Goldilocks and the Three Knocks by Gregory Barrington - ESSENTIAL

Goldilocks and the Three Knocks by Gregory Barrington. PICTURE BOOK. Harper, 2022. $18. 9780062891372 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Yes, Goldilocks admits that she did all of that stuff in the Three Bears’ house, but REASONS! Join Goldi as she gives us the back story - back to the first time those bears showed up at her house and left their own imprint on her house. 

SO MUCH FUN!. Starting from the endpapers and all the way through. Great for a fractured fairy tale unit - read the original, read the fracture and have kids write their own. 

 Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Christo and Jeanne-Claude Wrap the World by G. Neri and Elizabeth Haidle - ADVISABLE

Christo and Jeanne-Claude Wrap the World by G. Neri, illustrated by Elizabeth Haidle. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2023. $19. 9781536216615 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE; MS, HS - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

After Christo and Jean-Claude met and fell in love, their lives, their art and art in general would never be the same. They were fascinated by wrapping things, starting out early with wrapped objects that could then be bought as art. But soon graduated to only temporary wrappings, that could be briefly enjoyed and then disappear forever. Their work brought controversy and delight wherever they were revealed, with only one installation ever being permanent. 

Oh, oh! I never saw a Christo installation in real life, but there are pictures and articles all over the internet to research and enjoy and discuss. Perfect for any art class. I love that Neri gave Jeane-Claude equal time and credit, as she was important to the work as Christo was, she just happened to die first.

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

When Glitter Met Glue by Karen Kilpatrick and German Blanco - ADVISABLE

When Glitter Met Glue by Karen Kilpatrick, illustrated by German Blanco. PICTURE BOOK. Henry Holt (Macmillan), 2022. $19. 9781250817600 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

While Glue was important for every craft project, her job made her contribution invisible and she felt unappreciated. When Glitter came along, Glue had an idea - and thus Glitter Glue was born. 

While to an adult this can feel like a book length advertisement for glitter glue, the friendly characters are appealing and Glue’s predicament feels real - in fact I found myself nodding along to her problem. And who does love glitter glue? Its glitter - but it stays in place without making a huge mess! 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Twinkle, Twinkle, Winter Night by Megan Litwin and Nneka Myers - OPTIONAL

Twinkle, Twinkle, Winter Night by Megan Litwin, illustrated by Nneka Myers. PICTURE BOOK. Clarion (Harper), 2022. 9780358572046 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW 

A black child and a parent figure wander through a wintery night, enjoying the sounds, sights, smells, and wonder of the season. 

Myers illustrations are sweet and eye-catching, but the text drags on forever - much too long to hold anyone’s attention. The text uses the original rhythm, but when it stumbles, it crashes hard. While I am happy to look at the pictures, I would not want to read this aloud - especially cold. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Otto the Ornament by Troy Cummings - ESSENTIAL

Otto the Ornament by Troy Cummings. PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2023. $13. 9780593481202 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

When the new ornament doesn’t get the praise and adoration that he expects from the other ornament, he takes off to the find the tree he deserves. 

 Troy Cummings is a picture book genius! The purple glitter on the front of the book doesn’t hurt, but it is really the message that hits on the last page that will help this adorable book endure after other Christmas books have been retired. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Got Your Nose! By Alan Katz and Alex Willan - ESSENTIAL

Got Your Nose! By Alan Katz and Alex Willan. PICTURE BOOK. Harper, 2023. $18. 9780063025042 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Becky feels a bit too old for “I got your nose” from her Grandpa, but this he really does have it. When she chases after him to retrieve it, the nose escapes, leading them on a hectic chase all over! 

A whole bunch of silly fun to read together and enjoy. I mean, who hasn’t “taken” someone’s nose? The noses on the end papers are so weirdly adorable. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

The Stocking Stuffer by Holley Merriweather and Stephanie Graegin - ADVISABLE

The Stocking Stuffer by Holley Merriweather, illustrated by Stephanie Graegin. PICTURE BOOK. Harper, 2022. $13. 9780063142077 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

This year there is not one name on Santa’s Naughty list! Santa is going to need extra help. Tinsel the mouse steps in and offers to stuff the stockings while Santa takes care of the presents. Together they will make Christmas happen in just one night. 

Merriweather makes the bold move to mimic The Night Before Christmas in iambic octameter - and she carried it off well - the meter and rhymes flow, begging to be read aloud. The story does feel a bit long, but the illustrations have much to occupy a listener. A charming Christmas story. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

A Spark in the Dark by Pam Fong - OPTIONAL

A Spark in the Dark by Pam Fong. PICTURE BOOK. Greenwillow Books (Harper), 2022. $19. 9780063136533 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

A little fish gets lost and heads towards the dark ocean floor. Then it spies a little light and finds its way back to the surface. 

Fong works hard to create a dreamy, lush backdrop to illustrate her life lesson metaphor. However, she has the little fish escaping the hooks of the fishers above it and coming back to the possible danger of being caught by those same fishers. I am perhaps being picky - the illustrations really are lovely - but thinking these things through matter. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

That Flag by Tameka Fryer Brown and Nikolas Smith - ADVISABLE

That Flag by Tameka Fryer Brown, illustrated by Nikolas Smith. PICTURE BOOK. Harper, 2023. $19. 9780063093447 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Bianca and Kiera are best friends at school, but Kiera, a black girl, is not allowed to go to Bianca’s house, because her white family flies a confederate flag in front of their house. The girls don’t understand their parents’ disagreement about the meaning and history of the flag, until their class goes to the Southern Legacy Museum and Kiera starts to understand. She doesn’t know if their friendship can survive her new knowledge. 

An excellent way to talk to any student about the tension all Blacks feel when they see the confederate flag, and the naivete of whites who still defend it. Great for a history class on any level. Young kids will most likely not understand it on their own - it should be read with a trusted adult. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS https://www.kingsenglish.com/book/9780063093447

One Chicken Nugget by Tadgh Bentley - ESSENTIAL

One Chicken Nugget by Tadgh Bentley. PICTURE BOOK. Balzer + Bray (Harper), 2023. $19. 9780062689825 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Celeste is tired of the Frank the monster scaring off her customers and her Chicken Nugget Food Truck when he comes every day for food. Thinking deeply, she decides to hold a 30 day contest - whoever can eat a doubling of nuggets every day for 30 days will get free chicken nuggets for life. Frank is ready for the challenge! Bentley has created a delightful spin on the ancient tale made famous by Demi’s One Grain of Rice. Kis will have fun trying to see how many days they can eat double of something. And the math is always an interesting challenge - especially if done without calculators. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Remixed: a Blended Family by Arree Chung - ADVISABLE

Remixed: a Blended Family by Arree Chung. PICTURE BOOK. Henry Holt (Macmillan), 2022. $19. 9781250142740

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Using the colors of his first book, Chung takes us through the heartache of broken and then remixed families.

While not as engaging as the first, I really appreciate how peaceful I felt by the end of the story. Divorce is a tough topic, but Chung handled it with grace and tact and a heavy dose of hope.

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Is This Winter? By Helena Yoon - ESSENTIAL

Is This Winter? By Helena Yoon. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2023. $11. 9781536226270

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

The dog is frolicking outside, enjoying the snow and cold. But then it runs into things that it isn’t quite sure are part of winter - lighted reindeer, tinsel -- and Santa? 

I am buying this book just for the butt sniffing part! Such a dog thing to include. But the dog itself is super cute and endearing too.

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

I’m Terrified of Bath Time by Simon Rich, illustrated by Tom Toro - ESSENTIAL

I’m Terrified of Bath Time by Simon Rich, illustrated by Tom Toro. PICTURE BOOK. Little Brown, 2022. $18. 9780316628334 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Bathtub has a nice life hanging out with toilet and sink all day, but each evening when it hears the words “Bathtime”, it feels apprehension of what is to come. All Bathtub wants is to be treated a bit more gently. 

So cute to see bathtime from the tub’s point of view. A nice personification of the tub to ease a little one who doesn’t like baths - or a just a silly delight. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

The Ghosts Went Floating by Kim Norman and Jay Fleck - ESSENTIAL

The Ghosts Went Floating by Kim Norman, illustrated by Jay Fleck. PICTURE BOOK. Farrar, Straus, Giroux (Macmillan), 2020. $18. 9780374312138

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

From one to ten, the creatures work their way up the hill to the haunted house for their celebration. I’m in love! Sung to the tune “The Ants Go Marching”, this is way fun to sing aloud - or shout, depending on your enthusiasm. Ten verses is quite a bit, but imagine singing in different ways - soft, silly, loud, etc. SO much fun for Halloween. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Kitty by Rebecca Jordan-Glum - ESSENTIAL

Kitty by Rebecca Jordan-Glum. PICTURE BOOK. Roaring Brook (Macmillan), 2022. $19. 9781250768049

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

While the family is away, Granny is watching the house and kitty-sitting. When Granny loses her glasses, however, things go very awry. While we know what Granny has invited in, she has no idea!

Kitty is very funny! The unknowing main character is a perfect foil for “Kitty’s” antics and for a nice final visual surprise that kids wil absolutely enjoy.

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Night Owl Night by Susan Edwards Richmond and Maribel Lechuga - ADVISABLE

Night Owl Night by Susan Edwards Richmond, illustrated by Maribel Lechuga. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2023. $18. 9781623542511 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

The girl is finally old enough to go out at night with her mother to study owls. She anxiously awaits the first owl to land in their soft net so that they can weigh it, measure it, and mark it. Or will they go the whole night without seeing one?

Night Owl Night is a sweet story about a young girl wanting to be a bird scientist like her mother. Richmond captures the interest and patience it takes to be a scientist. Beautiful illustrations bring the story to life. There is a nice fact sheet about different owl species and owl banding at the end of the story. The mother and daughter are illustrated with brown skin.

PGPowers 

I Hope / Nipakosêyimon by Monica Gray Smith and Gabrielle Grimard - ADVISABLE

I Hope / nipakoseyimon by Monique Gray Smith, illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard. PICTURE BOOK Orca Book Publishers, 2022. $22. 9781459833258

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

A grandmother tells her grand daughter her many hopes for her. She hopes that her grand daughter knows joy, and is kind, among many other hopes. The grandmother wonders what are her grand daughters hopes? 

I Hope is a sweet story of an Indian grandmother's hopes for her grandchild. On each page, the English words have been translated into Plains Cree. The illustrations are sweet, beautiful, and tell much of the story. All nationalities and ethnicities are depicted in the illustrations. The hopes mentioned are hopes that all of us identify with. 

PGPowers

What's Inside a Caterpillar Cocoon? by Rachel Ignotofsky - ESSENTIAL

 What's Inside a Caterpillar Cocoon? And other questions about Moths and Butterflies by Rachel Ignotofsky. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2023. $19. 9780593176573 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Ignotofsky uses her distinctive illustrative style and her straightforward text to apply her magic to teaching us about caterpillars and moths. A few main text words on each page and tons of little facts to explore in the background. 

 Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Problem Solved! By Jan Thomas - ESSENTIAL

Problem Solved! By Jan Thomas. PICTURE BOOK. Beach Lane (Simon), 2023. $16. 9781665939997 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

The rabbit has a problem - its room is a mess! Along comes the problem-solving porcupine to save the day. But the porcupine’s odd ideas may not be so helpful after all. 

Kids will laugh at the porcupine’s ideas, parents will appreciate watching the rabbit clean up his room along the way. Thomas’ bright, classis style always pops on the page. 

 Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Car (Baby on Board) by Sebastien Braun - ADVISABLE

Car (Baby on Board) by Sebastien Braun. BOARD BOOK. Templar (Candlewick), 2023. $10. 9781536232585 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Hop in the car and go for a drive with the young bear and its family. 

I love interactive board books - especially ones with sturdy tabs for pushing and pulling. A fun little board book built for rough play. Try other Baby on Board books for the themes that speak to you. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Pet Vet (Bizzy Bear) by Benji Davies - OPTIONAL

Pet Vet (Bizzy Bear) by Benji Davies. BOARD BOOK. Nosy Crow (Candlewick), 2022. $9. 9781536231977 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Bizzy Bear is taking on the vet office, helping a young pup that has hurt its leg. 

 Bizzy Bear may be running out of steam for me. Or maybe this topic was just too much? Cute, but not as great as other Bizzy Bear offerings. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Out Cold by Ryan T. Higgins - ESSENTIAL

Out Cold by Ryan T. Higgins. PICTURE BOOK.Disney, 2023. $10. 9781368090223 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Bruce is stuck inside with a cold. The mice are sad that he’s missing all of the outdoor fun, so they decide to bring the outside in to Bruce - whether he wants to participate or not. 

More fun Bruce and mice shenanigans. 

 Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Playtime Engineering by mit Kids Press - NO

Playtime Engineering by mit Kids Press. BOARD BOOK. Mit Press Kids (Candlewick), 2023. $9. 9781536230963 

BUYING ADVISORY: NO 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW 

As babies go through their day, they use the principles of engineering in their play. 

Definitely written for parents, not babies. Little ones will probably enjoy looking at the faces throughout the book. But ony parents will actually understand the content. By the time a young does understand the words, they won’t want a board book. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

The Goblin Twins by Frances Cha and Jaime Kim - ADVISABLE

The Goblin Twins by Frances Cha, illustrated by Jaime Kim. PICTURE BOOK. Crown (Random House), 2023. $19. 9780593480212 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

While the dokkaebi Doki likes to gift people in Korea with gold and silver, his twin Kebi was a high level trickster. When the other dokkaebi abandon their house for a graveyard, Kebi wants to fly to a new world where he has heard the people actually like to be frightened. Once they land and find the perfect place, neither twin is actually prepared for what awaits them. 

Cha adds to the Halloween tales with this cute one about figures from Korean mythology. Liked it. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Peekaboo Car by Camilla Reid and Ingela P. Arrhenius - ESSENTIAL

Peekaboo Car by Camilla Reid, illustrated by Ingela P. Arrhenius. PICTURE BOOK. Nosy Crow (Candlewick), 2023. $10. 9781536233582 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Another adorable Peekabook book! I have a hard time choosing my favorite. Look at them all and choose your faves based on their topic. 

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

The Secrets of Stone Creek by Briana McDonald - OPTIONAL

 The Secrets of Stone Creek by Briana McDonald, 394 pages. Simon & Schuster, 2022. $19. 

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

7th grader Finley Walsh is upset that her best friend Sophie is making new friends and that her mom always underestimates her by asking her older brother Oliver to be in charge. To make things worse, she and her two siblings are being dropped off during their spring break at an estranged relative's house while their mom goes on a business trip. Because Finley wants to be remembered as a female adventurer, she decides to pass the time in Stone Creek by solving the mystery of a local woman who sent missing over 20 years ago. During her investigation, Finley reestablishes her relationship with each of her brothers and learns that making mistakes is part of growing up.

I enjoyed learning about all the female adventurers that are described at the beginning of every chapter and watching Finlay as she develops more confidence in herself. Finley stops worrying about proving herself and begins to move forward leaving her grudges against others behind. All of the main characters are default white. Sophie's brother, Oliver, reveals that he is gay as he can't hide his attraction to another male character.

Paula B. , Teacher Librarian 

A Spider Named Itsy by Steve Light - OPTIONAL

A Spider Named Itsy by Steve Light. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2023. $19. 9781536225297 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Why was Itsy climbing that spout in the first place?

Light’s illustrations are absolutely adorable! Some of the best I’ve seen this year. On the other hand, the text wobbles between complete sentences sometimes and fragments other times - making for an uneven reading experience - especially challenging if you are reading aloud. I didn’t enjoy the reading experience, but my eyes were delighted.

Cindy Mitchell, Library Teacher, MLS 

Annette Feels Free: The True Story of Annette Kellerman by Katie Mazeika - ESSENTIAL

Annette Feels Free: The True Story of Annette Kellerman, World-Class Swimmer, Fashion Pioneer, and Real-Life Mermaid by Katie Mazeika. PICTURE BOOK BIOGRAPHY. Beach Lane Books (Simon & Schuster), 2022. $19. 9781665903431

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Annette Kellerman was an Australian girl at the turn of the century, who, due to a childhood illness, turned to swimming as therapy. She became a champion swimmer and invented “artistic swimming.” The book focuses on her contributions as a pioneer for women in the athletic field of swimming and the radical change in swimsuits for women. Annette is presented as a role model of discovering your passion and following it.

This is a delightful picture book biography. There are few points of data to slow down the action, so the story shines through. Even though not many specifics are mentioned, the book includes a bibliography showing Mazeika has done her research. Mazeika has a very positive tone and her admiration for Annette Kellerman shines through. I think this book introduces Annette Kellerman to the new generation as a heroine to emulate. I do wish the author had included a date at some point as a reference for the events. Life story of a groundbreaking woman/ One of the swimsuit illustrations show a Muslim woman in a swimsuit with head covering

J. Smith, Teacher Librarian 

My Sparkly New Boots by Jenny Goebel and Taia Morley - OPTIONAL

My Sparkly New Boots by Jenny Goebel, illustrated by Taia Morley. PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2023. $6. 9780593427415 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW

It is time for new shoes, the little girl goes off to the store. Sneakers, dress shoes or boots, how do you choose? Pink polka-dot boots for splashing in the rain, sturdy brown boots for hiking to the peak... The little girl tries on many different types of boots, with each boot type, the little girl imagines a new and fun setting to wear them The final choice brings a new friend and many fun dreams.

My Sparkly New Boots is charming and fun. Illustrations are bright, clean and engaging for the younger reader. Rhyming text goes well with the illustrations, allowing students to imagine and dream as the character tries on the different footwear. Goebel and Morley make trying on new shoes fun, the younger student will enjoy this book. Appeal is low, only a select few would read the book. The main character is caucasian.

Deanna M. - Elementary Media Tech 

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

Moving the Millers' Minnie Moore Mine Mansion by Dave Eggers and Julia Sarda - HIGH

Moving the Millers' Minnie Moore Mine Mansion by Dave Eggers, illustrated by Julia Sarda, PICTURE BOOK NON-FICTION Candlewick Press, 2023. $20. 9781536215885

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

John "Minnie" Moore found a silver mine in Idaho. He sold the mine to an Englishman named Henry Miller, who became a very wealthy man. He married a local girl named Annie. He sent Annie off to England to enrich her mind and while she was gone, built her a beautiful three story Victorian mansion.  Around the turn of the century, sadness came to the Millers' Minnie Moore Mine Mansion when Henry died. Annie was tricked by a crooked banker and lost all her money. She tried to raise pigs to make a living, but the town wouldn't let her have them in her yard. So Annie had to choose her mansion or raising pigs. What did she choose? 

Dave Eggers has written a funny and enjoyable history of the people involved in making and moving the Millers' Minnie Moore Mine Mansion. Instead of just retelling the facts, he has added western rustic humor. Sarda's illustrations are masterful, funny, and transport us to an amusing old west.

 PGPowers

Mae Makes a Way: by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich and Andrea Pippins - ADVISABLE

Mae Makes a Way: The True Story of Mae Reeves, Hat & History Maker by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich, illustrated by Andrea Pippins. PICTURE BOOK  BIOGRAPHY Crown Books for Young Readers (Random), 2022. $19. 9780525645856 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Mae grew up in the segregated South where there were not many opportunities for Black families to do what they dreamed. She fled the persecution of the southern segregated cities and decided to do what she loved. She went to school at the Chicago School of Millinery where students were not segregated. She was so thankful to a Black owned bank that lent her $500 to start her own hat shop on South Street in Philadelphia. She loved serving the humble woman as well as the wealthy. Mae “lifted as she climbed,” raising money to help others in her community, and finding many ways to help everyone she could. A mother, successful entrepreneur, and community advocate, Mae made the way. 

Mae Makes a Way captures the strength of the human spirit amid roadblocks and challenges. Mae’s life story of fashion entrepreneur and civic organizer engaged and warmed my heart . What an incredible person! Pippins simple, graphic and beautiful storytelling illustrations enhance the warmth and energy of the story. The book is about Mae Reeves, a Black fashion entrepreneur who followed her dreams amid segregation and discrimination. 

PGPowers 

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 (Random), 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? 

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 

A mother and daughter out for a walk to 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 IntersectionAllies, 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 

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 Jewish 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. 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