Give This Book Away! by Darren Farrell and Maya Tatsukawa - ADVISABLE

Give This Book Away! by Darren Farrell, illustrated by Maya Tatsukawa. PICTURE BOOK  Alfred A. Knopf 2022 $19. 9780593480519 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

"Give This Book Away" is meant to be a concrete experience with the joy of giving. There is no storyline to follow. Instead, this book is a lesson about the fears and joys associated with giving of ourselves to others. The ultimate goal is to actually give this book away to someone. 

I liked that this book is meant to teach young children about giving. Sometimes, giving a gift can be scary, and this book is honest about how we all feel about being vulnerable when we reach out to connect with others. I think young children will be thrilled about the chance to give a book to someone. The characters have a wide range of skin colors, age, and situations. 

J. Smith 

A Flower is a Friend by Frieda Wishinsky and Karen Patkau - ADVISABLE

A Flower is a Friend by Frieda Wishinsky, illustrated by Karen Patkau. PICTURE BOOK NON-FICTION Pajama Press, 2023. $19. 9781772782806 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Flowers grow, bloom, and help their animal and insect friends. They feed hummingbirds, bumblebees, and other insects. They shade frogs and hide mice. Flowers have all sorts of friends. Can you find them in this garden? Why are flowers and creatures friends? Ladybugs, dragonflies, hummingbirds, bumblebees, geckos, butterflies, snails, frogs, beetles, mice, spiders, and bats use flowers for friends. 

A Flower is a Friend is easy to read and easy to explore how flowers help creatures. I liked how the main text is very simple. Wishinsky also asks thought provoking questions on each page. All the questions are answered in the back of the book on fact sheets about each creature. I feel it is a great book to learn about how flowers are friends for young children. 

PGPowers 

The Library Fish Learns to Read by Alyssa Satin Capucilli and Gladys Jose - ADVISABLE

The Library Fish Learns to Read by Alyssa Satin Capucilli, illustrated by Gladys Jose. PICTURE BOOK Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2023. $19. 9781534477070 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Library fish loved her home on the desk of Mr. Hughes, the librarian. She felt important as she welcomed every visitor and checked each book that was borrowed and returned. Story time was her favorite part of the day making her quiver with excitement or laughter. One day the librarian read a book about a dog who learned to read. Library Fish wanted to clap out loud. She realized that she could learn to read. So every night she practiced. She first started learning the alphabet and the sounds each letter makes. Then she practiced words in books using illustrations to help her know the word. Will she ever actually be able to read a real book? 

The Library Fish Learns to Read is a creative way to encourage young children to learn to read, listing all the steps it takes to become a reader. Capucilli helps children glimpse the love of reading and the joys of libraries. The fish and illustrations are cute and do much of the storytelling. 

PGPowers 

What Will I Discover? by Tanya Lloyd Kyi and Rachel Qiuqi - ADVISABLE

What Will I Discover? by Tanya Lloyd Kyi, illustrated by Rachel Qiuqi. PICTURE BOOK (K-3rd grade) Greystone Kids, 2023. $19. 9781771648615 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

A child ponders about how scientists seem to know everything about the world. They know that otters tie themselves to kelp. so they won't float away while they sleep. They know many things about deserts, starfish, macaws, glass frogs, Antarctica, and emperor penguins. Scientists know some things about dinosaurs, space, Mars and the human brain. But the child still has questions that scientists don't have answers to like, "Why does every humpback whale sing a different song?" and, "Do far away suns have planets like ours?". Then the child's biggest question of all is, "What will I discover?". 

What Will I Discover? gently stimulates the imagination of the young reader. I enjoyed the delightful storytelling illustrations and interesting questions that helped me feel curious about the world around me. The main character is dark skinned. It is difficult to tell what gender he or she is. 

PGPowers 

This Story is Not About a Kitten by Randall de Seve and Carson Ellis - ESSENTIAL

This Story is Not About a Kitten by Randall de Seve illustrated by Carson Ellis. PICTURE BOOK (K-3rd grade) Random House Studio, 2022. $19. 9780593374535 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

This is the story of people in a neighborhood coming together to rescue a homeless kitten. A mother and daughter out for a walk find a kitten. They need help, and we see the action domino through the neighborhood as more residents come to help. A tribute to community efforts and cooperation. 

I don't love the repetitive phrases but young children might enjoy the predictability. The pictures are a well-integrated part of the story giving clues about what it coming and reflecting what has happened. I love that the story says the kitten put up a fight and then the little girl is shown with band aids on her arms. Ethnically diverse cast of characters reflecting different races and cultures of origin. 

J. Smith, Teacher Librarian 

Black Gold by Laura Obuobi and London Ladd - OPTIONAL

Black Gold by Laura Obuobi, illustrated by London Ladd. PICTURE BOOK Harper Collins Children's Books, 2022. $19. 9780063015760 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW 

A black mother tells her daughter the story of how she was created by the universe. After she was created by the universe, the sun gave her light and the moon gave her wisdom. All of her physical and spiritual attributes were created with purpose. The mother tells her daughter this story to give her confidence in who she is. 

The pictures are bright and intriguing. The text was very meaningful. The message of this book was "be happy with who you are" which many kids in today's world need to hear. I am just wondering if this book would only appeal to a limited audience. 

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian 

The Brilliant Calculator by Jan Lower and Susan Reagan - ADVISABLE

The Brilliant Calculator: How Mathematician Edith Clarke Helped Electrify America by Jan Lower, illustrated by Susan Reagan. PICTURE BOOK BIOGRAPHY Calkins Creek (Astra), 2023 $19.00 9781662680069 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Born in 1882, Edith Clarke loved math and engineering and wanted to use it to make modern life better. But those paths were closed to women. She persisted in her own way first teaching, and then attending college, even if she was older than the others, and teaching more and heading back to school herself. In 1921 her Clarke Calculator helped electric engineers complete needful calculations faster and landed her a job as America's first female electrical engineer, improving electrical transmission and telephone lines for all. Clarke never stops teaching, never stops inventing, and never stops learning. 

I love a good biography that tells the story of another woman who forged ahead despite the odds - and brought her name out from obscurity. While a longer read for a picture book biography, it is not unwieldy. Lots of information about Edith is easily available on the Internet. Combine with the many female picture book biographies available for a great unit of study. Edith is white. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS.

Love Without Bounds by Drs. Chelsea Johnson, LaToya Council, and Carolyn Choi, and Ashley Seil Smith - ADVISABLE

Love Without Bounds: an Intersections Allies book about families by Drs. Chelsea Johnson, LaToya Council, and Carolyn Choi, illustrated by Ashley Seil Smith. PICTURE BOOK Dottir Press, 2023. $20. 9781948340519 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Families come in all shapes and sizes. Each of them is meant to be cherished and to be a place where each member can feel cherished. Sometimes laws and the attitudes of others make some families feel less-than. 

The authors' second look at a bigger concept of belonging is a bit more cumbersome than the original InsectionAllies https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/2021/06/intersectionallies-we-make-room-for-all.html, but the message is no less joyful. Smith's exuberant illustrations, though minimalist, work in a joyful way to convey the message. And the anthem, We Are A Family! We Love Without Bounds! is fun to shout. The illustrations represent a colorful panoply of ethnicities and genders.

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS.

Can We Please Give the Police Department to the Grandmothers? by Junauda Petrus and Kristen Uroda - NO

Can We Please Give the Police Department to the Grandmothers? by Junauda Petrus, illustrated by Kristen Uroda. PICTURE BOOK (K-3rd grade) Dutton (Penguin), 2023. $19 9780593462331 G 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL - NOT RECOMMENDED 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW 

The author postulates that America would be a better place if the grandmother had the resources and the authority of the police. 

While the sentiment is sincere and loving, the idea is based on a fantasy. If grandmothers really had this much power - of stopping anger and violence through love - then they would already be able to stop the violence in their communities. I was saddened by the idea that people would believe this was a real solution. The characters are all Black. 

Cindy, Library Teacher 

Stars of the Night by Caren Stelson and Selina Alko - ADVISABLE

Stars of the Night; The Courageous Children of the Czech Kindertransport by Caren Stelson, illustrated by Selina Alko. PICTURE BOOK NON-FICTION Carolrhoda (Lerner), 2023 $20. 9781541598683 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

The children of Prague weren't sure what was going on, but their parents were whispering and making plans as Adolf Hitler and his Jewish war machine tightened their grip on their country. With the help of an unknown (to the children) man, they are given papers and loaded onto trains into the unknown - to safety. At the end of the war, the children return to Prague to find their parents, but very few of them do. 

I love every precious book I read about the Holocaust and believe that we need to start younger and explain the time to our children. Stelson makes me cry and you will cry too when you watch a bit of the BBC segment showing Nicholas Winton (the unknown man) meeting an audience full of the children (now adults) whom he saved. https://youtu.be/6_nFuJAF5F0?si=_iuomc3t2LzVF2pt. I only didn't rate this ESSENTIAL, because not every school has a teacher who teaches about the Holocaust. But where you do, make sure you buy this one! 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Hooked on Books by Margaret Chiu Greanias and Kristyna Litten - ADVISABLE

Hooked on Books by Margaret Chiu Greanias, illustrated by Kristyna Litten. PICTURE BOOK. Peachtree, 2023. $19. 9781682633670 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Pearl the anglerfish just wants to find some peace and quiet so that she can enjoy her book. But the other marine animals keep finding her and wanting to read the book too. She goes to great lengths to find a quiet spot. When she is finished, however, she realizes that reading alone and friendless may not be exactly what she wants. 

I love that the author introduces us to new concepts like yeti crabs and marine snow! Pearl is pretty cute with her built in reading light. Add this to a collection about books and reading if needed. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Border Crossings by Sneed Collard III and Howard Gray - ADVISABLE

 Border Crossings by Sneed Collard III, illustrated by Howard Gray. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2023. $18. 9781623542382 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

A male ocelot heads south in search of a mate, but is stopped when it encounter a tall, long wall that is too high to climb and too close to wriggle through. While some places are still open, too much is now creating an artificial barrier that stops not only humans, but animals also. 

Collard brings to life how the border wall effects more that humans, with no solutions, only worry about what will happen if the whole thing is actually built. The afterward touches on the human toll and more about how much human politics effects animal life. An easy fit for science class, but if I had a modern government class in my school, I would take this to the teacher immediately. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

How Does Santa Get Down the Chimney? By Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen - HIGH

How Does Santa Get Down the Chimney? By Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2023. $19. 9781536223767 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Barnett and Klassen don’t have any answers about how Santa gets into every house on Christmas Eve, but they ask lots of good questions and have loads of ideas about the trick of it. Klassen brings a retro feel with his illustrations that hits the right note – classy, not cheesy! 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Five Little Penguins by Lily Murray and Holly Surplice - ADVISABLE

Five Little Penguins by Lily Murray, illustrated by Holly Surplice. LIFT-the-FLAP PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2022. $17. 9781536232608 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Each day mother penguin takes her five little penguins out to play. But each day one fewer penguin comes home. Where could they all be? Will they arrive home in time for Christmas day? 

The flaps are thick paper, easy to crinkle, so I wouldn’t let the littlest ones handle this on their own. But for adorable penguin illustrations, I would take the risk for a winter picture book collection. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Great Carrier Reef by Jessica Stremer and Gordy Wright - ADVISABLE

 Great Carrier Reef by Jessica Stremer, illustrated by Gordy Wright. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Holiday House, 2023. $19. 9780823452682 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

The old carrier ship may be of no use on top of the waves any more, but it is about to start a new life on the ocean floor as an artificial reef – a new home for ocean life of all sorts. 

Stremer has filled a hole in the science picture book spectrum with this simple, true book about a single carrier becoming an artificial reef. Whether you are teaching a unit on ships, or ecosystems, or human-nature interactions, I can think of lots of ways to use this book. And a simple Google search yields articles and sites about artificial reefs from history. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Whale Fall: Exploring an Ocean-Floor Ecosystem by Melissa Stewart and Rob Dunlavey - ESSENTIAL

Whale Fall: Exploring an Ocean-Floor Ecosystem by Melissa Stewart, illustrated by Rob Dunlavey. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2023. $19. 9780593380604 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

When a whale dies, their carcass falls to the ocean floor, where a new ecosystem springs up – animals and plants using the nourishment of the whale to grow and live in succession over fifty years. 

Stunning, reverential, and full of information I had never heard before. Dunlavey’s illustrations are the perfect dreamy blues and includes insets with enlarged looks at some of the new denizens. LOVE IT! 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Train (Baby on Board) by Sebastien Braun - HIGH

Train (Baby on Board) by Sebastien Braun. INTERACTIVE BOARD BOOK. Templar Books, Candlewick, 2023. $10. 9781536232592 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K Gift - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Baby likes trains? Let them push, pull, and spin their way through this sturdy book populated by a red train and its mouse engineer. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Where’s the Snowman by Ingela P. Arrhenius - HIGH

Where’s the Snowman by Ingela P. Arrhenius. BOARD BOOK. Nosy Crow (Candlewick), 2022. $10. 9781536227833 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K Gift - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Arrhenius applies her trademark illustrative style to a peek-a-boo winter board book. The classic strong, felt flaps are very hardy and will dry after being stuffed into little mouths. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Sensational Senses: amazing ways to perceive the world by Rebecca E. Hirsch - ADVISABLE

Sensational Senses: amazing ways to perceive the world by Rebecca E. Hirsch, 43 pages. NON-FICTION. Millbrook (Lerner), 2022. $32 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Hirsch takes us into the worlds of eight incredible species and the scientists who research them. Each creatures uses at least one of their senses in an extraordinary way. From the star-nosed mole with its super sniffer and the Japanese Sea Catfish with its agile tongue – all show us how little we humans use our senses. Great for kids who love non-fiction animal books. 

 Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Secrets of the Lost City by Sandra Markle - ADVISABLE

Secrets of the Lost City: a scientific adventure in the Honduran rain forest by Sandra Markle, 49 pages. NON-FICTION. Millbrook (Lerner), 2023. $32 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Rumors of a Lost City, La Ciudad Blanco, have circulated for decades through Honduras. The land around it, however, is the wildest rain forest in all the world. It isn’t until 2010 that scientist Steve Elkins puts together the money for a lidar (light detection and ranging) search of a small area of the rain forest and finds conclusive proof of ancient human habitation. Even with that proof, physical expeditions are expensive and dangerous. 

I was fascinated by the use of lidar in aiding archeological exploration in remote territory. The information on the scientists’ investigations in to the flora and fauna were also detailed enough to be valuable as supplemental material in almost any science class. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Operation Pangolin: saving the world’s only scaled mammal by Suzi Eszterhas - ADVISABLE

Operation Pangolin: saving the world’s only scaled mammal by Suzi Eszterhas, 37 pages. NON-FICTION. Millbrook Press (Lerner), 2023. $31 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

While pangolins are exotic to us in the United States, all over Asia and Africa over 100,000 of them are killed each year for their rare meat and supposed medicinal properties. Thai, a Vietnamese scientist, has been working since he was a child to learn about and save the pangolin. 

Eszterhas takes us into Thai’s world to give us what little we know about pangolins and show us the few ways scientists are trying to save them from extinction. Beautiful color photographs accompany the dense text – definitely not a picture book. 

 Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Hidden on the High Wire by Kathy Kacer

Hidden on the High Wire by Kathy Kacer, 216 pages. Second Story Press, 2022. $14 (paperback) 

Language: G (0 swears, 0 ‘f’); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (WII violence mentioned, not described) 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Irene loves her family’s circus – her work on the high wire is a thrill for her and for those who come to see their shows. Because they and most of their performers are Jewish, however, they are forced to shut down when Hitler and the Nazis come to power. Irene’s father has been conscripted into Hitler’s army, while Irene and her mother try to make a living. It isn’t until another circus owner is willing to lie for them and hide them that Irene sees a chance to make it out of this alive. 

If you have a need for Holocaust fiction, then Kacer brings another dimension to the story. Her writing is not as compelling as Marsha Skrypuch or Ruta Sepetys, but she highlights more of the small stories of WWII in her various series. Audiobook provided by libro.fm; narrated by Gabi Epstein 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Poop for Breakfast by Sara Levine and Florence Weiser - ESSENTIAL

Poop for Breakfast: why some animals eat it by Sara Levine, illustrated by Florence Weiser. PICTURE BOOK Millbrook (Lerner), 2023. $21. 9781728457963 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Poop is not just for dung beetles! Other animals need to eat poop too. 

Levine and Weiner give us a straightforward look at animals that eat poop and why they do it. I really like the part about why humans should NOT eat poop. Sure to attract a wide audience - even at a high school. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

The Lost Library by Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass - ADVISABLE

The Lost Library by Rebecca Stead and Wendy Mass, audiobook narrated by Christopher Gebauer, et al. 215 pages. Feiwel and Friends (Macmillan), 2023. $17. 

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

5th grader Evan and his best friend Rafe have more than one mystery to solve - how did the town library burn down all those years ago and who is the mysterious author H.G. Higgins? Evan is not the only narrator of our story, though. Mortimer, the cat who ushers mice out instead of killing them, and AL, the ghostly library assistant, also have their sides of the story to tell. Usher in the little free library that appeared over night and let the story begin. 

Another great read aloud for upper elementary! I loved listening to this courtesy of libra.fm, but I think reading it aloud would add the same charm to the telling. Evan is earnest and endearing; Al's place in the world is a mystery right to the end, and Mortimer is a cat anyone would be proud to own. The characters default white, except for the cat, which it orange.

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS

Mexikid by Pedro Martin - ESSENTIAL

Mexikid: a graphic memoir by Pedro Martin, 309 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL Dial (Penguin), 2023. $23. 

Language: PG (1 swear 0 'f'); Mature Content: PG (naked doll illustration, pee and diarrhea references); Violence: PG (danger, depictions of fighting)

 BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

It's the 1970's and Pedro and his large family are leaving the strawberry picking fields of Watsonville, CA to drive 2000 miles to Mexico to help their abuelito wrap up his affairs and move back to California with them. Pedro, is not excited, until his father and older siblings tell him stories of Abuelito's exploits during Mexico's wars. Along the way he gives us a ring-side seat into what life was like crossing the border, driving the dangerous roads of Mexico, and coming to get to know yourself better. 

Cindy listened to the book courtesy of libra.fm, so she had no idea it is a graphic memoir. The audiobook is so spectacular, read by a full cast, and would make a fun read aloud in an upper elementary classroom. Hilarious and heartfelt. Lisa read the graphic novel and loved the illustrations - some of the depictions of Pedro's grandfather fighting off several men make him look (understandably) like a super hero. There's a section that takes place in a cemetery which could be troubling for a sensitive child, as well as an event where a deer is hit on the road. Also, Martin uses a lot of Spanish, some is translated in footnotes. Highly recommended, especially to my Mexican population. Includes an author's note with photos of the family, including Abuelito. Pedro and his family are Mexican. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS and Lisa Librarian

Hush-A-Bye by Jody Lee Mott - ADVISABLE

Hush-A-Bye by Jody Lee Mott, 220 pages. Viking (Penguin), 2021 $9 (paperback). 

Language: G (0 swears 0 'f'); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (mild horror violence) 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

6th grader Lucy is not looking forward to the torture of school after a glorious summer of freedom. But her little sister, Antonia is joining her this year, so even if she has to lie, Lucy will put on a brave face for her. The day before school starts, Lucy finds a broken doll head buried in the riverside muck and Antonia is drawn to it immediately. Neither Lucy nor Antonia have a clue what they have unleashed - a demon which is very, very good at getting its way. Unless they resist, the danger will become permanent. 

The cover does nothing to convey how spooky this book is. If it had a cover like a K.R. Alexander book, it would sell much more quickly. The evil doll trope is very popular in horror fiction, but Mott manages to be creepy enough without stumbling into over the top. The characters default white. 

Cindy, Library Teacher

Picture Day by Sarah Sax - ADVISABLE

Picture Day: (The Brinkley Yearbooks #1) by Sarah Sax, 278 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL Random House Graphic, 2023. $21 

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

7th grader Viv is sick and tired of the safe braid her mom always makes her wear, so on picture day she takes the scissors into her own hands for an avant garden haircut. After the disaster is soothed out, Viv finds others who want her help being brave and soon her best friends are wondering if they will be left behind. Viv has to figure out what is really important to her. 

Some times friends stay together as they grow, other times they break apart. Sax shows a friend group that finds that they still have room for each other, even though they all have changes on some ways. Readers who like Telgemeier, LIbenson, Hale will also enjoy this new author/illustrator offering. The ethnicities of the characters are indeterminate, though they are drawn in various colors. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, LMS 

Time After Time (Best Wishes #3) by Sarah Mlynowski and Christina Soontornvat - ADVISABLE

Time After Time (Best Wishes #3) by Sarah Mlynowski and Christina Soontornvat, 192 Pages. Scholastic Press (Scholastic), November 2023. $16. 

Language: G (0 swears 0 'f'); Mature Content: G; Violence Rating: G. (repeated instances of vomit)

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Lucy's 5th grade class is going on a field trip to the Natural History Museum where her dad will be doing a presentation. with Lucy, on the museum's gem collection. But when he feels inspired to propose to his girlfriend - Lucy's school librarian - in front of everyone on the field trip, Lucy is embarrassed and upset. Arriving home (after running away from the museum and being picked up by the police) Lucy receives the bracelet and wishes for the most perfect day ever. The bracelet grants her wish by letting her have that Friday as a do-over, but, of course, making the perfect day isn't easy. 

The 3rd installment in the Best Wishes series was just as fun as the other two. I love Soontornvat's perspective, Lucy and her dad are Thai. AJ and I think it's so fun that the previous books' bracelet wearers have sent their stories on and are part of this one. We also love that the girls always learn a great lesson, about family, friendship, or themselves. We are excited to see where the bracelet heads next! 

Lisa Librarian and AJ (age 7) 

The Firefly Summer by Morgan Matson - ESSENTIAL

The Firefly Summer by Morgan Matson, 383 pages. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2023. $19. 

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Ryanna is a 12yo girl from Los Angeles who lost her mother when she was three. She has had no involvement with her mother's family and is surprised when her father receives a letter from them. She is invited to spend the summer with her grandparents who live in a place that used to be a summer camp. Ryanna finds a treasure map left by her mother and spends her summer trying to find the treasure and getting to know her family. 

I fell in love with this book! As you read, you get to experience the carefree days of living at a summer camp and spending time with family. The mystery part of the book kept my attention. Definitely worth reading! Ryanna is presumed white. Some of her cousins are Asian and Black. 

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian 

Part of Your World by Liz Braswell and Stephanie Kate Strom, Kelly Matthews & Nichole Matthews - ADVISABLE

Part of Your World (Twisted Tale Graphic Novel) by Liz Braswell, adapted by Stephanie Kate Strom, illustrated by Kelly Matthews & Nichole Matthews. 156 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL Disney/Hyperion, 2023. $22.

Language: G (0 swears 0 'f'); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (Ursula killed) 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

It has been 5 years since Ursula defeated Ariel, captured the Sea King, bespelled and married Prince Eric, and took control of the kingdom. Ariel is now the ruler under the sea, but without her voice, she communicates in signs. Then a seagull tells Ariel that Eric has remembered something from before and Ariel takes a chance to go to the surface and see if she can rescue her father. 

I really enjoyed reading this as a graphic novel - more than I liked the novel itself. There are a couple of rough plot points, but the whole is pretty delightful. All of the main characters are portrayed as white. 

Cindy, Library Teacher 

I Am Not an Octopus by Eoin McLaughlin, illustrated by Marc Boutavant - HIGH

I Am Not an Octopus by Eoin McLaughlin, illustrated by Marc Boutavant. PICTURE BOOK Candlewick Press, 2023. $19. 9781536225051

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Terry tries to convince himself and everyone else including the reader that he is just a regular guy who loves tuna, has a few extra arms, and that he is not an octopus. If he were an octopus, he would live under the sea unless he were afraid of water. Being afraid of water would make life very difficult for an octopus stuck on dry land, and not being able to see his mom and dad. Luckily he is not an octopus. Terry sees a swimming pool and asks the reader to teach him to swim. He wills himself to fall in. He panics. Does he ever discover that he is an octopus? 

I Am Not an Octopus is a cute and silly story about facing your fears and accepting who you really are. The illustrations are fun and clever adding more comedy to the story. His antics are fun to see and read. I am still wondering how the octopus was born and raised out of water though, but it is meant to be a silly book. There is a touch of bathroom humor. 

PGPowers 

Why Not You? by Ciara and Russell Wilson and Jessica Gibson - ESSENTIAL

Why Not You? by Ciara and Russell Wilson with JaNay Brown-Wood, illustrated by Jessica Gibson. PICTURE BOOK, NON-FICTION Random House Children's Books, 2022. $19. 9780593374405 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL - HIGH 

A rhyming text and bright illustrations work together to teach children the idea of, "Why Not You?" A young pair of school children go through their day, along with their classmates, dreaming of their future selves while dealing with the challenges every child faces at school. 

The story is upbeat and encouraging. I like how bright and positive this book is. Truly designed to encourage children to dream big and see themselves as capable of achieving those dreams. The main characters are Black, I assume they represent the two authors, class is ethnically diverse and inclusive in that different body shapes are shown as well as one boy in a wheelchair. 

J. Smith, Teacher Librarian 

Rainbow Fish and the Storyteller by Marcus Pfister - ADVISABLE

Rainbow Fish and the Storyteller by Marcus Pfister. PICTURE BOOK (K-3rd grade) North South, 2022. $20. 9780735845008 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

A big new fish named Humbert rushes up to Rainbow Fish and tells her he has important news. He tells her that there is a grumpy fish that is going to pull the plug at the bottom of the sea and all the water will drain out of the ocean. The next day Rainbow Fish brings all of her friends to talk to Humbert. Now Humbert tells a new story about fish threatening them.

The next day Humbert tells a story about a blue whale nearby who will eat up all their food. The fish no longer believe anything Humbert says. All the fish won't talk to Humbert any more. Rainbow Fish sees Humbert alone by the rocks. She has an idea that will help Humbert have friends again." Rainbow Fish and the Storyteller is a nice story about helping someone with an annoying problem turn it around and find acceptance and friendship. The story seems a bit wordy, but the message is good. The illustrations and shimmery scales are still delightful. 

PGPowers 

A Terrible Tide by Suzanne Meade - OPTIONAL

 A Terrible Tide by Suzanne Meade, 185 pages. Second Story Press, 2021. $12 (paperback)

Language: G (0 swears, 0 ‘f’); Mature Content: G; Violence: G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Celia is set to celebrate her 13th birthday in 1929 in her small Newfoundland village. Instead, however, the entire community gets a disaster – an earthquake followed by a tsunami. Unsure what exactly has happened to them, the village tries to pick up the wreckage and begin again. Celia is comforted by her dog, who rescued Celia when she was swept out to sea in the tsunami. She waits to see how the others will recover and what choices her parents will make for their family.

What a great choice for a classroom read aloud! Meade has a great sense of timing for each chapter. I do not think students will pick this up on their own, however – historical fiction is a hardsell, unless you are Lauren Tarshis. Audiobook provided by libro.fm. Narrated by Dana Puddicombe

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Nothing Interesting Ever Happens to Ethan Fairmont by Nick Brooks - OPTIONAL

Nothing Interesting Ever Happens to Ethan Fairmont by Nick Brooks, 236 pages. Union Square Kids, 2022. $14 

Content: G (A boy gets beat up by another boy but the description of the fight is definitely not graphic). 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Ethan Fairmont, going into 7th grade Ethan, a 6th grader, is an inventor from Ferrous City. He finds an alien in an abandoned car factory. Ethan and his new friend, Juan decide to help the alien fix its ship to get back home. This decision puts their friends and family in danger. They also require the help of former bullies. Can they save the alien before time runs out? 

The plot of this book had a good amount of action. The theme of how to be a friend was also important. This book did not hold my interest but it may be different for an elementary-age student. Ethan is black American as are many characters in this book. His friend is Hispanic. 

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian 

The Sister Switch (Best Wishes #2) by Sarah Mlynowski and Debbie Rigaud - ESSENTIAL

The Sister Switch (Best Wishes #2)by Sarah Mlynowski and Debbie Rigaud, 170 pages. Scholastic Press (Scholastic), 2023. $16 

Content: G. 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

5th grader Addie Asante hates being the middle sister. Sophie, her big sister is bossy, and Camille, her little sister gets away with everything. So, when Addie is the next recipient of the bracelet, instead of reading the warnings about being careful about what you wish for, she quickly puts it on, and, not realizing it's a wishing bracelet wishes to not be in the middle anymore. Suddenly, Addie is in Sophie's body, attending her 7th grade classes, while her pre-k sister Camille gets to be Addie and Sophie is the baby sister. 

AJ and I are loving this series! The girls get in impossible situations, and we love watching Addie helpless as her little sister interacts with her friends - who don't know anything weird has happened. A terrific story about walking in someone else's shoes. We hope this becomes a nice long series. The Asante sisters are black. 

Lisa Librarian and AJ (age 7) 

Party Animals: Cranky Chicken #2 by Katherine Battersby - ADVISABLE

Party Animals: Cranky Chicken #2 by Katherine Battersby, 103 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. McElderry Books, 2022. $13. 9781534470217.

Content: G

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Cranky Chicken and her best friend, Speedy the Worm, are back at it in new adventures. Speedy is ever the optimist to Cranky's grumpy character and helps her out of a hangry mess, helps celebrate her birthday and finally drags her off to an excellent beach day.  

My reaction to Cranky Chicken is one of mild amusement but I'm an adult. The funny bits and jokes throughout this short graphic novel are the sort that will make young readers giggle and suggest the book to their friends. Its not my cup of tea but will be enjoyed by its target audience. 

Reviewer: TC 

Boo! Hiss! by Cyndi Marko - ESSENTIAL

Boo! Hiss! by Cyndi Marko, 70 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Aladdin, 2022. $20. 9781534425453

Content: G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL(K-3) - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Phyllis the ghost and Sheldon the snake are best friends who happily live together in an abandoned/creepy home on the hill. One day a human family moves in and the two friends band together to try and spook the family out. When all their efforts go awry, the friends bicker loud enough to scare the family into leaving--an event the friends now realize they don't want! Phyllis and Sheldon will have to change tack and figure out how to convince their neighbors to stay. 

This is flat out the most adorable graphic novel for kids I've picked up in a while. The story, the illustrations, the writing--all of it is absolutely top notch, spot on. I can't say enough good about it. Highly recommended--especially for spooky season!

Reviewer: TC

Adventures and Daydreams: Bug Boys #3 by Laura Knetzger--ESSENTIAL

Adventures and Daydreams: Bug Boys #3 by Laura Knetzger, 272 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. RH Graphic, 2022. $14. 9780593309520

Content: G

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Stag-B and Rhino-B are best beetle friends from Bug Village and in this new episode of their hit series they embark on a number of adventures together in a variety of short graphic stories. From meeting a long-asleep Cicada to venturing on a backpacking trip, the friends always stick together. 

My daughter beat me to the punch on reading this one and read it 3x's before I could get my hands on it. I'm not surprised however, as this is a sweet graphic novel that just feels so nice as you read it. The stories about Stag-B and Rhino-B do not fit together in any sort of story arc, but each is standalone and delightful in its own way. This is definitely a book aimed at elementary readers and the messages and fun stories are the kind parents will appreciate, too. This is the kind of graphic novel you want your kids to read! 

Reviewer: TC

Dear Unicorn by Josh Funk and Charles Santoso - ESSENTIAL

Dear Unicorn by Josh Funk, illustrated by Charles Santoso. PICTURE BOOK (K-3rd grade) Viking (Penguin), SEPTEMBER 2023. $19. 9780593206942 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Two young people are exchanging drawings and letters all year. What they don't know I that one of them is a unicorn and the other is human! Instead, they enjoy their exchanges, supporting each other's triumphs and consoling in sadness. Then the day comes that all of the pen pals are going to meet... Unicorns are a hot commodity and they are so cute and sunshiny. 

 I love that even though Connie (the human) starts out seeing many things from a negative perspective, Nicole (the unicorn) helps her see the silver lining in each situation. Connie is white, and Nicole is a pink unicorn. In one sentence Connie mentions that she has two moms. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS

Little Narwhal, Not Alone by Tiffany Stone and Ashlyn Anstee - ADVISABLE

Little Narwhal, Not Alone by Tiffany Stone, illustrated by Ashlyn Anstee. PICTURE BOOK. Greystone Books, 2021. $18. 978771646208. 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Little Narwhal likes to explore and see new things. One day, he strays too far from home and before long he encounters danger and gets lost! While trying to find his family, Little Narwhal runs into a pod of beluga whales. He doesn’t eat like them, or speak like them, but he knows how to play like them! Before long, Little Narwhal loves traveling with his newfound friends and can’t wait to explore with them. 

This book is based on a true story about an uncommon relationship between a pod of belugas and a narwhal found in Canada. It teaches that although there may be differences in people you meet, there is always something you can relate to. The story is simple and the characters are charming. The text has slight rhyme to it which would help a younger child get interested in the story. The illustrations are not as invigorating as the story, the pages seem to blend into one another. But, overall, I think this is a fun book with a true story connected to it.

EllsBells

Here We Come! by Janna Matthies and Christine Davenier - ADVISABLE

Here We Come! by Janna Matthies, illustrated by Christine Davenier. PICTURE BOOK. Beach Lane Books, 2022. $18. 9781534417878. 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Take a moonlight adventure with a young boy and his many friends! Hum to the beat as he and his friends invite all who come along to participate in their fun musical parade. 

This book features lively rhyming text that almost any parent or child would enjoy. Its repetitive nature and beat would help any little child be excited to know what is going to be on the next page. The characters are quirky and original and the illustrations are simplistic to the eye. No major theme or lesson seems to be taught in the book, the story is simply for young children to enjoy the rhythmic nature of the text. 

EllsBells

Little Animal Hugs by Hans Wilhelm and Wednesday Kirwan - ADVISABLE

Little Animal Hugs by Hans Wilhelm, illustrated by Wednesday Kirwan. BOARD BOOK. Chronicle Books LLC., 2022. $10. 9781797207179.

BUYING ADVISORY: PRE-K - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Through this interactive die-cut page board book, learn about ten little animal friends and find out what sound each animal makes while giving hugs!

This cute board book does a great job of teaching toddlers about animal sounds. The die-cut board pages can keep the child engaged by mixing and matching the different animals together. One drawback is that it’s a very simplistic book and, similarly, has simplistic illustrations. However, due to its simplicity, it is a great option for a starter book. 

EllsBells

Once Upon a Forest illustrated by Pam Fong - ADVISABLE

Once Upon a Forest by Pam Fong. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Studio, 2022. $18. 9780593380147.

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

When a little marmot sees her forest home go up in flames she becomes determined to fix it. With the help of her friend, a charming bird, they resourcefully nurture a set of trees. Although the work is challenging, they find happiness by realizing that their piece of home has started to flourish once again. 

This book teaches children of all ages the importance of taking care of our environment and that a small good deed can make all the difference. This book only has pictures, no words, therefore, it is easy for almost any child to understand. The illustrations in the book, particularly the marmot and the bird, are charming and easily followed. The big drawback is the lack of color. The majority of the pictures are black and white with the exception of one or two objects to emphasize the book's theme of environmental awareness. 

EllsBells

Our Roof is Blue by Sara E. Echenique and Ashley Vargas - ADVISABLE

Our Roof is Blue by Sara E. Echenique, Illustrated by Ashley Vargas. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge Publishing, 2023. $18. 9781623542337

BUYING ADVISORY:  EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Antonio and his sister live in a home with a blue roof in Puerto Rico. One year, a hurricane blew toward their island. Their family prepared food, batteries, and toilet paper. They felt they were ready for the storm. But, when it hit, it took the roof off their house.  They were very frightened. After the storm, they had to clean up and wait for the house to dry. Would their house ever be the same?

Echenique tells her story of living through a hurricane in her homeland of Puerto Rico with clarity and emotion. At the end of the book, she shares how we can help the environment so there are not as many hurricanes. She published this book in Spanish also.

MOMMMAC

Big Stuff-Dozer, Excavator, Mixer and More by Joan Holub - ADVISABLE

Big Stuff-Dozer, Excavator, Mixer and More by Joan Holub, Illustrated by The Little Friends of Print Making. BOARD BOOK. Little Simon, 2023. $9. 9781665917896

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

The Excavator, Bulldozer, Mixer, Borer, Crane, Backhoe, Dump Truck, Paver, and Forklift introduce themselves. They each describe a bit of their history, their purpose, and what they can do.

The introductions and short explanations with their bright, bold illustrations held my attention. Then, a whole page gives detailed information on each subject.  Sharing all this detail in a board book felt overkill. This would have been better presented in a picture book.

MOMMMAC

Cargo by Adele Tariel and Jerome Peyrat - ADVISABLE

Cargo by Adele Tariel, illustrated by Jerome Peyrat. PICTURE BOOK. Orca Book Publishers, 2023. $22. 9781459833760

BUYING ADVISORY:  EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW

A seagull watches the activities and movements of a cargo ship. It watches as the cargo ship is loaded, set sail, moves through storms and calm, angles into port, and unloads.  The captain watches over the ship through all stages.

While the illustrations are enjoyable, the author jumped from the bird's perspective to the captain's perspective at the end, which seemed jumbled. The prose plodded to the end.

MOMMMAC

Little Dumplings by Jekka Kulmann, Kriisy Kuhlmann, Haley Hazel, and Manita Boonyong - ADVISABLE

Little Dumplings by Jekka Kulmann, Kriisy Kuhlmann, and Haley Hazel, illustrated by Manita Boonyong. BOARD BOOK. Chronicle Books LLC, 2023. $9. 9781797216928

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

There are all kinds of dumplings in the world. They have different names such as Gyoza, Pieroge, Samosa, etc. They can be filled with meat or vegetables. They can be steamed, fried, or baked. They create connections at celebrations.

Boonyong created cute illustrations of the many different kinds of dumplings around the world.  At the end of the book, the author listed the names, with pronunciation, and regions of 33 kinds of dumplings so that anyone can be a connoisseur.

MOMMMAC

A Wee Boo by Jessica Boyd, Illustrated by Brooke Kerrigan - ESSENTIAL

A Wee Boo by Jessica Boyd, Illustrated by Brooke Kerrigan. PICTURE BOOK. Orca Book Publishers, 2022. $22. 9781459827639

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Boo is small and cute; not what is expected of a ghost. She struggles to get her haunting license because she is just too cute. The ghost committee gives her one last chance to scare a family. Boo tries everything she can think of but to no avail.  Until she sees a baby and decides she can scare him, but she can only make him laugh. The parents become frightened when they can’t figure out what the baby is laughing about.  The committee decides to grant her a license of haunting. Boo finds her place in life.

Each page of Boyd’s book brought a smile to my face! Who can resist an adorable little ghost? Boo finds a purpose in a life full of sweetness making a perfect ending to this delightful story.

MOMMMAC

Hooray for Spring! by Kazuo Iwamura - ESSENTIAL

Hooray for Spring! by Kazuo Iwamura. PICTURE BOOK. North South Books, 2023. $19. 9780735845213

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Mick, Mack, and Molly, little squirrel siblings, rush out to enjoy spring. They notice what the caterpillars and bees eat. Later, they find a little bird that is hungry and try to offer it the same kinds of food, but it won’t take any. Mommy bird finally flies in to show them what baby bird eats.

Iwamura illustrates a delightful story for old and young. The reader is instantly attached to the three siblings and their adventure. This treasure for the eyes by a famous illustrator should not escape perusal. 

MOMMMAC