. PICTURE BOOK. Kids Can, 2022. $13. 9781525304941 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Linty leads a solo, but, for him, exciting life inside a very blue world. Then one day everything changes! New friends join the space and Linty learns that his lives in a “pocket”. After some initial reluctance, Linty has a great time with his new friends – all the way until wash day, when new challenges arrive. 

Who knew that we needed an anthropomorphized ball of lint?! Thank goodness Mike Shiell did. Because Linty is freaking adorable! A story time hit, for sure! 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Bicycle (Eureka) by Lori Haskins Houran and Aaron Cushey - ESSENTIAL

Bicycle (Eureka) by Lori Haskins Houran, illustrated by Aaron Cushey. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Kane Press (Boyds Mill), 2021. $18. 9781635923933 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Was the bicycle first inspired by a volcano? Houran and Cushey take us through that genesis of that first idea through important milestones of bicycle improvements. The whole series like a perfect elementary look at important inventions, with clever text and inviting illustrations. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

No Bunnies Here! By Tammi Sauer, illustrated by Ross Burach - ESSENTIAL

No Bunnies Here! by Tammi Sauer, illustrated by Ross Burach. PICTURE BOOK. Doubleday (Random), 2022. $18. 9780593181355

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

When Mr. Wolf waltzes into Bunnyland, the head bunny – whoops, I mean – UNICORN, is desperate to prove that there are absolutely no bunnies here for a hungry wolf. But, perhaps, Mr., Wolf is here for a completely different reason.

I’m a big fan of both Sauer and Burach – and they do not disappoint. The bunny’s antics are hilarious and the friend, not enemy ending is always a nice resolution. Great endpapers that continue the story! You could save this for and Easter-ish gift, but why wait?!

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

How to Say Hello to a Worm by Kari Percival - ADVISABLE

How to Say Hello to a Worm by Kari Percival. PICTURE BOOK. Rise (Penguin), 2022. $18. 9780593226797

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

The little children work to create a garden, carefully and patiently planting and watering and waiting for the final product.

My favorite page is the advice for encounters with bees – hold still, be quiet. Percival illustrates a nice variety of children – including one who uses canes to walk. If I ran a nursery school, I would for sure read this to the kids.

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Not Enough Lollipops by Megan Maynor and Micah Player - NO

Not Enough Lollipops by Megan Maynor, illustrated by Micah Player. PICTURE BOOK. Knopf (Random), 2022. $18. 9780593372562

BUYING ADVISORY: NO

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW

Alice has won a wagonful of lollipops in the school raffle. She wants to share with everyone on the playground, but the kids are worried there aren’t enough. Several kids try to cut others out of the distribution., but Alice insists that everyone who wants one can have one – until they run out.

I’m a little torn – the greed of the children is quite distressing. And the ways that some kids want to cut out others is disappointing. I would guess that is probably the point. You would only want to read this book if you are trying to make a point. I want a picture book to teach me, to amuse me, to make me laugh – this didn’t do any of those – instead it made me sad. Utahn Player’s illustrations. With their lollipop colors and diverse cast of characters, are the highpoint here.

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

To the Front! Clara Barton Braves the Battle of Antietam by Claudia Friddell and Christopher Cyr - ESSENTIAL

To the Front! Clara Barton Braves the Battle of Antietam by Claudia Friddell, illustrated by Christopher Cyr. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Calkins Creek (Boyds Mill/Astra), 2022. $19. 9781635923223

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

After the soldiers, Clara Barton and her men are the first people to reach Antietam before the battle started. As soon as the first shots were fired, she and her men descended on the field to help the men in any way necessary, from tending to feeding, watering, and bringing light. Her actions made the difference for thousands of lives that day, and never stopping.

The excellent backmatter gives even more details about Barton’s considerable charity work. Friddell blends her own words will Clara’s to give us a first-rate look at another facet of the Civil War. Cyr’s illustrations evoke the feeling of the time period that we are familiar with from the art of the day. Thoroughly enjoyable.

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Pug & Pig and Friends by Sue Lowell Gallion and Joyce Wan - OPTIONAL

Pug & Pig and Friends by Sue Lowell Gallion, illustrated by Joyce Wan. PICTURE BOOK. Beach Lane (Simon), 2021. $18. 9781534463004

BUYING ADVISORY: PRE-K - OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERGE

Pug and Pig like playing with their friends, even though Cat can sometimes be annoying. When the rain and lightning start, Cat gets stuck in the tree. The others will need to clever in order to help her down. 

Cute “Hello Kitty” like illustrations, with simple text about a group of friends who don’t always get along. I would prefer this as a board book.

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Snow Struck by Nick Courage - NO

Snow Struck by Nick Courage, 315 pages. Delacorte, 2022. $17 

Content: G (some danger) 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL – NOT RECOMMENDED 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW 

Elizabeth and Matty are headed to NYC to spend the days before Christmas with their cousin Ashley, with their parents joining them later. First they encounter an unnatural heatwave and then a lethal snowstorm strikes – snowpocalypse. NYC is at a stand still. Unfortunately, Ashley’s little dog has escaped into the snow and ice and Ashley is desperate to find him. 

You will have to suspend a whole lot of belief in order to relax into this and try to enjoy it. I just couldn’t. Each chapter brought a new level inanity, unbelievable coincidence, and implausible happening. I cannot buy the idea that three pre-teens and a dog would be the absolutely only creatures outside even in NYC during the worst snowstorm ever, or that any parent would let the 3 outside to search for said dog. And then the climate change lecture at the end – wow. Can’t. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Revolutionary Prudence Wright by Beth Anderson and Susan Reagan - HIGH

Revolutionary Prudence Wright: Leading the Minute Women in the fight for independence by Beth Anderson, illustrated by Susan Reagan. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Calkins Creek (Boyds Mill/Astra), 2022. $19. 9781644720578

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

While the men of Pepperell, MA were off fighting for the colonies in Concord, Prudence Wright organized the women to dress in their husband’s clothes and guard the bridge into town from British spies carrying messages. One of Prudence’s own brothers, a Tory, was almost captured, but the message-carrying Brit was relieved of his papers and at least one spy did not get through.

I am always happy to see a picture book about the American Revolution – especially one that highlights the role of women. Everyone will enjoy a story about courage and victory. Excellent back matter, with more historical information, plus looks at doing research for both the writing and the art.

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Nellie vs Elizabeth by Kate Hannigan and Rebecca Gibbon - ADVISABLE

Nellie vs Elizabeth: two daredevil journalists’ breakneck race around the world by Kate Hannigan, illustrated by Rebecca Gibbon. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Calkins Creek (Boyds Mill/Astra), 2022. $19. 9781684373772

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

After Nellie Bly set off on a trip around the world in 1889, Elizabeth Bisland’s editor contacted her and Elizabeth set off in the other direction only 12 hours later. Nellie didn’t even learn about Elizabeth until she reached Hong Kong, Then, someone in Paris lied to Elizabeth and in the end she arrived home almost a week after Nellie. But both women helped women the world over make great strides towards being able to follow their hearts.

An entertaining look at the first daredevil female reporters back at the run of another century. A great way to help students see that 120 years is not caveman days – it would be fun to plan a class around the world adventure for geography lessons!

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

There’s a Unicorn in Your Book by Tom Fletcher and Greg Abbott - ESSENTIAL

There’s a Unicorn in Your Book by Tom Fletcher, illustrated by Greg Abbott. PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2021. $18. 9780593434765

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre- K - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

A unicorn book is usually filled with music and sparkles, but our unicorn friend is sad, because worry gremlins are attacking. Perhaps with your help, and a few fairies, we can turn things around.

Such a fun, young read aloud! I have only read one of the others of the series, but all of them, I’m sure, would make for a silly, joyous story time.

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

John’s Turn by Mac Barnett and Kate Berube - ADVISABLE

John’s Turn by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Kate Berube. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2022. $18. 9781536203950

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

It's John turn to share something during Friday Assembly. He is very nervous about how the others will receive his talent. While they are restless and find the music odd, once John starts dancing, they are immersed into the experience with him and give him a proper thank you at the end. 

I enjoy this celebration of unusual (for children) talents and bravery in sharing. The audience having trepidation and then receiving the performance gratefully is heart-warming. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

In Our Garden by Pat Zietlow Miller and Melissa Crowton - ADVISABLE

In Our Garden by Pat Zietlow Miller, illustrated by Melissa Crowton. PICTURE BOOK. Putnam’s (Penguin), 2022. $18. 9781984812100 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Millie used to live in a place of vibrant color with a family garden for homegrown fruits and vegetables. Her new city home of gray and hard. But when she suggests a rooftop garden to her class, they embrace the concept and with many helpful hands they set to work. Teachers beware! If you read this to your students, they will probably insist in their own class garden! There are many great garden -themed books to support this one; here is my list. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Solitary Animals: introverts of the wild by Joshua David Stein and Dominique Ramsey - ESSENTIAL

Solitary Animals: introverts of the wild by Joshua David Stein, illustrated by Dominique Ramsey. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Rise (Penguin Workshop), 2022. $19. 9780593384435

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

You might think from the title that the author and illustrator will introduce us to many solitary animals – not so! Instead, Stein and Ramsey gives us a wonderful look at collective nouns for animals that roam in groups AND a few animals that prefer solitude. My favorite is the sloth – I can’t tell you why, but as soon as you read it, you’ll understand. Vibrant illustrations and the perfect amount of text make an engaging whole.

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Jeremy Worried About the Wind by Pamela Butchart and Kate Hindley - ADVISABLE

Jeremy Worried About the Wind by Pamela Butchart, illustrated by Kate Hindley. PICTURE BOOK. Nosy Crow (Candlewick), 2021. $18. 9781536220186 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Jeremy has a very long list of things that he is worried about – top of the list? Wind. But his friend Maggie has a much more daring attitude. One day she rushes out to play in the wind. When Jeremy follows, his worst fear may come to pass. 

Personally, I was worried that Jeremy’s story would a didactic tale about overcoming anxiety. Instead, it has the right amount of silliness to make the whole thing a fun adventure. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

The Faith of Elijah Cummings by Carole Boston Weatherford and Laura Freeman - ADVISABLE

The Faith of Elijah Cummings: the North Star of Equal Justice by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Laura Freeman. PICTURE BOOK BIOGRAPHY. Random House, 2022. $18. 9780593306505 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Elijah’s family took their family of seven children and left their living as Black sharecroppers to move North to what they hoped would be better lives. From the first time Elijah participated in integrating a local pool, he knew that he had to stand -up against injustice. Even when some around him told him he would never succeed, others believed in him, and he believed in himself – rising all the way to serve many years in the U.S. Congress. 

Elijah Cummings is an important role model, so I welcome Weatherford’s PB bio of him. However – Weatherford’s passion doesn’t shine through like it has in earlier subjects, which makes me sad. I love the details of Cummings story and think he will be an inspiration for children. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

I Say Please and Thank You: lift the flap manners by Rachel Isadora and Robie Rogge - HIGH

I Say Please and Thank You: lift the flap manners by Rachel Isadora and Robie Rogge. PICTURE BOOK. Holiday House, 2021. $18. 9780823449194 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

A simple, but very fun look at manners – a nice combination of children and animal interactions. The flaps reveal silly circumstances that are still on the nose for each word. I am worried that the flaps won’t hold up to repeat use, but would be great in a classroom library or presented by the teacher. The interior of the dust jacket includes a helpful poster 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Blast Off! How Mary Sherman Morgan Fueled America into Space by Suzanne Slade and Sally Wern Campbell - ADVISABLE

Blast Off! How Mary Sherman Morgan Fueled America into Space by Suzanne Slade, illustrated by Sally Wern Campbell. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Calkins Creek (Boyds Mill), 2022. $19. 9781684372416 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Mary grew up on a family farm, but once she started school at 8, she absorbed knowledge. In 1940, after high school, she took herself to college to learn chemistry. Even though she never graduated, she worked first in labs, and then landed a coveted job at North American Aviation, where she became involved in the space program, creating the first stable rocket fuel. 

Mary’s story covers so many different aspects of life for a woman around the 1940’s. Kids today will find lots to talk about. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Tell Someone by Debra Kempf Shumaker and Tristan Yuvienco - ADVISABLE

Tell Someone by Debra Kempf Shumaker, illustrated by Tristan Yuvienco. PICTURE BOOK. Albert Whitman, 2021. $17. 9780807577691 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

When you’re sad, when you’re happy, if you’re scared, if grateful – tell someone. Shumaker does a nice job of exploring a wide variety of times when you can/should share your feelings with others – if someone makes you feel funny and afraid. Everything is very gently and appropriately handled. Good for reading aloud or reading alone. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

It Fell From the Sky by The Fan Brothers - ADVISABLE

It Fell From the Sky by The Fan Brothers. PICTURE BOOK Simon and Schuster, 2021. $18. 97815344577621 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

When a marble falls into the grass, all the small insects come to investigate. They don't know what it is. The frog tasted it - he didn't like it; the dung beetle tried to roll it; the grasshopper thought it might be a fallen star. The Luna moth tried to hatch it, and in the morning, the spider claimed it because it was now in his web. So the spider planned an exhibition, all the bugs helped, but soon the crowds disappeared and the spider needed another plan. But can this enterprising spider keep his community interested in participating? 

The illustrations are all black and white except the marvelous marble (and other things that come later - no spoilers here) There are so many lessons in this story: patience, greed, imagination, community - I really liked it. I think young readers will enjoy "It Fell From the Sky" as much as I did.

Lisa Librarian

Usha and the Big Digger by Amitha Jagannath Knight, illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat - ADVISABLE

Usha and the Big Digger by Amitha Jagannath Knight, illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat PICTURE BOOK Charlesbridge, 2021 $16.00 9781623542023 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Usha cartwheels down a hill and almost runs into her sister who is laying on the grass. Aarti is looking at the big dipper and points it out to Usha - the four stars make the scoop and the other three make the handle. But Usha, who loves trucks, sees a digger. The next night they show their cousin Gloria, and she sees a kite! Then Usha notices that the way you turn to see it, might make you see differently. 

Darling story - I loved the older sister who says "Still the big dipper" under her breath. The illustrations are magnificent - the night scenes look just right. Includes more information about seeing starts at night, and some math related activities.

Lisa Librarian

Sanctuary by Christine McDonnell and Victoria Tentler-Krylow - ADVISABLE

Sanctuary: Kipp Tiernan and Rosie's Place, the Nations First Shelter For Women by Christine McDonnell and Victoria Tentler-Krylow. PICTURE BOOK, BIOGRAPHY Candlewick Press, 2022. $19. 9781536211290 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL; EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

During the Great Depression, Kip watched her grandmother feed and help the men who knocked on her kitchen door. Kip learned to love helping others. When Kip became an adult, she wanted to continue to make a difference, but working in a men's shelter, she noticed that no one was helping homeless women. When she asked about it, she was told that homelessness isn't a women's problem. But it is . . . she eventually got the city of Boston to help by agreeing to let her rent an empty supermarket and founded the first women's shelter in the nation. Sanctuary is an inspiring picture book about a truly remarkable woman. 

Tentler-Krylov's illustrations are inspired - a perfect accompaniment to the text. Includes more information about Kip, as well as sharing causes of homelessness, The Great Depression, and Hobo symbols (which were found outside of Kip's grandmother's kitchen door). I will be putting this in my middle school biography section, as I think the story is more relevant for an older child.

Lisa Librarian

The Tale of the Whale by Karen Swann and Padmacandra - ADVISABLE

The Tale of the Whale by Karen Swann and Padmacandra PICTURE BOOK McElderry Books (Simon and Schuster), 2022. $18. 9781534493940 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

When a child spots a whale from a lighthouse, the whale invites them on a magical ride. They swam under the sea and found a beautiful colorful world with valleys of sand and carpets of color. They then crashed to the surface and flew to the polar sea where the whale emptied its giant belly of all the ocean things he's been collecting - an ocean of trash - bottles, and straws and cups and garbage. As they returned the child saw the effect all the trash has on the birds and animals, and they cried. The child promised to tell the story. 

Karen Swann's lyrical text was so fun to read aloud, and the ecology lesson was a great surprise - I kept thinking, what are they going to find? They found an important lesson. Padmacandra's illustrations are enchanting. The Tale of a Whale would be a great share in an elementary classroom.

Lisa Librarian

When We Say Black Lives Matter by Maxine Beneba Clarke - ADVISABLE

When We Say Black Lives Matter by Maxine Beneba Clarke. PICTURE BOOK Candlewick Press, 2020. $17. 9781536222388 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Black parents are talking to their baby about what Black Lives Matter means. It means wonderful-strong, that they deserve respect. That they walk, and they march and they scream because enough is enough. That they dance and they sing and they whisper and they cry. They smile and stand together because the danger is still out there. They know that Black Lives Matter. 

The faceless people in the illustrations bring the child right into the story - it's their face or their friend's faces they will see. So hopeful and powerful. Maxine Beneba Clark's text is lyrical and pointed - A wonderful statement on what this movement is, in terms a young child can understand.

Lisa Librarian

Wombat by Christopher Cheng, illustrated by Liz Duthie - ESSENTIAL

Wombat by Christopher Cheng, illustrated by Liz Duthie. PICTURE BOOK, NON-FICTION Candlewick Press, 2021 18 9781536220360 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

A day in the life of a Wombat! From the early morning she has a busy day, looking for food, digging under a fence, working on her burrow, napping when the sun is high, chasing away another wombat who has wandered into her territory, even escaping a Dingo! 

So beautifully illustrated by Liz Duthie! Although the story follows a fictional wombat, the italicized scientific information was fascinating. Christopher Cheng's narrative makes this literary non-fiction perfect for the animal section of your library, and the cover - There's a Wombat! Kids won't be able to resist picking it up. (The book, not the Wombat)

Lisa Librarian

You Are not Alone by Alphabet Rockers and Ashley Evans - ESSENTIAL

You Are not Alone by Alphabet Rockers and Ashley Evans. PICTURE BOOK Sourcebooks, 2022. $18. 9781728240282 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

A black boy talks about not feeling safe; an Indian girl talk about how important names are, a Native American girl shares that there is power in her lineage, and it's important to be standing up for each other. A non-binary kid talks about how questions aren't always nice, and what to not ask, and how you can be a friend. And they share ways to come together and support yourself and each other. 

Diversity and inclusivity are at the forefront of this empowering picture book. The child is invited to say parts aloud as the book is read, like "You are Not Alone" and "You are Enough" and "I Hear You". This would be a fun read aloud for a class, letting them get a glimpse into the feelings of Native American, Black, Indian, Nonbinary and Disabled children. Ashley Evans illustrations are beautiful. AJ and I read this together - she loved reading along, and found empowering images in the illustrations I hadn't noticed. We loved it.

Lisa Librarian and AJ (age 6)

Anthony and the Gargoyle by Jo Ellen Bogart and Maja Kastelic - ADVISABLE

Anthony and the Gargoyle by Jo Ellen Bogart and Maja Kastelic. PICTURE BOOK Groundwood Books (House of Anansi Press), 2021. $20. 9781773063447 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

One night, a rock sitting on Anthony's bedside table hatches into a baby gargoyle. Anthony and the gargoyle become the best of friends playing and reading together. When Anthony asks his mother about gargoyles, she shows him a picture of her and his father at Notre Dame in Paris. Anthony and the gargoyle learn everything they can and hope to visit someday. Someday comes soon, a relative is sick in the hospital, and Anthony and his parents must travel to Paris to visit her, so the little gargoyle comes along in Anthony's backpack. 

Anthony and the Gargoyle is a wordless picture book. The story is very sweet, and the baby gargoyle is the cutest thing! The illustrations are designed in panels, and flows easily from one frame to another. I loved looking at the "photos" and watching Anthony's interactions with his parents as well as the gargoyle. A beautiful picture book for all children. Wordless books are special.

Lisa Librarian

What Will You Be? by Yamile Saied Méndez and Kate Alizadeh - ESSENTIAL

What Will You Be? by Yamile Saied Méndez and Kate Alizadeh. PICTURE BOOK Harper Collins, 2021. $18. 9780062839954 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

 A child wonders what she will be when she grows up, so she asks her abuela. Abuela has been so many things, she's the perfect person to ask. Abuela tells her to ask herself. Magically she sees herself as so many marvelous things. A builder, an explorer, a healer, a writer - anything she wants, and everything. 

 Such a positive book about life choices! I really loved the message, and, oh - Abuela! I want to be her when I grow up!! Kate Alizadeh illustrations are colorful and so much fun - I love the faces and the movement in - the picture where Abuela is about to touch the girl's nose with a paintbrush is so sweet! A great picture book for the first day of school.

Lisa Librarian

Meet Your School! By Cindy Jin and Melissa Crowton - ADVISABLE

Meet Your School! By Cindy Jin, illustrated by Melissa Crowton. Lift-the-Flap BOARD BOOK. Simon, 2021. $8. 9781534488892

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Jin and Crowton pack a ton of flaps into their simple board book about what a new student will find inside a school. Most of the flaps will stand up to some tugging. The illustrations feel like a Richard Scarry book

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS

Inside In: X-Rays of Nature’s Hidden World by Jan Paul Schutten and Arie van ‘t Riet - ESSENTIAL

Inside In: X-Rays of Nature’s Hidden World by Jan Paul Schutten, photography by Arie van ‘t Riet, 125 pages. Greystone Kids, 2017. $20. 9781771646796

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Even kids who can’t read independently will be fascinated by the x-ray photographs inside this wonderful book. Schutten, of course, adds interesting paragraphs of text for older readers.

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS  

Drive the Race Car, illustrated by Dave Mottram - ESSENTIAL

Drive the Race Car, illustrated by Dave Mottram. BOARD BOOK. Chronicle, 2021. $10. 9781452178868 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Shaped like a steering wheel, our little friends will have a great time pretending to drive the car. 

 Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Endlessly Ever After: Pick Your Path by Laurel Snyder and Dan Santat - ADVISABLE

Endlessly Ever After: Pick Your Path by Laurel Snyder, illustrated by Dan Santat. PICTURE BOOK. Chronicle, 2022. $19. 9781452144825 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Rosie’s mom needs her to run some food to her Grandma’s, but along the way, there are many different paths and many outcomes for those choices. 

I’ll admit – I’m not a choose-a-path kind of reader. But – I know there are such readers out there. Santat’s illustrations are darling and give life to Snyder’s take on the Little Red Riding Hood story – with a sprinkling of other familiar tales woven in. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Snow Angel, Sand Angel by Lois-Ann Yamanaka and Ashley Lukashevsky - ADVISABLE

Snow Angel, Sand Angel by Lois-Ann Yamanaka, illustrated by Ashley Lukashevsky. PICTURE BOOK. Make Me a World (Random), 2022. $18. 9780593127377 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Claire’s beautiful island of Hawaii is not conducive to a school report on winter. Her father takes the family up into the mountains to see the little snow Hawaii gets. Disappointed, Claire hopes that someday she will get to see the real thing, with the right clothes and make snow angels. When the family goes to the beach, Dad helps Claire make a “sandman” and they also enjoy “sand angels”. 

Always happy to see a book set in Hawaii – this one created by author and illustrator from the islands. And yes, it really is possible to build a sandman. The story itself is a little clunky and ranges wildly between school, home, wishes, the beach – I really wished for the whole thing to make more sense. 

 Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Goodnight, Butterfly by Ross Burach - ADVISABLE

Goodnight, Butterfly by Ross Burach. PICTURE BOOK. Scholastic, AUGUST 2022. $18. 9781338615012 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Butterfly is supposed to be asleep, but a munching porcupine wakes it up. Now Butterfly can’t go back to sleep and has decided they need to make plans – it that manic Butterfly kind of way. Porcupine needs to get Butterfly back to sleep! 

I had no idea that butterflies don’t close their eyes to sleep! Other than that nugget, Butterfly’s new story is full of frenetic Butterfly energy and bright illustrations. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Otto: a Palindrama by Jon Agee - ESSENTIAL

Otto: a Palindrama by Jon Agee, 141 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Graphic (Penguin), 2021. $18. 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Otto has been called to dinner – but his imagination gets lost in a grand adventure story. 

Agee tells his story completely in palindromes – even the signage. While sometimes it makes the dialogue a bit awkward, the palindrome scheme is so amazing, I can’t fault that. A fun visual adventure and a fun read. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Alexander Von Humboldt: Explorer...by Danica Novgorodoff - ADVISABLE

Alexander Von Humboldt: Explorer, Naturalist, and Environmental Pioneer by Danica Novgorodoff. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Crown (Random), 2022. $18. 9781524773083 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

From his earliest days, Alexander loved all things about the outdoors. He gathered specimens and made connections. In 1799 he joined a Spanish ship journeying to South America, where he could make even more discoveries and forge connections, including his discovery of a volcano chain and climbing volcanoes. 

Includes quite extensive backmatter. A solid support book for a unit on exploration, South America, or even early surmises about the earth’s crust. Novgorodoff is very enthusiastic about her subject. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Abe Lincoln’s Hat by Martha Brenner and Brooke Smart - ADVISABLE

Abe Lincoln’s Hat by Martha Brenner, illustrated by Brooke Smart. PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2022. $18. 9780525647171 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Why did Abraham Lincoln have such a tall hat? Brenner doesn’t explain why he bought that first hat, but very quickly he started using it as a place to store important papers. All through his lawyer career and judgeship, that hat stored his papers. 

Brenner focuses on Lincoln’s pre-presidential year, adding dimension to his life as a lawyer and judge and a defender of human rights. When I first saw it, I was wondering why we need ANOTHER Lincoln book, but was very pleasantly surprised at the author’s focus. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Love in the Library by Maggie Tokuda-Hall and Yas Imamura - ADVISABLE

Love in the Library by Maggie Tokuda-Hall, illustrated by Yas Imamura. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2022. $19. 9781536204308 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS – ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Tama hates the Minidoka Internment Camp, but finds solace in her job as the librarian. The dusty summers, the snowy winters are slightly balanced by the daily sight of George, the handsome young man who comes every day to borrow books. In this unlikely of places, love can still bloom. 

Based on the love story of the author’s own grandparents. Minidoka is in Idaho, though the author doesn’t mention that anywhere. Tokuda-Hall brings another dimension to the story of life within internment camps – I’m not sure how much children will follow a love story, but I appreciate this additional facet. Middle school librarians should also get this for their Utah History teachers to add dimension to our own internment camp history. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS