Creepy Chicago

Creepy Chicago

Author: Krystyna Poray Goddu

Rating: 5/5 Stars

Reviewer: Christi

Summary: A dark street curves around Lake Michigan to a cemetery. A cold wind blows. Mist rises from the lake. Suddenly, you feel you are not alone. Is somebody? or something? hiding in the mist? Get ready to read four chilling tales about Chicago's spookiest spots.

Review: I really enjoyed this nonfiction ghost book. It isn’t a big book so it’s great to grab and skim and is filled with very interesting facts. It’s almost as much a history book as a ghost book. I found out things about the Linkin Park Zoo I was completely unaware and I have read quite a few haunted Chicago books. There was also interesting (and heartbreaking) history of the Chicago River. This fall why not grab a ghost book that won’t keep you up at night.

Where Oliver Fits

Where Oliver Fits
Author: Cale Atkinson
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Yolanda

Summary: Oliver is a puzzle. As he looks around other puzzle pieces have found a group of friends they fit in with. Oliver tries to be part of a pirate puzzle, but doesn’t quite fit in. He attempts a variety of other pictures with no luck. He eventually he is so frustrated he decides to tape and glue himself up in attempt to change who he is. That still doesn’t help. Will he ever find a place he belongs?

Review: This book is one of my favorites because of its theme, acceptance. Not only acceptance within a group, but within yourself. Oliver tries his hardest to fit in, but all he had to do was be patient and wait to find where he truly belonged. Once he finds it, the pure joy of the realization makes the whole story so beautiful. The illustrations are also beautiful and make it so fun to read.

This Book of Mine

This Book of Mine
Author: Sarah Stewart
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Denise Z.

Summary: Illustrations and easy-to-read text celebrate the connection between diverse readers of all ages and the books they enjoy.

Review: Sarah Stewart’s picture book is an ode to books and all they provide. This would be a great book to read to a child who adores books and to children who need to understand the power of books. I really liked how it was shown how all the ways books help us along the way in life and how it encourages reading and all the things that can be inspired through books.

Nope. Never. Not for Me!

Nope. Never. Not for Me!
Author: Samantha Cotterill
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Julie B.

Summary: A little girl is hesitant to eat her broccoli. After her mom makes it fun, the girl learns to try new things.

Review: This book is one of the “Little Senses” series. It is written in simple text and very light hearted. Cotterill does a nice job using humor in both the story and illustrations. I was attracted to picture on the cover of the book as it reminded me of my daughter at that age poking at the “strange” (mushrooms) food on her plate. Many meet resistance when trying to encourage their child to try a new food. I loved reading this book and will read the others in the series.

The Unwanted

The Unwanted
Author: Don Brown
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Yolanda

Summary: This book is very realistic. There is a different story on every page. This depicts the real and harsh reality that many Syrian refugees are going through. This book puts you in the shoes of many different Syrian refugees’ looks to escape the horrors that are happening in Syria. The characters are men, women, and children. There are stories of how refugees seek help from many countries including the United States. There is a crisis that has been going on for years and this book is an eye opener to the lives that are living it currently.

Review: This book is a heavy one to read. It really pulls your heart strings and makes you feel all sorts of emotion. The reality in this book is very scary, but puts it all in perspective. This graphic novel really helps you start to understand the crisis that is plaguing people’s lives overseas. I really recommend one reads this book and gets a better understanding of what the Syrian refugees are going through and have been through.

The Okay Witch

The Okay Witch
Author: Emma Steinkellner
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Kelly

Summary: Thirteen-year-old Moth Hush loves all things witchy. But she’s about to discover that witches aren’t just the stuff of movies, books, and spooky stories. When some eighth-grade bullies try to ruin her Halloween, something really strange happens. It turns out that Founder’s Bluff, Massachusetts, has a centuries-old history of witch drama. And, surprise: Moth’s family is at the center of it all! When Moth’s new powers show up, things get totally out-of-control. She meets a talking cat, falls into an enchanted diary, and unlocks a hidden witch world. Secrets surface from generations past as Moth unravels the complicated legacy at the heart of her town, her family, and herself.

Review: A perfect read to kick off the fall season. I was so excited to get my hands on a copy of this book and it DID NOT disappoint. Moth is a quirky and unique girl who does not feel like she fits in, in her world, and I just adored her. With this graphic novel, you get a mix of friendship, modern families, fall, witches, past and present.

This is sure to be a best books of the year candidate. I have already added it to my list for our presentation to parents, caregivers and educators. I am very excited to recommend this book to other readers of graphic novels.

Here and Now

Here and Now
Author: Julia Denos
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Denise Z.

Summary: Illustrations and easy-to-read text celebrate mindfulness and the connectedness of everything on Earth.

Review: “Right here, right now you are becoming.” This book is a perfect children’s book for teaching mindfulness and the pictures are so beautiful and tranquil.

Fitting for a storytime or a book that would calm your child before bed and explain how so many things are happening and growing around us while we sit still and observe.

It’s also a great conversation starter with your kids about the present moment, all what’s going on around us, and how we are all part of it.

I used this book in storytime and the kids liked talking about the things that were around us and observing the present, becoming quite engaging for them.

Edmond: The Moonlit Party

Edmond: The Moonlit Party
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Reviewer: Christi

Summary: Edmond the squirrel shares a tree with George, an owl who loves costumes, and Harry the bear, who throws wonderful parties that turn out even better when Edmond overcomes his shyness and joins in.

Review: A touching story of a squirrel who is so shy he is lonely. When the rest of the tree residents decided to have a party he doesn’t go because he’s so shy. Once he hears them all having a great time he becomes sad. But when owl shows up at his door and urges him to go he decide it’s time. Once he’s there he realize how much fun everyone’s having and easily makes new friends. As he and owl leave he dreams of fun parties with his new friends in the future. This book will be great for and upcoming “emotions” themed program.

Elvis is King

Elvis is King
Author: Jonah Winter
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Christi

Summary: Elvis Presley--the King of Rock 'n' Roll, still beloved by millions of Americans--comes to vibrant, gyrating life in this extraordinary picture-book biography.

Review: A remarkably illustrated picture book biography on Elvis Presley. Elvis is King is an informative, easy to read, astonishingly detailed and creative book. So much to look at and enjoy on every page. A true rags to riches story. His life could inspire anyone to reach for your dreams. Check out his story today!

Dear Boy

Dear Boy

Author: Jason Rosenthal and Paris Rosenthal 

Rating: 5/5 Stars

Reviewer: Yolanda

Summary: For a boy who is many amazing things, but maybe sometimes forgets. This book reminds every little boy that they are one of kind and that the person who either gifted this book to them, recommended this book, or even just read them this book loves them dearly. This is a companion to the book Dear Girl. 

Review: Being a huge fan of Dear Girl, already I had high expectations for this book. It is beautifully illustrated by Holly Hatam, and written in a loving way by Jason and Paris Rosenthal. This book is amazing to read aloud to that special little boy in your life that you want to make sure remembers just how special and loved they are. A very beautiful book.  

The Remember Balloons

The Remember Balloons
Author: Jessie Oliveros
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Denise Z.

Summary: James has a bunch of balloons, each of which holds a special memory, but as his grandfather ages and loses his own balloons, James discovers that he is gaining new ones. 

Review: The Remember Balloons by Jessie Oliveros has a little bit of everything. A sweet message about memories using balloons as a concept children can understand, a way to explain Alzheimer's/dementia to kids, and connecting all of that to colors and moods.  Also, a real tear-jerker with a perfect tie-in ending. This book is definitely sad and beautiful at the same time. This is a perfect book to use to explain how an elderly family member is forgetful. The ending really got to me because it brings a sense of hope to a sorrowful situation. The illustrations done by Dana Wulfekotte also support this picture book's message by making only the balloons colorful and using symbolism that what colors life is our memories. Ages 5-9.

When Aidan Became A Brother

When Aidan Became A Brother
Author: Kyle Lukoff
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Yolanda

Summary: Adian is another type of boy who will become a big brother very soon! Aidan went through changes as a transgender boy and he wants to make sure the new baby doesn’t feel that same way he did when he was younger. He helps decorate the baby’s room and even gets to choose a name for the new baby. Before the baby is born, Adian is worried that he chose all the wrong things! OH NO! His Mom said “When you were born, we didn’t know you were going to be our son. We made some mistakes, but you helped us fix them.” Aiden knew then that all the new baby needed was love from his big brother.

Review: This books is such a beautiful book. The illustrations tie in with the book and really get you took look at the details. Kyle Lukoff did an incredible job writing this book and he made this relatable to every child. The story is not trans-centric, but a beautiful story about a big brother getting ready to welcome a new baby into their family. One of my favorites of 2019.

Secret Sisters of the Salty Sea

Secret Sisters of the Salty Sea
Author: Lynn Rae Perkins
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Reviewer: Kelly

Summary: Alix and her sister, Jools, have never seen the ocean. When their parents pack them up for a week at the shore, Alix is nervous about leaving home, but excited, too. At the beach, the girls make friends, go exploring, and have adventures both big and small. They pick periwinkles, spot crabs, and discover that the beach is full of endless possibilities. As the week comes to an end, Alix is surprised to find she doesn’t want to leave!

Review: I listened to the audiobook format of this title. It was recommended to me as a nice, summer read and now I will recommend it to someone else. I also chose it for my June, Books and Bites title for families to enjoy together.

Brittany Pressley is the narrator for this audiobook and I am giving her five stars. She has a great, smooth and happy voice and kept me interested to listen, the entire time. I plan on looking further into other books that she has narrated because sometimes it is hard to find a good reader.

I enjoyed the story very much. The entire time that I was listening, I felt as if I was transported to a beach and I was on vacation with the family for the entire week. After I listened to the audio, I pulled a copy of the book from our shelves at the library and there was a nice surprise that I found! At the end of the book, there are step by step instructions on how to make a sea glass necklace. I did not have any families show up for my book club, so I am thinking to use this title again, next summer for a program. Instead of advertising it as a book club though, I will advertise making the sea glass necklace and then throw the book into the program as an added bonus for any child that might be interested.

All in all, I will definitely be recommending this book to patrons in the future!

Hats Off to Mr. Pockles!

Hats Off to Mr. Pockles!
Author: Sally Lloyd-Jones and David Litchfield
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Gloria

Summary: The book is about Mr. Pockles who happens to have many different hats for every occasion which makes him very happy, until he realizes that he has no friends and actually feels a little lonely. So one day he decides to go out for a treat and to his surprise he makes a very special panda friend who happens to belong to a special panda hat club. Mr. Pockles saves the day and ends up having all the friends he could ever hope for.

Review: I really enjoyed this book, the story was very creative. The different types of hats were great to see great for kids and their imagination. I liked how towards the end he ended up saving his most special hat for his new special friend. Great book overall.

I Have a Balloon

I Have A Balloon
Author: Ariel Bernstein and Scott Magoon
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Gloria

Summary: The book was about an owl with a balloon, a shiny, big red balloon and the monkey would really like to play with the balloon but owl does not want to share his balloon. Monkey then decides that maybe if he trades with owl then he would be able to have the balloon. But monkey tries to trade with owl on many occasions but owl is set on having the balloon to himself until he sees how much fun monkey is having with all of the different things he has. And all owl can do is hold the balloon, but that is what he likes. Finally they are both content with what they each have.

Review: I really enjoyed reading this book. The book was repetitive and fun. The illustration was also very good and really caught my attention. The book teaches you to share as well as to be happy and content with what you already have.

Bob

Bob
Author: Wendy Mass and Rebecca Stead
Rating: 3/5 Stars
Reviewer: Kelly

Summary: Livy is back, visiting Australia, after five years and is having trouble remembering much of her first visit. Slowly, things start to come back to here and then she finds Bob in a closet. Bob is a short, greenish creature wearing a chicken suit and he remembers EVERYTHING about Livy. He has been waiting five years for her to come back and he has waited in the closet, just as Livy told him to.
Livy promised to help Bob find his way home. After all this time, will she keep her promise? Clue by clue, the two will discover and unravel Bob’s story and hopefully, help find his way home.

Review: Bob was chosen as the Books and Bites, book club pick for the month of May. I chose the title after hearing about it at a seminar, featuring the best books of 2018. I enjoyed the audiobook version on this title but I was a little disappointed.

The story tackled themes like friendship, family and love. I thought that the authors could have done a better job in general. The story is told from Bob’s point of view and then alternates to Livy’s point of view. I felt that the story was lost a bit or slightly repetitive and I wonder if it would have been better, with only one author. The idea behind the story is fantastic and I think kids could get lost in its magic.

Max Explains Everything: Soccer Expert

Max Explains Everything: Soccer Expert
Author: Stacy McAnulty and Deborah Hocking
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Reviewer: Julie B.

Summary: After playing soccer for three weeks, Max is an expert. He shares what to wear, how to warm up, play and tips about staying entertained.

Review: I enjoyed reading about Max’s soccer experience. From putting on shin guards, to picking dandelions, McAnulty makes the story humorous and full of giggles. This story shows playing soccer is not so intimidating. The illustrations are simple and helps to tell this funny story.

Dazzling Travis!

Dazzling Travis!
Author: Hannah C. Dias
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Yolanda

Summary: Travis loves to go shopping and play dress up. He also loves to play basketball and dance ballet. He gets teased and made fun of at school by other kids for looking, dressing, and being different. Travis is one of a kind. What will happen with the bullies? Will Travis change who he is?

Review: This book can get a good conversation going with you and your child. Travis is a little boy who loves to dress up as a king or queen. He enjoys a variety of activities that others may find different, but Travis stands up for himself. He makes sure the bullies know that he is confident and proud of who he is and what he enjoys doing. “A boy can like pink and a girl can like blue. It’s not weird or strange to express the true you.” This book teaches a valuable lesson of not judging others and of acceptance. The illustrations are so colorful and beautiful.

A Friend Like Iggy

A Friend Like Iggy
Author: Kathryn Cole
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Christi

Summary: The true story of Iggy, a special dog who helps kids get through difficult times. When children disclose abuse, they often navigate an unfamiliar chain of events, sometimes testifying in court. Iggy is a specially-trained facilitator dog, and his job is to make each child he meets comfortable with the job they have to do.

Review: This sweet dog will have your heart melting after the first page. This book describes what a furry angel can do for children who need emotional support to deal with something that’s happened to them. He’s there when they have to talk about what happened to them. Even if it’s just to put his head on their lap to help give them strength. He even goes to court with them when they have to talk about what happened. I don’t know how some dogs are so sensitive to others emotions or how they know what to do to make them smile but Izzy does. That’s why I think he’s a furry angel.

Ebenezer Has a Word for Everything

Ebenezer Has a Word for Everything
Author: Chelsea H. Rowe
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Reviewer: Denise Z.

Summary: Ebenezer collects words. No one appreciates his efforts until he meets a friend who writes stories and could use a word or two.

Review: I picked up this picture book because I could easily tell it would have a good writing connection to it and I could possibly get an idea from it for an upcoming writing program. I enjoyed the story of Ebenezer finding a friend because of his love for words and how his friend has a love of stories. This was a great book for a friendship and a writing theme. I liked how the words were bolded, matched the illustrations, and encouraged more thinking and learning. This wouldn’t be a book I would read for a storytime, but it would be one that could be used for a writing lesson or one-on-one reading.

Out of Wonder

Book Review: Out of Wonder

Author: Kwame Alexander

Rating: 5/5 Stars

Reviewer: Denise Z.

Summary: Out of gratitude for the poet’s art form, Newbery Award winning author and poet Kwame Alexander, along with Chris Colderley and Marjory Wentworth, present original poems that pay homage to twenty famed poets who have made the authors’ hearts sing and their minds wonder. Stunning mixed-media images by Ekua Holmes, winner of a Caldecott Honor and a John Steptoe New Talent Illustrator Award, complete the celebration, inviting the viewer to listen, wonder, and perhaps even pick up a pen.

Review: Out of Wonder is a wonderful poetry anthology that celebrates famous authors and their style of poetry. This is a perfect introduction to poetry and the poets who have a beautiful way with words. These poems can be read out loud or enjoyed privately and touch the heart and soul of those who read them. The illustrations are inspiring in themselves and every element of this book is paired perfectly together. I would also recommend the audio version and especially the dvd version that has animated illustrations and soothing music that compliments every poem.

The Day the Crayons Came Home

The Day the Crayons Came Home
Author: Drew Daywalt
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Gloria

Summary: After reading the day, “the crayons quit”, I just had to read “the day the crayons came home” and I was absolutely in love with both. It was about forgotten crayons trying to get back to their owners. All the different crayons had such different stories and reasons on why they “left” or why they wanted to go back home.

Review: I really enjoyed this book, it is just so creative and funny. Such a great book to read during Storytime. The kids would really enjoy the different stories from every crayon as well as the illustrations. One of my all-time favorite book.

Show Dogs

Show Dogs
Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Christi

Summary:  After a failed attempt to recover a stolen baby panda, police dog Max reluctantly teams up with a human FBI agent named Frank. A hot tip leads Max and Frank to Las Vegas for the world's most exclusive dog show.

Review:  This was a fun movie that I think the kids would get a kick out of seeing. I wouldn’t put it in the same bracket as some of the great cop and dog movies (aka K-9, Turner and Hooch, etc) but it still was cute and had some laugh out loud moments. The dogs are adorable, the cast works well with the canines, and it has some great dog moments. Definitely worth a watch. 

I Do Not Like Books Anymore!

I Do Not Like Books Anymore!
Author: Daisy Hirst
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Yolanda

Summary: Natalie and her brother Alphonse loved to listen to books and their amazing stories. They always wanted their Mom, Dad, and Grandma read to them. Natalie is finally old enough to learn to read on her own! There is only one problem, which is that when she tries to read all the letters look like weird shapes and she can’t get it. Natalie is very sad and asks for help, but eventually gives up. She eventually gets a great idea from her brother Alphonse, which helps her learn to read.

Review: This was such a cute book. Once kids start to learn to read they might lose interest in book completely. It might be hard at first to gain that confidence back, but after practice they can start to grow their love of reading again. This book shows the struggle in a creative and fun way to show a child that it is ok to not know how to do something, but practicing and finding other forms of learning really helps. You just keep trying. 

Gloria's Voice: The Story of Gloria Steinem, Feminist, Activist, Leader

Gloria's Voice: The Story of Gloria Steinem, Feminist, Activist, Leader
Author: Aura Lewis
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Denise Z.

Summary: Gloria Steinem is known as a leader of the feminist movement and a trailblazer who fights for equality of all people. This unofficial biography for young readers tells her story, from being a young girl with big dreams to her inspiring travels in India to the launch of Ms. Magazine, which gave women a voice. Gloria’s message of believing in yourself and following your dreams will inspire a whole new generation.

Review: After reading last month’s biography picture book, I guess I’m still on a biography kick because I chose this one honoring Gloria Steinem’s accomplishments. I must say, I absolutely adored the illustrations by Aura Lewis and thought she beautifully captured Gloria’s personality and stance in both her writing and drawings. I would say that is what drew me into this book the most and did justice for Gloria Steinem’s political and feminist efforts. A beneficial read for anyone. For ages 4 and up. “Be strong and proud of who you are.”

Baby's First Bank Heist

Baby's First Bank Heist
Author: Jim Whalley
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Reviewer: Yolanda

Summary: Babies have wants too! This baby really wants his own pet, but a pet requires food, food bowl, a bed, and many other things to take care of it. Baby Franks parents disapprove, so he comes up with a plan to get the money he needs. Does Baby Frank do it? Read and find out.

Review: This was a rhyming story that was very comedic. The main character, baby Frank, was so adorable and the story line was very clever. I really enjoyed the illustrations. This book reminded me of the movie Boss Baby. I really recommend this books and for it to be read out loud. It is very silly.

Monster Boogie

Monster Boogie
Author: Laurie Berkner
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Gloria

Summary: The book is about a monster who goes into children’s rooms at night, but what the children least expect is a big hairy scary monster with yellow eyes and green teeth to start booging instead of being mean and scary. Once the monster starts to boogie the children become less and less scared and then they finally join the monster and they all start to boogie and have fun, that is when other monsters start to join and it is like a little party of their own. Then the party is over the monsters leave the room, and the kids no longer afraid of the monsters then are ready to go to sleep.

Review: I thought the book was going to be about your typical monster being mean and scary, so reading the book was fun. Finding out that the monster enjoys to boogie instead of scaring children was a nice twist. Over all very fun book and the illustration was very well displayed as well. 

She Made a Monster

She Made a Monster
Author: Lynn Fulton
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Denise Z.

Summary: You know the monster. But do you know who made him?...Mary Shelley would go on to write the most enduring story of our time, on that has been scaring readers for generations. Now Lynn Fulton and Felicita Sala introduce new readers to the legend of Mary’s monster.

Review: It’s been awhile since I read a biography picture book and authors are writing so many good ones, that I decided to seek out one to review. I chose She Made a Monster: How Mary Shelley Created Frankenstein by Lynn Fulton. The author tells the story of Mary Shelley the writer and how she got the idea for her Frankenstein character and book.

The way the story is told is both inspiring and educational. I love how Shelley’s passion for writing was showcased and how the life and ideas around her inspired her classic book. I also enjoyed how she sought inspiration and courage from her mother. The way her whole story came to life is fascinating and this book is perfect for future writers, young girls, and anyone who is looking for a great picture book biography. The illustrations are dark and creative in itself and compliments Fulton’s take on Shelley’s life perfectly. What an inspirational book!

Saving Winslow

Saving Winslow
Author: Sharon Creech
Rating: 3.5-4/5 Stars
Reviewer: Kelly

Summary: Our main character, Louie, is introduced in the very first chapter to a newborn donkey who has lost his mother.  Louie decides to take on the task of caring for the small donkey because he cannot fathom the idea of the donkey not surviving.

Everyone around Louie is doubting the donkey’s survival.  This drives Louie even more to succeeding.  Though he faces many hardships through the donkey’s first few weeks, he is determined, as Winslow, becomes his friend.

A heartwarming story of bravery and friendship.  This is the story of Louie, a donkey and everything that they can overcome together.

Review: Saving Winslow is an extraordinary story of friendship.  This book is easy to read and fun for the whole family.  I only gave it a rating of 3.5-4 stars because I thought it was a little too cautious as far as the writing goes.  Let me explain.  I chose this book for a Books and Bites pick, book club for all ages, at the library.  From my research, this title did not have any potentially sensitive areas, for a book discussion.  That was really what I wanted for a family program.  That being said, Sharon Creech did a great job and it will be perfect for a family discussion.  I just think that it could have had abit more.  I felt as if the book never really started and/or never really ended.

Saving Winslow is very sweet but I believe there were opportunities in the book to challenge the reader to think more.  It felt like a small, missed opportunity.

I still enjoyed the book, would recommend it to any child as a beginning chapter book.  This is a perfect read aloud for the entire family.  This book would pair very well with Charlotte’s Web.

Just The Right Size

Just The Right Size
Author: Bonnie Grubman
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Gloria

Summary: The book about different animals and how they are all different sizes. It talked about how each animal being their own special size helped them do things other animals could not. How they each were perfect in their own size. And towards the end of the book it tells you how YOU also are perfect in any size you are. Perfect for a hug.

Review: I really enjoyed this book, the illustration was very interesting, and it would catch any child’s attention. I liked how there was a small animal and a big animal on each page so it could easily become an interactive book. Overall it was a very good book, easy to read and comprehend. 

Warcross

Warcross
Author: Marie Lu
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Aleece

Summary: For the millions who log in every day, Warcross isn’t just a game—it’s a way of life. The obsession started ten years ago and its fan base now spans the globe, some eager to escape from reality and others hoping to make a profit. Struggling to make ends meet, teenage hacker Emika Chen works as a bounty hunter, tracking down players who bet on the game illegally. (from goodreads)

Review: Absolutely stunning sci-fi with videogames that keeps your heart racing and the adrenaline pumping.  Nonstop action and fleshed out characters leave you wanting more.

What Is Given from the Heart

What Is Given From the Heart
Author: Patricia C. McKissack
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Christi

Summary: Despite their own poverty since Daddy died, Mama tells nine-year-old James Otis they need to help Sarah, whose family lost everything in a fire.

Review: A beautifully told tale of despair and hope. Even though James has nothing himself his mom and his church show him that there is always someone with less. A family in his community has just lost everything in a fire. James tries to figure out what he can give after he sees his mom using her treasured white tablecloth to make an apron. When everyone gets together to give this family a box of treasures from the community and James hands his present over he realizes how good it feels to give and to help. This book did a great job with illustrations and text to feel for this child and his mom. It might even get you a little teary eyed (I know the ending sure did it for me). 

Giraffe Problems

Giraffe Problems

Author: Jory John

Rating: 5/5 Stars

Reviewer: Denise Z.

Summary: A giraffe struggles to feel comfortable with his neck.

Review: This story by Jory John is another cute book of his. I liked how this book sends the message of accepting yourself and seeing the good your uniqueness can do and how it can even help others. I found the sophisticated dialogue in the story funny and cute, but also a polite element that made the story stand out from others. The illustrations are modern and pretty. There’s a part in the book where the giraffe takes a look at how perfect the other animals’ necks are and this would be a good opportunity to let a child name each one of the animals.

This book is for ages 3-7 and was Amazon’s most anticipated children’s book of Fall 2018. If you like this one, be sure to read Penguin Problems.

Narwhal's Otter Friend

Narwhal's Otter Friend
Author: Ben Clanton
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Aleece

Summary: Narwhal meets a new friend Otty who loves to explore. While Otty tells them about his awesome adventures Jelly begins to feel left out and decides he can make new friends too. He tries to make new friends and decides to make friends with a rock who he names Rocky. However, when he introduces Rocky to Narwhal and Otty they begin talking about their space adventure that they are preparing for but of course not without Jelly.

Review: This is another cute story in the Narwhal and Jelly series and makes a very quick read which will be good for children being read to by their parents or for older kids looking for a fun quick graphic novel. Overall a very fun story for kids of all ages to read.

Edmond: The Moonlit Party

Edmond: The Moonlit Party 
Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Aleece

Summary: Edmond the squirrel shares a tree with George, an owl who loves costumes, and Harry the bear, who throws wonderful parties that turn out even better when Edmond overcomes his shyness and joins in.


Review: A touching story of a squirrel who is so shy he is lonely. When the rest of the tree residents decided to have a party he doesn’t go because he’s so shy. Once he hears them all having a great time he becomes sad. But when owl shows up at his door and urges him to go he decide it’s time. Once he’s there he realize how much fun everyone’s having and easily makes new friends. As he and owl leave he dreams of fun parties with his new friends in the future.

Brave

Brave
Author: Svetlana Chmakova
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Yolanda

Summary: Are you a day dreamer? Jensen sure is. He daydreams about being the hero that saves us all and how to survive a zombie apocalypse. Reality is hard for Jensen because he struggles with bullies, math, friends, and group projects. Will his daydreaming ideology help him solve some of the problems he faces in reality?

Review: Svetlana Chmakova does an amazing job at showing us Jensen’s perspective. Jensen tries so hard to fit in and make everyone happy. Even when he realizes he might be targeted by bullies, he always looks for a positive perspective. The author of “Brave” makes the setting and plot in this books feel natural and flow very beautifully with the illustrations. The target audience would be middle schoolers, but anyone can relate very easily with any of the characters in this book.

Nipper and the Lunchbox

Nipper and the Lunchbox
Author: Lucy Dillamore
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Reviewer: Gloria

Summary: The book is about a dog named Nipper, who loves sleeping, dreaming and dozing off. But most of all he loves his owner Richard. But he gets sad every day because Richard has to leave to go to work. One day Richard forgets his lunchbox and it is up to Nipper to go and give it to him. He goes through quite an adventure just to get to Richard but eventually with some help he makes it to Richard’s job.

Review: I really enjoyed this book, for anyone that has any pets, it is very easy to connect to the book. The book was funny, the illustration was great. The character they gave Nipper a very funny tone to him. Over all one of my favorite children’s books that I have read.