Listen First: Then Go! by Andrea Loneya and Caroline Dittman - ESSENTIAL

Listen First: Then Go! (Chicken Soup For the Babies Soul) by Andrea Loneya, illustrated by Caroline Dittman. BOARD BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2024. $11. 9781623542894

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: MANY

Bear and Goat want to go to the top of the mountain to see the sunrise. Bear has a map and he reads out the instructions. Goat has a hard time listening and gets into all kinds of mischief. Do you think they will make it to the top of the mountain in time for the sunrise?

A really cute book. I loved it and so did my little Henrik. We have read it over and over. I recommend this book for preschoolers. Pictures are delightful and Bear’s frustration with Goat shines through sometimes. Children will be able to point  out all kinds of different things in the pictures. This book is a little treasure.

Ellen-Anita Olson, Librarian

Two Birds . . . and a Moose by James Preller and Abigail Burch - ADVISABLE

Two Birds  . . . and a Moose by James Preller and Abigail Burch. EARLY READER LEVEL 1. Simon, 2024. $18. 9781665948791

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Moose can see two birds in a tree and he really wants to join them. But how? He tries a pogo stick, jumping, and a big balloon. When Moose makes it, the birds have bedded down in their nest for the night. How will Moose get down?

A cute story. Some children will quickly comment that a moose can't get in a tree and others just giggle at the silliness of it. A success all around. Cute story and pictures. I recommend this delightful book. 

Ellen-Anita Olson, Librarian

The Moon Is a Ball by Ed Chang, illustrated by The Tjong-King - ESSENTIAL

The Moon Is a Ball (Stories of Panda and Squirrel) by Ed Chang, illustrated by The Tjong-King, 77 pages. PICTURE BOOK. Gecko Press, 2020. $20. 9781776574933

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Nine short stories about Panda and Squirrel and their friendship. No matter what happens, little disagreements, arguments, and other things, they find each other again in the end and they are grateful for their friendship. They realize they are very different, but that does not stop them from being best friends.

I loved this book. I haven’t read a book about such a cute friendship since the Frog and Toad books. This was refreshing and fun reading. The illustrations are beautiful and the paper used in the book is really nice. This would be an amazing read-aloud book to a young class and have many interesting discussions about friendship and what it means to be a friend. This is definitely a MUST READ!

Ellen-Anita Olson, Librarian

On POW WOW Day by Traci Sorrell, illustrated by Madelyn Goodnight - ADVISABLE

On Powwow Day by Traci Sorrell, illustrated by Madelyn Goodnight. BOARD BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2024. $9. 9781623545765

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Sorrell and Goodnight teach children counting and the many preparations that go into a Native American Powwow. 

Goodnight’s  pictures are colorful and happy and show action. I think little children would be very interested in this and it would be a great jumping off point for discussion of Powwows and other Native American festivities and customs. I recommend this book.

Ellen-Anita Olson, Librarian

Kwanzaa by Hannah Elliot and Andrea Pippins - ADVISABLE

Kwanzaa by Hannah Elliot, illustrated by Andrea Pippins. BOARD BOOK. Simon and Schuster, 2024. $9. 9781665962889

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

The book goes through the preparations for Kwanzaa that one African American family does.

The story is cute and the illustrations are wonderful. However, for such a small board book, meant for littles, it was quite wordy.

Ellen-Anita Olson, Librarian

Fall Feast: Nature's Harvest by Sean Taylor and Alex Morss, illustrated by Cinyee Chiu - ADVISABLE

Fall Feast: Nature's Harvest by Sean Taylor and Alex Morss, illustrated by Cinyee Chiu. PICTURE BOOK. Happy Yak (The Quarto Group), 2024. $20. 9780711278660

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW

Join two young children as they go on a brisk autumn walk with their moms to explore the many ways the flora and fauna in nature prepare for winter during the fall months.

This is a beautifully illustrated nonfiction picture book that dives into details of how plants and animals get ready for winter. It has way more information than I first assumed, but I enjoyed it! The back matter has tons of more details for the curious reader, but the general storyline also has tons of great information. This is the final book in the series, following Winter Sleep, Busy Spring, and Wild Summer.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

I Like Your CHUZPAH and Other Yiddish Words You'll Like by Suzy Ultman - ADVISABLE

I Like Your CHUZPAH and Other Yiddish Words You'll Like by Suzy Ultman. NON-FICTION BOARD BOOK. Simon and Schuster, 2024. $10. 9780593751916

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Yiddish is an old language that was born more than 1,000 years ago. The language was passed from parent to child. In this delightful little book you will learn several Yiddish words and their meaning. They are even illustrated. It is so cute. 

I highly recommend this book. It is a great way to introduce children to another language; a language so different from their own. I love this book.   

Ellen-Anita Olson, Librarian

Stanley the Baker written and illustrated by William Bee - ADVISABLE

Stanley the Baker written and illustrated by William Bee. PICTURE BOOK. Peachtree Publishing Company, 2024. $17. 9781682637265

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Stanley the guinea pig and his other rodent friends show you the behind the scenes of the local bakery. Starting with grinding the wheat to make flour, to incorporating the different ingredients, to selling the finished products, you can see every part of the process, including a special surprise!

This was my first Stanley book. From what I understand, there is a whole series of simple stories with our eponymous hero doing different jobs. I really liked the brightly colored modern digital illustrations and the retrained text - it does a good job of demonstrating the day in the life of a baker, while still being engaging for young readers. I could see this book being used as part of a career exploration unit or lesson.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes 

Round and Round the Year We Go by Carter Higgins - ADVISABLE

Round and Round the Year We Go by Carter Higgins. PICTURE BOOK. Neal Porter Books (Holiday House), 2024. $19. 9780823456529

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Children play throughout each month of the year.  They sled in January, make cute notes for each other in February, do cartwheels in March, plant seeds in April, and so on until the year is done.

Higgins captures the essence of each month through verse. Some of her verses are a touch complex and might need to be explained, but the childlike illustrations are happily adorable.

PGPowers

Nearly Exactly Almost Like Me by Jennifer Bradbury and Pearl AuYeung - ADVISABLE

Nearly Exactly Almost Like Me by Jennifer Bradbury, illustrated by Pearl AuYeung. PICTURE BOOK. Atheneum Books (Simon), 2025. $20. 9781481417679

BUYING ADVISORY:  EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Two brothers are at the park when they hear the ice cream truck.  Their mother gives them money.  They run to the truck, but the little brother stops to look at something.  When he gets to the truck, the older brother tells him to come up in line to where he is.  Another child in line protests because the two brothers have different skin and don't look the same.  How can the older brother explain why they are still brothers even when they don't look alike?

Bradbury has created a warm hearted story to explain to children how brothers that aren't biologically related can still be brothers.  Colorful, well done and expressive illustrations enhance the story.

PGPowers

We’re Up a Tree (The Dog and Pony Show) by Jeff Mack - ESSENTIAL

We are Up a Tree (The Dog and Pony Show) by Jeff Mack. EARLY READER. Simon Spotlight, 2024. $18. 9781665939157

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL

APPEALS TO: MANY

Horse and dog want to climb a tree. Dog goes first. Almost immediately they run into trouble. Horse help dog. Dog finally gets up. But how is he going to get down? Horse tries many ways to get the dog down. The snow is coming down heavier and heavier. Will the dog be able to get down from the tree? Dog is scared but the horse is sure things will be OK. 

"This is a “my first graphic novel” and it even has instructions on how to read a graphic novel. A delightful book with full page color pictures that really bring out their predicament. Good reading aloud, or also good for kids to read parts. One student could read the dog parts and another could read the horse part. A great chance to work on fluency and expression. I recommend this book.

Ellen-Anita Olson, Librarian

Home in a Lunchbox written and illustrated by Cherry Mo - ESSENTIAL

Home in a Lunchbox written and illustrated by Cherry Mo. PICTURE BOOK. Penguin Young Readers Group (Penguin Random House), 2024. $19. 9780593661345

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Jun is a young immigrant girl from Hong Kong. She feels isolated and alone at her new school in America because she doesn't know the language. However, she finds comfort in the familiar food packed in her lunchbox.

The author’s autobiographical take on the immigrant experience in a new school in a new country is told mostly through the beautiful illustrations and sparse dialogue, which so perfectly captures what these students experience while learning a new language. They literally do not have the words, and are so easily overwhelmed by their new experiences. It’s a great story for multi-language learners, or Dual Immersion classrooms, and it’s one that is applicable for all ages. Definitely recommend it for your classroom library.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Dinosaurs Can Be Small by Darrin Lunde and Ariel Landy - ADVISABLE

Dinosaurs Can Be Small by Darrin Lunde, illustrated by Ariel Landy. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2024. $18. 9781623543303

BUYING ADVISORY:  EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Of course you have heard of a triceratops.  But have you heard of the Microceratus?  It is a small horned dinosaur that walks on two legs.  You will learn this and more in Dinosaurs Can Be Small. 

Lunde presents a large well-known dinosaur species and then introduces a small version of that dinosaur that is less well-known.  

Fascinating! This book was delightful!  I think students will enjoy learning about these small dinosaurs.  I like how the book first shows a dinosaur that is familiar and then introduces an unfamiliar one.  Text is minimal and the pictures are slightly cartoonish. 

Tracie, Elementary School LIbrarian

Love: A Little Hug in Your Pocket! by Fiona Munro and Laura Hambleton - ADVISABLE

Love: A Little Hug in Your Pocket! by Fiona Munro, illustrated by Laura Hambleton. BOARD BOOK. Design Eye, 2024. $13. 9781836005995

BUYING ADVISORY:  Pre-K - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A little bear learns that love is a feeling that you can't see, but your family always loves you even when they aren't near. If you feel tired or angry, you can take the heart that is included with the book and cuddle it tight.  Then you can feel the love flow. 

A reassuring story and gift to help ease separation anxiety.  The child gets a stuffed heart to carry in their pocket to squeeze whenever they are missing their family.  The illustrations are colorful and adorable.

PGPowers

Up Late! by Dan Thompson - OPTIONAL

Up Late! (Tig and Lily #3)by Dan Thompson. 84 pages. EARLY READER. RH Graphics (RandomHouse), 2024. $11. 9780593486344

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Tig is a regular house cat with huge bad dreams. His friends want to help him solve his problem and they have it all figured out. The best way to not have nightmares is to not go to sleep at all. The zoo is having a slumber party and Tig’s friends are going to keep him awake and keep him from sleeping. But - there is one big problem with staying up all night. You get so tired.  Can they keep Tig awake so he has no dreams?

Read this delightful graphic novel and find out all the tricks the animals try to keep Tig awake. I really enjoyed this book. Illustrations are colorful and bright and they fill up the whole page. Enjoy this book with your children and grandchildren.

Ellen-Anita Olson, Librarian

How to explain Coding to a grown-up by Ruth Spiro and Teresa Martinez - ADVISABLE

How to explain Coding to a grown-up by Ruth Spiro, illustrated by Teresa Martinez. NON-FICTION, PICTURE BOOK Charlesbridge/Imagine, 2023 $18.00 9781623543181 

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

Adults don't know everything, and sometimes their kids need to fill them in. This girl is doing just that, teaching her adult about coding. It's how computers are programmed! 

Ruth Spiro (of the Baby Loves Science series) has moved on from board books to this picture book featuring an older child (maybe 9 or 10?). I love how the girl takes it slow and simple and even lets her adult demonstrate understanding. Includes a glossary, and is part of the "explain science to a grown-up series" 

Lisa Librarian

Glaciers are Alive by Debbie S. Miller, Illustrated by Jon Van Zyle - ADVISABLE

Glaciers are Alive by Debbie S. Miller, illustrated by Jon Van Zyle. NON-FICTION, PICTURE BOOK Charlesbridge/Imagine, 2023 $18.00 9781623543617 

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

A Glacier starts as deep, heavy snow, but that's not the whole story. As the ice grows, the glacier slowly moves toward the sea, carving a valley and changing the landscape, providing food and shelter for animals, dangerous crevasses, and safe places for seals to have their pups. A Glacier isn't just snow it's alive. 

The perfect amount of text per page, with beautiful illustrations, explains the course of a glacier that even a 1st or 2nd grader could engage. Vocabulary is used in context with a nice glossary. Include an author's note with a conservation message. 

Lisa Librarian

How to Be a Witch by Gabrielle Balkan & Shana Gozansky, illustrated by Carmen Saldaña - OPTIONAL

How to Be a Witch by Gabrielle Balkan & Shana Gozansky, illustrated by Carmen Saldaña. PICTURE BOOK. Penguin Young Readers Group (Penguin Random House), 2024. $20 9780593751190

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

A witch-themed nonfiction picture book where the authors introduce readers to the world of real witches and their daily practices.

This was definitely not what I was expecting. It talks about how real witches look, act, and believe and invites the reader to try their own hand at a spell of gratitude. The illustrations are cute, and I get the overall message that “witches are just people like you!” but it just rubbed me the wrong way. If you have any families that didn’t like the Harry Potter series, they will also definitely not like this book.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

My Dad Thinks He's a Pirate by Katrina Germein, illustrated by Tom Jellett - ADVISABLE

My Dad Thinks He's a Pirate by Katrina Germein, illustrated by Tom Jellett. PICTURE BOOK Walker (Candlewick), 2023. $19. 9781536225020 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

When a boy goes to the beach with his family, his dad demonstrates he's a pirate by cracking pirate jokes all day. 

Ok, they were dumb dad jokes at first, but honestly, he kept it up the whole book and they got funnier and before I knew it I was reading some of them out loud. Kids will like this. Tom Jellet's illustrations are bold and colorful. What a fun book about a really fun dad. The family is white. 

Lisa Librarian

The Night Market written by Seina Wedlick, illustrated by Briana Mukodiri Uchendu - ADVISABLE

The Night Market written by Seina Wedlick, illustrated by Briana Mukodiri Uchendu. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Children's Books (Penguin Random House), 2024. $19. 9780593563687

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

A beautifully illustrated exploration of a Nigerian night market, the reader is immediately immersed in the story with the nameless protagonist as we weave between different hawkers and vendor stalls. Each page is bursting with color and imagination as our young guide sees the different sights of the night market.The story captures the essence of curiosity and wonder for any young explorer.

A gorgeous picture book and a veritable feast for the senses. Every page has something new to see and explore. I think it would be a highly engaging read, and I especially love the African setting. I think it is unique and a beautiful addition to your picture book library.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

When Fall Comes by Aimee M. Bissonette and Erin Hourigan - ADVISABLE

When Fall Comes: Connecting with Nature as the Days Grow Shorter by Aimee M. Bissonette, illustrated by Erin Hourigan. PICTURE BOOK (Little Bigfoot) Penguin, 2023. $18. 9781632174529 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL 

When fall comes, there are a lot of things that the people need to do, as well as things that busy animals need to do too. Foraging for food, getting homes ready, and changing coats for the colder weather ahead. Fall is a getting ready time. 

I loved that this family seemed to live next to a forest, and are very outdoorsy. Add this to your collection if you have the Winter and Summer versions. 

Lisa Librarian

Bear and Bird - The Adventure and Other Stories written and illustrated by Jarvis - ADVISABLE

Bear and Bird - The Adventure and Other Stories written and illustrated by Jarvis. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick Press, 2024. $16. 9781536235449

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

This is a short chapter book/collection of tales about the friendship between Bear and Bird. The duo goes on all sorts of adventures, learning about teamwork and understanding along the way. Each story showcases their special bond, touching on themes like friendship, kindness, and adventure. 

I really enjoyed the story for its approachable, simple illustrations that draw you in. The relationship between Bear and Bird goes beyond just fluffy positivity, offering real depth and authenticity. It's a charming read that resonates with both kids and adults, and can serve as a model for important social-emotional lessons about interacting with different kinds of people.

 

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Noodle Conquers Comfy Mountain by Jonathan Graziano, illustrated by Dan Tavis - ESSENTIAL

Noodle Conquers Comfy Mountain by Jonathan Graziano, illustrated by Dan Tavis. PICTURE BOOK Margaret K. McElderry (Simon and Schuster), 2023 $19. 9781665941679 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

APPEALS TO: MANY 

On one of Noodle's "no bones" days, he was having a hard time getting comfortable. He tried lots of spots around the house, but nothing seemed right. Until he noticed the couch piled with blankets and pillows and jackets. But Noodle is too short to get up there! How can he climb Comfy Mountain? 

What an adorable story! Although Noodle is a Social Media sensation, Graziano doesn't reference it or assume the reader knows. The only nod is "no bones day". Tavis' huge illustrations are great, I want to pick up that pug and cuddle him myself. A darling book about a dog wanting to do something new. 

Lisa Librarian

One Thousand Things: Learn your first words with Little Mouse written and illustrated by Anna Kövecses - ADVISABLE

One Thousand Things: Learn your first words with Little Mouse written and illustrated by Anna Kövecses. PICTURE BOOK. Wide Eyed Editions, 2025. $15. 9780711297722

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Explore this visual encyclopedia of first words for early readers. Follow Little Mouse from page to page learning 1,000 basic things around the house, things you can do, and things you can see.

One Thousand Things by Anna Kövecses is packed with simple, eye-catching illustrations that really draw in young kids. It's full of basic words that pre-kindergarten children will love, making it a great pick for early language learning. The book serves as a fun way for little ones to explore and understand their world. Its simplicity might not keep older kids as interested, so it's perfect for the pre-k crowd. Overall, its charming visuals and easygoing content make it a delightful read for the youngest book lovers.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Noor Needs To Know! by Farhana Islam, illustrated by Nabila Adani - ADVISABLE

Noor Needs To Know! by Farhana Islam, illustrated by Nabila Adani. PICTURE BOOK. Salaam Reads, 2023. $19. 9781665957854

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A young Muslim girl wants to know why the women in her family wear hijabs. They all have different styles and wear them in different ways.  Every time she asks one of the women in her family about it, they are busy and don't have time for her questions.  Is it because they are a secret spy, or because they hide snacks in there?  Noor wants to know. Finally Noor's ammu (mom) is willing to explain to her.  What is the secret?

Nor Needs to Know! is a cute and humorous way to explain to children why some Muslims wear hijabs. The story gives a small insight, but not all the reasons for wearing hijabs.  I would have liked a little more explanation at the back of the book. The illustrations are energetic, warm, and inviting.

PGPowers

Beautiful Junk by Melissa Assaly, illustrated by Samantha Lucy Haslam - ADVISABLE

Beautiful Junk by Melissa Assaly, illustrated by Samantha Lucy Haslam. PICTURE BOOK. Fitzhenry & Whiteside, 2024. $24. 9781554555376

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

The story follows Rowan, an observant young boy, who notices what happens with a pile of junk that a neighbor, who is moving, leaves out in their driveway. Different members of the community make an effort to reduce, reuse, and recycle different pieces until the pile is gone.

The story celebrates creativity and sustainability, encouraging young minds to explore possibilities, while also considering the environment. I liked the art, I thought it was vibrant and eye-catching. I enjoyed the message of the story and I could see this book being paired with a makerspace activity or supplemental materials on a recycling unit in science.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Ghost Orchid by Fiona Lumbers - ADVISABLE

Ghost Orchid by Fiona Lumbers. PICTURE BOOK. Andersen Press USA (Lerner), 2023. $19. 9798765608319

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Ava and her parents are a family of explorers who are sent on an adventure to find the mysterious ghost orchid that flowers only once a year.  Her parent's are focused only on finding the flower, while Fiona finds the magic in the journey being observant and taking pictures along the way.  Finally they arrive at the location of the ghost orchid.  It is withered and gone.  Ava notices things her parents don't.  As they relax and look around, Ava sees something exciting.

Ghost Orchid is an interesting way to help kids learn to enjoy the wonders around them.  There is only a small amount of information about the ghost orchid itself.  The illustrations are colorful and lively with entertaining perspectives.

PGPowers

Sometimes We Fall by Randall de Sève, illustrated by Kate Gardiner - ADVISABLE

Sometimes We Fall by Randall de Sève, illustrated by Kate Gardiner. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Studio (Penguin Random House), 2024. $20. 9780593645499

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW

In "Sometimes We Fall" by Randall de Sève, a nervous bear cub learns to face their fears while attempting to climb a tree for sweet plums. The story emphasizes the importance of perseverance and resilience, teaching young readers that trying and failing is a natural part of growth.

I really like the message of the story. Perseverance and grit are important skills to instill in children at a young age. This story would be good to read for anxious students, because it might help them process their fears in a healthy way. The big takeaway is that sometimes you fall, and it’s ok. But I don’t think this picture book will be one that students pick up on their own.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Somewhere In Between by Laan Cham - ADVISABLE

Somewhere In Between by Laan Cham. PICTURE BOOK. (K-3rd grade). Random House, 2024. $19. 9780593651568

BUYING ADVISORY:  EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Somewhere far away, a child named Pink falls from the sky.  Fireball welcomes her to his Land of Sunshine. She has fun swimming and playing on the beach.  She sees another land across the ocean strait.  Fireball tells her only trolls live there.  Pink sets off and discovers  the Land of Snow and a nice creature named Snowball. Fireball and Snowball fight about whose land is best and ask Pink whose side she is on.  What should she do?

Cham teaches children about friendship, conflict resolution, and being stuck in the middle of different opinions.  I liked the cute story, and colorful illustrations.

PGPowers

Perla The Mighty Dog written by Isabel Allende, illustrated by Sandy Rodriguez - ADVISABLE

Perla The Mighty Dog written by Isabel Allende, illustrated by Sandy Rodriguez. PICTURE BOOK. Philomel (Penguin Random House), 2024. $19. 9780593623596

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Perla is a rescue dog that has two superpowers: 1) she can make everyone love her and 2) she can bark the loudest! Through her example, she teaches her human, Nico, how to stand up for himself against a school bully.

I think this would be cute for any animal-loving child, but as an adult, I was a little confused by the dog narrator and the magical elements - like it was magical, but it also wasn't? I know Isabel Allende incorporates magical realism in her full-length novels, but I don't think it translated well to the picture book realm.

Kiera, ELA teacher, #bookswithbeddes

Bella Ballerina by Sharon M. Draper and Ebony Glenn - ADVISABLE

Bella Ballerina by Sharon M. Draper, illustrated by Ebony Glenn. PICTURE BOOK. Atheneum Books (Simon), 2024. $19. 9781534463967

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A young girl named Bella Ballerina loves her ballet class. She loves to go on tippy-toes and plie to the music.  Bella can chasse, passe, bourree and arabesque. When she falls, friends help her up.  Madame announces a recital.  During the recital, Bella is afraid to go out on stage with her classmates.  She sees a boy lose part of his costume.  What will she do?

Bella Ballerina is a wonderful story for would-be dancers, and teaches kids to be observant, kind and help each other.  Both boys, girls and many ethnicities are included in the cute illustrations. I liked the glossary of dance terms in the back.

PGPowers

A Party For Florine: Florine Stettheimer and Me by Yevgenia Nayberg - ADVISABLE

A Party For Florine:  Florine Stettheimer and Me by Yevgenia Nayberg. PICTURE BOOK. Neal Porter Books (Holiday House), 2024. $19. 9780823454105

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE

APPEALS TO: SOME

A young girl goes to the museum and see's a self portrait of Florine Stettheimer.   The woman in the portrait looks just like the young girl, who is also an artist, plus both of them are Jewish.  The young girl wants to find out all about Florine.  She learns about her schooling, life, and how she drew people in flight and drew buildings that grew like trees.  The young girl wants to become Florine’s biggest fan and wants to be just like her.

Nayberg creates  a whimsical musing showcasing the art style of Florine Stettheimer.  The interesting illustrations are worth a peruse, but the story is lacking.

PGPowers

How to Babysit Your Grown-up: Activities to Do Together by Jean Reagan with Janay Brown-Wood and Lee Wildish - ADVISABLE

How to Babysit Your Grown-up: Activities to Do Together by Jean Reagan with Janay Brown-Wood, illustrated by Lee Wildish. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Alfred A. Knopf (Random), 2023. $19. 9780593479230

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Do you ever get bored and need something to do?  Then this is the perfect book for you!  How to Babysit Your Grownup is a treasure trove of ideas of things to do when you are bored.  From outdoor activities, to paper crafts, science experiments and easy recipes, this book has it all!

Reagan has done it again -  so many activities for varying ages and abilities.  I loved the colorful illustrations!  I also like that there are some activities that require no supplies except your imagination. 

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian

Runaway Pond by Nancy Graff, illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline. - ADVISABLE

Runaway Pond by Nancy Graff and Bagram Ibatoulline. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick Press, 2023. $19. 9781536219982

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Life in the small village revolved around a pond. The animals used it for water and the children used it for fishing and play. Each year, men would run a race around the pond and every year Spencer Chamberlain, the tallest man in town, won the race. One spring, the rain fell for many days without stopping. As the flood waters neared homes, the dam broke. The villagers were frightened for those who lived downstream. Can Mr. Chamberlain run fast enough to warn them?

Ibatoulline's illustrations are beautiful and the story is based on a true event. The pictures tell enough of the story to make it enjoyable.  While the prose clearly and distinctly tells the story,  the author took license to write the story a bit different than it actually happened which seemed unnecessary.

MOMMAC

Keep Up, Duck! by Rachel Bates and Ivan Bates - ADVISABLE

Keep Up, Duck! by Rachel Bates illustrated by Ivan Bates. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick Press, 2024. $18. 9781536209389

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Puck is the smallest duckling in his family. He has a hard time keeping up with the others. But, Puck is resourceful. He finds ways to catch up. Puck finds his way home to the surprise of all.

Children will enjoy the adorably illustrated ducks. There is also a fun twist at the end of the book. This story, while fresh, is quite reminiscent of the classic story, The Story about Ping. 

MOMMAC

Wake up, Woodlands by Karen Jameson, illustrated by Marc Boutavant - ADVISABLE

Wake up, Woodlands by Karen Jameson, illustrated by Marc Boutavant. PICTURE BOOK. Chronicle Books, 2024. $18. 9781797215037

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Children wake up to go exploring in the beautiful spring weather.  A butterfly floats through the fields. A bear looks for food. Other animals in the forest are waking up also. There is joy in the forest as all rejoice in a new beginning. 

This heartwarming book is written in simple poetry.  The beautiful rhyme provides a feeling of joy that spring has arrived. The illustrations are bright and cheerful. 

MOMMAC

Just Like Millie by Lauren Castillo - ADVISABLE

Just Like Millie by Lauren Castillo. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick Press, 2024. $18. 9781536224818

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

A little girl moved with her  mother to a new city. She was happy on her own and not willing to interact with other children. When she showed her shyness, her mother would give her a hug and say, "It's Ok". Eventually, her mother took her to a dog shelter and let her choose a pet. She chose Millie. Millie was not shy around other dogs and made friends easily. Will Millie help the girl overcome her shyness?

Castillo tells a sweet story to encourage young children who are shy.  She lets them know that it's ok to feel shy. She also shows a tool that can help a shy child; a friend that can lead the way. Castillo's illustrations are simple, yet tell the story well. Various ethnicities are displayed in the illustrations. 

MOMMAC

Our Blue Planet by Leisa Stewart-Sharpe, illustrated by Emily Dove - ESSENTIAL

Our Blue Planet by Leisa Stewart-Sharpe and Emily Dove. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Simon and Schuster, 2023. $20. 9781665928021

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

APPEALS TO:MANY

Our Blue Planet is amazing and in need of our help. Climate change and city encroachment are altering our planet. The oceans provide vital necessities for all living animals, including humans. From the deep, to the coral reefs, to the green seas, to the coasts, to the big blue, the drama of life is taking place between predator's and prey who create many ways to defend themselves. We need to do many things to help save our blue planet such as power down, plant and protect trees, become a sea -life spotter, use less plastics, and reduce, reuse, and recycle. This strikingly illustrated book that contains a forward from David Attenborough, describes in detail the various habitats of the sea. Stewart-Sharpe clearly details the characteristics of each area of the oceans.  Also contained in the book's pages are many interesting tidbits about the sea's inhabitants. Much time can be spent with the many illustrated examples of sea life. This book is a great way to introduce children to protecting our planet. 

MOMMAC

 

Glow Down Deep: Amazing Creatures that Light Up by Lisa Reagan - ESSENTIAL

Glow Down Deep: Amazing Creatures that Light Up by Lisa Reagan. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Firefly Books, 2020. $13. 9780228102526

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

There are many kinds of creatures in the ocean that light up. They get their glow from biofluorescence or bioluminescence. The creatures use the glow for various reasons such as: to hide from predators, to attract prey, or to attract a mate. Some use counter-illumination to hide against the bright background of the ocean's surface.

Glow in the dark pages make this book an eye catcher and a fun read. The information contained in these pages illuminates the mind of the reader. Clear photos inspire the imagination.

MOMMAC

In the Winter Woods by Daniela Kulot - OPTIONAL

In the Winter Woods by Daniela Kulot. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2024. $18. 9781623544959

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

APPEALS TO: SOME

It is winter and Fox, Mouse and Crow are so hungry, but it is winter, and winter is not willing to share.  Squirrel is also hungry, but he spent all summer gathering food for the winter.  If he can only remember where he hid his cache of food!  Will he share his food if the others help him look for it?

Kulot has a sweet book about sharing and also about how animals survive in the winter.  Even though the text and illustrations are engaging, the plot isn't very exciting.  Reading this book could spark conversations about sharing with others or the survival habits of animals in the winter.

Tracie, Elementary School Librarian

Because I Already Loved You by Andree-Anne Cyr, illustrated by Berengere Delaporte - ADVISABLE

Because I Already Loved You by Andree-Anne Cyr, illustrated by Berengere Delaporte. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Groundwood Books, 2023. $20. 9781773069739

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

A little boy is told that the family will be having a baby. He can feel the baby move inside his mom. He and other family members make presents for the baby. The birth day came and the little boy waited and waited. His parents came home without the baby. The little boy is sad because he already loved the baby. What can they do to help their grief?"

Cyr and Delaporte sweetly share a grief experience of losing a child at birth. Delaporte illustrates strong emotion. The author and illustrator create a safe place to share difficult emotions for those who have experienced a stillborn child.

MOMMAC

All About Color by Elizabeth Rusch and Elizabeth Goss - ADVISABLE

All About Color by Elizabeth Rusch, illustrated by Elizabeth Goss. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge Publishing, 2024. $18. 9781623543532

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

Color only exists in light. Without light, everything is black. Color can make us stand out or hide. Color can make us feel emotion. We can do many exciting things with color.

This was a good attempt to teach children about color, but it fell short on covering all the ins and outs of color. It works as a simplified discussion on the subject. The best information is given in the back matter.

Children of various ethnicities are illustrated.

MOMMAC

My Grandfather's Song by Phung Nguyen and Huynh Kim Lien - ESSENTIAL

My Grandfather's Song by Phung Nguyen and Huynh Kim Lien. PICTURE BOOK. Random House Children's Books, 2023. $19. 9780593488614

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

APPEALS TO: SEVERAL

A grandfather brings his family to a new land. Grandfather teaches that the land gives off music and that they must learn from it. The land gives gifts such as food and shelter. Even the animals can teach us strength and courage. During a storm, the boy is afraid and his grandfather calms him with song. When the storm passes, there is a new song. The song changes through the seasons and years.

Lien’s illustrations have a beautiful Asian design. Quang and Lien fashioned a sweet story about a grandfather and his grandson entwined with a story about environmental responsibility. The end notes from the author's can teach even adults about the beliefs  and hopes of these Vietnamese authors.

MOMMAC

These Olive Trees: a Palestinian's Family's Story by Aya Ghanameh - ADVISABLE

These Olive Trees: a Palestinian's Family's Story by Aya Ghanameh. NON-FICTION BIOGRAPHY PICTURE BOOK.  Viking (Penguin), 2023. $19. 9780593525180

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

APPEALS TO: SOME

Oraib lives in  the Balata refugee camp  near the city of Nablus. She and her siblings were born there. Oraib loves olives and helps her mother gather and process them in the camp. They were forced from their home by the coast of Palestine as others came in to take their land. One day, when she and her mother came home from the olive fields, people in the camp are packing up and leaving. The war has come  close to their camp and they  must move again.

Oraib is Aya Ghanameh's grandmother. This is her story of living as a Palestinian refugee. The author's end note provides greater detail about the Palestinian issue. Family photos are shared at the end of the book. Aya creates a desire in the reader to learn more about this subject.

MOMMAC

ABC and You and Me by Corinna Luyken - ESSENTIAL

ABC and You and Me by Corinna Luyken. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Penguin Random House, 2023. $19. 9780593530467

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

APPEALS TO: MANY

Can you wiggle and make shapes?  You can make the shapes of the alphabet with your body. You can use all the parts of your body to make the shapes. What other shapes can you make?

Luyken’s cute book has applications in the gym or kindergarten. The creative illustrations will engage anyone wanting to have some fun while exercising.  The  ABC body shapes also include objects that start with the letter being made.  

The illustrations include many ethnicities.

MOMMAC