Izzy Hawthorne: Destiny Awaits by Bethany Baptiste - ADVISABLE

Izzy Hawthorne: Destiny Awaits (Lightyear) by Bethany Baptiste, 235 pages. CHAPTER BOOK. Disney, 2022. $10.99.

Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (sci-fi fighting)

BUYING ADVISORY: EL MS – ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Izzy is leading a Junior Patrol group when an enormous purple spaceship appears and sends down an army of yellow robots. Izzy and her team are inadvertently locked out of the colony’s protective laser shield but they get help from Buzz who unexpectedly returns after being gone for years lost in space (though only minutes have gone by for Buzz). With lots of fights against alien robots, explosions, near misses, and costly mistakes, Izzy constantly is recalling her grandma’s Space Patrol rules to find the courage to imagine and execute several “Plan B’s”. Buzz and Izzy eventually manage to work together to destroy the invaders. The chapters alternate between the current invasion of alien robots and flashbacks to Izzy’s experiences with her grandma who was a celebrated Space Ranger and partners w Buzz Lightyear.

This is a space adventure based in the Buzz Lightyear universe. I don’t know much about this universe, but this story provides sufficient details to create a vivid picture of their planet and customs. Buzz, Izzy, and everyone in her Junior Patrol group are adults fighting for their lives. There is no adult language, but definitely lots of sci-fi violence against robots.

Reviewer: Pamela K. Foster, MLS, elementary school teacher-librarian

Zahra’s Blessing: A Ramadan Story by Shirin Shamsi and Manal Mirza - ADVISABLE

Zahra’s Blessing: A Ramadan Story by Shirin Shamsi, illustrated by Manal Mirza. PICTURE BOOK. Barefoot Books, 2022. $10. 9781646864942 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL – ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Zahra’s family is getting ready to observe Ramadan by collecting things to donate to a shelter. Over the next couple of weeks, Zahra meets and befriends a little girl at the shelter, Haleema, who is experiencing displacement. Together they learn the real meaning behind Ramadan. 

This beautifully illustrated story does a great job of describing Ramadan for young audiences and touches on the issue of displacement due to natural disasters or war in an accessible way. It is gorgeous and inclusive and celebrates a wonderful tradition in Islamic cultures. 

 BookswithBeddes

I Want to be a Vase by Julio Torres and Julian Glander - OPTIONAL

I Want to be a Vase by Julio Torres, illustrated by Julian Glander. PICTURE BOOK. Atheneum Books for Young Readers (Simon & Schuster), 2022. $19. 9781534493902 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) – OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

A collection of average household items debate whether or not the plunger can become something else, like a vase. 

 This is such a strange little book. The art is like nothing I've ever seen before, which would be really appealing to young audiences, however the simple story line doesn’t really have a point. The household items debate whether the plunger can really be a vase before it all unfolds into chaos, so the ultimate moral of the story is unclear. Is it a good or bad thing to want to be something other than you are? It could be an interesting addition to your LGBTQIA picture book collection, but doesn’t add anything meaningful to the conversation about gender identity.

BookswithBeddes

Parks for the People by Elizabeth Partridge and Becca Stadtlander - ADVISABLE

Parks for the People: How Frederick Law Olmsted Designed America by Elizabeth Partridge, illustrated by Becca Stadtlander. PICTURE BOOK. Viking (Penguin Random House), 2022. $18. 9781984835154

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS – ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW

This picture book does a good job of highlighting Frederick Law Olmsted's contributions to the public areas and national parks movement in the United States in the late 1800s. Olmsted was one of the first “landscape architects” to intentionally design public spaces, like New York City’s Central Park and the U.S. Capitol Grounds, for everyone, not just the rich and famous. 

 I appreciated that the book mentioned the Black and Indigenous peoples that were forced out of the spaces that Olmstead eventually helped design, like Central Park in New York and Yosemite National Park in California. This picture book could be a nice addition to a US History collection as it covers much of the history in the 1800s in America, but I don’t foresee it being a popular topic for the average reader. Overall, it was a beautiful little book about a topic and person that I didn't know much about before. 

BookswithBeddes

Nature is an Artist by Jennifer Lavallee and Natalia Colombo - HIGH

Nature is an Artist by Jennifer Lavallee, illustrated by Natalia Colombo. PICTURE BOOK. Greystone Kids, 2022. $18. 9781771646499

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

With bright and appealing visuals, this book explores some of the rudimentary natural phenomena in our world, perfect for little readers and inspires them to become artists in their own way.

This is a super cute picture book that can serve dual purposes in the pre-K or K-3 classroom. One, it introduces basic scientific concepts in nature and two, it provides simple art projects that connect to real world learning. The art is charming and pairs with the story really well.

BookswithBeddes 

What’s Inside a Flower? by Rachel Ignotofsky and Rachel Ignotofsky - ESSENTIAL

What’s Inside a Flower? by Rachel Ignotofsky,  illustrated by Rachel Ignotofsky. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2021. $18. 9780593176474

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Flowers live everywhere and come in many colors, shapes, and sizes. Flowers have many parts which perform many functions. Plants receive their energy from the sun by photosynthesis. Flowers need to be pollinated so they attract pollinators. Plants use seeds to reproduce, and seeds are spread many ways. 

Rachel Igonotofsky ends her delightfully illustrated book by saying, “Happy flowers mean a happy earth for you and me.” This “happy” book of clear illustrations and prose create a simple, yet complete picture of what flowers are and do. Children will enjoy the bright, detailed story not knowing they are learning science principles.

MOMMAC 

The Easter Chick by Geraldine Elschner and Alexandra Junge - ADVISABLE

The Easter Chick by Geraldine Elschner, illustrated by Alexandra Junge. PICTURE BOOK. North South Books, Inc., $18. 9780735844742

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

An egg speaks to its mother hen, Hilda, and asks, “When is Easter?”. The surprised mother hen told her unhatched chick that she was not sure. Then, the little chick expressed its desire to be born on Easter morning because it is a special day. Hilda leaves her nest to ask if any of the farm animals know when Easter is. In the end, they sent her to visit the wise old barn owl who knows the answer. It makes for an exciting Easter morning!

The illustrations by Junge are darling, but the bland story did not excite me. The premise is a great idea, but lacks a rhythm or creative plot that would have made this book exceptional.

MOMMAC 

Into the Sand Castle by Cindy Jin and Allison Black - HIGH

Into the Sand Castle by Cindy Jin, illustrated by Allison Black. BOARD BOOK. Little Simon (Simon & Schuster), 2022. $8. 9781665917568

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K – OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Explore the mysteries of the many creatures that live underneath the water in this magical sand castle lift-the-flap board book.

This is a super cute lift-the-flap book about different creatures living beneath the ocean. I will say that it is more fantastical than factual, so keep that mind. I don’t know how practical lift-the-flap books are for the Pre-K target demographic, so my recommendation for school libraries is only get it if you have the room in your budget for some cute fluff.

BookswithBeddes 

Miss Quinces by Kat Fajardo - ESSENTIAL

Miss Quinces by Kat Fajardo, 256 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Scholastic, 2022. $13

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

15yo Sue just wants to spend a quiet summer reading and making comics with her friends. Instead, she ends up flying to Honduras to visit relatives who want to throw her a surprise quinceanera. Sue is adamant about not having a quince party because she doesn’t want to be the center of attention or wear a big puffy dress. Sue can’t even text her friends because her relatives are so far out in the country that there is no cell phone or internet. 

 The cover made this book seem childish to me and I wasn’t prepared to like it but I did. A lot. Sue has to come to terms with a big rambunctious family and traditions that bind people to their culture and each other. Sue has to find a balance between what she wants and what is important to those who love her. There are also themes of loss that work well here. The back of the book explains more about this particular tradition. I learned so much about quinces and the reasons behind them, while also loving Sue’s quirky character. 

Michelle in the Middle 

Mapmakers and the Lost Magic by Cameron Chittock and Amanda Castillo - HIGH

Mapmakers and the Lost Magic by Cameron Chittock, illustrated by Amanda Castillo, 256 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Random House Graphic, 2022. $13

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Set in an alternative universe, young Alidade wants to leave the Valley and explore, but the Night Coats, who control the Valley don’t let anyone leave. After breaking yet another rule, Alidade is on the run from the Night Coats when she discovers a magical hideaway. Alidade discovers a map of her home made by the ancient Mapmakers, who have disappeared. With the help of unexpected allies and a magical creature she brings to life, Alidade has to decide whether to leave the Valley and follow her dreams of exploration or become a Mapmaker and save her home.

This is the first book in a planned series, so the ending sets up the next book. The premise that magic comes from understanding the world around you works and doesn’t get preachy about the environment. Alidade is spunky and seemingly fearless. Themes deal with the environment, tyranny, and friendship.

Michelle in the Middle 

Doom’s Day Camp by Joshua Hauke - HIGH

Doom’s Day Camp by Joshua Hauke, 208 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Razorbill (Penguin Random House), 2022. $13

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Doom Thorax is painfully ordinary, despite having the fiercest apocalyptic warrior ever for a dad. In a world where the remaining humans (using the term loosely) all have extraordinary abilities; the only thing Doom has going for him is that he is the only person in their pack who can read. Doom is left in charge of the camp while the adults march off to face apocalyptic danger and he feels woefully inadequate.

Fun and humorous story with super bizarre characters, readers will be enticed by the bright and colorful art. Themes of friendship, misfits, and power struggles make it a delightful read. The plot is fairly predictable, but is relatable to anyone who has ever been in charge of leading a group of people that feels like herding cats. Doom grows on you!

Michelle in the Middle h

Shirley & Jamila’s Big Fall by Gillian Goerz - HIGH

Shirley & Jamila’s Big Fall by Gillian Goerz, 236 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Dial Books for Young Readers (Penguin Random House), 2021. $13

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Shirley and Jamila are back for a second adventure. Jamila is finding a new friend as she makes the basketball team and has after-school basketball practice. Shirley has a new mystery to solve: her old enemy is blackmailing students at school. Shirley is approached by desperate students and involves Jamila as they hatch a plan to set things right.

Though this is a second book, these books don’t need to be read in order. Shirley is an intense Sherlock Holmes type and Jamila her Watson. The characters are engaging and the plot works as they tackle themes of friendship, bullying, and intimidation. I found myself cheering for Shirley’s quirky character who is strong and independent despite being so different from her peers.

Michelle in the Middle 

Wingbearer by Marjorie Liu and Teny Issakhanian - HIGH

Wingbearer by Marjorie Liu, illustrated by Teny Issakhanian, 204 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Quill Tree Books (Harper Collins), 2022. $13

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Zuli is a young girl raised by mystical bird spirits among the branches of the Great Tree, which houses dead bird spirits until they can be reborn back into the world. She loves it there until one day the bird spirits quit arriving. Together with her guardian owl, Frowly, Zuli sets out to find what is going wrong. Zuli soon finds that life outside the tree is fraught with danger as she encounters sinister magic and discovers her true identity. 

The art is amazing and will lure you into the story. Zuli’s quest turns dangerous almost from the get go and you will wonder along with Zuli who you can trust. This is the first in a series, and the ending will leave you wanting more. Zuli is an intriguing character and her allies and enemies come from a wide variety of species, which make the interplay more interesting. The magic and the politics of her world mesh well together.

Michelle in the Middle 

Future Hero: Race to Fire Mountain by Remi Blackwood - HIGH

Future Hero: Race to Fire Mountain by Remi Blackwood, 136 pages. Scholastic, AUGUST 2022. $7

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

11yo Jarell has a hard time fitting in. While his older brother plays sports and gets along with everyone, Jarell would rather draw fantasy pictures. After a bad day, Jarell wanders down to his cousin’s barbershop where he discovers a hidden portal to a magical world of Ulfrica, where the pictures he’s been drawing are suddenly real places. Jarell discovers this world is in danger and that he may be the key to saving it if he can gain the confidence he needs to lead out.

This is the first in a series for young fans of Black Panther. The world of Ulfrica is intriguing and Jarell makes an unlikely hero. There is a lot of action and this book sets up the next one. Readers will be anxious to see where Jarell’s next adventure in Ulfrica leads.

Michelle in the Middle 

At the Pond by David Elliott and Amy Schimler-Safford - OPTIONAL

At the Pond by David Elliott, illustrated by Amy Schimler-Safford. PICTURE BOOK, POETRY. Candlewick Press, 2022. $19. 9781536205985

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

At the Pond is a companion book to David Elliott’s other poetry books that focus on different habitats and the animals residing within. Each two-page spread includes bold, colorful illustrations and a poem about different flora or fauna associated with the pond. The cover and illustrations are fantastic and eye-catching and will appeal to all ages. Some of the poems are simple and catchy (“Polly! Polly! Pollywog! Golly! Golly! Golly! Frog!”) while others include overly advanced vocabulary (e.g. enigmatic, prolific, diaphanous, charismatic) that can’t be deciphered using illustrations or context clues. For me, the backmatter made up for what some elementary students might consider confusing or uninteresting poetry. I loved the fun, unique facts included at the back of the book about each of the animals featured in the poetry.

Reviewer: Angie Campbell, EL librarian 

The Garden We Share by Zoë Tucker and Julianna Swaney - ADVISABLE

The Garden We Share by Zoë Tucker, illustrated by Julianna Swaney. PICTURE BOOK. NorthSouth Books, Inc., 2022. $19. 9780735844841

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

This is a sweet story of gardening, community and friendship that also includes themes of nature, sharing, loss and healing. The story focuses primarily on a young child and an elderly woman, and although the nature of their relationship isn’t clearly defined (are they neighbors? relatives?) their relationship is inspiring as they work, learn and serve their community together. The story spans several seasons allowing the reader to view the gardening process from planting to harvest, and back to planting again.

The central intergenerational friendship is absolutely lovely and tugs at your heartstrings. The illustrations are colorful and warm and give clues that help move the story along as well as hint at the deeper themes in the story, including loss and healing. Younger readers will enjoy the pictures and the relatively simple text, while older students will understand the subtle, deeper elements of the story.

Reviewer: Angie Campbell, EL Librarian 

Best Friends for Never by Colleen AF Venable and Stephanie Yue - HIGH

Best Friends for Never (Kate the Catsitter #2) by Colleen AF Venable, illustrated by Stephanie Yue, 218 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Penguin Random House. 2022. $21

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

12yo Katie is back and getting ready for school to start. Unfortunately, she is on the outs with both her best friend Beth and her new friends. Sidekick training is super boring and Katie is frustrated that the Mousetress is not clearing her name. Katie wants to fix a lot of things in her life but isn’t sure how to go about it.

Don't read book #2 before you read book #1. Though at first glance this looks like a realistically based graphic novel, the reader will need to buy into a world populated by a plethora of bizarre super heroes and sidekicks. The story is fun, but works best when exploring Katie’s relationship issues, which adds a dose of commonality and relatability. The pictures are bright and engaging, and if you don’t mind your world being saved by 217 genius cats, then this is your book.

Michelle in the Middle 

Hello, Horse by Vivian French, illustrated by Catherine Rayner - ADVISABLE

Hello, Horse by Vivian French, illustrated by Catherine Rayner. PICTURE BOOK (w/ facts on each page). Candlewick Press, 2018. $9 (paperback). 9781536223545

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

A young boy who is not sure that he likes horses is invited to meet a kind horse named Shannon. His friend Catherine helps him learn about Shannon, how to give her a carrot, why her feet go clip clop, how to brush her, and other fun information about horses. He reluctantly rides her around the pasture while Catherine leads them. Now he has a new friend.

Hello, Horse is a simple and engaging story for young children. French takes us on a small adventure while feeding our curiosity with interesting facts about horses. The illustrations were just the right bridge to fuel our interest and imagination.

PGPowers 

A Home Under the Stars by Andy Chou Musser - ADVISABLE

A Home Under the Stars by Andy Chou Musser. PICTURE BOOK. Little Bigfoot, 2021. $19. 9781632173270

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Toby moves to a big city with his family. Toby feels sad and misses all the things he used to do in his garden, especially seeing the stars before bedtime. His parents try to help by making him stars, but Toby is still upset. That night, Toby has a magical dream where he meets a lion who is lost in the City and looking for the North Star to guide it home. Toby offers to help, and they embark on a journey. On the way they meet other lost animals who are also frightened by the city.

A Home Under the Stars explores the difficulties and anxieties that accompany moving. I felt it was a magical way to explain the journey of belonging in a new place. The illustrations were interesting, engaging and fanciful. I enjoyed this heartfelt book.

Reviewer PGPowers 

A Gift For Nana by Lane Smith - HIGH

A Gift For Nana by Lane Smith. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Studio , 2022. $19. 9780593430330

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Rabbit wants to give his Nana a present just because he loves her. A crow tells him about where he can find the perfect gift. Little rabbit travels through a grand forest and discusses his quest with the moon hiding there. He travels further and asks a stickler about a perfect gift for his Nana. He crosses a big big lake and meets a big big fish and tells him about his quest. He finds a volcano on the other side of the lake who also offers a gift idea. Nothing seems right for his Nana until he finds the perfect gift where the crow said it would be at the top of the mountain. Will Rabbit's nana like it?

A gift for Nana takes us on an engaging quest. I especially liked the underlying moral to the ending. I appreciated the cute, yet artistic artwork that enveloped the reader in each page. I enjoyed book on many levels.

Reviewer: PGPowers 

Swim, Jim! by Kaz Windness - HIGH

Swim, Jim! by Kaz Windness. PICTURE BOOK. Simon & Shuster Books For Young Readers, 2022. $19. 9781534483439

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Jim is one of three baby crocodiles born to his parents. His sisters follow his parents into the water, but Jim is afraid. His parents are kind, but his sisters make fun of him. Jim creates a plan to learn to swim and looks for a little swamp. He discovers humans swimming with floaties, and when they leave the pool for birthday cake, he jumps in using their floaties. Jim’s sisters find him in the pool and also go swimming. Jim’s claw pops his floatie. Will Jim sink or swim?

Swim, Jim! is delightful and humorous. Children as well as adults will laugh at the familiar antics of Jim and his journey to learn to swim. The illustrations are cute, funny, clever and greatly enhance the story.

Reviewer: PGPowers 

Oceanarium by Loveday Trinick and Teagan White - HIGH

Oceanarium by Loveday Trinick, illustrated by Teagan White, 95 pages. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Big Picture Press, 2022. $38. 9781536223811

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Marine biologist Loveday Trinick takes us on a stroll through her aquarium in a book, and we discover the majesty the ocean holds. We learn about extraordinary creatures that normally lie hidden beneath the waves and live in the ocean’s sunlit shallows down to its darkest depths. We travel the world’s oceans from the frozen Arctic to shimmering coral reefs, and learn why it is so important that we protect our oceans.

Oceanarium is a stunning museum quality book. The beautifully detailed illustrations and graphics will persuade you to spend time in its pages. It is not a quick reference book, but one to settle in a comfortable chair and enjoy the majesty of the ocean. Small children will enjoy the illustrations, while older readers will explore the books knowledge.

Reviewer: PGPowers 

Water: a Deep Dive of Discovery by Christy Mihaly and Mariona Cabassa - ADVISABLE

Water: a Deep Dive of Discovery by Christy Mihaly, illustrated by Mariona Cabassa, 63 pages. NON FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Barefoot Books, 2021. $20. 9781646862801

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Mihaly introduces readers to the beauty, power and importance of water – not only through facts and information, but also through eight mythical stories from different cultures and countries. She gives the reader a deep understanding of how water works and how it sustains life on our planet. We learn about topics ranging from melting and freezing to the ways in which water literally shapes the Earth. We also learn how we can cherish and protect our water. 

I enjoyed this comprehensive yet accessible exploration of water. It was fun and easy to learn and retain interesting facts about water. Mihaly has created an engaging format including gatefolds and booklets with hands-on activity ideas for learning about and protecting water. The illustrations are delightful, colorful and inviting.

Reviewer: PGPowers 

Little Polar Bear and the Brave Little Hare by Hans de Beer

Little Polar Bear and the Brave Little Hare by Hans de Beer. PICTURE BOOK. NorthSouth Books, Inc, 1992 (reprint). $18. 9780735844926 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Lars, a little polar bear was enjoying looking out at the ice and snow when he hears a small hare named Hugo at the bottom of deep hole. He is able to get Hugo out of the hole and they have fun playing together. As they are going home it starts to snow and they wait out the storm. After the storm they are lost and follow a red vehicle to the polar station. Although Hugo is afraid, Lars talks Hugo into finding food in the rubbish behind the station. Lars also starts exploring and gets trapped inside the station. Hugo is still afraid but tries to find a way to help his new friend. 

The Little Polar Bear and the Brave Little Hare is an engaging story about making friends and finding bravery to help each other. I enjoyed the cute characters and their interactions with each other. The cute illustrations work well with the story. The Little Polar Bear would be a great addition to your collection of picture books. 

Reviewer: PGPowers 

What Can I Say? by Catherine Newman - ADVISABLE

What Can I Say? by Catherine Newman, 160 pages. NONFICTION. Storey Publishing, 2020. $17.

Language: PG (3 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: G; Violence: G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Words are hard, especially when you’re having a new kind of conversation. It’s okay to be nervous about talking with others, and Newman helps make it easier by giving suggestions of what to do in situations like meeting someone new, apologizing, asking someone out, talking about pronouns, and more.

Newman encourages readers to improve their communication starting from where they are. Not everything suggested here needs to be applied right now; the tips are here for when readers are ready to use them and work to improve their skills. While targeted to a younger audience, adults can even learn from this book. I loved being reminded how simple communication really is.

Reviewer: Carolina Herdegen

Trial of Heroes by Gavin Aung Than - ADVISABLE

Trial of Heroes (Super Sidekicks #3) by Gavin Aung Than, color by Sarah Stern, 154 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Random House, 2020. $18.99.

Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (a life-threatening contest)

BUYING ADVISORY: EL – ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

After the Super Sidekicks rescue a royal baby from a bunch of creepy clowns, they receive a call from H.E.R.O (Heroic Earth Righteousness Organization) inviting them to visit. The leader of H.E.R.O., Super Supreme, says the only way these kids can become members of his exclusive superhero club would be to successfully complete the Trial of Heroes, an ancient life-threatening test of one’s true heroism. The rest of the team is not interested, but since Junior Justice wants to be part of H.E.R.O. so badly, they agree to go along. The team faces three challenges, representing the three pillars of superheroes, and inadvertently uncover a surprising truth about Super Supreme.

Since this is the third book in the series, references to their past adventures are asterisked and briefly explained in footnotes - very helpful if you haven’t read the previous books yet. The four Super Sidekicks are very likable, and their abilities are clever and entertaining, despite Junior Justice’s expression appearing a bit manic at times. Who wouldn’t enjoy reading about limitlessly stretchy Goo flying out of Junior Justice’s nose as they battle the clowns? Or about Flygirl with her bug balls and a shape-shifting dinosaur? Middle-grade fans of superhero graphic novels will enjoy traveling around the world with these Super Sidekicks, from England to Australia to New York City to the fertile crescent, while cheering them on as they support and encourage of each other through the challenges of the trial, illustrated with easy-to-follow and brightly colored panels. Courage, persistence, and compassion and empathy are worthy superhero values, indeed.

Reviewer: P.K. Foster, MLS, elementary school teacher-librarian

Rocket Finds an Egg by Elle Stephens, illustrated by Grace Hills - ESSENTIAL

Rocket Finds an Egg by Elle Stephens, illustrated by Grace Hills, 32 pages. EARLY READER. Random House, 2022. $15.99.

BUYING ADVISORY: PRE-K EL (K-3) – ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Rocket, a white dog with black spots, and his friend Bella, a squirrel, find an egg while playing in the meadow and want to find its home. They ask Owl, a bluebird, the little yellow bird, a bird with spots, different colored birds, a chicken, and a duck, but the egg belongs to none of them. Just as they are about to give up, they run into the egg’s owner and help get the egg back into its nest.

This early reader has only a sentence or two per page, printed in a large font, which makes it perfect for those students just starting to read independently. The text is predictable enough, and the pictures provide enough visual clues, to help a young reader keep moving forward even if they get stuck on a word here or there. If you have students who already love Rocket, they’ll love this book, too. Either way, this book is a valuable addition to any early reader collection. The story is simple yet logical and encourages a young reader to make predictions and be curious about whose egg it is, which will keep them reading to the end, a desirable outcome for any book.

Reviewer: P.K. Foster, MLS, elementary school teacher-librarian

I Don’t Have a Cat by Contessa Hileman, illustrated by Carolyn Conahan - OPTIONAL

I Don’t Have a Cat by Contessa Hileman, illustrated by Carolyn Conahan. PICTURE BOOK. Little Bigfoot (Sasquatch Books), 2022. $14.99. 9781632172211

BUYING ADVISORY: PRE-K EL (K-3) –OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

When a cat crawls through his bedroom window, the narrator, portrayed as a young black boy and often pictured with his parents and younger sister, says he doesn’t have a cat. He has a space invader, paper shredder, stylist, food critic. When he sneaks the cat to school, he doesn’t have a cat. He has an undercover secret agent and wrecking ball. Back home, he acknowledges that you may think he has a cat in his room, but this bitey, scratchy ball of fluff who’s slowly destroying everything he owns (haha!) is really a rescue mission.

Published in the same year as the companion book I Don’t Have a Dog, this one follows a more complicated storyline that is only made clear with help from the illustrations. Climbing into a space helmet (space cadet), knocking over a stack of books (surveillance system), and swatting at flies (bug swatter) matches my extensive experience with cats, but this story also has an additional layer of describing a lost-and-found pet that may or may not need a new home. The weakest aspects, from my perspective, are the illustrations and text font.

Reviewer: P.K. Foster, MLS, elementary school teacher-librarian

I Don’t Have a Dog by Contessa Hileman, illustrated by Carolyn Conahan - OPTIONAL

I Don’t Have a Dog by Contessa Hileman, illustrated by Carolyn Conahan. PICTURE BOOK. Little Bigfoot (Sasquatch Books), 2022. $14.99. 9781632172211

BUYING ADVISORY: PRE-K EL (K-3) – OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

A young girl, accompanied by her Corgi- or terrier-looking sidekick and often with her parents and younger brother, narrates this story about how she doesn’t have a dog. She has an alarm clock, dishwasher, homework excuse, security system, garbage disposal, and taste tester. She has a fan club and business partner. Sure, he might look and smell and sound like a dog, the narrator acknowledges, but don’t ask if you can pet her dog. She doesn’t have a dog. She has a best friend.

I don’t love the illustrations but I do like the story. Anyone who has ever loved a dog will enjoy being reminded of all the different roles this beloved pet fills. Also, the pattern “I don’t have a dog. I have a …” can be predicted or replicated by students for extension activities.  

Reviewer: P.K. Foster, MLS, elementary school teacher-librarian

Angry Me by Sandra V. Feder, illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell - ADVISABLE

Angry Me by Sandra V. Feder, illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell. PICTURE BOOK. Groundwood Books (Anansi Press), 2022. $19.99. 9781773063386

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

A young girl, portrayed with straight black cropped hair pulled back with clips on each side of her medium brown face, describes various scenarios in which she gets angry. She gets angry when others are being mean, even if it was a mistake, or when something feels unfair, or when she is tired or sad. She then explains how she tries to deal with her anger in each of these situations by using her words, though that can be very difficult at times. Other people’s words can help sometimes, too. Recognizing this feeling and where it comes from, trying to fix the situation that is upsetting, and giving herself time to let the feeling pass gives her room for a new feeling that feels much better.

The simple words are paired with illustrations created with hand-printed textures that contribute significantly to the reader’s understand of what the narrator is referring to. Someone ate her cookie. Some kids are telling secrets. Out of all the anger-management books that have come out for young children lately, I would seriously consider purchasing this one for your collection. Though it doesn’t offer multiple strategies for managing anger (such as deep breathing or counting to 10), it does portray situations that will be very relatable to young students, and the diversity in the illustrations will allow most students to see themselves portrayed.

Reviewer: P.K. Foster, MLS, elementary school teacher-librarian

Busy Street by Edward Miller - ADVISABLE

Busy Street by Edward Miller, 43 pages. EARLY READER. Beginner Books (Random House), 2022. $9.99.

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Mommy is in the front seat and Bonnie’s in the back. They drive around town spotting all sorts of vehicles, such as sweepers, tracker trailers, school and city buses, and camper vans. There are emergency vehicles, construction vehicles, and lots of trucks (garbage, mail, moving, ice cream, tow). The reader will also see traffic lights, crosswalks, street signs, and a train and its railroad crossing gates. The road trip passes by familiar places around town, too, such as a supermarket, post office, car dealership, and a gas station that offers both gas and electric charging.

Each spread features four or eight lines of text with a A-B-C-B rhyming scheme and lots of sight words. All the people are portrayed as animals. From toddlers to second graders learning to read, this early reader will be sure to hold the attention of any kid interested in things that go. What fun this ride is!

Reviewer: P.K. Foster, MLS, elementary school teacher-librarian

Time for Teamwork by Jennifer Richard Jackobson - ADVISABLE

 

Time for Teamwork (Twig and Turtle #5) by Jennifer Richard Jackobson, illustrated by Paula Franco, 106 pages. CHAPTER BOOK. Pixel+Ink, 2021. $14.99.

Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) – ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

One snowy day, six-year-old Turtle makes and sells snow cats created from cotton balls, an enterprising idea that gets her eight-year-old sister, Twig, wondering if she has good ideas, too. After helping fold laundry at the neighboring laundromat, Twig decides to offer her services to people she knows. She is determined to manage this business on her own. She makes fliers, starts handing them out, and gets some jobs. When she overschedules her time and unexpected problems arise, however, she needs help from her sister and friends to sort things out.

Though the fifth book in an early-chapter-book series, this one is delightfully enjoyable even if you are unfamiliar with the rest of the books. If you haven’t met Twig and Turtle yet, it is time. They are kind, enterprising, and fun while also being the sort of kids many readers will be able to relate to.

Reviewer: P.K. Foster, MLS, elementary school teacher-librarian