young cat, old cat, by Jillian Tamaki. Groundwood, 2026. $23.99 ages 3 and up

"playful cat

growing cat

nice cat 

naughty cat"

What an ingenious book Jillian Tamaki has created to tell the story of a cat's life, and its owner's love through the years. Using perfectly chosen adjectives to accompany her tale that begins with a tiny kitten, alone at a shelter, finding the small child there with her mother to find a new pet. Nose to nose, the child asks, 'be my cat?' The choice is made, the family travels home with a mewling cat in the car and all supplies needed to provide for it. Once home, the two begin a lifetime of being together through the years. 

Every spread chronicles the growth and love the two share; the child matures as the kitten does. Short phrases trace their life from adoption to the heartbreak of old age and the death of a beloved pet. The art is compelling and remarkable, using color choice to indicate playfulness, growth, old age, and  grief. Young readers are sure to respond to the cat while dreaming of all the things she thinks she can do, and of the aging process that takes the kitten from early exuberance to wobbly oldtimer. Final spreads show the girl waving goodbye as the car moves through a celestial world before a new shelter kitten is welcomed with great happiness. What a gorgeous and heartfelt story this is! 

I here share with you a note about the art journey Ms. Tamaki took to bring her story to full life. 

"The art for this book was created entirely by hand over the course of eighteen months. The fabric is both new and thrifted materials (in some cases, bedsheets) stretched on wooden frames. The paint is acrylic ink, embellished with crewel wool embroidery. Crewelwork was developed in England and is typically used for decorative furnishings; the Bayeux Tapestry is the oldest known example of the craft. The art was lit and photographed in the artist's studio in September 2025.".  

What a gift to all cat lovers who will read and share this book!                                                                                     

Finding Lost, written by Holly Goldberg Sloan. Rocky Pond Books, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.50 ages 9 and up

"As Geno and I walk to get our strawberry
cheesecake Blizzards, the wind hits the road
signs, and they make a rattling noise. Cars go

by on the road and I wonder about the people 
inside. Where are they going and what kind of
lives do they have? How many of them like 
pasta salad called rotini with green olives and 
red peppers and chunks of smelly cheese? 
How many of the people listen to thrash metal
music from a band called Tankard? Have any 
of them ever seen dolphins in the Siuslaw?
How many lost a parent when they were a kid?"

It's been more than two years since Cordy's dad died in a boating accident while he was out making a living on his fishing boat. Her mom quit nursing school to support herself and her two children. They live in the boathouse of a rich family, whose main house her mom takes care of while they live somewhere else for most of the year. It is a dreary life in a wet and often dreary small town in the Pacific northwest. It's been a lot of change for a young girl to handle. 

When a small, unkempt, and hungry dog follows her home from school one day, Cordy hopes they will not find the dog's owner. Lost, appropriately name for his circumstance, fits right in with the whole family in no time at all. It is only great good luck, with some needed research and help from her younger brother Geno, that brings Cordy and Lost to a free vet clinic one day. She has learned that Lost's terrible breath may be a sign of poor health. Dr. Mazari proves to be just what the family needs. Lost has many infected teeth, and it will take a great deal of money to have them pulled. 

Cordy's mom and Taj (the vet) discuss ways the family might handle the financial difficulties. Their meeting at the clinic leads to more visits and changes in the family dynamic which bothers Cordy. She isn't sure about Dr. Mazari, or about the way her mother is becoming close to him. Through some obstacles, the family perseveres and the changes that finding Lost brings make for fine storytelling. 

The Oregon setting is a vital part of this warm family story. Readers have their senses awakened through being a part of the natural world that Cordy loves. All characters are valid and worth knowing. They care for each other as they all adapt to meaningful changes in their lives. Realistic and truthful when dealing with the grief and struggles following her father's death, Cordy is a character whose first-person voice  and expressions will have readers cheering her on, and hoping for the best. 

It is a warm and memorable read. 

Phoenix, written by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley. Dial Books for Young Readers, Penguin Random House. 2026. $24.99 ages 9 and up

 

"After a bit more discussion, but not much, 
Miss Chelsea and Harper's mom agreed to 
table the conversation. It meant they'd wait
to decide about Harper keeping Phoenix - 
though how long they would wait, Harper
didn't know. At least it gave her time to 
show how hard she could work, and how 
excellent Phoenix could be once he'd
gotten healthy again. As long as he got 
healthy quickly enough."

What an admirable start to a new series this is! Harper has just been hit by a BOMB. She learns through middle school gossip about her father's affair with her best friend's mother. Now, her parents are divorcing and her mother has decided that the two of them will move to a new place for a new start. Their move from urban Knoxville to the small rural town of Sommer Springs is a shocker. Their new home is a tiny house, cramped for the two of them and very unappealing to Harper. It is located close to a riding barn, owned by Miss Chelsea who is renting them their new accommodation. Harper cares about none of it. 

When a starved and terribly neglected horse is dropped at the stable from a kill truck, life changes for both horse and girl. Harper names him Phoenix, and determines to do all it takes to bring the horse back to good health. She does not know that she needs rescuing as much as Phoenix does. Her mother and Miss Chelsea don't want her to get her hopes up as Phoenix is very sick. It's too late for that advice. Harper works around the barn, takes lessons, learns what she needs to know to care for Phoenix as best she can. As Harper deals with the pain of betrayal and divorce, she helps her horse deal with mistreatment and his own pain. 

There's an admirable cast of characters: Miss Chelsea, the barn owner; Dante and Night, both riders at the stable and classmates of Harper; Emma, a young rider with great confidence, Harper's mother and eventually her father, and her former best friend, Cat. So much is broken; only time can help mend the hurts.  Real and relatable, the story is compelling and a powerful introduction to a brand-new series. It will find many fans beyond those who love stories about horses. 

Sweet, Sweet Memory, written by Jacqueline Woodson and illustrated ty Tonya Engel. Nancy Paulsen Books, Penguin Random House. 2026. $24.99 ages 6 and up

 

"What will you remember?
Grandma wants to know.

I smile, leaning against her 
shoulder. Grandpa said to 
listen to things.
Listen to the way life goes 
on and on."

There was a time when finding a book to share with children concerning grieving and death was not an easy task. Today, we have a lovely abundance of excellent books that broach the subject for young listeners and offer a place to begin a conversation with those children dealing with the loss of a loved one. 

A young girl lets readers know that her grandma has made her a 'white dress with angel sleeves'. Once dressed, she goes out to the porch to do her own hair as Grandma is busy. It's summer and there is much to see as she sits and remembers her grandfather's teachings about growth and the changes it brings. As the family gathers and guests arrive to pay respects to Grandpa, she wants to share a story about him. She cannot get the words out. Only tears. Grandma encourages, but Sarah cannot bring herself to share a memory. 

As Sarah listens to what others are saying, she realizes that that their stories are the same. Grandpa told each of them that 'everything and everyone goes on and on'. It is true. Their visitors leave with hugs, kisses, and warm wishes; Sarah and Grandma wave goodbye. Together, the two sit on the porch in the darkness to talk about Grandpa. The sadness of loss remains. Watching as his garden grows and is then harvested keeps Grandpa in Sarah's heart through memories of times spent together. 

This lovely, soft and warm story is told with eloquence, reminding us to think of our lost loved ones through memories of special times. Tonya Engel's images were created using acrylic underpainting, and completed using oils. They offer a look back at Grandpa and his teachings, his garden and at life without him.  It is a lovely celebration of a life well lived.                                                                                            

Where Are You, Eddie? Written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Gill Smith. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2026. $24.99 ages 5 and up

 

"When I got home, Meg was taking a nap.
I stood in the kitchen making a sandwich. 
I could hear Eddie saying, "The first bite
is with the eye, Dad." 

Meg looked up and said, "Do you know
where Eddie is?"
I thought about it.
I said, "Eddie hasn't gone, has he?"
He's here, isn't he?"

This companion book to Michael Rosen's Sad Book (2005) continues the story of losing his son Eddie. As a tall, grey-haired man walks into the kitchen, then stands silently there, he wonders where Eddie is, and if he is somewhere nearby. As the cat Meg walks toward him he speaks to her, asking the question that haunts him. 

"Eddie's not coming back, is he, Meg?"

Meg gently reminds him that it isn't the end; rather, it is the beginning. She suggests he always look for Eddie. Though he won't be as he was, he will still be there. The man's daily travels carry many strong memories of Eddie and the wonderful times they spent together. He meets people who knew Eddie and they also share thoughts of their time with him, and what was so special about him. Returning home, he tells Meg what he has learned on his day out. 

While Eddie is no longer here, he lives in the memories of all who knew and loved him, including Meg. This book is a look at the grieving process through a first-person voice, accompanied by mixed-media artwork that is emotional and bittersweet, yet hopeful. Memories are powerful reminders of those we have loved and lost. Michael Rosen's own experience is shared honestly with readers in hopes they will find some solace as they adapt to a life that is markedly different, but ultimately filled with moments of joy. 

Wombat Waiting, written by Katheine Applegate. Storytide, Harper. 2026. $25.99 ages 8 and up

"A community is a living thing,
a group of people 
knit together by need or friendship, 
belief or purpose, 
even worn around the edges, 
like a household of grumpy relatives.

But when something bad happens, 
it comes together, stronger than ever, 
ready to start anew." 

Meeting Wombat is a joyous and heartwarming experience. She is a stray dog with stubby legs and silly ears, who is a survivor. She needs to be one as she feels the Santa Ana winds in Southern California blowing and takes note of a fire she can see in the distance. After an upsetting dream, she begins to hear an internal voice telling her to go THAT WAY. Her concern is that it is sending her toward the fire. Having no one, and no home, Wombat does as she is told. 

A chance meeting with a canine friend named Silas. When she tells Silas about the voice, he shares a sympathetic opinion. 

"Oh, you poor pup,
Silas sighed. 
You're one of them, aren't ya?

One of them? Wombat asked. 

You're a destiny dog, said Silas. 

He offered a toothless smile. 
Congrats. 
And condolences."

Being a destiny dog means Wombat is bound to find her person. It's a convincing observation; Wombat will follow the voice's mysterious instructions, despite the dangers. Soon readers meet Henry, a young boy who lives with his two moms and little sister in the path of the wildfire. He loves the bats at the rehab center where Mama Ro works. He and Barnabas, a fruit bat, must find shelter from the fire wreaking havoc everywhere around them. Henry is uncomfortable around dogs following a scary encounter when he was very young. 

As luck would have it, Wombat and Henry cross paths at an emergency shelter. Immediately, Wombat recognizes Henry as her destiny. Henry is wary of any contact. With endless patience and her helping nature, Wombat begins to realize she can offer hope to the displaced people at the shelter. Just as Wombat finds solace in the helping, Henry proves himself to be a willing worker who makes a real difference, too. The bond between the two unfolds as days pass by. Patience is the key to finding each other in the loveliest possible way. 

As the chapters shift from one character to another, readers feel strong empathy toward both. The verse format is perfect for early middle grade readers.Well chosen words balance the terror and acute sadness felt by both as their situation engulfs everyone. It's a story told with gentle caring and quiet humor. So hopeful and endearing. It will be the first book Chelsea and I read in July. We can't wait! 

I Built a Rocket Ship, written by Anna Lazowski and illustrated by Jennica Lounsbury. Kids Can Press, 2026. $21.99 ages 5 and up

"Dad asked what I was doing.
When I told him, he got really quiet.

I get it. 
It's a big idea. 
One time you said people get nervous
around big ideas. 
But not me."

It's very clear from the first page that the story's narrator has a definite plan in mind. She is building a rocket ship with 'cardboard, tape and tinfoil, a cushion, batteries and Bernadette'. Even in the darkness, with flashlight at hand, she continues her work. Bernadette keeps her company. As she builds, she shares memories with an unseen other person. She says she has kept the materials from when the two built a robot. 

Dad is interested in knowing what's going on. While explaining, she notices that her dad is very quiet. She knows it is a big job; that's what makes it worth doing. She lets readers know that the person she is so dearly missing said she would always feel a presence. The child is not sure that is true; her rocket ship will offer the chance to see them again. She continues to add items to the ship that remind her of the one she misses so badly. She is preparing every day.  

"I built it because I made you a promise 
to remember. 
And I do. 
I remember everything."

Dad does his best to temper the anticipation. She won't give up. She thinks she has exactly what she needs; it doesn't seem just right yet. Only one more thing is needed: her loved one's favorite paint color so she can be seen as she rockets upward.  

Sad and lovely, yearning and hopeful, full of grief and love, it is a memorable look at a child's response to the loss of one so loved. Soft, quiet artwork ensures a warm and comforting feeling.                                                                                     

 

Angelica and the Bear Prince, written and illustrated by Trung Le Nguyen. RH Graphic, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.50 ages 12 and up

 

"Well, you look nice. 
Doing anything special?

No! Not at all. 
Just taking a day to myself, 
gonna explore the festival.

Cool! I'll come with you.

No, I wanna walk around 
by myself, take some alone time. 
Maybe later. 

Oh. Well, I'll be around if 
you need me. Have fun. 

Wait, you seem a little 
bummed. What's wrong?"

Angelica (whose nickname is Jelly) is beyond enthusiastic to begin an internship at her local Log House Theater. She saw her first production of the Bear Prince at a young age, and looks forward to playing a role in what happens in the new one. She is particularly interested in the masked actor who plays the Bear Prince. The two begin, via DM, communicating with each other and their relationship grows. 

Mr. Nguyen is adept at managing the present time with flashbacks to a time in Jelly's early childhood when she first saw the Bear Prince story. Her family is dealing with persistent grief at the loss of Jelly's beloved grandmother; this grief has an impact on Jelly and the story being told. Jelly wants to prove that she is capable of everything expected of her, while also managing the new relationship with a growing interest in someone she doesn't really know. 

Each scene is created to expand on the characters the author introduces to his readers. They are all unique and likable as they deal with the reality of their circumstances. From an initial note of thanks to Per, the conversations become more open and sensitive to the feelings of the other. The emotions are realistically presented and their mutual respect allows for a healthy back-and-forth. Energetic artwork conveys the tone of the full story while providing many expressive and lovely details to make the storytelling even better. The frames used to show flashbacks, memories and past experiences allow readers the connections they need for the storytelling. 

This is a terrific heartfelt tale with memorable characters that gives a nod to the folktale tradition, and explores meaningful issues of community, grief, family, and friendship. I'm saving it for Sicily to read when she is here this summer. 

And They Walk On, written by Kevin Maillard and illustrated by Rafael Lopez. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2025. $25.99 ages 5 and up

 

"Their things are still here
as if they just stepped out: 

jacket by the door,

hair in the brush,

starlight mints by the bed, 

shoes on the floor."

The child whose voice tells this story is confused. His concern is about death and grief. He ponders where loved ones go when they walk on - out of the life he has known with them. There are many places they once loved: the market, the garden, the lake to fish, their other favorite. When they get where they are going, how will they let him know? He knows he will wait because there are things he needs to share. He wants to tell about activities that fill his days, the new accomplishments he has made, the weather. He assumes that walking on is a long journey that might tire them out and lead them back home. 

As he watches his family pack up his grandmother's house, he notes that everything is just as she left it. Spending time in each room, he can feel the love that memories hold for him. He smells the household smells, sees the ordinary sights, touches those things that are so familiar, hears common kitchen sounds and travels back in his memory to times spent with his grandmother. 

"When they walk on , 
          they stay with us 
                    like the glimmer of a distant star."

Everything they have been will always be a part of those they leave behind; those left will always walk on together in their honor. 

This is an exquisite explanation of grief, sure to assuage hearts that are dealing with the death of a loved one. Rafael Lopez captures the essence of cultural traditions using acrylic, watercolor, and colored pencils assembled digitally to bring beauty, warmth and understanding. He blends the Seminole connections of the author with his own Mexican influences in his spectacular images. Careful observation will result in welcome discoveries. 

Back matter is a valuable addition, including explanatory notes from both creators, and a recipe for Kevin's Grape Dumplings. 

"Maybe they're just running late
and they will call me
from their special place."                                                                                           

My Sister The Apple Tree: A Refugee Story of Hope and Resilience, written by Jordan Scott and Jamal Saeed with artrwork by Zahra Marwan. Random House Studio, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.99 ages 5 and up

 

"One day, I saw helicopters in the sky.
They bombed our village. We saw dust, 
and there was fire in the woods. The wind
turned into a machine." 

After watching twin goats frolicking together on village streets, a young boy asks why his mother wh they didn't have twins so that he, too, would have a constant companion. His mother tells him they planted an apple tree in the yard on the day he was born.

"You and the tree are twins. The apple 
tree is your sister."

From that day forward, he found solace with his sister. He spent time sitting with her, telling her about his surroundings, offering care and comfort. He brought her a blanket at night and slept with is window open so she would always feel his presence. They played together, and grew together, and when war came to their county and forced the family to move, they uprooted the tree and carried it with them to a new country. 

In their new country, he made a place for his sister. There, she grew taller, made friends with the sky, and welcomed new birds to her branches. His sister provided a listening ear for his stories, his worries, the longing for the life left behind. Together, they adapt and adjust to what is new and different. 

In an afterword, all three creators share their family stories of leaving their home countries for a new life, due to varying circumstances. Those stories shine through in the words and images created for their collaboration. Their story has warmth, emotion, hope, and resilience in the face of great difficulty.                                                                             

 

Bread Days, written and illustrated by Hannah Chung. Astra Young Readers, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.99 ages 5 and up

"Nara arranged bread-making materials. 
She covered the cabinet doors with Papa's 
notes and her bread drawings. 
Nara could feel the kitchen warm and cozy
again like Bread Days. And there was just 
one more important thing to do." j

Nara loves bread days. She and her father like to bake together. After wishing her papa a good day, the next thing she does is to say hello to Paolo, the starter they use for their sourdough. She feeds Paolo and watches as the jar fills with bubbles. The day passes quickly with the busyness of bread making. They add flour and water, fold and round out the dough before putting it in the oven. Papa always adds one of Nara's drawings to the top of the loaf before it goes in the oven to bake. 

What a treat to share together. Then, Nara begins the wait until they make the next one. When the next day rolls around, much has changed. Papa has died, and there will be no more bread days. The kitchen where they did their baking changes. Nothing is the same without her father. 

Then one night Nara leaves her bed to get to work in the kitchen again. She gets everything she needs, puts Papa's notes and her drawings on the cabinet doors and feels the warmth all over again. It's time for Paolo. Paolo looks terrible. Mama knows just what to do. The bubbles reappear; the jar fills with bubbles once again. Paolo is back and so is the desire to recreate the bread days Nara once enjoyed with her father. 

An author's note adds the family story that inspired Ms. Chung to write this book, and includes family photos of bread making days. 

Crumble, written by Meredith McClaren and illustrated by Andrea Bell. Little, Brown and Company, Hachette. 2025, $16.99 ages 8 and up

 

"We could try another recipe? 

I really don't think that's a good idea.
It'll probably turn out terrible. 

I don't get WHY, though. 
I mean, I get that you don't feel great
at the start, but baking usually makes 
you feel at least a little better towards
the end of it. 
Shouldn't that count for something? 

I don't know."

Yesterday's post was about family, food, and magic. Today's, while totally different in all other ways, has similar themes. Emily, her mom and her aunt Gina run a family bakery. Their special kind of magic is baking emotions into the desserts they create. If you need confidence, just let them know. They will whip up some millionaire shortbread. Cannoli for contentment; iced donuts for excitement; steamed cheesecake for relief are just some of the treats created to help their customers. 

Emily and her best friend Dae are ready to get started at baking some Millionaire Shortbread Cookies under Aunt Gina's watchful eye. After supper, Emily and her aunt make a call to Emily's mother who is away teaching about their style of baking. Aunt Gina is the caregiver (and a great one she is) while Mom is away. Mom gets home for a monthly family dinner, and life goes on. 

Emily continues learning under her aunt's tutelage, and shares her baking with classmates. A car accident that claims the life of Aunt Gina, and the heartache it brings, proves that baking bad feelings into desserts is not a good thing. The 'crumble' she makes tastes awful but her friends cannot get enough of it. She accidentally makes her classmates sick. Mom's return is fraught with worry as she tries to deal with her own grief, and the demands of the bakery which has never been her forte. 

"Mom is busy trying to understand how the bakery works, 
and she always wants to talk, but then she starts crying
and I just end up making her feel worse rather than better."

It takes time and a great deal of patience for mother and daughter to adjust to this new life without Aunt Gina, and to accept the changes that have turned their world upside down. The writing is clear and heartfelt. Andrea Bell's illustrations offer a careful look at the characters, at the changing emotions, and the roller coaster that is grief. Wordless panels allow readers time to consider each character's feelings and reactions. 

Back matter provides resources for anyone experiencing what Emily is feeling. The spiral notebook-like pages included for a number of the bakery's recipes will have readers wanting to try their hand. Both author and illustrator add a favorite recipe of their own, and a personal note about each.  

Coyote Lost and Found, written by Dan Gemeinhart. Henry Holt and Company, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2024. $23.99 ages 10 and up

"And so I told him. The whole thing. Starting 
six years ago with a car accident and a hole in 
the universe. Then on through meeting Salvador 
last summer and a race for a memory box. And 
right up to finding some ashes and an out-of-
the-blue pandemic shutting down school. I 
did not tell him about the lost book. That 
little piece of info was still on a best-friends-
only level of secrecy, and even though Wally 
was moving quickly right up the ranks, he 
wasn't quite there yet. Who knew if he might
accidentally spill the beans and tell Rodeo."

Here is my blog post for the first book about Coyote and her father: 

https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/7130079189010543417/5458111106618044929 

Coyote is a force to be reckoned with: an honest and supportive daughter, a grieving child, a loyal friend, a welcoming presence on the bus that provides a home for others, feisty, while vulnerable. She is an honorable and extremely memorable character who will live in the hearts of readers for a long time. 

After the remarkable journey of the first book, Coyote and her father have settled into a house in Oregon where they could get the counseling they both needed to help them deal with the death of her mother and two sisters. After five years of being on the road with her father, they felt it was time to put down some roots and get her back to school. Now, with COVID rearing its ugly head, the school has shut down and it gives the two an opportunity to return to the road. 

It is another journey to help them deal with the loss and grief they are both still feeling every day. So many of the scenes between father and daughter are filled with love, and a willingness to be there for each other no matter the circumstances. This trip has a purpose. Coyote has discovered a box with her mother's ashes, and a note that explains how a Mary Oliver poem will lead them to where she would like them to scatter her ashes. The book was left somewhere along the way a year ago and Coyote has an idea for where they might find it. She doesn't want her father to know she has left it behind them. 

As they did the first time, they are happy to have fellow travelers with them. Each of these friends plays a pivotal role in poignant scenes. Coyote provides Rodeo instructions for their travel, as she reels with guilt over the lost book and angst over ever finding it again. Her first-person narrative is perfect for the telling. 

Dan Gemeinhart has penned another compelling, funny, and needs-to-be-read middle grade novel that you don't want to miss! 

Night Walk, written and illustrated by Jason Cockcroft. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"Remember how Grandma loved the 
woods? She'd sit and watch the moths
flutter by. Listen, can you hear the 
hedgehog in the grass? 

Yes! Grandma loved hedgehogs. 
Maybe this was Grandma's favorite place."

While sharing their grief over losing Grandma, a boy and his grandpa leave home one dark, early morning to take the same walk that Grandma loved. They are well-prepared for their trek, with backpacks, flashlights, and a snack. As they go, the two share memories of previous walks and all those things that tickled Grandma's fancy along the way. 

At each stop, the boy has a concern for knowing exactly which place was her favorite. Grandpa is reassuring, and they continue to move forward. 

"Do you know
where we are now? 

Are we there?
Really? Is this 
Grandma's favorite 
place? 

Yes, this is it."

I repeat, what wonder do we find in nature when we are on the lookout for it?  

I appreciate the quiet setting, the thoughtfulness, the memories shared, and the joy found in being together. Mr. Cockcroft's outstanding mixed-media artwork places readers in the natural beauty that surrounds the two as they walk together, and offers hints of light in the early morning. The final spreads are a perfect reminder of Grandma, with their brilliant light and beauty. Don't miss the telling endpapers! 

                                                                                     

The Trouble with Heroes, written by Kate Messner. Bloomsbury Children's Books, Raincoast. 2025. $23.99 ages 10 and up

 

"Mom made excuses even when I was little.
The Towers took something he couldn’t get back.
No matter how fast he ran into flames.
No matter how hard he tried to forget.
Memories like that stick to your skin,
crawl deep inside you,
and curl up in corners
that still somehow smolder, all
metal and ash."  

Finn Connelly has gotten himself in some big trouble letting his anger get the better of him, and kicking over the headstone of an important local, Edna Grace Thomas. Ms. Thomas was a dedicated climber of the 46 Adirondack Peaks, and encouraged thousands of others to discover the beauty and peace found in nature while climbing them. Instead of pressing charges against the seventh grader, Ms.Thomas' daughter seeks reparation through Finn agreeing to scale all 46 High Peaks before Labor Day. He will take the Thomas dog, Seymour, with him as often as is possible. 

Finn also has unfinished work from school in English and Phys. Ed. to complelte during the summer. Whed two years ago. Finn is about to fail seventh grade and has never made headlines . . . until now. Caught on camera vandalizing a cemetery, he’s in big trouble for knocking down some dead old lady’s headstone. Turns out that grave belongs to a legendary local mountain climber, and her daughter makes Finn an unusual offer: she’ll drop all the charges if he agrees to climb all forty-six Adirondack High Peaks in a single summer. And there’s just one more thing–he has to bring along the dead woman’s dog. In a wild three months of misadventures, mountain mud, and unexpected mentors, Finn begins to find his way on the trails. At the top of each peak, he can see for miles and slowly begins to understand more about himself and his dad. But the mountains don’t care about any of that, and as the clock ticks down to September, they have more surprises in store. Finn’s final summit challenge may be more than even a hero can face. ile not enamored of the task, Finn agrees and is accompanied on his climbs by experienced volunteers who agree to help him face the summits. There is a lot for Finn to deal with, including his father's death and need to be a hero. In poetic verse, Kate Messner handles topics of grief, mental health, PTSD, friendship, identity, and growing up. She also includes founds letters, recipes, text messages between mother and son, school progress reports, and photographs taken of the many climbs.

Finn is a well-realized character whose growth and capability impress readers, as he moves forward despite difficulties and observed flaws to find out what he needs to know about himself.  Eventually, despite reservations and many complaints, Finn finds what he needs in nature and with kind support. There are many discoveries to be made and his story, though heartbreaking at times, is going to win some major awards. It's that good! 

Drawn Onward, written by Daniel Nayeri and illustrated by Matt Rockefeller. Harper, 2024. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"All alone ... 

he was not so brave. 

He didn't need to be 
that deep in the woods. 

   TATARRATAT"

Living together in their mountain home, a father and son grieve the death of their wife and mother. Their sadness is palpable. As they struggle to find their way forward, anger builds and the son runs away one early morning. It is easy at the beginning to be on his own; the further away he gets, the more his fear grows. 

Intermittent words and sounds allow Matt Rockefeller to fill the pages with an astounding fantasy world. Taking a sword and shield with him, the child makes his way on a journey where danger lurks in every corner. He wants an answer to his big question. He is determined to move forward despite the many obstacles he faces: giant spiders, a water serpent, gnomes mining mushrooms, slippery surfaces, a hot desert, and finally a tower where he discovers the statue of a woman covered in an evil-looking vine.

His magic sword puts quick work to the vine. His tear-filled eyes plead for the answer to his question: Mom, were you glad you were mom? Each corner of that spread reflects times when the two were together, enjoying life and shared experiences. Now he has his answer, he can begin the journey home. The words repeat in a story that reads in reverse as he makes his way. His heart is full. His path is clear as he provides care and help for those creatures earlier met. The need to be brave is no longer paramount. He is not alone; he and his father will find their way.

Impossible to read only once, this is a book to be shared again and again. There are many discoveries to be made! 

                                                                                                 

Under Anna's Umbrella, written by Amanda Driscoll and illustrated by Luisa Uribe. Roccky Pond Books, Penguin Random House. 2025. $$24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"At home, Anna's umbrella worried her family. 
"I miss seeing your beautiful eyes," said her 
mother. "It looks weird," said her brother. 

But Anna could not let it go. 
Under her umbrella, Anna felt angry."

The book opens with a mother and her children at the scene of a funeral. It is raining; every person in attendance is holding an umbrella. Anna's is red which makes her the focus of the reader's attention. It is protecting Anna on that day, and she promises herself not to go nowhere without it. 

She keeps her word, wearing it to a ball game, in dance class, and at the movie theater. It keeps her safe. At home, it remains over her head. Her mother and brother show concern. Anna doesn't care. While holding a family photo when alone in her bedroom, she allows that the umbrella would not be needed if 'you were still here'. 

Under her umbrella, Anna feels angry, safe, sad, and the subject of unwanted attention when she is at school. Anna will not put it away. Sent to the back of the room where she will not be a distraction, Anna adds loneliness to what she is feeling. Then one day, while walking home from school in a storm, she notices a soaking wet boy. She invites him to join her under her umbrella. Henry accepts. In their escape from the pouring rain, the two talk. It is hard for Anna to show Henry all that she wants to show him. The umbrella is a problem for that. Soon, they are out from under the umbrella to float a boat, and catch raindrops on their tongues.  Feeling happier than she has in a long time, Anna walks home with the umbrella hooked to her backpack. 

It is likely that Anna has lost a parent; that is never revealed. It does not lessen the pain of her loss or leave readers with confusion about the grief she is feeling. Handling the sadness is done in a way that makes sense to the person experiencing it. A new friend helps Anna see a path forward. 

Soft digital illustrations make Anna's emotions clear, and encourage readers to feel empathy for her sadness. By spending time with a new friend and letting go of the umbrella that has been protecting her, she is able to let some light back into her days. 

The Hole, written by Lindsay Bonilla and illustrated by Brizida Magro. Penguin Random House, 2025. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"I put one foot into the hole. 
I take a deep breath.
Down 
    down
        down 
             I go ... 

until I reach the bottom. 
The hole is hard and cold. 
I shiver and 
       start to cry. 

I'm sad. But I'm also angry. 
I pound my fists against the hole." 

A child awakens to peer down from the top bunk, and see the hole that is left where his brother Matty once slept. There's also a hole on the bathroom stool where Matty stood as his father shaved, and one on the chair where Matty drew smiley faces for his teacher mother on her students' papers. Without Matty each member of their family is dealing with the holes in their hearts left by Matty. 

For this young boy, the hole follows wherever he goes. He learns that others have holes, too ... for a grandma, an aunt, a dad. There are too many reminders. His friend Nora recognizes that his hole is deep and dark. When the child falls into that hole, he is able to express the sadness and the anger he is feeling. Both are palpable. Soon, his anger is spent. 

A sense of calm envelops him. The grief is not gone. When Nora reaches for his hand and offers her company and a listening ear, he tells her about Matty. There is much to tell. As he shares his memories, he is able to smile about some of the funny things his brother did. At home, he brings a touch of Matty to the dinner table which helps his parents as well. He knows that grieving for his brother will never go away. The hole he left can now be filled with many memories of Matty and the joy he brought to all. 

The book is dedicated to Vincent "Vinny" William Baran. For more information, you can check out MightyVincent.org. 

Anything, written by Rebecca Stead and illustrated by Gracey Zhang. Chronicle Books, Raincoast. 2025. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"We unpacked books and cups and plates. 
I made a secret wish that apartment 3B didn't 
smell like paint. 
Paint is not my favorite smell. 

                           Nothing happened."

Rebecca Stead's first picture book! I could not wait to read it. But wait I did. Now that I have read it again and again, I want to share it with you.

The chocolate cake is a birthday gift for their new apartment. No candles on the cake as they have just moved in, except the one for good luck. Daddy offers a wish for anything. There can be wishes for very hard things, but Daddy doesn't seem concerned. Blowing the candle out comes with a question about how many anythings are reasonable. Daddy suggests three. 

The first is a wish for a rainbow in the child's room. Done! When asked about a second, she decides to save it. The new playground nearby sports a very tall, and intimidating, slide. She makes a secret wish for a smaller one. Wish unfulfilled. The two buy plants for their apartment, and return home to unpack more of their belongings. A secret wish for no paint smell also fails. 

Dinner time brings a wish for the second anything ... a huge slice of her favorite pizza. Though not totally happy with eating it in Aprartment 3B, she is content. There is no decision made yet for the third anything. After dinner, they play hide-and-seek before Daddy asks again about the third anything. Finally, she wishes that today not be Thursday, and bath day. She doesn't like the tub. 

Daddy stood up straight. 
"I have an important announcement," he said. 
Today is not Thursday!"

I gave him a hug."

There are so many misses about their old apartment. The secret wish next time is to have never moved at all. It is unspoken before she falls asleep. Waking to unfamiliar sounds in the night, she expresses the wish for one more anything ...to go home. 

Daddies can be so ingenious. He invites her to board the train that is his back, and guides her in a big circle around their new home. The trip is extensive and appreciated. They talk on and on about what is important as Daddy continues to carry her around and around the apartment. When she is almost asleep, he agrees that they are finally home after a very, very long journey. The morning brings added comfort. 

Using ballpoint pen and gouache with exceptional skill and a gorgeous color palette, Gracey Zhang captures fully the emotions that are felt and shared here as the two make their adjustment from one home to another. 

Two remarkable storytellers 'pen' a story that will resonate with readers and live long in memory. 

If You Were Here, written by Kathy Stinson and illustrated by Maya McKibbin. Greystone Kids, 2025. $23.95 ages 4 and up

 

"If you were here, we would smell
the damp mushrooms and moss 
deep inside these woods,

see the pine trees like towers so high, 
and hear whispers in the needles on the ground."

The child who narrates this book seeks solace in natural surroundings as a loss is mourned. We don't know who is missing; we do know they are keenly missed. All the sights and smells remind the child of what another day would be like if they could just be together again. 

Wandering through a green and sunny meadow into the darkness of the deep forest and then out onto the seashore where all senses are fully engaged by the smell of the ocean, the sight of items washed up by a storm, the feel of sunshine on cool skin as it pokes through cloudy skies, and the sound of waves washing over seashore pebbles, are moments the two would savor together.

The final double-page spread shows the joys found in the wander through nature ... a lovely collection of child-like colorful and heartfelt images of the two together doing what they loved to do. Readers are left to consider and decide what may have happened to the loved one. Did they move away? Why are they no longer where the child is? This heartfelt story leaves space for open discussion of grief and loss, while also considering the peace found in nature. 

Gorgeous digital images of the Pacific Northwest environment where the artist lives accompany this quiet story of love and loss. The details are truly lovely, and offer perspective shifts that are sure to hold attention and offer opportunity for further conversation.