Janie Writes a Play: Jane Yolen's First Great Story by Heidi E. Y. Stemple and Madelyn Goodnight - ADVISABLE

Janie Writes a Play: Jane Yolen's First Great Story by Heidi E. Y. Stemple, illustrated by Madelyn Goodnight BIOGRAPHY PICTURE BOOK Charlesbridge/Imagine, 2025. $19. 9781623543273 

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

APPEALS TO: SOME 

Young Jane Yolen was a writer even when she was still a little girl. She and her brother would interview people in their apartment elevator and turn it in to a newspaper they charged residents 5 cents for. When Jane anticipates the upcoming class play, she is so disappointed to find it less than exciting. No rising plot or big moment. So she spends the evening writing her own play for the class to perform. 

Jane Yolen is a really big deal. She wrote so many books - over 400) and has helped so many authors. I just don't know how relevant she is with today's picture book audience. I think this will be snatched up by adults - particularly librarians. However, as a story about a little girl who loves literature and sees the value in a plot, it's a fine story, so is still an advisable purchase. Jane Yolen is white. 

Lisa Librarian 

A Star Shines Through by Anna Desnitskaya - OPTIONAL

A Star Shines Through by Anna Desnitskaya. PICTURE BOOK. Eerdmans, 2024. $11. 9780802856319 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

APPEALS TO: SOME 

A girl walks home from music lessons and sees a cardboard star glowing in her apartment window. The star's warm light welcomes her home. Soon after, her family has to flee because of war. Everything is different, the food, the language, where they live. Will Anna ever get used to her new home? 

A Star Shines Through is a poignant story that cleverly uses few words and detailed illustrations to show the difficult situation of people displaced by war. I like that the pictures compare her old life and her new life. This is a true story about a family that had to leave their home country of Russia after they invaded Ukraine. The main characters are white.

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian

What Can a Mess Make by Bee Johnson - ADVISABLE

What Can a Mess Make by Bee Johnson. PICTURE BOOK. Henry Holt & Company (Macmillan), 2024. $19. 9781250900241 

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

APPEALS TO: SOME 

This is a sweet, rhyming story of two girls making mess after mess, with lovely results and consequences. The text is fairly simple so young ones can read along or predict rhyming words, and the illustrations are colorfully detailed and beautiful. With examples of art, music, inventing, cooking, crafting, creating, and general play, this would be a fun read aloud before settling in for some maker space fun in an elementary library or classroom, or before getting crafty at home with kiddos.

Reviewer: Angie Campbell - EL Librarian

Trains & Trainers by Sarah Musa and Rania Hasan - OPTIONAL

Trains & Trainers by Sarah Musa illustrated by Rania Hasan. PICTURE BOOK. Kube Publishing, Ltd, 2024. $11. 9780860379034 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

APPEALS TO: SOME 

Malik and his older brother Badr enjoy many of the same things, but squabble and clash like siblings do. Badr has autism and Malik sometimes considers that a struggle and challenge for their family, and even says some regretful things about Badr. Mama helps the boys work through their differences and emotions, and ultimately Malik is reminded of what a blessing his brother is. 

This may be a relatable story for families or classrooms with differently abled members. It shows reasonable emotion and reaction to Badr's behaviors, and shows a parent guiding her children through the emotion and challenges. There are 10 discussion questions at the end of the book that could be helpful in talking with children about the story and about autism in general, although several are yes/no questions and don't really encourage much dialogue. This book was published by The Islamic Foundation and includes both illustration and text referencing some aspects of Islam.

Reviewer: Angie Campbell - EL Librarian

Don't Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson, illustrated by Dan Santat - ADVISABLE

Don't Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson, illustrated by Dan Santat. PICTURE BOOK Dial (Penguin), 2025. $19. 9780593616673 

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

There are a lot of different kinds of animals: mammals, birds, and snakes for example. And fish. Don't trust fish, they are sneaky, they don't follow rules, and they hide in the water where they are probably talking about us. 

Dan Santat's illustrations are hilarious! Sharpton's serious(ish) text along with the fun illustrations makes this a book kids will read and re-read. Looking forward to sharing Don't Trust Fish with my Marine Biology teacher. 

Lisa Librarian 

Giving Thanks with Halmoni by Kathleen Choi and Sook Nyui Choi, illustrated by Il Sung Na - Essential

Giving Thanks with Halmoni by Kathleen Choi and Sook Nyui Choi, illustrated by Il Sung Na. PICTURE BOOK. Red Comet Press, 2025. 9781636551616

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Su-Jin is worried that her Grandmother will be sad, missing her Korean traditions as Halmoni (grandmother) has just moved to America. Su-Jin and her friends ask Halmoni to teach them about Chuseok, Korean Thanksgiving, so that their families can all celebrate it with her.

I love this sweet look at a Korean celebration - informative without being strictly non-fiction. Great for a variety of classroom situations.  Even in older classes, I would share this with a Geography teacher to support a unit on fall celebrations around the world.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

The First Snow by Marie Stumpfova & Radek Maly - OPTIONAL

The First Snow by Marie Stumpfova & Radek Maly. PICTURE BOOK. Albatross Books, 2024. $18. 9788000070759

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

When the first snow starts to fall, it's like a fairy tale for all." Stefan and Agnes are delighted by the first snow of winter. They explore and play, imagine and admire, shovel and create. Then with a little imagination and first-snow magic, their snow bear creation carries them on a journey "to where the ocean freezes" before bringing them back to their snow-covered garden where they experience more "fairy tale for all" magic.

The beautiful illustrations are surprisingly colorful for a book about the first snow fall. The book is longer than standard picture books and it's quite wordy, which may not make this an ideal choice for readers or listeners with short attention spans. The text is sometimes difficult to read when it sits atop more the textured and colorful illustrations. The story has been translated from Czech to English, and the words don't always seem to flow comfortably. It's a beautiful book though, and a sweet, imaginative story.

Reviewer: Angie Campbell - EL Librarian

Maybe Just Ask Me! by Katie Mazeika - ESSENTIAL

Maybe Just Ask Me! by Katie Mazeika. PICTURE BOOK. Simon & Schuster, 2025. $20. 9781665949897

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Mazie has a disability as a result of having cancer. When she starts school wearing a scarf to cover her baldness and an eyepatch over her eye socket, her classmates don't talk to her. They do, however, talk to each other and speculate about the reason Mazie wears the scarf and patch. Mazie never loses hope that she'll make friends and she knows she just has to be brave and share her story.

I love Mazeika’s bright beautiful illustrations and the simple, bold way she tells Mazie's story.  There's a lovely author's note at the end of the book, as well as a list of suggested things we can do to be supportive of people with disabilities. She said "Curiosity, with kindness, should always be allowed." Wonderful lesson and fantastic read aloud in a classroom or library.

Background characters are represented with different skin tones and ethnicities.

Reviewer: Angie Campbell - EL Librarian

Rabbit's Feat by Barney Saltzberg - ESSENTIAL

Rabbit's Feat by Barney Saltzberg. PICTURE BOOK. Hippo Park (Astra), 2025. $19. 9781662640803

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Boulder, who sits atop a cliff's edge, and Cactus, who lives down below, have been friends for a long time, but from a distance. Boulder wishes to see Cactus's blooms up close, but solving the problem of proximity seems impossible. In the background, Rabbit quietly helps the two distant friends.   

Salzburg has a fun story with an interesting cast of main characters: a rabbit, a boulder, and a cactus. I genuinely eagerly anticipated the resolution of the conflict in this story. I worried that an additional conflict would arise, and I paid careful attention to the details of the illustrations to see where the story would actually go. It was a very fun reading experience. I fully plan to share it during library story time and really build up the suspense and ask the students to predict the ending. I loved the simple dialogue (sprinkled with some witty banter) and the well-done, important illustrations that help tell the story. Just a delightful read!

Reviewer: Angie Campbell - EL Librarian

There's Something Odd About the Babysitter by Elayne Crain and John Ledda - ADVISABLE

There's Something Odd About the Babysitter by Elayne Crain, illustrated by John Ledda. PICTURE BOOK Feiwel & Friends (Macmillan), 2025 $19. 9781250345141 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

Freddy has had a lot of babysitters, but this latest babysitter is a big surprise - 3 raccoons in a trench coat. He quickly discovers that they have no experience, so Freddy teaches them the best things baby sitters do. 

Such cute illustrations, and the story is darling. My goodness, the raccoons don't talk but my are they fun. This would be a great book to take to a babysitting job. 

Lisa Librarian 

Why Do Crabs Walk Sideways? by Jack Beard and Jayri Gomez - ADVISABLE

Why Do Crabs Walk Sideways? by Jack Beard, illustrated by Jayri Gomez. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Flowerpot Press, 2025. $9. 9781486731367

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

This non-fiction picture book about sea creatures is full of bright, bold illustrations, fun ocean animal facts, and great questions and prompts for discussion. It manages to incorporate lots of fun interactive opportunities to practice colors, counting and early reading, as well as little side-quests like seek-and-find challenges and physical movement. There's a lot going on on each page, but young readers and learners will be engaged and interested for sure.

This would be a really fun book to read aloud for discussion and participation with a group of young elementary students, or one-on-one with a curious young ocean animal enthusiast. I enjoyed the age and level appropriate back matter - just a few additional bits of interesting info on each of several sea creatures featured throughout the book. Who knew starfish could live up to 35 years, or that blue whales could hear other blue whales up to 1000 miles away? Awesome!

Reviewer: Angie Campbell - EL Librarian

Hocus and Pocus and the Dragon Next Door by A.R. Capetta and Charlene Chua - OPTIONAL

Hocus and Pocus and the Dragon Next Door by A.R. Capetta, illustrated by Charlene Chua, 85 pages. CHAPTER BOOK. Candlewick Press, 2025. $17. 9781536224931

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

APPEALS TO:SEVERAL

Hocus and Pocus are "highly magical pets", brother and sister pups who live with their witch, Jinx, in a community of magical friends. Hocus is bold and Pocus is timid, and they help one another find some balance, but also make some magical mischief along the way. When the next-door wizard brings home a new pet dragon, things get exciting and a little scary. Hocus and Pocus work together to help Pocus get over his fears so the pups can interact with the dragon, and of course a little mayhem ensues (attack squirrels!).

This is book #2 in the series, but it stands alone very well. This was a pretty cute story that younger elementary students and early chapter book readers will enjoy. It's a fun, gentle introduction to the fantasy genre. The illustrations are colorful and exciting, and the pups are adorable. There's a strong focus on social and emotional skills, particularly working through anxiety and facing fears. Additionally, the story weaves in some important examples of asking permission, compromising, making friends, and accepting differences.

The cast of magical human characters are diverse in skin tone and gender. There's a character chart on page one that introduces a few main characters with their pronouns, including one character with they/them pronouns. In the story a green-haired character is introduced to the others very smoothly and naturally as "That's Jade, and his pronouns are he and him. He's our next-door wizard." And the story continues without any additional focus on Jade or his pronouns.

Reviewer: Angie Campbell - EL Librarian

Hugs Are (Not) for Everybody by Ella Russell and Udayana Lugo - ADVISABLE

Hugs Are (Not) for Everybody by Ella Russell, illustrated by Udayana Lugo. PICTURE BOOK. Owlkids Books, 2025. $19. 9781771476393

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

This is a simple story focused on consent and respecting boundaries, written in a way that makes the concept easy for young children to understand. A child invited to a friend's birthday party expects everyone to welcome her hugs of greeting, celebration and birthday wishes. She quickly learns that hugs are not actually for everybody, and that are lots of other ways to say "Hello!", "Hooray!" and "Happy birthday to you" without hugs.

The illustrations are super appealing with a beautiful color palette and lots of easy to identify action on the page. The book is more lesson than story, but kids will find fun on the pages and they'll easily understand the idea of asking permission and respecting boundaries shared at a kid-friendly level.

The cast of characters are illustrated as diverse in race, ethnicity and ability.

Reviewer: Angie Campbell - EL Librarian

This is How We Talk by Jessica Slice and Caroline Cupp and Kayla Harren - OPTIONAL

This is How We Talk: a celebration of disability and connection by Jessica Slice and Caroline Cupp, illustrated by Kayla Harren. PICTURE BOOK. Penguin, 2025. $19. 9780593529935

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Slice, Cupp, and Harren bring us another look at different abilities and the many ways they use to communicate many types of feelings. 

The back matter contains helpful information on the different abilities and communications in the book.  I also like the info on talking to kids about differing abilities. The tone of the book is still as “telling” as the first in the series, and the text is rhyming couplets, a little stilted.  I do believe that the sentiment and teaching are important.

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

A Universe Big & Small: A Story About Carl Sagan by James Yang - ADVISABLE

A Universe Big & Small: A Story About Carl Sagan by James Yang. PICTURE BOOK. Viking (Penguin), 2025. $20. 9780593693070

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Yang brings us a homage to Carl Sagan and his TV show Cosmos (not to be confused with Neil deGrasss Tyson’s later version). We see Sagan as a child, journeying through the microscopic and universal worlds on his ship Imagination. 

Sometimes as adults we look at the passions of a child and think “Oh, they’ll grow out of that”. But maybe we need to be less skeptical and more encouraging, instead. Yang doesn’t say that, but that is how he made me feel.  A short, quick read. Make sure you check out the case wrap. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Bearsuit Turtle Makes a Friend by Bob Shea - ADVISABLE

Bearsuit Turtle Makes a Friend by Bob Shea. PICTURE BOOK Abrams Amulet, 2025. $20. 9781419771552 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

A shy turtle wears a bear costume to make him feel brave. And another turtle tells him that he knows everything about bears - in fact, he's a bear expert, hoping the two can become friends. 

A cute story in typical Bob Shea style. I loved the little turtle head popping into the bear mouth space, so cute, and a great tale of making friends. 

Lisa Librarian 

First Ascent by Kate Messner and Stevie Lewis - ADVISABLE

First Ascent by Kate Messner, illustrated by Stevie Lewis. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Yosemite Conservancy, 2025. $20. 9781951179335

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Royal Robbins and Warren Harding both found themselves through their love of rock climbing. Early in their careers, in the 1950’s,  they attempted to summit the northwest  face of Half DOme in Yosemite together, but were unsuccessful. Their partnership fractured and over the ensuing years they both made spectacular climbs, but never together.  They did, however, influence each other in positive and respectful ways.

I love seeing a book geared towards outdoor adventurers; kids love climbing so much already. Besides Messner’s great story-telling and Lewis’s engaging illustrations, the endpapers are educational and the back matter includes a lot more interesting information, including homages to other climbers. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Caboose by Travis Jonker, illustrated by Ruth Chan - ADVISABLE

Caboose by Travis Jonker, illustrated by Ruth Chan. PICTURE BOOK Abrams Amulet, 2025. $19. 9781419765032 

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

APPEALS TO: MANY 

Cedric has mastered being the line leader. He knows all the things to do to make sure he's first, but then make sure he controls the line as well - like pausing too long to look at a poster, or stopping fast so everyone crashes. Finally the teacher has had enough, now Cedric must be at the end of the line. Oh, but there's mischief to be made there too! 

The illustrations and text complement each other so well. I love the grumpy faces of his classmates, and Cedric's fun tricks and ideas for achieving his mission. This will be a delightful read as kids get their own ideas for leading or being the Caboose. 

Lisa Librarian 

Go, Sloth, Go! by Gabrielle Prendergast and Sophie Bennougal - ESSENTIAL

Go, Sloth, Go! by Gabrielle Prendergast, illustrated by Sophie Bennougal. PICTURE BOOK. Orca, 2025. $22. 9781459838864

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Sloth is minding its own business in the trees when it takes a dangerous fall and almost is hit by a truck.  Luckily, the truck driver rescues sloth and takes it to a nearby clinic to get help with its injuries. 

THe author and illustrator work together with just a few words in the “go sloth, go” pattern and use expressive illustrations to tell the story.  In a clear, concise way it shows how people have encroached into animal territory, causing injury, while  also being able to help in small ways. 

Such cute end papers!

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS

Cranky Crabby Crow (Saves the World) by Corey R. Tabor - ADVISABLE

Cranky Crabby Crow (Saves the World) by Corey R. Tabor. PICTURE BOOK Greenwillow Books (HarperCollins), 2025. $20. 9780063373587 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

Cranky, Crabby Crow is scaring all his friends away as he sits on the telephone line and "Caws" But when the coast is clear, the phone rings, and Secret Agent Crow jumps into action. Not as crabby as he may appear after all. 

Corey Tabor's illustrations are so fun, and what an adorable twist. A fun read indeed. 

Lisa Librarian

The Golden Poo (Whose Poo is This? #1) by Dr. Egg, Park Song-Eui and Kim Duck-Young - OPTIONAL

The Golden Poo (Whose Poo is This? #1) by Dr. Egg, Park Song-Eui, illustrated by Kim Duck-Young. 85 pages. NON-FICTION GRAPHIC CHAPTER BOOK. Graphic Universe (Lerner). 2025. $13. 9798765627686

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Dr. Egg, Dr. Yang, and Dr. Woong find a mysterious fake golden poo in the woods with 8 poo capsules inside! Will they be able to use clues and find out which 8 animals the poos came from? Readers will learn along with these adorable scientists about animals and their poo.

Originally published in Korea, the chibi characters are endearing on their quest to discover whose poo is whose. There is lots of poop talk and animals are illustrated straining, grunting, and pooping. After each animal is discovered, there is a page of animal facts and stats with commentary from the characters.

The characters are Korean.

Rachel, Elementary library specialist

All Aboard the Poo Boat (Whose Poo is This? #2) by Dr. Egg and Park Song-eui and Kim Duck-Young - OPTIONAL

All Aboard the Poo Boat (Whose Poo is This? #2) by Dr. Egg and Park Song-eui, illustrated by Kim Duck-Young. 85 pages. NON-FICTION CHAPTER BOOK. Graphic Universe (Lerner), 2025. $13. 9798765627679

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Dr. Egg, Dr. Yang, and Dr. Woong are back to solve the Mystery of the Golden Poo by finding which animals made the poo in the 8 poo capsules. 

This book is packed with animal and poop facts alongside chibi-style illustrations. For some reason, this one didn't gross me out as much as the first. It could be because I was more prepared for all the poop talk. I liked that I learned new things about the animals in this book. The facts are presented in a unique and engaging way.

The characters are Korean

Rachel, Elementary library specialist

First Snow! (Gnome and Rat) by Lauren Stohler - ADVISABLE

First Snow! (Gnome and Rat) by Lauren Stohler. 67  pages. CHAPTER BOOK/GRAPHIC NOVEL. Alfred A Knopf (Random House), 2024. $11. 9780593487907

BUYING ADVISORY:  EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: MANY

Rat is excited for his family's annual Nest Fest. Gnome is excited for the first snow. And to go to Nest Fest with Rat. When Gnome packs too much for the trip, will the pair make it in time for Nest Fest? Hilarious antics are sure to follow in this early graphic novel.

This was my first Gnome and Rat book. The characters were endearing. (Who wouldn't chuckle at a gnome using "bumblebutts" as an expletive?) The story was a little overly simple, but the humor and cute illustrations made up for it.

Rachel, elementary library specialist

Lost and Found in the City (Ratnip #1) by Cam Higgins and Allison Steinfeld - ADVISABLE

Lost and Found in the City (Ratnip #1) by Cam Higgins, illustrated by Allison Steinfeld. 119 pages. CHAPTER BOOK. Little Simon, 2025 $18. 9781665963466

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Ratnip is a city rat who loves to collect treasures. He and his siblings live in an old pizza restaurant with a racoon named Cookie, and they all come out at night to eat the delicious things humans leave behind. One night Ratnip finds the Thing. It buzzes, lights up, and has a human's face on it. With the help of his friends, will Ratnip be able to complete his mission and return the Thing to its human?

This is a cute early chapter book with a very simple plot. It seems to be set in New York City. It's not my favorite early chapter book that I've read, but kids will likely enjoy it.

The human in the story has dark skin.

Rachel, Elementary library specialist

Harry Styles (Little People, Big Dreams) by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and Lizzie Knott - ADVISABLE

Harry Styles (Little People, Big Dreams) by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, illustrated by Lizzie Knott. BIOGRAPHY PICTURE BOOK. Frances Lincoln Children's Books (Quarto), 2025. $16. 9781836005155

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) -  ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

The "Little People, Big Dreams" series creates short, child-friendly biographies about historical and contemporary figures. This addition covers the early life and career of Harry Styles, the musician. Children are given an abbreviated chronology of how Harry became famous and how he continues to spread his motto: "Treat people with kindness."

Any student who loves the hit songs of One Direction will want to read this book. The illustrations are bright and convey a sense of fun and realism. Harry's tattoos are added as his career progresses. There is also a short summary at the end of the book containing more details about Harry's activities and a few photographs.

Harry promotes gender neutral self-expression.

J. Smith, Teacher Librarian

City Summer, Country Summer by Kiese Laymon and Alexis Franklin - ADVISABLE

City Summer, Country Summer by Kiese Laymon and Alexis Franklin. PICTURE BOOK Kokila (Penguin), 2025. $19. 9780593405567 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

When a boy from New York comes to visit Mississippi for the summer, the boys who live next door try to welcome him. But there's a lot to miss left behind in New York, and a friendship isn't going to be easy. 

Wow! Beautiful illustrations! This is a gorgeous book! The text and illustration combined speak their own language, and brought this adult reader back to the summers of my youth. I'm certain there's many more layers to this story than my own culture understood, but I loved it so much, I can believe if you are part of their culture, you will really enjoy it, too. The boys are black. 

Lisa Librarian 

Gnome and Rate Time to Party! by Lauren Stohler - ADVISABLE

Gnome and Rate Time to Party! by Lauren Stohler. CHAPTER BOOK. Knopf Books for Young Readers, 2024. $11. 9780593487860 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: MANY 

This is book 2 of 3 of the Gnome and Rat graphic novel series. Written as a chapter book, each chapter has a different adventure for these two. Some of their adventures includes what to do for Gnome's birthday, how to create a holiday for Rat, and teaching Gnome how to blow a bubble. These chapters are short and entertaining. Young readers will enjoy following Gnome and Rats adventures. My daughter and I liked this graphic novel because of the humor in each chapter. The illustrations were engaging and added more to the plot. We liked how silly Gnome was and how Rat was always trying to fix the problems that arose. 

A. Criswell, English Language Arts teacher 

Why I Love Diggers and Trucks by Daniel Howarth - OPTIONAL

Why I Love Diggers and Trucks by Daniel Howarth. BOARD BOOK. HarperCollins Children's Books, 2024. $12 9780008595401

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - OPTIONAL 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

This is a colorful little board book with animal characters interacting with and sharing why they love various construction vehicles ("they're noisy"/"they're strong"/"they're huge", etc.) Fans of diggers and trucks will likely be fans of this book. I like that the little animal characters celebrate not just the real construction vehicles, but their own illustrated drawings of construction vehicles, and their toy versions as well. I really dislike the cutesy font and wish they'd used a more simple sans serif font so early readers might be able to read along and at least easily recognize the letters. 

Angie Campbell - EL Librarian 

Pearl's Lost Pearls by Olivier Dunrea - OPTIONAL

Pearl's Lost Pearls by Olivier Dunrea. PICTURE BOOK HarperCollins Children's Books, 2024. $13 9780547867588 

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

APPEALS TO: SOME 

A sweet little easy reader about a darling gosling named Pearl who loves loves LOVES her pearls. She wears her pearls all the time and everywhere...until she doesn't! The illustrations are really cute and the text is simple enough with quite a bit of repetition making it just right for early readers to help read along and maybe even tackle it on their own. Definitely geared for the younger kiddos with a relatable conflict that's resolved pretty quickly. 

Angie Campbell - EL Librarian 

Sketty and Meatball by Sarah Weeks illustrated by Alex Willmore - ADVISABLE

Sketty and Meatball by Sarah Weeks illustrated by Alex Willmore. PICTURE BOOK. HarperCollins Children's Books, 2024. $6 9780062431615 

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

APPEALS TO: MANY 

This is a cute story about two dogs who are best friends and do everything together. They go on a fun little adventure that has a silly twist and a sweet ending. 

For an easy reader book, this has some fun substance that a parent won't mind reading over and over again with their new little reader. The illustrations are adorable and the writing is simple but fun, with some great examples of opposites and comparisons, as well as gentle teaching about compromise and cooperation. Mostly, young kids will just really enjoy these dogs and their fun friendship. I let some of my students read and review this one and while the upper elementary kids weren't terribly impressed, the younger students loved it. 

Angie Campbell - EL Librarian 

Dr. Seuss Graphic Novel: Cat Out of Water: A Cat in the Hat Story by Art Baltazar - ADVISABLE

Dr. Seuss Graphic Novel: Cat Out of Water: A Cat in the Hat Story by Art Baltazar. CHAPTER BOOK. Random House Graphic, 2024. $11. 9780593703038

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

APPEALS TO: MANY 

The last time Cat in the Hat came to Sally and her brother's house, things went a little crazy. In this story, everything starts out as a normal day, until the Cat comes to visit. Their fish is grumpy because of the big mess that the Cat left last time, but the Cat assures he won't make a big mess this time. He then gets the idea to turn the entire house into a fishbowl. Sally, her brother, and the fish are swept away in a water adventure in their own house! 

My daughter and I enjoyed this graphic novel. It had a lot of humor and was easy to follow. The pictures were fun and engaging. 

A. Criswell, English Language Arts teacher 

Who's Writing this Story ?! by Robin Newman illustrated by Deborah Zemke - ESSENTIAL

Who's Writing this Story ?! by Robin Newman illustrated by Deborah Zemke. PICTURE BOOK. Creston Books, 2024. $20. 9781954354296 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ESSENTIAL 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

This is a unique way to teach young readers about the five basic story elements. It starts with a writer, writing the story of the Three Little Pigs. The writer is soon interrupted by the characters. The pigs want to change the plot, their names, and the conflict. The writer ends up being a weak character, so she is omitted from the pigs' new story. 

This is a fun way to see how you can changing elements in the plot will affect the story. I liked this book because I think that teachers and children will enjoy it for different reasons. This can be enjoyed as a regular story, or it can be used to teach the different story elements. It could also be used with gifted and talented programs. 

A. Criswell, English Language Arts teacher

If Lin Can by Richard Ho illustrated by Huynh Kim Lien and Phung Nguyen Quang - ESSENTIAL

If Lin Can: How Jeremy Lin Inspired Asian Americans to Shoot for the Stars by Richard Ho illustrated by Huynh Kim Lien and Phung Nguyen Quang. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2024. $19. 9781623543723

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

APPEALS TO: MANY 

Have you ever been told that you weren't tall enough? Good enough? Or weren't able to do something due to your race, ethnicity, or game?Jeremy Lin grew up hearing these types of statements. He wanted to become a basketball player. He didn't let these negative messages affect him. He persevered and went on to become a famous and inspiring player. 

I liked this book because it addressed many negative stereotypes and put downs that children hear every day. It was inspiring to see that despite being told he couldn't do it, Lin didn't let that stop him. The pictures and text were engaging. Jeremy Lin's emigrated from Taiwan. 

A. Criswell, English Language Arts teacher 

The Words We Share by Jack Wong - ESSENTIAL

The Words We Share by Jack Wong. PICTURE BOOK.  Annick Press, 2023. $23. 9781773217970 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ESSENTIAL 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

Angie's dad only speaks Cantonese. They have moved up to Canada and he relies on Angie to translate restaurant menus and interact with his community. He is able to get a job as a janitor and wants to create signs in English to remind people to clean up after themselves. Angie helps him create signs and sees that translating is a need that her whole community has. She begins helping others, but translates one sign at a laundry mat incorrectly. Will she be brave enough to make this right? Will people still want her to help them with their signs? 

I liked this story because it shows how kids can help newly immigrated families interact with their new community. Angie goes to school and therefore learns English faster than her dad. This book shows how many many people living in places like Little Chinatown have a hard time with language barriers, even though they have lived there for years. The characters speak Cantonese. 

A. Criswell, English Language Arts teacher 

All the Pieces: When a Loved One Dies from Substance Use by Hallie Riggs illustrated by Adriana Predoi - ADVISABLE

All the Pieces: When a Loved One Dies from Substance Use by Hallie Riggs illustrated by Adriana Predoi. PICTURE BOOK. (K-3rd grade) Magination Press ― American Psychological Association, 2024. $20. 9781433842184 

Content: PG (This book talks about addiction and a parent dying.)

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SOME 

A young boy has a father who has an addiction. He doesn't understand why sometimes his dad can be so fun, while other times, he gets so mad or sad. The boy's grandmother explains to him that people are made up of many different pieces, and this is just one piece of his dad. After the dad dies, the boy learns how to process and acknowledge his different emotions. 

This book was written by a LCSW and would be a great tool for kids that are going through something like this. I liked this book because many kids are going through this at home and this can help them process and talk about what is happening. I also liked that it was written by a LCSW. There are resources and additional information at the back of the book for adults and children. The pictures are cute and engaging. 

A. Criswell, English Language Arts teacher

Tasha's Voice by Carmen Bogan, Floyd Cooper and Daria Peoples - ADVISABLE

Tasha's Voice by Carmen Bogan, Floyd Cooper and Daria Peoples. PICTURE BOOK. Yosemite Conservancy, 2024. $19. 9781951179045 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

Written by the same author as who wrote Where's Rodney?, this is about a young African American girl named Tasha, who is the new girl in class and is a little shy. When her teacher calls on her to share, no words come out. The class is going on a field trip to a park on Friday. Once Tasha starts exploring nature with the park ranger, she starts to become more confident with her environment and herself. She might even be brave enough to speak in front of the class. 

This is a story of bravery and friendship. I liked this book because of the overall theme and the illustrations. The characters were multicultural and authentic. This book would help students that are new to a school or any child that loves nature and the outdoors. 

A. Criswell, English Language Arts teacher

Mermaids are the Worst by Alex Willan. - ESSENTIAL

Mermaids are the Worst by Alex Willan. PICTURE BOOK Simon and Schuster, 2025. $20. 9781665962599 

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

APPEALS TO: MANY 

When the Goblin takes a vacation, he discovers that Mermaids are the Worst. They are not quiet. In fact, his island paradise is the location of the Mermaid Tournament of Awesomeness. 

I adore this series. Alex Willan has so many great ideas. I hope he never runs out of magical creatures this goblin can hate. If you don't have Unicorns Dragons Yetis and Elves are the Worst quickly purchase the whole series for your library. 

Lisa Librarian 

I Am a Potato! by Ziggy Hanaor and Elliot Kruszynski - OPTIONAL

I Am a Potato! by Ziggy Hanaor and Elliot Kruszynski. PICTURE BOOK. Cicada Books Ltd. 2024. $17 9781800660519 

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

APPEALS TO: SOME 

A potato? An animal? But which kind? A small, furry creature is having an identity crisis. They ask their friends for help. The dog asks the creature questions to narrow down what the creature could be. Will the creature discover their true identity? 

I Am a Potato could be an introduction to classifying animals. The dog in the book asks questions that narrow down what the creature could be. The illustrations are eye catching and there are minimal words on a page. The plot was not very entertaining. 

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian

Lone Wolf Goes to the Library by Kiah Thomas and K-Fai Steele - ADVISABLE

Lone Wolf Goes to the Library by Kiah Thomas and K-Fai Steele. CHAPTER BOOK Neal Porter (Holiday House), 2025. $17. 

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

When the stern librarian sends Wolf three letters to return his book, he worries he will not be allowed to ever check out a book again. But he has a careless postman - which is why it took 3 letters to remind Wolf about the overdue books - and he's afraid his book, mailed back to the library, won't actually be delivered. But his plan to get the book returned goes awry. 

Oh so clever and fun, Steele's illustrations are just as good as Thomas' story. I laughed outloud. This would be a delightful read aloud during storytime, and although I'm not The Stern Librarian (I think) I want to keep a copy of Lone Wolf Goes to the Library for myself. It's a cautionary tale - not for the wolf, but for the librarian, we need to make sure everyone feels welcome at the library. 

Lisa Librarian 

All the Dogs by Nikola Kent - ADVISABLE

All the Dogs by Nikola Kent PICTURE BOOK Andersen Press (Lerner), 2025. $!9. 9798765663318

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

APPEALS TO: MANY 

This easy to read picture book is more picture than text. Dogs do many things, and Kent's illustrations are so cute - I loved that the final page is all of the pictures on the two pages so the reader can find their favorite again. A beginning reader will love "All the Dogs" and can probably read it themselves after just a couple of shares with an adult. Oh, I wish my grandchildren were still small. The Pre-K crowd will adore "All the Dogs" 

Lisa Librarian

The Fossil Keeper's Treasure by Amy Atwater and Natalia Cardozo - ESSENTIAL

The Fossil Keeper's Treasure by Amy Atwater and Natalia Cardozo. INTERACTIVE PICTURE BOOK NON-FICTION Magic Cat Abrams Amulet, 2025. $23. 9781917044264 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

The Fossil Keeper's Treasure includes 10 different fossils and each includes an embossed illustration the reader can touch. From early Cambrian trilobites to Cenozoic Smilodon and the primate Australopithecus, readers will encounter interesting facts, cool illustrations, and how long ago the fossils were originally discovered. 

I love the format of this interactive book. The pages are heavy, not like a board book, but thick to accommodate the embossed illustration which was so neat. So tactile and satisfying, although it wasn't like touching an actual fossil, it still gave that impression. I loved exploring the pages with my fingers before I looked, to find the place it was located. The illustrations include an artist's rendition of the fossil as it may have been found, with a full page spread of the environment along with what they may have looked like. Facts are dropped in text boxes onto the illustrations. I can think of so many fun classroom applications for The Fossil Keeper's treasure. I hope my local museum has a copy in their gift shop, I'm certainly buying one for my middle school library. 

Lisa Librarian 

Wave Warrior and the Reef Rescue by James Sellick, illustrated by Patrick Corrigan - ADVISABLE

Wave Warrior and the Reef Rescue by James Sellick, illustrated by Patrick Corrigan. PICTURE BOOK.  Ivy Kids, 2025. $20. 9781836003939 

Content: PG (picture of dolphins and sea birds caught in a net)

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3)  - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SOME 

"Wave Warrior and the Reef Rescue" is a children's version of the fight Greenpeace is waging against overfishing, damaging of coral reefs, and polluting the ocean. Wave Warrior bravely confronts Codzilla, the fishing vessel breaking the law, and finds a solution to stop him. Wave Warrior has help from her other Green Machine friends when the mayor is too slow acting to solve the problem. 

I found the heroic actions of Wave Warrior to be a good adventure story. I appreciated the endnotes which explain the mission of Greenpeace and invite the readers to become involved in protecting our oceans. I think the bright illustrations will help children enjoy the story. Parents will have to decide how serious they want to be when discussing the overfishing and dangers of pollution. In my opinion, some children may find it distressing and will need the topic held at an appropriate level for their development. 

J. Smith, Teacher Librarian  

Grumpy Monkey: Mom for a Day by Suzanne Lang and Max Lang - ESSENTIAL

Grumpy Monkey: Mom for a Day by Suzanne Lang illustrated by Max Lang. PICTURE BOOK.  Random House Studio 2025 $13. 9780593709313

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

APPEALS TO: MANY 

"Grumpy Monkey: Mom for a Day" is a clever look at the challenges facing moms every day. It begins when Crocodile needs a break from her babies and Jim Panzee steps up to the task. One by one other mothers drop off their babies, until Jim is left with quite the babysitting job. At first all goes well, but children become tired, hungry, and cranky, which lead to one grumpy monkey in charge. Jim Panzee learns that being a mom is not so easy after all. 

"Grumpy Monkey: Mom for a Day" is light-hearted but pulls no punches when showing the constant challenges of caring for small children. Children will see themselves in the behavior of the animal babies, and just maybe, learn a little appreciation for their moms. Also, bonus, the book has two pages of stickers at the end. Little ones can decorate school folders or water bottles with Grumpy Monkey. 

J. Smith, Teacher Librarian 

How to Be Brave by Karl Newson and Clara Anganuzzi - ADVISABLE

How to Be Brave by Karl Newson and Clara Anganuzzi. PICTURE BOOK. Templar, 2024. $18. 9781536232547

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

Growing up can be hard and scary sometimes. This picture book addresses common concerns that young readers might feel, such as feeling nervous doing something for the first time. 

Follow a young child who interacts with lots of different animals and explains how to not get discouraged. You can often turn something negative into a positive experience. The overall message is to not give up and that everything is better with friends. My 6 year old daughter and I enjoyed this book because of the beautiful pictures and positive message. She was able to relate to what the child in the story was going through, and liked the different scenarios. It was a simple, yet sweet book. The child is an unknown ethnicity, but is not caucasian. 

A. Criswell, English Language Arts teacher 

Super Powered Plants by Soledad Romero Marino and Sonia Pulido - ESSENTIAL

Super Powered Plants by Soledad Romero Marino  and Sonia Pulido. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK.  Phaidon Press, 2025. $20 9781838669515

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

Plants have evolved for millions of years. Many have gained superpowers to survive. The superpowers include: mobility, seeds, roots, teamwork, trunks, mimicry, regeneration, speed, protection, longevity, substances, fruit, resilience, flowers, intelligence, and leaves. Most super plants have more than one super power. Some of these super plants, include: the coastal redwoods, Venus flytrap, oleander, skeleton flower, strangler fig, welwitshcia and rootless duckweed. 

Marino created an essential book for elementary readers. Not only is the information encyclopedic, but she included icons for each super power which allows for quick categorizing and comprehension. Pulido's illustrations are bright and comprehensive also. This book motivates readers to want to know more about the plant world.  

MOMMAC

Mindful Nature- Connecting with our Great Green World by Paige Towler and Chris Gaugler - ESSENTIAL

Mindful Nature- Connecting with our Great Green World by Paige Towler, illusterated by Chris Gaugler. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Magination Press, 2025. $32 9781433845185

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

APPEALS TO: MANY 

Imagine what an animal is doing and feeling. Act like you think they would. Ask yourself questions about their experience and yours. Spending time in nature can improve our health in many ways. 

Children can learn to be mindful in nature as we teach them how to do so. Children will engage with this photo story. This book is a great resource for preschool activity time, thus I included the level of High School in this review. Gaugler formatted the photography and words creatively. The first 2 pages uses personification to grab the child's attention. Then, Towler moves the prose to simile and third person form.  

MOMMAC 

Itty Bitty Betty Blob by Constance Lombardo, illustrated by Micah Player - ADVISABLE

Itty Bitty Betty Blob by Constance Lombardo, illustrated by Micah Player. PICTURE BOOK. Hippo Park (Astra), 2024. $19. 9781662640148

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

Betty Blob has always been different. She likes rainbows instead of storms. She would rather dance amid dandelions than stomp on tulips. Betty tries to be a bad, like a good little monster but it just doesn't work out. Picture Day is coming. Will Betty be able to make a scary face and make her family proud?

I enjoyed the sweet message of this book. Being yourself is more important than pleasing others. The illustrations are mostly in black and white and have a cute Halloween vibe. The only color in the book is Betty which is a fun contrast. Would make a cute read aloud!

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian