Inbetweens, by Faith Erin Hicks. First Second, Raincoast. 2026. $31.99 ages 12 and up

"We already have our next animation
assignment, So why are you ditching
to watch movies?

Don't you care about the course?

Of course I care. But I don't want 
to animate every second this summer.

Ormidale is a huge opportunity. 
I want to do well here. 

You are doing well! I just thought
it would be fun to hang out with 
our friends for one night.

I'm not doing well enough." 

I've read a number of graphic novels in the past few days, and am going to go on a bit of a run to tell you about them, starting today. I know you will have readers in your family or classrooms whose interest lies with these titles. 

Inbetweens is a terrific novel about twin sisters who are thrilled to have been accepted in a summer course at Ormidale College, a renowned animation school. It's 1999 in Canada, and the two are going to be moving on to high school, both with an abiding interest in art and drawing. Well known as "the crazy art twins", they are keen to expand their experiences at the seven-week institute. They differ in both personality and appearance; their shared love of animation has been a constant for them since a trip to Disney World four years ago. 

Ash is extroverted and energetic; Sloane is a quiet observer. It doesn't take long before they meet Nisha and Cameron, two students who bring their own personalities and talents to the group. As the weeks pass, each demonstrates what makes them different while sharing a love of animation. Each approaches the assignments from a different perspective and with a strong sense of accomplishment. Two instructors offer equally diverse approaches to the work being shared and assigned. Ms. Hicks is adept at describing the tough work it takes to be an animator, and the range of work shared, from anime to Disney cartoons. 

Douglas Frye, a well-respected animator admired by Ash, turns out to be a teacher who discourages his fledgling students and has each harboring doubts about the work they are doing. Lisa Sato, is the opposite of that. She encourages the students to face the challenges, think seriously about their art, and to pursue what they see as most important to each. Animation holds great appeal, but it can lead to other interests and successes. Lisa suggests it is a 'lifetime of learning' that takes an artist where they want to be. 

Readers will be intrigued watching the four characters find their way, while pursuing their dreams and learning that those dreams may not be the same as they were at the beginning of the new learning. This story has wide appeal as they learn that doing something well takes hard work and dedication while being courageous enough to slog through some tough times. 

Fans of Faith Erin Hicks will recognize her remarkable artistic and storytelling talents. As she explores animation concepts and the emotional toll the new learning takes, she creates believable characters experiencing bumpy moments along a path that leads each to understand that the art you make for yourself is what really matters in a quest for real success.  

Unfunny Bunny, by Kenan Thompson with Bryan Tucker and art by Tony Neal. Feiwel and Friends, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2026. $25.99 ages 5 and up

"Hedgehog shrugs. "Telling jokes isn't as easy 
as it looks. I think you're onto something. It just 
takes practice!"

That gives Bunny an idea. 
"Maybe we could work on them together?"

Bunny and Hedgehog sit down 
and start writing jokes."

The first day of school happens tomorrow for Bunny. Excitement is rising. Before leaving, he works to determine which bunny he wants his new classmates to meet. Cool? Sporty? Neither appeal. Donning a red suit and tie, with fancy high-top red sneakers, he decides to be a Funny Bunny. Telling his jokes to all who will listen does not go well. His classmates are obviously unimpressed with his humor. Bunny is frantic to hear them laugh. 

When it doesn't happen, he gets angry and starts yelling out even more jokes. The result is a new nickname; they agree they think he is an UNfunny bunny. Oh, dear! Hedgehog comes to his rescue with a compliment and an idea. Perhaps the two can work together to write new jokes. With practice and encouragement, the two find common ground and begin to make progress.  They laugh together with their families as they share what they are writing. 

When Bunny is ready, he tries again; then eagerly awaits his classmates' response. It works! His talent for sharing his jokes, while learning to be a grand friend make his life so much better. Young kids love to laugh at jokes, not always good ones. They will find much humor when this book is shared, as they learn about being a good friend as well. 

Two pages of extra jokes to learn only adds to the fun! 
                                                                             

Wanda Hears the Stars: A Blind Astronomer Listens to the Universe, written by Amy S. Hansen with Wanda Diaz Merced. Illustrated by Rocio Arreola Mendoza. Charlesbridge, Penguin Random House. 2025. $22.99 ages 8 and up

 

"By high school Wanda knew she wanted to go 
to college. There wasn't much money, but her 
parents told her if she worked hard, she could 
study anything she wanted. 

Wanda wanted to understand the universe."

This picture book biography that introduces a young Puerto Rican girl who knew from the moment she saw her first meteor shower that she was destined to 'aim for the stars'. She had so many questions. When her family could not answer them, she was filled with wondering. Reading helped her learn; it did not answer many of her questions. 

Things were better in high school. She was able to study and find out more about the science she loved. When she was able to enrol in college, her interest in physics satisfied her thirst for knowledge. That is, until she lost he sight due to the diabetes she had lived with since childhood. Advice from her roommate had Wanda learning to live independently. But, how could she continue to study the stars, her forever dream?

Another friend Emilio came to her rescue, teaching her about radio waves from space. Unexpectedly, Wanda could hear the sound transform as Emilio continued explaining what was happening. Persistence and patience led her to a program at NASA, where:

"A computer turned data into sounds
like drumbeats and chimes. Wanda 
listened for patterns in the sounds. 
She was finally studying the stars!" 

She had to work differently than other scientists; much of her work resulted in the same conclusions.  Today, Wanda shares what she learned while pursuing her doctorate by explaining that science is for everyone. She proves it by inviting people to join her on a 'galactic audio tour'. She helps them hear what she hears and tells them the secret she heard in the stars that no one else had ever heard. What wondering! 

Back matter includes a glossary, a list of the Spanish terms (with pronunciation guide) for words used in the writing of Wanda's story. A note from Wanda is included about her path to listening to the universe, and another from Amy, her co-writer. Further information is provided about Radio JOVE, her work to become independent, Wanda's journey as a scientist, a list of resources and a selected bibliography. 

Fascinating and accessible for readers, and complemented by vibrant digital illustrations created by Ms. Mendoza, this is another of those picture books biographies that introduces someone readers may not be familiar with ... a woman facing almost incomprehensible odds to live her life pursuing her dreams. Well-known in the world of astrophysics, and for her advocacy for those who learn differently, Wanda is someone to greatly admire. Her story is well worth hearing.                                                                                   

Worm on the Job, written by Maureen Fergus and illustrated by Paul G. Hammond. Kids Can Press, 2026. $21.99 ages 4 and up

"Then he splatted against the 
front door of the convention 
center. Plopping to the ground,
he hastily stretched across the 
door frame. 

Seconds later, as the thief
was trying to make his 
escape, he tripped over 
Worm and went sprawling."

How often have you told yourself that you cannot do that. Or, have you heard your kids and students say the same thing? Confidence and persistence in the face of fear and uncertainty can make all the difference in the world. So, once Worm has finished reading every book in the library, he gives up his job as head librarian and makes the decision to take a new path. Lifeguarding is not for him; nor is deep-sea fishing. While washing windows, he grows concerned with the attention being paid to him by nearby pigeons. 

His hopes are raised when he notices the convention center is looking for a brave security guard to protect the incredible inventions being shown at the newest gathering of inventors. Many are interested in employment; none look anything like Worm. The manager is not impressed with Worm's appearance and says so. Worm's anger gets the best of him as he describes but one of the attributes that make him perfect for the job. 

""Can you survive being cut in half,
eat your own weight in soil every day, 
and turn kitchen scraps into valuable 
fertilizer?" asked Worm."

Worm gets his chance to prove his mettle; he does his job to the best of his ability.  Coming face-to-face with the dastardly criminal he is to be on the lookout for, Worm uses every trick in the book to take the crook down and hand him over to the police. What impressive work he has done; it wins him thankful praise. But ... by now, Worm has another goal to pursue. NASA won't be sorry to have such a capable and determined new astronaut recruit. Worm has every confidence in himself! 

So many details to consider in Paul G. Hammond's digital, humorous artwork. It perfectly accompanies this creative and very 'punny" story.                                                                                    

The Inquisitive Raven, written by Richard Wagamese and illustrated by Bridget George. D&M Kids, 2025. $24.95 ages 8 and up

"But if he could hold his wings motionless
in the sky and hang suspended above them 
all perhaps the other animals of the forest
would respect him. If he could soar like 
Migizi maybe they would regard him like
her. Surely there couldn't be all that much 
of a trick to it. After all, they were both
birds with wings and feathers. Surely with
a little pluck and practice a raven could 
soar like an eagle. So Rueben began to 
learn to soar."

This is the second book in the Storybook Collection by Richard Wagamese. It is a beautiful book, with stunning illustrations by Bridget George, that further introduces younger readers to his Ojibwe storytelling prowess. 

Rueben is a most inquisitive and engaging character who is considered nosy by many of his forest friends. Always amazed by the world around him, he is keen to learn about the wonders of that world.  
There are many stories from others about his curiosity and his ways of offering uncalled-for advice. Grampa Raven is encouraging in his support of Rueben and willing to answer questions he might have. When Rueben sees Migizi, an eagle with a wondrous ability to soar, his grandfather tells him that Migizi has many gifts.

Now, all Rueben wants to do is learn to soar. He dedicates his time, his patience, and his endless persistence to that end. After many tries and much practice, Rueben is ready to show the others what he can do. His attempt goes awry, and he plummets to the ground. Concerned that the others will not see his accomplishment with the same respect they have for Migizi, he needs his grandfather's reassurance that he has many of his own gifts. Rueben does not see them.                                                                             

"Migizi does. When she soars she sees the world. Her keen eye catches everything. She knows how 
powerful wonder and curiosity are. She knows how great a thing it is to be part of a community, and to take the time to investigate the things and the beings around you. She knows how special it is to be able to celebrate knowledge and to be willing to share it. She sees you do all of that and she carries deep respect for you."

Wise old grandfather ... so proud and respectful of his grandson and all he has accomplished. With a light heart, Rueben soon flies off to continue his studies of the world around him, always discovering something new. 

Thanks to Richard Wagamese and his wise storytelling, readers learn that they must look at themselves to see what they do best. 
                                                                                     

Across the Ice: How We Saved the Ojibwe Horse, written by Darcy Whitecrow and Heather M. O'Connor. Illustrated by Natasha Donovan. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.99 ages 5 and up

 

"The government didn't like our little wild ponies. 
They called them a nuisance and a health hazard. 
They were going to shoot them. We couldn't let 
that happen. Our ancestors had bred these ponies
for many generations. They were our spirit animals. 
Our friends. They were the last of their kind. We 
had to save them. But how?"

It's a highly anticipated evening for two young members of the Lac La Croix First Nation in northwestern Ontario. They cannot sleep with a house full of relatives all eager for what's about to happen. Nookomis reminds them they must continue to wait. She is persuaded to retell the story of the wild ponies who once shared their land. Those horses were a great help to the people through the winter, and on their trip to summer camps. They would wander free in the summer to birth their foals and always be brought back in the autumn. 

The last time Nookomis saw them, there were only four left. The people determined to save these spirit animals and made careful plans to take them to safety in Minnesota. There was only one way to transport them - across the frozen lake. With time and patience, they were rounded up and taken away. Nookomis had not seen them for forty years. 

Complications in growing the herd from four to more once again took time and effort. Today they are called Ojibwe horses in honor of the family's ancestors. Tonight, a small herd from Alberta is making the trip to Lac La Croix where they will be reunited with Nookomis and those who once loved and honored them. A new story will be shared in years to come. Emotional and uplifting.                                                                                       

Suuban's First Day: a first day of herding story. Written by Shugri Salh and illustrated by Alaba Onajin. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2026. $25.99 ages 3 and up

 

"One full moon passed.  
             And another. 

Suuban was getting tired of waiting. 
"When will my front teeth fall out, Ayeeyo?"

"When you hear the frogs sing out from 
the pond," Ayeeyo replied. 

Suuban knew that the frogs returned only 
when enough rain fell. Suuban saw not a 
wisp of cloud in the sky and smelled no 
hint of rain in the air."

In this story based on the author's Somalian childhood, readers meet Suuban and her ayeeyo (grandmother) as they live a nomadic life. Suuban loves the animals the two care for every day. In early morning, Suuban is happy to go out and release the goats, sheep, and baby camels from their pens and help with feeding them. 

Her dream is to be able to care for the animals on her own. Ayeeyo explains that she must wait until she loses her two front teeth before that will happen. Four full moons is a long time to wait for the young girl. Her help with the animals every day is fine; she wants to do more. Tired of waiting for what seems an interminable time, Suuban frequently asks her grandmother for other signs. 

When she loses her first tooth, she is sure it's time. Ayeeyo tells her she must wait to lose both teeth. Impatient, Suuban takes her fate into her own hands, challenging a head-butting little goat to an encounter. It works! That very day, Suuban is given careful instructions before taking the animals under her wing and heading for the large termite mound her grandmother describes. 

Always on the lookout, Suuban proves capable and brave on her own. Herding the animals into the shade, she takes time to be sure that all forty are safe. Knowing they are, she can take time to appreciate her natural surroundings. A fox is no match for Suuban; she sends him off with well-thrown rocks. Only as evening shadows set in does Suuban know it is time to return to the compound and her grandmother. They share the day's adventure before she has another question for Ayeeyo.

""When can I take the camel to fetch water by myself?"

"When you are as tall as my shoulder," her ayeeyo said."

Digital artwork is welcome, offering a setting that enhances the storytelling and allows young readers to note the nomadic lifestyle of Suuban and her ayeeyo. They are both colorful and detailed, sharing the emotions that Suuban shows with patience and an eagerness to be of more help. An author's note places the story in Somalia and speaks to children of her life there, and the admiration she holds for her grandmother and the lessons she learned from her. 
                                                                                   

Diaper Kid, written by Loretta Garbutt and illustrated by Hayley Lowe. Owlkids, 2025. $22.95 ages 2 and up

 

"These underwear are really soft. 

But so is his diaper. It keeps his
bum warm.

HE IS DIAPER KID!"

We had returned home after a Christmas holiday, when our son (who had just turned 3 and easily articulated when he would need his next diaper change) asked to wear the Dukes of Hazzard Underoos he got for Christmas. I reminded him that we could wash clothes once a week, He was quick to let me know he had no intention of 'peeing' in them. In fact, he never did, and from that day forward he was trained for day and night. Never had an accident. Thank goodness we had not gone through the angst suffered by both parent and child while toilet training.

Diaper Kid seems to take the same position when it comes to readiness. Always on the go, he hasn't got time to stop for his parents. Chosen spaces for 'going' are behind the curtains, under the table or in his purple car while trying to win the next race. 

His parents do their best. He has no interest in cooperating. The fight to get him into underwear is a constant battle that leads to another diaper, and underwear worn as a fashionable beanie. A play in the backyard pool and a surprise visit from neighbor Esme results in embarrassment for how wet his diaper is. Seeing that Esme is wearing underwear, maybe giving it a go will speed things up. 

Today, he's known as Underwear Kid!                                                                           

Aggie and the Ghost, written and illustrated by Matthew Forsythe. A Paula Wiseman Book, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. 2025. $27.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Ghosts from all over the forest came
to watch.

One of the ghosts whispered, "Humans 
are very bad at tic-tac-toe. The girl is 
going to lose." 

The game took all day and all night 
and then - just as Aggie made the
final move - there was a noise from 
above."  

Matthew Forsythe just keeps making better and better books! What a wonder it is meeting Aggie. Excited to be moving into a house of her own, it takes no time for her to learn that it is haunted by a small and persistent ghost who dogs her every move. Her penchant for being alone is constantly thwarted by its presence. 

Aggie is willing to let it stay if it follows the rules she sets out for it. As might have been expected, this ghost follows none of the listed guidelines. Unsettled by its behavior, Aggie decides to take a walk in the rain. Being alone is exactly what she needs. Unfortunately, the ghost is right behind her. Angry, Aggie wants an explanation. The rules are upsetting and the ghost also needs time away. 

As they spend that time together, Aggie is keen to know what makes the ghost happy, if not rules. Turns out it loves to play tic-tac-toe. That information sets up an ultimatum for the two of them: if the ghost loses, it will have to move out of the house. The ghost is very confident. Game on! They play on and on, with not end in sight. Finally, a Man-Faced Owl swoops in with advice. It declares the game a tie. 

Aggie and the ghost continue their game for hours and hours. By the time they quit, they cannot remember why they started in the first place. They head for home where more rules are established. The ghost immediately breaks each and every one of them. Then, he is gone. Finally alone, Aggie soon realizes that she is a bit lonely. Her solution is one final rule ... absolutely perfect! As is this truly brilliant book ... read it for yourself. You will not be sorry!                                                                                    

I am a fan. Here are posts for Matthew Forsythe's first two books. 

https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/7130079189010543417/6718875919120082812

https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/7130079189010543417/6718875919120082812

Natterjack Toad Makes a Mighty Crunch, written by Sean Taylor and illustrated by Kathryn Durst. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2024. $23.99 ages 4 and up

 

"If Natterjack Toad
makes a mighty crunch, 
the weasel's going to hear.
And he'll be between 
those teeth. 

So he puts his cookie back
and he's off, 

quickety-whip."

Young listeners will very much enjoy Natterjack Toad's dilemma, the repetitive text, and the anticipation for the next critter he will have to deal with before having and enjoying a tasty snack. Kathryn Durst's colorful, detailed digital artwork adds to the fun. 

Natterjack is on the hunt for a cool and comfortable place to relax, where he can feast on a packet of Chocolate-Chunk Crunchy-Munch Cookies. The hammock is hung and swinging comfortably when he decides to open the packet and taste the deliciousness. He's found the perfect quiet hiding place ... or has he? About to take his first bite, he spies a heron who is sure to hear him. He quickly moves on. Perhaps the meadow can provide the solitude the pond could not. 

Snuggled into the warmth where grass is tall, he is once again ready to partake of his picnic. As he is about to take a big bite, he spies a weasel right next to him. No chance is he going to let that weasel hear his first munch. Off he heads to the forest and the protection of many, many trees. He knows this is the perfect place, opens his mouth to take a big bite and locks eyes with both a mole and a vole. He does his best to send them away. They have a warning about a huge forest hog! 

Natterjack has had it. Not believing them about a forest hog, he will enjoy his picnic. What a sound it makes! It does, indeed, attract an immense and starving forest hog. She is much more interested in consuming the mole, the vole and the frog! Leaving the cookies to entice that hog, the three make their escape. Back home, Natterjack is extremely unhappy with the state of his being without his favorite cookies. Luckily, his new friends have an acceptable solution. 

Attentive listeners will have to keep their eyes on the action provided by a firefly, a dragonfly, and a beret-wearing worm. It's a lively book for reading aloud, and may just get requests for hearing it all over again. 
                                                                             

Every Monday Mabel, written and illustrated by Jashar Awan. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. 2025. $26.99 ages 2 and up

 

"Every Monday, Mabel does 
the most boring thing
(according to Mira, at least).

Mabel steps into the kitchen. 
She pours herself a bowl of her
favorite breakfast - dry cereal.
"Good morning," says Mom."

Here's another book I want to read to anyone willing to listen. 

Mabel is a young child of routines. Her Monday morning habit is to get out of bed early, look outside her bedroom window, get dressed and prepare for another 'best day of the week'. Taking her bedroom chair with her, she walks smartly past her sister's room to do the most boring thing Mira can imagine. A stop in the kitchen for a bowl of cereal (no milk). She says a warm hello to her mom and continues her journey out the front door. Dad is not surprised to see that she is as busy as she is every Monday morning. 

Mira thinks what Mabel is doing is boring; Mom thinks it's cute; Dad thinks it is quite funny. Mabel would not be content if every Monday morning was not the same. 

"Mabel drags her chair over 
to the top of the driveway. 
The perfect spot to sit and wait." 

The wait may seem long, but Mabel is content to wait as long as it takes. First she hears a roaring noise, then a couple of honks, and she knows it is happening right now. A huge garbage truck pulls up at the end of the driveway to empty their household trash before it moves on to its next stop. Content that she has seen what she has come to see, Mabel heads back inside. The garbage truck moves on to the next street - and every other child who waits just as patiently as Mabel has waited for their best day of the week. 

Digital illustrations are filled with bold color, strong lines, delightful sound effects, and details sure to have young listeners begging for more. It is a most satisfying (and surprising) read.

What do you look forward to every week, one might ask. 
                                                                                

Ablaze: The Story of America's First Female Smokejumper. Written by Jessica Lawson and illustrated by Sarah Gonzales. Viking, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.99 ages 5 and up

"She worked on wildland crews, where brush trucks

traveled remote roads to access wildfires. 
Crewmembers hiked in with tools and supplies, 
clearing brush and branches that might
make the fire spread. 

She worked on hotshot crews
where she fought faster fires
and took bigger risks."

With uncontrolled wildfires burning in many places around the world, this picture book biography that describes Deanne Shulman, her love for the outdoors, and the passion and perseverance she found in working for the US Forest Service, first as a firefighter and finally as a smokejumper, is extremely timely.  

As a very young child, Deanna climbed a tall tree, and then wondered how she would get back down. Though nervous, she jumped. She loved that feeling, and being outside with her family as they pursued sailing and backpacking together. That love of nature continued to grow, as she did. While she recognized that wildfires could be beneficial to the land, she also knew that some brought death and devastation. 

Deanne's brother worked with the US Forest Service, building and maintaining the land for all to enjoy.  Deanne applied to do the same. Instead, she was hired as a fire fighter. She loved her work. 

"One-hundred-degree heat and 
twenty-four-hour workdays. 
Air scorching hot on her face. 
Smoke masking the light of sun and stars."

After all the hard and dangerous work, there was still one thing she had never tried ... and it was what she wanted more than anything else. She longed to be a smokejumper. No female had ever held that job. At 26, she took the tests needed to prove herself and passed every one. Despite that, she was not accepted because of her size. She spent the following two years working even harder to prove she was up to the job. The rest is history. Deanne made seventy-seven jumps, then worked tirelessly with forestry programs until retiring in 2011. Today, she is a speaker and consultant, offering advice and sharing her experience with others. 

An informative and personal author's note follows, as does a glossary of terms used.  

                                                                                            

The Littlest Drop, written by Sascha Alper and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney and Brian Pinkney. Anne Schwartz Books, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"The animals fled to the river and stood by
the safety of its bank, too scared to move. 
All except the hummingbird. 

She thought of her home in the tall tree, of the soft, 
strong nest beneath her, and of her eggs that would 
soon be coming. And she knew that she had to do 
something."

The savannah is home to all of the animals from largest to smallest. Counted among the smallest is the hummingbird. This tiny hummingbird is busy building a nest for her to soon-to-be-laid eggs. She knows it needs be soft enough for her vulnerable hatchlings, and strong enough to protect them. Upon completion of the nest, she watches a very small spark land on a leaf nearby. 

That spark causes a quick-growing fire that soon threatens all animals. Terrified, they flee to the river and remain there, too frightened to take action. The hummingbird knows she must do something. So, she begins ... one tiny beak filled with the droplet of water she can carry. Back and forth she flies, time and again, to do what she can to keep her home safe. The animals mock her and her size, reminding her that she is incapable of making any difference. 

"I'm doing what I can."

Grandmother elephant is first to see the folly in their thinking. Only if everyone works together will they be able to effect change. The two work together, until others recognize that they, too, can help. Every animal plays a role. The fire rages on. While tired, they give each other the strength to carry on. 

"Then, as the sun rose above the treetops and the
exhausted hummingbird thought she could fly no
further, she let one last drop fall ... 

and the fire was gone."

In an author's note for her picture book debut, Ms. Alper tells readers this is a tale from the Quechua people of South America, and she heard it first from Wangari Maathai, a noted environmentalist from Kenya. The artwork for the book was to be done by Jerry Pinkney. It was almost completed when he died; in an illustrator's note, his son Brian explains his process in completing the book. The stunning acrylic and India ink images bring readers onto the savannah and into the heat of the fire. This is a new favorite for me, and I will look forward to sharing it. 
                                                                                   

 

Jellyfish Scientist: Maude Delap and Her Mesmerizing Medusas. Written by Michelle Cusolito and illustrated by Ellen Rooney. Charlesbridge, Penguin Random House. 2025. $22.99 ages 8 and up

 

"June 27, 1899
        Day 7 

Most people wouldn't enjoy staring at a jar of 
tiny larvae, but Maude studies them every day.
Some have attached to the jar! Will they become 
adults?

The year is 1899. The place is Ireland's rugged coast. Maude Delap is out for a row, collecting scientific specimens. Without any training in science (at the time she was expected to spend her life as a wife and mother), she has learned enough to be an expert about the marine life of the North Atlantic Ocean where she lives. 

On this particular day, Maude captures a compass jellyfish. Little is known about them, and no one has ever kept one alive through its entire life cycle. Maude wants to change that. Her lab (the Department) has a distinct marine odor. There, she conducts her work when she has nothing else of importance to be doing for her family. 

It is great good luck that Maude discovers tiny specks in the water. Larvae, called planulae, hold Maude's attention day after day. As she carefully watches, they become polyps while Maude sketches their changes. Through it all, she collects fresh seawater to keep their environment viable for growth and development. It is hard work. She learns about their preferred diet, and continues to keep them alive by rowing through the blustery winter and in freezing water. 

Nearly nine months later, they begin to change shape again. 

"She watches as one polyp shivers and wiggles. 
Its tentacles shrink and the tube turns pink. Five 
rings form like belts cinched too tight around the 
animal's body. The rings separate into a stack of 
lacy-looking layers."

They pump and pop! until a tiny jellyfish releases itself from the stack and pushes off. It happens again and again. Will Maude be able to keep them alive? Watching the biggest ephyra (adult jellyfish) eat all the smaller ones, Maude is astonished to be left with only one after all the work. After starting her diary and sketches on June 22, 1899 and watching the jellyfish grow from planulae to medusa, she continues to change the water daily and collect the kinds of jellyfish the medusa will eat. 

On July 8, 1900, the medusa has reached its full adult form; Maude is the first scientist to raise a jellyfish in captivity. She is not done yet. Next up - a blue jellyfish. The work begins once more. 

Back matter includes further facts about jellyfish, a short report on Maude's life and work, notes from both author and illustrator, a list of places for further learning and acknowledgements of those who helped with the research. 

The Sunflowers: Vincent Van Gogh's Search for Beauty, written and illustrated by Zahra Marwan. Feiwel and Friends, Raincoast. 2024. $26.99 ages 5 and up

"And with the help of his younger brother Theo, 
Vincent decided to travel and find inspiration 
in more colorful places. 

He packed up his art supplies and a few 
belongings and left Paris through sunflower 
fields and villages to a small city called Arles."

This part of Vincent Van Gogh's life begins in Paris - all 'gray and blue, busy and refined'. The colors (or lack thereof) he saw in his surroundings were a reflection of the city itself. Vincent loved to paint sunflowers, and was not too concerned with whether people liked them. His talks with other artists in sidewalk cafes and coffee shops led to his meeting Paul Gauguin. 

Paul's art was more colorful than any art Vincent had previously seen; he thought Paul was brilliant. As their friendship grew, Vincent willingly shared his sunflower paintings with Paul; Paul was amazed at Vincent's talent. As they talked about art and color, Vincent began to see how to use color in different ways. He wanted to see more. So, he moved away from Paris and found a new home. From there, he wrote letters to his brother and hoped that Paul would visit. 

Vincent also spent time outside at night. All the while, he painted persistently. He was more prolific than he had ever been, and his work became more and more colorful. Still, there was something not right for him. So, he worked harder in hopes he would create work to soothe troubled hearts as it was helping him to heal. 

"Vincent changed the way colors do. 
Vibrant and full of feeling, he was 
prepared to welcome his dear friend."

Perceptive language and exceptional artwork created using watercolor, ink, pen and pencil encourage readers to pay attention to the story being told. It would be wonderful to have samples from Van Gogh's body of work to share once the book is read. Is there an art lesson here? 

PAWS: Hazel Has Her Hands Full, by Michele Assarasakorn and Nathan Fairbairn. Penguin Random House, 2025. $17.99 ages

"After the camping trip, the first weeks of 
summer go by in a blur. I get to sleep in
super late every morning and wake up at 
my own pace. 

Mom doesn't ever give me any trouble 
over it since she's working from home
this summer and likes the peace and 
quiet in the morning."

This is the fourth book in the PAWS series, and fans will appreciate learning all they can about Hazel. Her family's move from Calgary to Vancouver has resulted in a new school, and new friends. On her first day, she met Gabby and Priya. Since her arrival, she has joined the PAWS team. 

Hazel does an excellent job of describing the reason she uses a wheelchair; she has a rare disease called spinal muscular atrophy which affects her ability to move freely without becoming exhausted by her condition. She has faced many questions and comments about being in the chair; not all have been kind or without uninformed opinions. Hazel can walk on her own for short distances; her chair makes life easier and better. 

As school ends and summer vacation begins, the team members get together to create a schedule for their business based on when they will be available. It's going to be a busy time. Gabby is enrolled in numerous camps and will often be out of commission, and she is hosting her cousin for some of the time. Mindy is spending more time than usual with her father and his new partner. There's a need to try to keep the dog walking to a minimum, if possible. 

When Hazel is asked by friends to cat-sit while they are away, she makes the decision to take the job without telling her over-protective mother. One of the cats' owners also uses a wheelchair, making their home accessible for Hazel and her chair. If Hazel can prove that she can do the job on her own, she might change her mother's mind about what she really can do. 

In trying to tackle all of the expectations of two jobs and her physiotherapy sessions, Hazel discovers that it can be harder than she expected. When one of the indoor cats she is caring for gets out the front door, it takes help from her community of friends to right the ship and bring an end to the chaos. It also proves to Hazel and her mother that she has the stuff needed to make it all work. 

Fans will be looking to hear more about this team in the near future.

The Best Emma Ever, written by Jean E. Pendziwol and illustrated by Christina Leist. Scholastic, 2025. $19.99 ages 3 and up

"Wait. 

Did Ruff just roll over? 
He did!
Hurray! Ruff learned something new! 

Then Emma thinks 
a very important think:
What else can she learn 
about rainbows?"

Emma is a very young girl; only five. She rides a tricycle, has two sisters and a dog named Ruff. Emma likes to teach Ruff new tricks. He is interested in learning, but has great difficulty when asked to roll over. Emma considers Ruff the best dog anyway. 

Emma would also like to be 'best' at something. Perhaps, music! She imagines herself playing violin concerts all around the world; her attempts are an affront to her sisters' ears. Maybe soccer? She is quick, and good at running and kicking ... not so good at helping her team win. She is a very accomplished student at school, until she forgets to name indigo as a color of the rainbow. Poor Emma! 

At home she contemplates things while sitting with Ruff, who has finally managed to roll over. What joy! In her happiness over Ruff's success, she decides to paint a picture. Finally, great success on her part. It may not be the best, but it is better than anything she has painted up until now. Brava, Emma! 

All along the way, Emma has loved trying and then trying again. Isn't that the best?                                                                                  

Unstopppable John: How John Lewis Got His Library Card and Helped Change History. Written by Pat Zietlow Miller and illustrated by Jerry Jordan. Viking, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.99 ages 7 and up

"Of course, John got tired. But that didn't matter.
John still did not stop. 
Slowly, slowly, the laws changed. 

Black people could eat at restaurants.
See movies. 
Sit anywhere on the bus. 
Vote in elections. 

Even get library cards."

In a month filled with days when schools are celebrating reading and books, it's important to remember some of the struggles people like John Lewis endured when trying to get a library card. There are many books written about this amazing man who fought for civil rights over a long life and career. 

This story places the focus on his fight to get a library card; all John wanted was to read books. The only book in his home was the Bible, and he had read it many times. His school was the same. The library should have been the answer. Unfortunately, as a young Black man in 1956, he was not afforded the right to have a card or visit the library. 

Even then, John wanted to change his world. In the meantime, he read everything he could. At college, he spent countless hours in the library. One problem solved; many others to consider because of racist laws that kept Black people from eating in restaurants, going to movies, registering to vote, and sitting in any seat on the bus.

Through reading and listening to others, John and his many friends worked to make changes. These were not easy times. They were treated badly, but they kept coming back. They didn't fight back, they carried on. Always seeking equal rights for all, John worked tirelessly. Slowly, laws were changed. John kept reading and learning - and he married a librarian who loved books as he did. 

After being elected to the House of Representatives, John returned to his home town where he was finally given a library card. 

"Forty-two years after he'd first asked for one."

Oils on canvas artwork gives readers a clear look at John, his work, and the historical times. An author's note recalls John's long journey, and is followed by a timeline of John Lewis's life that reflects his hard work and many accomplishments. Finally, a list for reading to learn even more is included. 

To See An Owl, written and illustrated by Matthew Cordell. Random House Studio, 2025. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Beyond the woods, me and Mama drive
to open prairies to look for short-eared owls. 

We drive to the beach and 
harbor to look for snowy owls. 

We even drive to a cemetery to 
look for screech owls and saw-whet
owls. Mama is not excited about
birding in a cemetery."

My first 2025 picture book, and what a beauty it is! Only another birder could write Janie's story with such love and devotion in her patient and persistent search for the owls she longs to see. I am an admirer of Matthew Cordell's work and am always excited to see his next book. This does not disappoint in any way! 

Janie and her mother are often out birding, and chasing Janie's dream of seeing an owl in the wild. Her mother is an understanding and supportive companion for their many searches. Janie's teacher, Mr. Koji, has been birding for his whole life and offers encouragement by talking about the many birds he has seen. He, too, loves owls and provides tips and tricks for observation. 

Janie keeps a journal to organize what she is learning, and what she knows. She and her mother follow the suggestions that Mr. Koji makes. They look and listen at all times of the day, without success. It takes days, then months. On the day Janie gives a report on all that she has learned, Mr. Koji has some important information to share. 

""In fact, just this winter, I found a pair of great horned owls
roosting in this section of pine trees. They are well hidden and 
very hard to find. But it might be worth a try." As I gather 
up my drawings, I think about those trees. I've searched them 
before. But not since autumn."

I love the easy storytelling, the repetition in some of the phrasing, the encouraging words from a beloved teacher/mentor, the familiar pen-and-ink and watercolor artwork that puts readers in the middle of the natural settings Janie and her mother visit as they keep the dream alive. Kids and adults who love birding, as Janie and Matthew do, will be filled with joy as their story ends.                                                                                           

Emergency Quarters, written by Carlos Matias and illustrated by Gracey Zhang. Katherine Tegen Books, Harper. 2024. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Ernesto and his friends visit Senor Jose's bodega 
on their way to school. 
The store is full of colors
and all of Ernesto's favorite things. 

His friends buy cheese puffs and gummy worms. 
"What about you, Ernesto?" asks Senor Jose." 

Carlos Matias opens his book with a note to his readers about what life was like before we all carried cell phones. At that time, there were pay phones available to ensure calls could be made when circumstances made them necessary. His mother would give him a quarter every morning as he left for school ... just in case! 

It's Monday, and Ernesto is ready to walk to school without his parents. It's time to be a nino grande. Ernesto is ready for a change. Just ahead of walking out the door, his mother gives him a quarter 'for emergencies'. It's perfect for his secret pocket. Off he goes with friends. 

They like to stop at the bodega on their way; so many delicious and favorite things test his resolve. He refuses purchase and explains that he is saving his money. Ernesto counts six pay phones on his way to school. The same thing happens Tuesday, and every day that first week. The boys stop at their favorite places; Ernesto saves his quarters. He might need them for an emergency.  

Favorite Day Friday finally rolls around; the sights and sounds of his neighborhood make for a happy celebration of family time and the coming weekend. A visit to Felix's barbershop brings the boys in contact with some of the people they have seen throughout their week. When Felipa walks through the door with her empanada-filled cooler, Ernesto's nose leads him straight to her. 

His arrival home with crumbs on his shirt elicits an explanation for his mother: 

"There was an emergency at the barbershop."

Gracey Zhang gives life to Ernesto's community as it is described in winning text from Mr. Matias. The gouache, watercolor and ink images are filled with wonderful details, luxuriant colors, and the joy to be found in being part of a vigorous neighborhood.