Embedded Files
All Because You Matter by Tami Charles, Illustrated by Bryan Collier
All Because You Matter by Tami Charles, Illustrated by Bryan Collier
Discover this poignant, timely, and emotionally stirring picture book, an ode to black and brown children everywhere that is full of hope, assurance, and love.Tami Charles pens a poetic, lyrical text that is part love letter, part anthem, assuring readers that they always have, and always will, matter. This powerful, rhythmic lullaby reassures readers that their matter and their worth is never diminished, no matter the circumstance: through the joy and wonder of their first steps and first laughs, through the hardship of adolescent struggles, and the pain and heartbreak of current events, they always have, and always will, matter. Accompanied by illustrations by renowned artist Bryan Collier, a four-time Caldecott Honor recipient and a nine-time Coretta Scott King Award winner or honoree, All Because You Matter empowers readers with pride, joy, and comfort, reminding them of their roots and strengthening them for the days to come.Lyrical, personal, and full of love, All Because You Matter is for the picture book audience what The Hate U Give was for YA and Ghost Boys was for middle grade: a conversation starter, a community touchstone, and a deep affirmation of worth for the young readers who need it most.
Review: Peg-Collier's collages are stunning-a definite contender. Love the repeated use of the petal. Another must have book for every library and family.
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A New Green Day by Antoinette Paris
A New Green Day by Antoinette Paris
From the author of the Sibert Honor-winning title Hey, Water! comes a book of poetic riddles that encourage young readers to explore the natural world.
Who scribbles on the sidewalk with glistening ink? Snail!
Who's a comma in a long, long sentence of a stream? Tadpole!
On each spread, children will solve riddles about the familiar animals, plants and the weather that one child encounters outdoors throughout a whole day. Active readers will delight in the clever language and striking illustrations.
Who scribbles on the sidewalk with glistening ink? Snail!
Who's a comma in a long, long sentence of a stream? Tadpole!
On each spread, children will solve riddles about the familiar animals, plants and the weather that one child encounters outdoors throughout a whole day. Active readers will delight in the clever language and striking illustrations.
Review: I love this one more every time I look through it.
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A Place Inside of Me by Zeta Elliot, Illustrated by Noa Denmon
A Place Inside of Me by Zeta Elliot, Illustrated by Noa Denmon
There is a place inside of mea space deep down inside of mewhere all my feelings hide.
Summertime is filled with joy―skateboarding and playing basketball―until his community is deeply wounded by a police shooting. As fall turns to winter and then spring, fear grows into anger, then pride and peace.
In her stunning debut, illustrator Noa Denmon articulates the depth and nuances of a child’s experiences following a police shooting―through grief and protests, healing and community―with washes of color as vibrant as his words.
Here is a groundbreaking narrative that can help all readers―children and adults alike―talk about the feelings hiding deep inside each of us.
Summertime is filled with joy―skateboarding and playing basketball―until his community is deeply wounded by a police shooting. As fall turns to winter and then spring, fear grows into anger, then pride and peace.
In her stunning debut, illustrator Noa Denmon articulates the depth and nuances of a child’s experiences following a police shooting―through grief and protests, healing and community―with washes of color as vibrant as his words.
Here is a groundbreaking narrative that can help all readers―children and adults alike―talk about the feelings hiding deep inside each of us.
Review: Nina-This one is a definite contender for the Caldecott and Coretta S King awards. It’s also a poem and super timely with current events. IT starts out with a kid skateboarding and having a typical innocent life but then there’s a police shooting (not explicitly stated but in the illustrations), then protests and clashes with police and celebration at the end. I will be super surprised if this doesn’t win something this year.
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A Polar Bear in the Snow, Written by Mac Barnett and Illustrated by Shawn Harris
A Polar Bear in the Snow, Written by Mac Barnett and Illustrated by Shawn Harris
A majestic polar bear heads out on a mysterious walk in a dazzling, playful collaboration from an exciting pair of picture-book creators.Follow a magnificent polar bear through a fantastic world of snow and shockingly blue sea. Over the ice, through the water, past Arctic animals and even a human . . . where is he going? What does he want? Acclaimed author Mac Barnett’s narration deftly balances suspense and emotion, as well as poignant, subtle themes, compelling us to follow the bear with each page turn. Artist Shawn Harris’s striking torn-paper illustrations layer white-on-white hues, with bolts of blue and an interplay of shadow and light, for a gorgeous view of a stark yet beautiful landscape. Simple and thought-provoking, illuminating and intriguing, this engaging picture book will have readers pondering the answer to its final question long after the polar bear has.
Review: Peg-Illustrations made with ink and cut paper....AMAZING-kids will love this one-a definite potential winner.
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Avocado Asks by Momoko Abe
Avocado Asks by Momoko Abe
Avocado is feeling just fine in the fruit and veg aisle at the supermarket - until a young customer asks a difficult question: "Is an avocado a fruit or a vegetable?" Avocado doesn't know the answer either - and the question won't seem to go away!A brilliantly funny book about identity and being confident in your own skin - featuring the world's most popular superfood!
Review: Nina-A cute story about an avocado having an identity crisis and being mocked by all the fruits and vegetables in the store. This definitely has a lesson component to it and is engaging but the illustrations don’t have that “wow” factor, or help tell the story in a way that would make it a Caldecott contender. Very cute though, and my son loves it.
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The Bear's Garden by Marcie Colleen, Illustrated by Alison Oliver
The Bear's Garden by Marcie Colleen, Illustrated by Alison Oliver
A little girl sees an empty lot in a city and imagines what it can be.
She seesa place to grow,a place to play,and a place to love.
With the help of her stuffed bear, the girl brings her community together to create a beautiful garden.
She seesa place to grow,a place to play,and a place to love.
With the help of her stuffed bear, the girl brings her community together to create a beautiful garden.
Review: Peg-Another one to start with Author's Note....Loved the story and art! Could read a few stories about community projects, make connections....
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Bedtime for Sweet Creatures by Nikki Grimes, Illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon
Bedtime for Sweet Creatures by Nikki Grimes, Illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon
Nikki Grimes, Coretta Scott King Award winning author, and acclaimed illustrator Elizabeth Zunon's latest children's masterpiece creates an imagination-fueled and animal-filled journey to bedtime."Has the feel of an all-time great bedtime picture book"―The New York TimesIt's bedtime. But Mommy's little one is not sleepy.He growls like a bear, he questions like an owl, he tosses his mane like a lion. He hunts for water like a sly wolf, and hides like a snake.Mommy needs to wrangle her sweet creature in bed so that the whole family can sleep. From tigers to squirrels to snakes, the little boy dodges around his bedtime, until he is tired enough to finally sleep. His imaginative animal friends weave their way through the illustrations, eventually joining him in curling up for the night.
Review: Peg-The unique illustrations in this amazing book make it a contender for me. (And Zunon is from Albany!) Loved this one!
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Black is a Rainbow Color by Angela Joy and Illustrated by Ekua Holmes
Black is a Rainbow Color by Angela Joy and Illustrated by Ekua Holmes
A child reflects on the meaning of being Black in this moving and powerful anthem about a people, a culture, a history, and a legacy that lives on.
From the wheels of a bicycle to the robe on Thurgood Marshall's back, Black surrounds our lives. It is a color to simply describe some of our favorite things, but it also evokes a deeper sentiment about the incredible people who helped change the world and a community that continues to grow and thrive.
Stunningly illustrated by Caldecott Honoree and Coretta Scott King Award winner Ekua Holmes, Black Is a Rainbow Color is a sweeping celebration told through debut author Angela Joy’s rhythmically captivating and unforgettable words.
Red is a rainbow color.
Green sits next to blue.
Yellow, orange, violet, indigo,
They are rainbow colors, too, but
My color is black . . .
And there’s no BLACK in rainbows.
From the wheels of a bicycle to the robe on Thurgood Marshall's back, Black surrounds our lives. It is a color to simply describe some of our favorite things, but it also evokes a deeper sentiment about the incredible people who helped change the world and a community that continues to grow and thrive.
Stunningly illustrated by Caldecott Honoree and Coretta Scott King Award winner Ekua Holmes, Black Is a Rainbow Color is a sweeping celebration told through debut author Angela Joy’s rhythmically captivating and unforgettable words.
Review: Peg-Anything illustrated by Ekua Holmes gets my vote! Her illustrations leap from the page and entrance you. This collaboration with Joy is a must for every library. Going to talk with my art and music teachers to see what we can come up with for this one.
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Brick by Brick by Heidi Woodward Sheffield
Brick by Brick by Heidi Woodward Sheffield
Papi is a bricklayer, and he works hard every day to help build the city, brick by brick. His son, Luis, works hard too--in school, book by book. Papi climbs scaffolds, makes mortar, and shovels sand. Luis climbs on the playground and molds clay into tiny bricks to make buildings, just like Papi. Together, they dream big about their future as they work to make those dreams come true. And then one Saturday, Papi surprises Luis with something special he's built for their family, brick by brick.
Review: Peg-Artwork was unique, amazing and you found something different every time! Loved this one, real contender (I think! )
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Cubs in the Tub by Candace Fleming and Illustrated by Julie Downing
Cubs in the Tub by Candace Fleming and Illustrated by Julie Downing
When Bronx Zoo-keeper Fred brought home a lion cub, Helen Martini instantly embraced it. The cub's mother lost the instinct to care for him. "Just do for him what you would do with a human baby," Fred suggested...and she did. Helen named him MacArthur, and fed him milk from a bottle and cooed him to sleep in a crib.
Soon enough, MacArthur was not the only cub bathed in the tub! The couple continues to raise lion and tiger cubs as their own, until they are old enough to return them to zoos. Helen becomes the first female zookeeper at the Bronx zoo, the keeper of the nursery.
This is a terrific non-fiction book to read aloud while snuggling up with your cubs! Filled with adorable baby cats, this is a story about love, dedication, and a new kind of family.
Gorgeously patterned illustrations by Julie Downing detail the in-home nursery and a warm pallet creates a cozy pairing with Candace Fleming's lovely language.
Soon enough, MacArthur was not the only cub bathed in the tub! The couple continues to raise lion and tiger cubs as their own, until they are old enough to return them to zoos. Helen becomes the first female zookeeper at the Bronx zoo, the keeper of the nursery.
This is a terrific non-fiction book to read aloud while snuggling up with your cubs! Filled with adorable baby cats, this is a story about love, dedication, and a new kind of family.
Gorgeously patterned illustrations by Julie Downing detail the in-home nursery and a warm pallet creates a cozy pairing with Candace Fleming's lovely language.
Review: Peg-Fascinating story-cat lovers will really enjoy this one!
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The Fabled Life of Aesop by Ian Lendler, Illustrated by Pamela Zagarenski
The Fabled Life of Aesop by Ian Lendler, Illustrated by Pamela Zagarenski
The Tortoise and the Hare. The Boy Who Cried Wolf. The Fox and the Crow. Each of Aesop’s stories has a lesson to tell, but Aesop’s life story is perhaps the most inspiring tale of them all.
Gracefully revealing the genesis of his tales, this story of Aesop shows how fables not only liberated him from captivity but spread wisdom over a millennium. This is the only children’s book biography about him.Includes thirteen illustrated fables: The Lion and the Mouse, The Goose and the Golden Egg, The Fox and the Crow, Town Mouse and Country Mouse, The Ant and the Grasshopper, The Dog and the Wolf, The Lion and the Statue, The Tortoise and the Hare, The Boy Who Cried Wolf, The North Wind and the Sun, The Fox and the Grapes, The Dog and the Wolf, The Lion and the Boar.
Gracefully revealing the genesis of his tales, this story of Aesop shows how fables not only liberated him from captivity but spread wisdom over a millennium. This is the only children’s book biography about him.Includes thirteen illustrated fables: The Lion and the Mouse, The Goose and the Golden Egg, The Fox and the Crow, Town Mouse and Country Mouse, The Ant and the Grasshopper, The Dog and the Wolf, The Lion and the Statue, The Tortoise and the Hare, The Boy Who Cried Wolf, The North Wind and the Sun, The Fox and the Grapes, The Dog and the Wolf, The Lion and the Boar.
Review: Peg-"The fables in this book were illustarated with acrylics painted on wood panels..." STUNNING! I keep saying this-why I stink as a Caldecott judge. :-) They are all so amazing. Another contender for me.
Review (Nina) YES YES YES to this one. So well done, so beautiful, love how the bio of Aesop envelopes these timeless fables. A definite purchase for my libraries.
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Hike by Pete Oswald
Hike by Pete Oswald
Take to the trails for a celebration of nature — and a day spent with dad.
In the cool and quiet early light of morning, a father and child wake up. Today they’re going on a hike. Follow the duo into the mountains as they witness the magic of the wilderness, overcome challenges, and play a small role in the survival of the forest. By the time they return home, they feel alive — and closer than ever — as they document their hike and take their place in family history. In detail-rich panels and textured panoramas, Pete Oswald perfectly paces this nearly wordless adventure, allowing readers to pause for subtle wonders and marvel at the views. A touching tribute to the bond between father and child, with resonant themes for Earth Day, Hike is a breath of fresh air.
In the cool and quiet early light of morning, a father and child wake up. Today they’re going on a hike. Follow the duo into the mountains as they witness the magic of the wilderness, overcome challenges, and play a small role in the survival of the forest. By the time they return home, they feel alive — and closer than ever — as they document their hike and take their place in family history. In detail-rich panels and textured panoramas, Pete Oswald perfectly paces this nearly wordless adventure, allowing readers to pause for subtle wonders and marvel at the views. A touching tribute to the bond between father and child, with resonant themes for Earth Day, Hike is a breath of fresh air.
Review: Peg-I loved this wordless hike-surprise winner?
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HoneyBee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera by Candace Fleming Illustrated by Eric Rohmann
HoneyBee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera by Candace Fleming Illustrated by Eric Rohmann
A tiny honeybee emerges through the wax cap of her cell. Driven to protect and take care of her hive, she cleans the nursery and feeds the larvae and the queen. But is she strong enough to fly? Not yet!
Apis builds wax comb to store honey, and transfers pollen from other bees into the storage. She defends the hive from invaders. And finally, she begins her new life as an adventurer.
The confining walls of the hive fall away as Apis takes to the air, finally free, in a brilliant double-gatefold illustration where the clear blue sky is full of promise-- and the wings of dozens of honeybees, heading out in search of nectar to bring back to the hive.
Eric Rohmann's exquisitely detailed illustrations bring the great outdoors into your hands in this poetically written tribute to the hardworking honeybee. Award-winning author Candace Fleming describes the life cycle of the honeybee in accessible, beautiful language. Similar in form and concept to the Sibert and Orbis Pictus award book Giant Squid, Honeybee also features a stunning gatefold and an essay on the plight of honeybees.
Apis builds wax comb to store honey, and transfers pollen from other bees into the storage. She defends the hive from invaders. And finally, she begins her new life as an adventurer.
The confining walls of the hive fall away as Apis takes to the air, finally free, in a brilliant double-gatefold illustration where the clear blue sky is full of promise-- and the wings of dozens of honeybees, heading out in search of nectar to bring back to the hive.
Eric Rohmann's exquisitely detailed illustrations bring the great outdoors into your hands in this poetically written tribute to the hardworking honeybee. Award-winning author Candace Fleming describes the life cycle of the honeybee in accessible, beautiful language. Similar in form and concept to the Sibert and Orbis Pictus award book Giant Squid, Honeybee also features a stunning gatefold and an essay on the plight of honeybees.
Review: Peg-Definite Sibert as well as Caldecott contender. The magnified illustrations, fold out and details make you feel like you are in the hive with the bees!
Review - (Nina) Yes, I agree with Peg! Even my 5-year-old had the attention span to learn all about the amazing honeybee. Illustrations are amazing in this one!
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If You Take Away the Otter by Susannah Buhrman-Deever, Illustrated by Matthew Trueman
If You Take Away the Otter by Susannah Buhrman-Deever, Illustrated by Matthew Trueman
On the Pacific Coast of North America, sea otters play, dive, and hunt for sea urchins, crabs, abalone, and fish in the lush kelp forests beneath the waves. But there was a time when people hunted the otters almost to extinction. Without sea otters to eat them, an army of hungry sea urchins grew and destroyed entire kelp forests. Fish and other animals that depended on the kelp were lost, too. But when people protected the sea otters with new laws, their numbers began to recover, and so did the kelp forests. Susannah Buhrman-Deever offers a beautifully written account of a trophic cascade, which happens when the removal of a single element affects an entire habitat. Asides that dig deeper are woven throughout Matthew Trueman’s dynamic illustrations, starring a raft of charismatic sea otters. Back matter includes more information about sea otters and kelp forests, including their importance and current status, the effects of the international fur trade on indigenous peoples, and a list of books and websites for readers who wish to continue to explore.
Review: Peg-This was so beautifully done! Loved the story here-perfect explanation about how all changes alter other things for children and the illustrations were stunning.
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In a Jar by Deborah Marcero
In a Jar by Deborah Marcero
ere's a marvelous picture book, charmingly written and beautifully illustrated, about the power of memory and the magic of friendship.Llewellyn, a little rabbit, is a collector. He gathers things in jars--ordinary things like buttercups, feathers, and heart-shaped stones. Then he meets another rabbit, Evelyn, and together they begin to collect extraordinary things--like rainbows, the sound of the ocean, and the wind just before snow falls. And, best of all, when they hold the jars and peer inside, they remember all the wonderful things they've seen and done. But one day, Evelyn has sad news: Her family is moving away. How can the two friends continue their magical collection--and their special friendship--from afar?
Review: Peg-Loved this one, so much to see and think about. Can think of so many lessons students could do from it...collections! The more I read this one the more I like it-A contender!
Review - (Nina) I LOVE this one, the illustrations are so beautiful and colorful. Nice message about friendships made and changes, and processing relationships.
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In the City by Chris Raschka
In the City by Chris Raschka
From Caldecott Award–winning and New York Times bestselling author Chris Raschka, this tender and fun-filled picture book celebrates unexpected friendship and city life from the perspective of pigeons!How do two friends find each other?Why choose this one, not another?Are two friends just meant to be—I for you and you for me?Two pigeons fly through the city hoping to find a friend—but where do friends come from? In this brightly illustrated love letter to cities, the fine, feathered characters discover the magical, unlikely connections that happen best in the hustle and bustle of a big city.
Review: Peg-Raschka knows what it takes to win a Caldecott-the paintings in this great story are wonderful.
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I Promise by LeBron James, Illustrated by Nina Mata
I Promise by LeBron James, Illustrated by Nina Mata
A champion and superstar LeBron James pens a slam-dunk picture book inspired by his foundation’s I PROMISE program that motivates children everywhere to always #StriveForGreatness.Just a kid from Akron, Ohio, who is dedicated to uplifting youth everywhere, LeBron James knows the key to a better future is to excel in school, do your best, and keep your family close.I Promise is a lively and inspiring picture book that reminds us that tomorrow’s success starts with the promises we make to ourselves and our community today.Featuring James’s upbeat, rhyming text and vibrant illustrations perfectly crafted for a diverse audience by New York Times bestselling artist Nina Mata, this book has the power to inspire all children and families to be their best.Audiobook read by James's mother and I Promise School supporter Gloria James!
Review: So much to see and admire in this one. Kids of every color, shape, size and ability-I know my kids will love it!
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Lift by Minh Le, Illustrated by Dan Santat
Lift by Minh Le, Illustrated by Dan Santat
Iris loves to push the elevator buttons in her apartment building, but when it's time to share the fun with a new member of the family, she's pretty put out. That is, until the sudden appearance of a mysterious new button opens up entire realms of possibility, places where she can escape and explore on her own. But when she's forced to choose between going at it alone or letting her little brother tag along, Iris finds that sharing a discovery with the people you love can be the most wonderful experience of all.
Review: Peg-Le and Santat together again! My students loved Drawn Together and I have no doubt this will also be a favorite. Who can't relate to loving to push the elevator buttons and SIBLINGS?!
Review - (Nina) Another possible win for Le/Santat. I LOVED the idea in this story and my son asks to read it over and over. He has pretty good taste so I'm thinking this one is definitely a contender for the Caldecott!
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The Little Kitten by Nicola Killen
The Little Kitten by Nicola Killen
Ollie and her cat Pumpkin are out frolicking on a beautiful fall day when they come upon a tiny kitten shivering in a pile of fallen leaves. Ollie warms the kitten up and the three become fast friends, but when Ollie sees “Lost Kitten” posters hanging on the trees in the forest, she knows she has to help her new friend get home. As Halloween draws nearer, magic is afoot, and Ollie’s good deed is rewarded in an unexpected way.
Review: Nina-Get this one in time for Halloween! A little girl playing outside in the fall finds a lost kitten and brings it back to its owner. I couldn’t find how the illustrations were made but it looks like pencil, charcoal and maybe some watercolor with some shiny metallic paper to make the leaves pop. It’s very cute though I can’t see it winning anything. There is a fun surprise about the lost kitten’s owner at the end that will delight many children. I will definitely read this in the fall!
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Looking for Smile by Ellen Tarlow, Illustrated by Lauren Stringer
Looking for Smile by Ellen Tarlow, Illustrated by Lauren Stringer
In this sweet and gentle picture book, Bear wakes one day to find his Smile gone and enlists his friends to help him find it.
Bear and Smile are always together. They wake up together, swim by the waterfall together, and eat honey together. But one day, Bear wakes up and Smile is nowhere to be found. With the help of his woodland friends, will Bear be able to find his Smile again?
This tender and special debut picture book explores sadness with a light touch and shows that sometimes a good friend can make all the difference.
Bear and Smile are always together. They wake up together, swim by the waterfall together, and eat honey together. But one day, Bear wakes up and Smile is nowhere to be found. With the help of his woodland friends, will Bear be able to find his Smile again?
This tender and special debut picture book explores sadness with a light touch and shows that sometimes a good friend can make all the difference.
Review: Peg-I keep thinking I'm done, but couldn't resist this one-illustrations that make you feel, which I always tell my kids to look for.
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The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi, Illustrated by Lorena Alvarez
The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi, Illustrated by Lorena Alvarez
A rollicking, rhyming, and inspirational picture book perfect for fans of Oh, the Places You'll Go! and every child who is frustrated by what they can't do . . . YET!
Each of us, from the day we're born, is accompanied by a special companion--the Yet. Can't tie your shoes? Yet! Can't ride a bike? Yet! Can't play the bassoon? Don't worry, Yet is there to help you out.
The Magical Yet is the perfect tool for parents and educators to turn a negative into a positive when helping children cope with the inevitable difficult learning moments we all face. Whether a child or an adult, this encouraging and uplifting book reminds us that we all have things we haven't learned...yet!
Each of us, from the day we're born, is accompanied by a special companion--the Yet. Can't tie your shoes? Yet! Can't ride a bike? Yet! Can't play the bassoon? Don't worry, Yet is there to help you out.
The Magical Yet is the perfect tool for parents and educators to turn a negative into a positive when helping children cope with the inevitable difficult learning moments we all face. Whether a child or an adult, this encouraging and uplifting book reminds us that we all have things we haven't learned...yet!
Review: Peg-Loved this one-definitely has a Dr. Seuss vibe and feel!
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Magnificent Homespun Brown: A Celebration by Samara Cole Doyon, Illustrated by Kaylani Juanita
Magnificent Homespun Brown: A Celebration by Samara Cole Doyon, Illustrated by Kaylani Juanita
Told by a succession of exuberant young narrators, Magnificent Homespun Brown is a story -- a song, a poem, a celebration -- about feeling at home in one’s own beloved skin.With vivid illustrations by Kaylani Juanita, Samara Cole Doyon sings a carol for the plenitude that surrounds us and the self each of us is meant to inhabit. full color
Review: Peg-another one I LOVED, as will students and teachers. I can see so many spin off poetry lessons you could do with this for grades 3-5.
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My Best Friend by Julie Fogliano, Illustrated by Jillian Tamaki
My Best Friend by Julie Fogliano, Illustrated by Jillian Tamaki
New York Times bestselling author Julie Fogliano and Caldecott Honor winner Jillian Tamaki come together to tell a delightful story of first friendship.she is my best friend i thinki never had a best friend so i’m not surebut i think she is a really good best friendbecause when we were drawingshe drew meand i drew her.What is a best friend, if not someone who laughs with you the whole entire day, especially when you pretend to be a pickle? This pitch-perfect picture book is a sweetly earnest, visually stunning celebration of the magic of friendship.
Review: Peg-beautiful huge illustrations that fill the page and sweet story about the friend you meet in the park. Don't think this one is it this year for Fogliano or Tamaki, both favorites of mine!
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Nesting by Henry Cole
Nesting by Henry Cole
In this black-and-white picture book highlighted with robin’s egg blue, the reader will follow two robins as they build a nest with twigs and grass. Then mother robin lays four beautiful blue eggs and will keep the eggs warm in the nest until they hatch into four baby robins.The father robin protects the babies until they can fly on their own. The perils the babies encounter are many, including snakes and storms. The nest is always their safe place.Nesting provides introductory biology and animal science concepts for very young children, and also makes a spectacular springtime gift.Award-winning author-illustrator Henry Cole has re-created the life story of the robin with simple text and stunning artwork. Nesting is the perfect primer for young bird-watchers and nature lovers. The beautiful, intricate black-and-white illustrations are illuminated with lovely washes of blue that breathe life into the artwork.
Review: Peg-the black and white illustrations with the bolt of blue of this book are captivating!
Review - (Nina) I'm thinking very possibly a Sibert contender. Very well done, learn about the Robin's life cycle.
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The Next President by Kate Messner, Illustrated by Adam Rex
The Next President by Kate Messner, Illustrated by Adam Rex
An inspiring and informative book for kids about the past and future of America's presidents.
Who will be the NEXT president? Could it be you? When George Washington became the first president of the United States, there were nine future presidents already alive in America, doing things like practicing law or studying medicine.
When JFK became the thirty-fifth president, there were 10 future presidents already alive in America, doing things like hosting TV shows and learning the saxophone.
And right now—today!—there are at least 10 future presidents alive in America. They could be playing basketball, like Barack Obama, or helping in the garden, like Dwight D. Eisenhower. They could be solving math problems or reading books. They could be making art—or already making change.
Who will be the NEXT president? Could it be you? When George Washington became the first president of the United States, there were nine future presidents already alive in America, doing things like practicing law or studying medicine.
When JFK became the thirty-fifth president, there were 10 future presidents already alive in America, doing things like hosting TV shows and learning the saxophone.
And right now—today!—there are at least 10 future presidents alive in America. They could be playing basketball, like Barack Obama, or helping in the garden, like Dwight D. Eisenhower. They could be solving math problems or reading books. They could be making art—or already making change.
Review: Peg-Had to add this in late-really like it. Sibert if not a Caldecott!
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The Oldest Student by Rita Lorraine Hubbard, Illustrated by Oge Mora
The Oldest Student by Rita Lorraine Hubbard, Illustrated by Oge Mora
Imagine learning to read at the age of 116! Discover the true story of Mary Walker, the nation's oldest student who did just that, in this picture book from a Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator and a rising star author.In 1848, Mary Walker was born into slavery. At age 15, she was freed, and by age 20, she was married and had her first child. By age 68, she had worked numerous jobs, including cooking, cleaning, babysitting, and selling sandwiches to raise money for her church. At 114, she was the last remaining member of her family. And at 116, she learned to read. From Rita Lorraine Hubbard and rising star Oge More comes the inspirational story of Mary Walker, a woman whose long life spanned from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement, and who--with perseverance and dedication--proved that you're never too old to learn.
eview: Peg-This story is AMAZING and Oge Mora in one of my favorites.
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The Old Truck by Jarrett Pumphrey, Illustrated by Jerome Pumphrey
The Old Truck by Jarrett Pumphrey, Illustrated by Jerome Pumphrey
When is an old truck something more? On a small, bustling farm, a resilient and steadfast pickup works tirelessly alongside the family that lives there, and becomes a part of the dreams and ambitions of the family’s young daughter.After long days and years of hard work leave the old truck rusting in the weeds, it’s time for the girl to roll up her sleeves. Soon she is running her own busy farm, and in the midst of all the repairing and restoring, it may be time to bring her faithful childhood companion back to life.With an eye-catching retro design and cleverly nuanced illustrations, The Old Truck celebrates the rewards of determination and the value of imagination.
Review: Peg-Really liked this brother combo-cool story.
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Outside In by Deborah Underwood, Illustrated by Cindy Derby
Outside In by Deborah Underwood, Illustrated by Cindy Derby
From the New York Times best-selling author behind The Quiet Book comes a mindful contemplation on the many ways nature affects our everyday lives, even when we’re stuck inside. Perfect for fans of Joyce Sidman and Julie Fogliano, Outside In reminds emerging readers of the ways nature creates and touches our lives in homes, apartments, and cars, and is the perfect homeschooling tool to reflect on the world’s connectedness.
Outside is waiting, the most patient playmate of all. The most generous friend. The most miraculous inventor. This thought-provoking picture book poetically underscores our powerful and enduring connection with nature, not so easily obscured by lives spent indoors.Rhythmic, powerful language shows us how our world is made and the many ways Outside comes in to help and heal us, and reminds us that we are all part of a much greater universe. Emotive illustrations evoke the beauty, simplicity, and wonder that await us all . . . outside.
Outside is waiting, the most patient playmate of all. The most generous friend. The most miraculous inventor. This thought-provoking picture book poetically underscores our powerful and enduring connection with nature, not so easily obscured by lives spent indoors.Rhythmic, powerful language shows us how our world is made and the many ways Outside comes in to help and heal us, and reminds us that we are all part of a much greater universe. Emotive illustrations evoke the beauty, simplicity, and wonder that await us all . . . outside.
Review: Peg-unique illustrations in this beautiful story. Soft, simple text-you see something new every time you study the illustrations. A maybe for me just because so different from the usual.
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Overground Railroad by Lesa Cline-Ransome, Illustrated by James Ransome
Overground Railroad by Lesa Cline-Ransome, Illustrated by James Ransome
As she climbs aboard the New York bound Silver Meteor train, Ruth Ellen embarks upon a journey toward a new life up North-- one she can't begin to imagine. Stop by stop, the perceptive young narrator tells her journey in poems, leaving behind the cotton fields and distant Blue Ridge mountains.
Each leg of the trip brings new revelations as scenes out the window of folks working in fields give way to the Delaware River, the curtain that separates the colored car is removed, and glimpses of the freedom and opportunity the family hopes to find come into view. As they travel, Ruth Ellen reads from Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, reflecting on how her journey mirrors her own-- until finally the train arrives at its last stop, New York's Penn Station, and the family heads out into a night filled with bright lights, glimmering stars, and new possiblity.
James Ransome's mixed-media illustrations are full of bold color and texture, bringing Ruth Ellen's journey to life, from sprawling cotton fields to cramped train cars, the wary glances of other passengers and the dark forest through which Frederick Douglass traveled towards freedom. Overground Railroad is, as Lesa notes, a story "of people who were running from and running to at the same time," and it's a story that will stay with readers long after the final pages.
Each leg of the trip brings new revelations as scenes out the window of folks working in fields give way to the Delaware River, the curtain that separates the colored car is removed, and glimpses of the freedom and opportunity the family hopes to find come into view. As they travel, Ruth Ellen reads from Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, reflecting on how her journey mirrors her own-- until finally the train arrives at its last stop, New York's Penn Station, and the family heads out into a night filled with bright lights, glimmering stars, and new possiblity.
James Ransome's mixed-media illustrations are full of bold color and texture, bringing Ruth Ellen's journey to life, from sprawling cotton fields to cramped train cars, the wary glances of other passengers and the dark forest through which Frederick Douglass traveled towards freedom. Overground Railroad is, as Lesa notes, a story "of people who were running from and running to at the same time," and it's a story that will stay with readers long after the final pages.
Review: Peg-As a new elementary librarian, I have recently requested all the Ransome books-the stories are amazing, the artwork stunning. I am determined to be sure all their books are in my library. This is a part of our history not talked about enough! Sibert, Coretta, Caldecott?
Review - (Nina) I loved this one! I think possibly Sibert, more likely Coretta, but don't see it as a Caldecott...
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The Paper Kingdom by Helena Ku Rhee, Illustrated by Pascal Campion
The Paper Kingdom by Helena Ku Rhee, Illustrated by Pascal Campion
When the babysitter is unable to come, Daniel is woken out of bed and joins his parents as they head downtown for their jobs as nighttime office cleaners. But the story is about more than brooms, mops, and vacuums. Mama and Papa turn the deserted office building into a magnificent kingdom filled with paper. Then they weave a fantasy of dragons and kings to further engage their reluctant companion--and even encourage him to one day be the king of a paper kingdom.
The Paper Kingdom expresses the joy and spirit of a loving family who turn a routine and ordinary experience into something much grander. Magical art by Pascal Campion shows both the real world and the fantasy through the eyes of the young narrator.
Review: Peg-Read the Author's Note first on this one! So many tiny details in the illustrations, dust, mist and sweat.
Review - (Nina) I'm sorry to be a negative nelly but I wasn't impressed with this one... watch it win everything now - LOL. Maybe I should have read the author's note. I read through it and returned it right away...
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The Prairie Days written by Patricia MacLachlan, illustrated by Micha Archer
The Prairie Days written by Patricia MacLachlan, illustrated by Micha Archer
A delicate, stunning account of life on the prairie from Newbery medalist Patricia MacLachlan.
Cool summer mornings begin with the rose orange sun and the smell of earth, and fade into hot summer nights with a yellow moon, covered in a quilt of stars. There are wagon rides, farm dogs, trips into town, and games of kick the can. These are prairie days.
Patricia MacLachlan applies her lyrical, sparse voice and vibrant, tender art from Micha Archer to transport readers to the prairie of her youth in this stunning celebration of the beauty in the world.
Cool summer mornings begin with the rose orange sun and the smell of earth, and fade into hot summer nights with a yellow moon, covered in a quilt of stars. There are wagon rides, farm dogs, trips into town, and games of kick the can. These are prairie days.
Patricia MacLachlan applies her lyrical, sparse voice and vibrant, tender art from Micha Archer to transport readers to the prairie of her youth in this stunning celebration of the beauty in the world.
Review: Peg-Another one I had to add. Micha's illustrations are amazing. Had to look up to see how she makes them. She designs her own rubber stamps! Makes the illustrations even more amazing!
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R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Frank Morrison
R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Frank Morrison
From a creative team with multiple Caldecott Honors comes this vibrant portrait of Aretha Franklin that pays her the R-E-S-P-E-C-T this Queen of Soul deserves.Aretha Franklin was born to sing. The daughter of a pastor and a gospel singer, her musical talent was clear from her earliest days in her father’s Detroit church where her soaring voice spanned more than three octaves.Her string of hit songs earned her the title “the Queen of Soul,” multiple Grammy Awards, and a place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. But Aretha didn’t just raise her voice in song, she also spoke out against injustice and fought for civil rights.
Review - Peg There are a few great new books about Aretha out, but his one is my favorite for Elementary. Beautiful pairing of text and illustration.
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The Secret Garden of George Washington Carver by Gene Barretta, Illustrated by Frank Morrison
The Secret Garden of George Washington Carver by Gene Barretta, Illustrated by Frank Morrison
When George Washington Carver was just a young child, he had a secret: a garden of his own.Here, he rolled dirt between his fingers to check if plants needed more rain or sun. He protected roots through harsh winters, so plants could be reborn in the spring. He trimmed flowers, spread soil, studied life cycles. And it was in this very place that George’s love of nature sprouted into something so much more—his future.Gene Barretta’s moving words and Frank Morrison’s beautiful paintings tell the inspiring life and history of George Washington Carver, from a baby born into slavery to celebrated botanist, scientist, and inventor. His passion and determination are the seeds to this lasting story about triumph over hardship—a tale that begins in a secret garden.
Review - (Nina) My son was drawn to the cover of this book and couldn't wait to read. Sadly, he lost interest in the first few pages. The illustrations are beautiful and the story is great but it begins in a way that is too pedantic and dry for my taste. As a Bio book, I may purchase depending on what I already have on GW Carver, but I can't imagine it will be an award winner. Could be wrong though!
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Swashby and the Sea by Beth Ferry, Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
Swashby and the Sea by Beth Ferry, Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
om New York Times best-selling author Beth Ferry and Caldecott Honor winner Juana Martinez-Neal comes a sweet-and-salty friendship story perfect for pirate-lovers learning new ways to communicate while at a distance. This hilarious picture book will keep emerging readers laughing, and the message-related mishaps in the story create an opportunity for spelling and sounding out new words while learning from home!Captain Swashby loves the sea, his oldest friend. And he loves his life by the sea just as it is: salty and sandy and serene.One day, much to Swashby’s chagrin, a young girl and her granny commandeer the empty house next door. All Swashby wants is for his new neighbors to GO AWAY and take their ruckus with them.When Swashby begins to leave notes in the sand for his noisy neighbors, however, the beach interferes with the messages that are getting across. Could it be that the captain’s oldest friend, the sea, knows what Swashby needs even better than he knows himself?
Review - (Nina) This is cute and I like the theme and how the ocean plays with what they write in the sand. Martinez-Neal illustrated last year's Sibert winner. I wasn't crazy about this one though.
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Swim, Swim, Sink by Jenn Harney
Swim, Swim, Sink by Jenn Harney
Three tiny ducks. One straight line.
New happy flock. All feeling fine.
Until, that is, the last ducking sinks when she should swim. Let's try that again . . . and again and again. All this sinking is ruining the rhyme!
Review - Peg
Geisel? Just too cute-a deinite buy for my library.
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The Teachers March: How Selma's Teachers Changed History by Sandra Neil Wallace, Rich Wallace, Illustrated by Charly Palmer
The Teachers March: How Selma's Teachers Changed History by Sandra Neil Wallace, Rich Wallace, Illustrated by Charly Palmer
m New York Times best-selling author Beth Ferry and Caldecott Honor winner Juana Martinez-Neal comes a sweet-and-salty friendship story perfect for pirate-lovers learning new ways to communicate while at a distance. This hilarious picture book will keep emerging readers laughing, and the message-related mishaps in the story create an opportunity for spelling and sounding out new words while learning from home!Captain Swashby loves the sea, his oldest friend. And he loves his life by the sea just as it is: salty and sandy and serene.One day, much to Swashby’s chagrin, a young girl and her granny commandeer the empty house next door. All Swashby wants is for his new neighbors to GO AWAY and take their ruckus with them.When Swashby begins to leave notes in the sand for his noisy neighbors, however, the beach interferes with the messages that are getting across. Could it be that the captain’s oldest friend, the sea, knows what Swashby needs even better than he knows himself?
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Vamos! Let's Go Eat by Raul the Third
Vamos! Let's Go Eat by Raul the Third
In this new Vamos! title, Let’s Go Eat, Little Lobo is excited to take in a show with wrestling star El Toro in his bustling border town. After getting lunch orders from The Bull and his friends to help prepare for the event, Little Lobo takes readers on a tour of food trucks that sell his favorite foods, like quesadillas with red peppers and Mexican-Korean tacos. Peppered with easy-to-remember Latin-American Spanish vocabulary, this glorious celebration of food is sure to leave every reader hungry for lunch!
Review: Nina-Perhaps another Pura Belpre for Raul the Third? I loved the first Vamos and think this one might be even better! A celebration of traditional Mexican eats, this book takes you on another colorful adventure with Little Lobo, Bernabe and many of last year’s cast. Vibrant, lively and makes you hungry! Read this book and then get thee to a Mexican eatery pronto!
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We are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom Illustrated by Michaela Goade
We are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom Illustrated by Michaela Goade
Inspired by the many Indigenous-led movements across North America, We Are Water Protectors issues an urgent rallying cry to safeguard the Earth’s water from harm and corruption―a bold and lyrical picture book written by Carole Lindstrom and vibrantly illustrated by Michaela Goade.
Water is the first medicine.It affects and connects us all . . .
When a black snake threatens to destroy the EarthAnd poison her people’s water, one young water protectorTakes a stand to defend Earth’s most sacred resource.
Water is the first medicine.It affects and connects us all . . .
When a black snake threatens to destroy the EarthAnd poison her people’s water, one young water protectorTakes a stand to defend Earth’s most sacred resource.
Review: Peg-Native American Author and Illustrator here-beautiful story with powerful illustations...I got scared!
Review (Nina) I really really wanted to love this book but I just wasn't pulled in, despite being very passionate about this subject...
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The Weather's Bet Words by Stephen Cowan, Illustrated by Ed Young
The Weather's Bet Words by Stephen Cowan, Illustrated by Ed Young
rom Caldecott Medalist Ed Young comes a picture book retelling of Aesop's fable The Wind and the Sun.Once upon the sky, there were three powers--the Wind, the Rain, and the Sun--each claiming to be the mightier than the others. One day, the powers came upon a shepherd girl fast asleep upon a hill, so they made a bet to see who could make her take her cap off. Who will be the strongest of them all?Rendered in exquisite mixed-media collage, Caldecott Medalist Ed Young's gorgeous and deeply poignant retelling of the well-known Aesop's fable The Wind and the Sun, proves that sometimes gentle persuasion and kindness are the best virtues of all.
Review: Peg-Ed Young's unique illustration style is captivating. I saw something different every time I read this one!
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What a Masterpiece by Riccardo Guasco
What a Masterpiece by Riccardo Guasco
In this wordless picture book, the Western world’s greatest art is closer than you expect. A boy’s daily routines bring him face-to-face with Escher’s winding stairs, Banksy’s balloon girl, Picasso’s dancing fauns, and many more familiar sights. Maybe the boy’s bedroom looks a little like Van Gogh’s. Maybe that apple looks a bit like Magritte’s. And maybe another masterpiece is on its way… A celebration of creativity across the centuries, What a Masterpiece! will inspire young artists to find wonder in their everyday lives. An art index after the story helps readers identify the cultural treasures behind the illustrations.
Review: Nina-What a cool book!! I don’t know how kids will take it but, as a lover of art history, I am a big fan of this one. The story is kind of hard to follow – more like a series of events set in and among great works of art. Picasso, Dali, Van Gogh, Manet, M.C. Escher, and more form the backdrop for a kid’s morning as he goes to school. There are no words but amazing illustrations. I have no idea how the committee will vote but I will likely purchase it for my library.
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Wheels by Sally Sutton, Illustrated by Brian Lovelock
Wheels by Sally Sutton, Illustrated by Brian Lovelock
Rumbly wheels, grumbly wheels,Hauling-up-the-hill wheels.Wheels go fast, wheels go slow.Shout what’s coming, if you know!
A motorcycle has just zoomed by, and now a woman in front of the hotel is waving at something. What could it be? Men are clankity-clanking up the street pulling bins — what must be rumbling up behind? And what could those schoolkids be watching for at the end of the day? If the vehicle is on wheels, it’s likely to show up in this lively picture book inviting children to join in at every page turn.
A motorcycle has just zoomed by, and now a woman in front of the hotel is waving at something. What could it be? Men are clankity-clanking up the street pulling bins — what must be rumbling up behind? And what could those schoolkids be watching for at the end of the day? If the vehicle is on wheels, it’s likely to show up in this lively picture book inviting children to join in at every page turn.
Review: Nina-Kids who love vehicles will enjoy this book. This is low level/ high interest book for younger readers. Lots of repetition and bright color. Not diverse by any means, I think every character in it is white (possibly one Asian girl but it’s not obvious)? So students of color won’t see themselves in here. The illustrations are not spectacular but the subject matter will draw a certain reader for sure. I will likely purchase it for those kids who constantly want the car and truck books but am disappointed by the lack of diversity. How hard is it to include brown and black characters in a book about cars??
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Your Place in the Universe by Jason Chin
Your Place in the Universe by Jason Chin
With crisp illustration and intriguing science, Your Place in the Universe introduces readers to the mind-boggling scale of the known Universe.
Most eight-year-olds are about five times as tall as this book . . . but only half as tall as an ostrich, which is half as tall as a giraffe . . . twenty times smaller than a California Redwood! How do they compare to the tallest buildings? To Mt. Everest? To stars, galaxy clusters, and . . . the universe?
Jason Chin, the award-winning author and illustrator of Grand Canyon has once again found a way to make a complex subject--size, scale and almost unimaginable distance--accessible and understandable to readers of all ages. Meticulously researched and featuring the highly detailed artwork for which he is renowned, this is How Much is a Million for the new millenium, sure to be an immediate hit with kids looking for an engaging way to delve into perspective, astronomy, and astrophysics. Curious readers will love the extensive supplementary material included in the back of the back of the book
Most eight-year-olds are about five times as tall as this book . . . but only half as tall as an ostrich, which is half as tall as a giraffe . . . twenty times smaller than a California Redwood! How do they compare to the tallest buildings? To Mt. Everest? To stars, galaxy clusters, and . . . the universe?
Jason Chin, the award-winning author and illustrator of Grand Canyon has once again found a way to make a complex subject--size, scale and almost unimaginable distance--accessible and understandable to readers of all ages. Meticulously researched and featuring the highly detailed artwork for which he is renowned, this is How Much is a Million for the new millenium, sure to be an immediate hit with kids looking for an engaging way to delve into perspective, astronomy, and astrophysics. Curious readers will love the extensive supplementary material included in the back of the back of the book
Review: Peg-Anything Jason Chin gets my vote. This book is a must for every library. I'll be getting it for my nieces and nephews too!
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