Wildlife of the Arctic for Kids, text and photographs by Wayne Lynch. Fitzhenry & Whiteside. 2024. $19.95 ages 9 and up

"Grizzly bears are built to dig. The hump you see
above a grizzly's shoulders are the strong muscles
the bear uses to power the long claws on its front 
legs. A grizzly's claws can be as long as a ballpoint
pen, much longer than those of the polar bear. A 
hungry grizzly bear may spend many hours digging 
up the tasty roots of tundra plants."

Many kids want to learn about the animals they love. In this book that describes animals found in the Arctic, Wayne Lynch proves that there is so much more to that northern landscape than cold temperatures, barren vistas and a scarcity of wildlife. We know that climate change is affecting the world; maybe no part more than the poles. In this book, as he has done many times before, Dr. Lynch invites middle grade readers to join him as he explores the northern landscape and Arctic habitats: tundra, sea ice, coastal cliffs, and wetlands. 

The book then focuses on bears, hoofed animals, wild dogs, weasels, small mammals, marine mammals and birds before a discussion of the melting Arctic. Here he includes information concerning the disappearing sea ice, thawing permafrost, invading species, and midwinter thaws. Each is explained in conversational and accessible text that clearly describes the difficulties for the wildlife living there. 

Every animal is described in easy-to-digest paragraphs that offer pertinent facts about predators and prey, hunting, family life, seasons, food, movement, protection from the elements, and much more. The author's remarkably clear photographs give life to the animals few of us will ever see. Sidebars offer insights and further learning. A FAST FACTS box for each includes size, habitat, diet and a surprising but true entry. 

"SURPRISING BUT TRUE: 

If cornered, the tiny, yet feisty lemming will rise
on its hind legs and attempt to bite a hungry 
Arctic fox, or even a curious photographer." 

Personal stories from the author add authenticity and interest for readers who will find much to enjoy here. A biography of the author and an index complete the book.                                                                                      

My Grammie's House, written by Lana Button and illustrated by Skye Ali. tundra, Penguin Random House. 2024. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"There's a kitchen floor for skating, 
a shaggy rug for shuffling
and a TV room with its 
very own sunbeam. 

Grammie's exercise show in on channel 23. 
Grab two soup cans and drag a 
kitchen chair right to 
that sunny spot." 

I think the little girl who narrates this warm-hearted story has a future in real estate, if she so chooses. The tour she offers a couple looking at the house her Grammie once lived in is filled with the many pleasures she enjoyed whenever she visited. 

She rides up on her bicycle the moment they arrive, and surprises them with a warm welcome. Starting with their entry through a springy front door, she is quick to take them to the kitchen where she shares all the memories it elicits of the happy times she and her Grammie spent together. As they listen, they learn a great deal about Grammie herself. 

Grammie drank cranberry juice, favored Bran Flakes as her cereal of choice, and fed a neighborhood cat named Jethro. The front yard offers a climbing tree for thinking, and the back yard has the best swings ever. There's a dining room for taking a cookie break, and a hole in the yard where water gathers when it rains. It's a perfect place for catching pollywogs! 

"There you have it!
The best house ever." 

Personal, memory-laden, and full of enthusiasm, this is a book that will be read again and again. It offers up opportunities for stopping to talk about what makes a house a home. The images created by Skye Ali complement the text perfectly. I love how she shows Grammie's possessions in pink outline through every part of the chatty tour.  

The Night Market, written by Seina Wedlick and illustrated by Briana Mukodiri Uchendu. Random House Studio. 2024. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"Keep moving - there is a lot more to see. 
Fresh primroses that bloom only at night ...

... a pet jellyfish that glows in the dark, 
a nightingale singing to a crowd. Fa la la la la." 

Oh, the beauty to be found in a Nigerian night market is quite memorable. Under a full moon, a child and her parents leave their home and quickly find themselves at the entrance to a most amazing sight. The town is alive with light and noise, as crowded stalls entice visitors to note their treasures, wares and things old and new. 

Given a bag of gold coins and told to move fast if the entire market is to be seen, the child is inundated by the sounds, smells, sights, touches and tastes that are everywhere she looks. 

"The night market smells like a thousand dishes. 
Try of a bite of freshly baked mooncake, 
a slice of minced pie that makes your mouth water,
and a scoop of roasted nuts still warm in your hand."

Dancing, drumming, playing games, and making magic are all part of her experience and the wonder of her visit. As the night market begins to slow down, the child hurries ever more quickly to ensure no sights are missed, no stalls left unvisited, and her coins spent. As the sun rises and the town seeks peace in sleep, she is left with one gold coin that will provide entrance when the night market returns. 

Beautifully written, this is a story that draws readers in with the rhythm of its words and the description of all aspects of the market itself. There is music and laughter at every turn, and countless delights to enjoy during the adventure. Digital illustrations capture the golden light from the moon, the music and movement that bring the townspeople out to celebrate, and clear images of the Nigerian people and the market setting that is telling in and of itself. The child is always evident as she independently explores every corner of this most amazing venue. 

Closing notes from both author and illustrator speak of visits to night markets they have been lucky enough to see.                                                                                   

The Letter, written by Irene Verdu and illustrated by Veronica Aranda. Tranlated by Luisana Duarte Armendariz. Charlesbridge, Penguin Random House. 2024. $21.99 ages 4 and up

 

"He was excited. He 
hurried to offer his help, 
and he carefully brought 
the youngling down. 

"Cluck, cluck!" The hen was so 
distracted by her chick's stunt that 
she took her baby by the wing and 
they both walked away without even
thanking Mr. Cat.

Mr. Cat felt very disappointed."

When was the last time you received a letter in the mail? It doesn't happen often, does it? It is a thing of the past, I fear. 

A letter carrier doesn't realize he has lost a letter while delivering mail during a rainstorm. That letter lands in a puddle that erases the address. There is no way now of knowing who sent it, or who was meant to receive it. The wind blows it open and reads the I love you message inside. 

Lifting the letter high allows for it to forge its own destiny. It glides down the chimney and onto Mr. Cat's head. Being a sourpuss has ensured that Mr. Cat has no visitors, friends, or uplifting mail. He likes being lonely, rather than disappointed. His reaction to the letter's arrival is a surprise. It makes him happy, and sets him on course for finding the sender. 

His walk in the neighborhood has him meeting neighbors, and wondering who sent it. Thinking that each might be, he offers his assistance with their errands and help with their problems. His kindnesses are not much appreciated; not one offers thanks. It is a great disappointment to him. Off he goes home where, to his surprise, he finds his neighbors on the doorstep. They have all arrived with apologies, and gifts of thanks for his thoughtfulness. It's time to take it inside his house to enjoy each other's company. 

The letter? That sneaky wind makes a return visit, picks it up, and lifts it into the sky once more. Where might it go this time?