Letters to a Prisoner, by Jacques Goldstyn. Owlkids, 2017. $18.95 ages 8 and up

"And perhaps this story will inspire you. Each year, letter-writing campaigns are held in cities all over the world. Last year, cards, letters, and emails were sent from over 185 countries. If you're interested in supporting this cause and making a difference, you can join Amnesty International's efforts by participating in a Write for Rights event ... "

It starts so peacefully. A father, his daughter and others set out to peacefully protest. The guards who meet them, touting helmets, clubs, and shields, beat the father and arrest him. The child is left to her own devices, after one of the men pops her little red balloon.

Father is hauled away, imprisoned and can only protest from inside a small, barren cell. He has no company, little food, and one guard to constantly patrol the perimeter. A blue bird and a tiny mouse are his only company. They share his bread and his presence. Memories of time spent with his much-loved daughter help him get through the very sad and lonely days.

Then one day, the bird drops a letter through the window. The guard tears it up. That happens each and every time the bird brings a new delivery. The letters (written in many languages) are burned. The smoke sends a plea for help that reaches around the world. More and more people find reason to write letters of their own. They are sent from every walk of life, from every part of the world, by any means possible.

The illustrations are skillfully created with pen-and-ink and watercolor. Through them, the reader experiences the pain, the boredom and the hopeless feelings the man has for the future. The letters provide a sense that others care. The exponential increase in their numbers allows the man escape from his prison, and a reunion with his daughter ... at least metaphorically.

There is a great deal of sadness expressed in these wordless pages; at the same time, the author injects slight touches of humor that allow the book to make just the right impression for those children who will hold it in their hands.

Mr. Goldstyn was inspired to create his book by the campaigns of Amnesty International that encourage people of the world to write letters to help combat the injustices that so many must endure. He dedicates it to Raif Badawi and his family. He is a Saudi blogger who has been in prison for five years. His afterword provides encouragement to get involved:

https://www.amnesty.org/en/get-involved/write-for-rights/

Did You Hear What I Heard? Poems About School, written by Kay Winters and illustrated by Patrice Barton. Dial Books for Young Readers, Penguin Random House, 2018. $22.99 ages 5 and up

" ...
When a word is wrong
I don't erase.
I just delete
and leave a space."

Then I type again.
The page looks neat.
No smudges or smears.

I love to delete!"

And here's a perfect poem for today: Groundhog Day!

"Question for
the Groundhog

Will you,
     Won't you
See your shadow?

Will it,
     Won't it
Really matter?

Do you
     Don't you
Grin to see

People
    take you
seriously???"

This new book of 35 poems follows the school year from the school buses rolling out on the first day to the final day before summer vacation. Each poem is written from a different perspective - a family rushing to make sure the children have all they need before boarding the bus that waits outside the door, to the school's voice welcoming the buses filled with the children who will fill its hallways and classrooms. New kids, math whizzes, language learners, wonderers, recess, science learning, field trips - so many things to consider when children are at school.

The poems describe common events; listeners will find much that is familiar to them.

"We collected crayons
and tiny gold stars.
We counted out 100 each,
and put them into jars.

We built a tall tower
of 100 paper cups.
It wiggled ... it wobbled.
It wouldn't stand up!

We made ten lines of Legos.
Each line had ten.
We counted and counted and counted
and then ... "

The poetic forms are as varied as the perspectives. Patrice Barton's digital illustrations will have a familiar look to those who admire her work. They have the softness of watercolors, textured with warm colors and full of energy and movement. The children are her focus; they are a diverse group. They enjoy their time together and have much to share.
                                                                        

This is NOT a Valentine, written by Carter Higgins and illustrated by Lucy Ruth Cummins. Chronicle, Raincoast. 2018. $20.99 ages 3 and up

"... since sparkle and pink
and glitter are not your
favorite colors. You like
the brown in the mud
puddle and fish-food
orange and that purpley-blue
on your nose when it's
a mitten kind of day. But
red is pretty good for
superheroes, and you are
my favorite one."

What is a valentine? Depends on who you are, I think. Some love them, some are embarrassed by them, some are not interested in them at all. I have a love-hate relationship with them. When I was teaching kindergarten, Valentine's Day was quite special for the kids. For older kids, it was not always that way.

The young man in this wonderful book wants his best friend to know that the many little gifts he gives are not to be considered a valentine at all. He shares what he has to share, and then clearly explains why she should not consider it a valentine. After all, most valentines are filled with candy, flowers, mushy words and the signature colors of red and pink. He wants her to know that

This is not a valentine,

since sugared hearts and suckers
give you cavities and bellyaches.
But I found this at the bottom
of my lunchbox.
You can have the jelly side,
cause I like peanut butter best.
Maybe I'll have some left over.
Maybe."

Suave, for sure! He knows his friend well, and realizes that she is worthy of so much more than a traditional valentine. He does everything in his power to prove it to her. 

Lucy Ruth Cummins uses 'brush marker, gouache, graphite, colored pencil, crayon, ink and charcoal' to create kid-centiric images that perfectly match the tone and appeal of Carter Higgins' text. A day at school is perfectly represented at every turn. So is friendship and genuine interest in that friend.

I have read it over and over again - to myself. Today I debut it as a readaloud on my visit to J R Reid School for World Read Aloud Day. I am eager to see what the kids say. Then, I will read it again when I visit other schools this month.       
                                                                   

                                                    

Be Kind, written by Pat Zietlow Miller and illustrated by Jen Hill. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2018. $24.99 ages 3 and up

"Maybe it's paying attention.

Telling Desmond I like his
blue boots.

Asking the new girl to be
my partner.

Listening to Aunt Franny's
stories. ((Even the ones I've
heard before.)

Teaching about kindness for our children seems a worthy pursuit.  Being concerned for others should be an essential part of our every day lives. Paying attention to goodness should be at the heart of everything we do, shouldn't it? It is inspiring to see good will in little acts of courtesy. We get a response (or not) - either way it fills our hearts and makes us feel better. Most often, it inspires others to do the same. What a way to start each day! Be the first to generate a chain of unselfish acts that could go on, and on, and on ...

The child in this book thinks carefully about how being sympathetic and kind can have a lasting impact. When Tanisha spills grape juice on her brand new dress, she is heartbroken and runs from the classroom. As the day passes, Tanisha keeps to herself. Our narrator wonders what might be done to show her that she matters. 

"Should I have handed her my napkin?
Let her borrow my sweatshirt?
Spilled my juice so everyone stared at me instead?

What does it mean to be kind anyway?"

It is a good question to ask ourselves. As a child thinks about it, many things come to mind that would make another person's day better. It is surprising how long the list grows, and how fast. This is a book to help children begin the conversation and generate a list of the many acts of goodness that can be part of our days.

It matters in our schools, our communities, and around the world. And, it comes back to us with purpose. The detailed artwork and colorful images provide thoughtful contemplation. The children are as culturally diverse as the ideas for showing kindness.

If you are interested in other picture books to inspire kind acts in your homes and classrooms, here is a short list of books you might read.

A Sick Day for Amos McGee (Philip Stead)
Those Shoes and A Bike Like Sergio's (Maribeth Boelts)
Last Stop on Market Street (Matt de la Pena)
Each Kindness (Jacqueline Woodson)
Wolf in the Snow (Matthew Cordell)
The Invisible Boy (Trudy Ludwig)
The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade (Justin Roberts)
The Three Questions (Jon J Muth)
Strictly No Elephants (Lisa Mantchev)
The Giving Tree (Shel Silverstein)
Because Amelia Smiled (David Ezra Stein)
Shelter (Celine Claire)

and many more. Aren't we lucky?

                                                                              

I Love Kisses, written by Sheryl McFarlane and illustrated by Brenna Vaughan. Sourcebooks, Raincoast. 2017. $12.99 ages 2 and up

"Baby brother drool kisses
Splashing in the pool kisses

Stung by a bee kisses
"Ouch, I scraped my knee
kisses

Noisy tambourine kisses
Ghostly Halloween kisses"

In this lovely little book about a diverse and happy neighborhood, kisses are a thing! Everyone gets and gives them, at all times of the day and any day of the year. Kids and their families, friends and pets are recipients. Joy is expressed on every page, in lilting rhymes and digital images. No matter the family make-up, the diversity that is evident on every page, the kisses are received with joyous expectation and fun.

"Now it's time
to go kisses

Valentine's Day
glow kisses

Lipstick on my
cheek kisses

Found you!"
hide-and-seek
kisses"

A kiss from someone who loves you is a very special thing. Pucker up, wait for the 'eews' you are sure to hear from some, and then share it again.
                                                                  

Love, Mama, by Jeanette Bradley. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast. 2018. $23.99 ages 3 and up

"In the morning, Kipling
looked everywhere for
Mama.

But Pillow Mama
wouldn't read,

Picture Mama
wouldn't laugh ...

... and Snow Mama ... "

Often parents have things to do that take them away from their families. They do the best they can to ensure that young children feel safe and secure, despite their absence. In the first of two 'love'ly books for little ones today, we meet a young penguin named Kipling.

Kipling's mother has to leave him behind when she goes on a trip. It is a lonely time, especially as night closes in. Dinner is desolate without her, and bedtime is perfectly dreadful. When she is not home in the morning, Kipling looks for comfort in the familiar. It's not the same without his mama. Days are long, nights are longer.

When a 'sad, soggy box' arrives, Kipling is intent on its content. It's from his mama! She knows just what will make him happy. A note accompanies it.

"Dear Kipling,
My love for you stretches across the wide ocean,
through day
and night,
from earth
to sky
and back again,
from my heart to yours.
Love, Mama.

Kipling responds in kind, and soon Mama is back! So many hugs and kisses to share. Soft, detailed artwork adds connections for the little listener, and a provide a strong sense of love and warmth.

Sakura's Cherry Blossoms, written by Robert Paul Weston and illustrated by Misa Saburi. Tundra, Penguin Random House, 2018. $21.99 ages 4 and up

"...but she often made
mistakes.

She missed Obaachan.
She missed the cherry
blossoms,
their soft and sweet scent.

She missed stories and
picnics and the whispers
of petals."

February is literally around the corner. Three days left in January, and we turn the page to Black History Month, as well as the month associated with love, candy, flowers, valentines and kindness. It seems right that we should be sharing books with our kids that exemplify that love and kindness as much as we can.

The weather report for Tokyo this year says that cherry blossoms should be in full bloom by April 2. Sharing this book with you now will allow time to have it in your hands before that happens. You might also want to share it if you are talking about moving, about seasonal changes, or about love of family.

Sakura's family is set to make a move when her father gets a new job in America. Her grandmother does not move with them. Not only must Sakura leave her comfortable home, she must leave her beloved Obaachan. It is an upheaval, as moving often is for children. She arrives in a place she knows nothing about, where she cannot speak the language, and she's lonely. No cherry blossoms on her street.

When she meets Luke, a boy from her neighborhood, things begin to change.

"One day, Luke saw her
sad and still on the front steps.
"When I'm down," he said,

"I find it helps to look up.
If you want, I could show you."

Using his telescope and sharing his wonder at the sky, Sakura begins to feel better. Helping her friend see what is all around them near the ground makes communication easier. Sakura feels more at home each day. When her grandmother falls ill and the family returns to Japan to be with her, she knows she will miss Luke. Their trip ends in sadness and, once they are home, it is Luke who helps her see that her new home has a special surprise for her that will keep her memories strong and lasting.

The tanka poems that tell Sakura's story are perfect for showing the changes that life holds for a young girl.  From excitement to loneliness, from friendship to grief, and back to warmth and home, this poetic form of carefully chosen and intricately constructed words bring awareness to readers of the depth of emotions one young girl experiences. 

The illustrations reflect the changes as they occur, and are especially poignant as they show the contrast between the sadness of death and winter, and the brilliance of spring filled with stunning flowering trees, awash with thousands of delicate pink blossoms.

Words and Your Heart, written and illustrated by Kate Jane Neal. Feiwel and Friends, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2018. $23.99 ages 3 and up

"But sometimes words
can make us cry.

(We all know what sort
of words those are.)

You see, sometimes words
can be like a deadly arrow ...

that can pierce someone's
heart."

If you are a living, breathing human being, you know the power that words have to empower, engage, and uplift, as well as to bruise, batter, and damage each one of us. Words are important, and how we choose to use them should be top of mind at all times. It is not easy to remember that. But, it is worth every effort we make to ensure that our hearts are in the right place when speaking to others.

Kate Jane Neal wants her young readers to understand that power, and to use it for good. It turns out that bullying, shaming and name-calling can hurt our hearts, and too many children and adults are feeling the results of that these days. It will take a concentrated effort and a strong dose of kindness to change ways and make the world a better place for every human being.

"If someone feels sad,
your words can
cheer them up!

If someone feels weak,
your words can help them feel stronger.

If someone wants to give up,
your words can help them keep going."

It is a concentrated effort that is needed. We all know this; we need everyone to believe it. Sharing this book might just make one child think more clearly about kindness. Or maybe many more! Isn't it worth trying? Can we each help make our world a better place? I think so.

White backgrounds, a red heart, and cheerful, uplifting characters highlight the joy to be found in just the right words and actions.

The Pink Hat, written and illustrated by Andrew Joyner. Schwartz & Wade, Random House. 2017. $23.99 ages 3 and up

"It was a
hard-to-reach hat.

A hard-to-reach
pink hat.

That is, until ...

a baby caught the hat.

It was a warm hat."  

I should have shared this before the Women's March last week. I'm sorry.

The author draws us into his story with a full page spread, showing a neighborhood where in one building sits an elderly woman looking out the window, while in another a little girl plays her violin. There is no hat. Turn the page to see the woman knitting a lovely pink hat. It acts as hat, tea cozy, toe warmer ... until, the cat gets hold of it.

What fun that cat has ... until, it flies out the window and lands on a tree branch. It takes time for the children who see it there to try to rescue it. In their attempt, it is knocked from the branch and lands in the arms of a delighted baby being pushed in a stroller by her mother. It is perfect ... until ....

You get the picture. It passes from one place to the next, until the young violinist rescues it. It is in need of a wash. Ready to be worn, it becomes an every day accessory for her. In fact, it's perfect to wear while marching with so many others wearing pink and speaking up for women's rights.

The hot pink knit hat is the bright spot from beginning to end, and pink is the predominant color for the entire book. The rest of the illustrations are done in black and white line drawings that give real emphasis to this symbol of that first march.
                                                                         

A Boy, a Mouse and a Spider: The Story of E. B. White, written by Barbara Herkert and illustrated by Lauren Castillo. Henry Holt and Company, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2017. $26.99 ages 6 and up

"When the time came
for kindergarten,
shy Elwyn fought
with all his might.
Noooo! I won't go!
His parents persisted.
Elwyn now sat
in a spotless linen suit,
fretting over his fears.
What if Miss Greene
called on him?"

Are you planning on reading Stuart Little or Charlotte's Web to your students, or to your own children? They are such outstanding stories, and will live in their memories for years to come. As you prepare for sharing either of those books, you might like to first read this fascinating picture book biography, both for yourself and for your listeners. It is a brilliant introduction to the boy who became the man who wrote those books.

E.B. White loved animals from early childhood, befriending a house mouse while he was sick at home and keeping it as a pet. His mother did not know. As he grew, he enjoyed the stable animals and the barn where they were housed. He used all of his senses as he explored the natural world that surrounded him.

"In the refuge of the stable,
Elwyn's senses sharpened
to the ripe scent of manure,
the creak of harness leather,
the perfect shape of eggs,
the snort of tired horses,
the sweet-dry smell of hay,
and a spider's masterpiece."

Ms. Herkert is definitely preparing her readers for the shared story. Her well-chosen language and storytelling voice engage readers in this book that begins in childhood, when Elwyn shows an interest in his surroundings and records what he sees and how he feels about it. Writing becomes his passion. At college, he contributes to his school newspaper. A doting uncle at Christmas visits, he tells stories with joy and abandon about a mouse he dreamt of while on a train trip. After working in New York for a number of years and longing for the quiet of farm life, he moves his family to 'his dream in Maine'.

Farm life suits him, and from there he writes his three books for children.

The polished prose is matched beautifully with Lauren Castillo's gorgeous brown ink and watercolor images. The spreads enhance the text, and provide a clear view of the world so loved by Elwyn as he moves from farm to city and back to the idyllic atmosphere of the White homestead in Maine. They are textured, filled with light and shadow, peace and beauty. You will surely find a favorite ... or two ... or more. I will leave that to you and to your listeners.
                                                                       

Balderdash: John Newbery and the Boisterous Birth of Children's Books, written by Michelle Markel and illustrated by Nancy Carpenter. Chronicle Books, Raincoast. 2017. $23.99 ages 6 and up

"John wanted to publish
fine books for the whole
lot of them - and for their
children. He knew the
youngsters were hungry for
stories. Many boys and girls
handed coppers to street
hawkers for ugly chapbooks
of fairy tales ... "

While we are on the subject of libraries and writers, I thought I would share this book about John Newbery who is widely known as the father of literature for children, and has the Newbery Medal named for him. I did not know his story; as I knew little about Andrew Carnegie. We are blessed to have authors willing to do the research and present us with engaging and important stories about people who deserve our attention.

John Newbery loved children, and thought they deserved books that would educate and captivate them. Ms. Markel begins with an invitation to be a part of his world and his quest to create those books. It is great fun:

"WELCOME!

This book's for you.

Every page,
every picture,
every word, and even its
letters are designed for
your pleasure.

Lucky, lucky reader.
Be glad it's not 1726."

Turn the page and get the fun started. In a spirited and refreshing tale, she keeps the children John wanted to reach front of mind. She takes us to the city of London, where John found himself in the midst of those who bought and sold books. His store was designed to attract parents and their children. But, he wanted the books for kids to be worthy of their attention. He was concerned about their parents, and how they felt about that.

 “Many mums and dads worried that if their little nippers read fun books, they’d turn wild as beasts!”

He did not agree, and set out to prove it. Honing in on an idea to put a book and a toy together for one price, he captures the attention of those important to him.

“Will the parents buy them? Are they too…cheerful? The children gobbled them up like plum cakes.”

We are in his debt.

Nancy Carpenter uses pen and ink and digital media to create energetic illustrations to engage readers and enhance their reading. Her edges make it look like a book straight out of Mr. Newbery's publishing house. The details are most welcome and filled with bounce. Sure to please those who share it, this is another biography that deserves our attention.

Wait until you get to the last charming scene!

Included is further information about John Newbery, a description of the books mentioned in the  text, books and articles for further reading, and a selected bibliography.
                                                                         

Ordinary, Extraordinary Jane Austen, written by Deborah Hopkinson and illustrated by Qin Leng. Balzer & Bray, Harper., 2018. $21.99 ages 6 and up

"Jane had such fun writing
she began to pen little plays
and stories
to make her family laugh out loud.

And when her older brothers
went away
to college and the sea,
Jane sent witty letters
to keep them smiling far
from home."

Happy birthday to this book about the much admired Jane Austen. It is being released today!

It deals mainly with Jane's early life, and offers a look at a young girl not noticed by many. She was rather shy, and often avoided visitors to the family home by hiding. It proved a boon for an aspiring writer. Jane didn't speak with the guests; rather, she listened to their conversations and garnered a great deal of information from her eavesdropping. Her family also provided gist for her writing.

"Jane and her sister, Cassandra, were the only girls in a house
bursting with six boisterous brothers,
plus packs of boys who came to live
and study at her father's boarding school.
It was like growing up inside a story
full of fascinating (and noisy) characters."

Deborah Hopkinson's chatty telling allows her listeners to see clearly how the Austen family lived, and the many joys that inspired Jane's artistic expression. She acted in plays, created costumes and sets, and read, read, read from her father's library. Schooling outside the home was not meant for young ladies of the time. Jane did her own learning.  Her father admired her writing and provided notebooks and a writing box, her prized possessions.

Jane wanted her books to be different from what was popular. She wanted readers to see themselves in her writing, and wrote stories about real people ... like herself and her family. When her father sent just one manuscript of three to a publisher, it was rejected. She did not give up. Her persistence paid off and she became a published author, although the books did not carry her name. 200 years later, people are still reading those books ... it is quite a triumph!

Qin Leng fully matches the easy tone of the story with wonderful ink and watercolor artwork. With changing perspectives, readers see realistic depictions of the Austen family, their home, Jane's joy in writing, and her love of learning. Children listening to her story may not recognize her name; but this is a rewarding glimpse into the early life of a writer they may come to know in later life.

Backmatter, includes a timeline, summaries of Austen’s major works, and additional resources. Those who read it to the target audience may just find themselves wanting to know more. That is one of the reasons we share books like this, isn't it?

The Man Who Loved Libraries: The Story of Andrew Carnegie, written by Andrew Larsen and illustrated by Katty Maurey. Owlkids, 2017. $18.95 ages 8 and up

"Andrew went right to work to help support his family. He and his father found jobs at the Anchor Cotton Mills, where giant looms did the very work that Andrew's father had once done at home. Andrew was a bobbin boy, scurrying around the factory floor, removing full bobbins from the machines and replacing them with empty ones. He worked twelve hours a day ... "

I know Andrew Carnegie's name; I did not know his story. As so often happens when I read a picture book biography, I come away from the reading with more knowledge and a better understanding for people that others consider heroes.

His life story is very interesting, as is his legacy. Living in poverty when his father's fine woven linens were no longer viable because of the growing number of mills producing cheaper clothing, the family decided to emigrate from Scotland to America where some family members were already living.

Working at any job he could get, Andrew quickly made his presence known. His work ethic strong, his resolve clear, he found time to learn as much as he could. He was very good at the jobs he held, and he knew education was key to a better future. He could not afford the books he wanted to read. Luckily, Colonel Anderson willingly shared his library with those wanting to make their lives better.

"Andrew loved Colonel Anderson's
library. He loved its warmth and light.
He loved to borrow the books that
filled its shelves. He especially loved to
read them.

The more he read, the more he learned."

With his growing education and a head full of ideas, Andrew made remarkable progress in his work. Soon he was supporting his family, and using what money he had left to take advantage of investment opportunities. He did not keep the money he made. Instead, he remembered what the colonel's library had meant to him. Today, there are 125 Carnegie libraries in Canada (most in Ontario), more than 1600 in the United States, 650 in the United Kingdom and others scattered around the world. It is a pretty remarkable thing he and his family did.

Simply and chronologically presented, it is a clear message that we can make a difference when we give back in whatever way possible and meaningful. The art is done in a mellow palette, and places
the story clearly in the 19th and early 20th century. The grandeur of the library built in his home village is evident, as is Mr. Carnegie's pleasure at its official opening.

Back matter adds context, archival photographs, and a list of sources for further study.

Swish & Squeak's Noisy Day, written and illustrated by Birgitta Sif. Alfred A. Knopf, Random House. 2017. $22.99 ages 4 and up

"Swish hears the swoosh
of her toothbrush ...

nibble
nibble

and a tiny nibble as she
packs their lunches.

Mwuaahhh
mwuah Mwuaahhh ... "

Swish is a listener, her sister Squeak is a noisemaker. Swish is the older, responsible sister who does what she can to make the day pass without difficulty for both. Birgitta Sif knows a great deal about sisters, as she has two young daughters to whom she dedicates this new book:

"To my little mice,
Soley and Salka,
quiet and loud but,
most importantly,
always together as sisters."

I cannot wait to share this with my granddaughters who are 3 and nearing 2. They, too, are noisy and quiet, and it warms my heart to see their love for each other - most of the time at this point.

Swish is sometimes annoyed with the noises that emanate from her little sister. She also hears the sounds she herself makes as the two get ready for school, and on their way there. There are so many sounds as the day progresses ... the bell, the growling stomachs, the school band's attempt to play in tune. There is a LOT to hear. When she can't see her sister as school lets out and there are children all around, she is overjoyed  to hear Squeak's voice calling our her location. Their trip home offers a quiet visit to the library, and new books to share at bedtime.

Listeners will love to hear the many sounds of  the day, and readers will have to practice to ensure their success during the telling. The sweet scenes are filled with energy and sound, and done in soft colors to emphasize the feelings between siblings.

It has a found a place on my 'keepers' shelf, ready to be shared when Sicily and Chelsea visit again.

La La La written by Kate DiCamillo and illustrated by Jaime Kim. Candlewick Press, Random House. 2017. $21.99 ages 3 and up

"What if you were
able to connect with
someone?

What if you were
able to sing?"

She is a singer. She is lonely. She is on the lookout for a friend to sing with her. First, she sings in her room and no one responds. When falling leaves begin to slip into the house through an open space, she thinks she might find a response outside. No such luck. She remains alone.

Out in the woods, near a pond, she continues singing her solitary song, hoping that there will be a response. She sings to a rock, then to a tree, her song becoming more forceful and plaintive. She does not give up, moving past other flora until she gives in and heads back home. There, she waits through the afternoon until the sunlit sky gives way to the purple haze of evening.

She returns to the outdoors, enticed by the darkening skies and finally finding a spot in a beam of moonlight. She sings her song once more. Will the moon sing back? She is heartened by its brilliance and its presence. Nothing. Maybe she needs to be closer. A ladder brings her nearer, and she sings her song again. No response. Her wait seems endless, until dragging her ladder, she heads for home once more.

It is a long and tiring time ... but, what is that sound?

So beautifully designed and filled with hope and love, Kate DiCamillo and Jaime Kim stun their audience with this almost wordless picture book. The simplicity of the song is enhanced by the soft colors of day that give way to the strength and beauty found at dusk, and the emotions expressed by a small girl in each setting.

She is brave. She perseveres. She is seen!

 You need a copy.

https://youtu.be/OqxOlkabmH4

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street, by Karina Yan Glaser. Houghton MIfflin Harcourt, Raincoast. 2017. $23.99 ages 8 and up

"The radiator woke Hyacinth the next day, whistling a joyful good morning. Instead of feeling cheered by it like she usually did, Hyacinth felt as if sewing needles were poking around in her stomach. It was Saturday, the official start to Operation Beiderman. Through her window she could see the last wrinkled leaves gripping the branches of the ancient red maple, refusing to drift down to the ground ... "

Meet Isa and Jessie, Oliver, Hyacinth, Laney, Mr. and Mrs Vanderbeeker, Franz, George Washington, Paganini and the other wonderful characters who people their lives. You will not soon forget them, and you will highly anticipate meeting them again in the near future. We can only hope!

I read this awesome book last month, and remember every single scene penned by Karina Yan Glaser in her debut novel.

The Vanderbeekers live in a brownstone they love, in an neighborhood they love, and share their days with people they love, the exception being their grumpy landlord, Mr. Beiderman. Christmas is near. Though everyone should be happily anticipating the coming holiday, the family has just learned that their lease will not be renewed, and they need to be out by the end of December. They have no idea why has their landlord has made the decision, and the children are determined to campaign to have him change his mind. The five children all bring their own special expertise to the plan. Each of their attempts is met with the contempt exhibited by Mr. Beiderman. He is a mystery to them as they have never come face to face with him. They cannot comprehend how he can be so mean to a family he doesn't really know.

I love every one of the characters; each has a distinctive personality that is well drawn for readers. Their family is engaging, chaotic, full of love for each other and for their neighbors. As they do their best to find out more about their landlord, they make some discoveries that help to explain why he is the way he is, thus turning the tide for each and every one of them.

There is so much here to love. Any middle grade classroom, or student, would welcome the Vanderbeekers into their reading life. You won't want to say farewell, and you will eagerly await news that you might meet them again.

"I have always believed that raising kids means more that just being a good parent and trying to do the right things," Papa went on, his voice beginning to wobble. "It means surrounding your kids with amazing people who can bring science experiments and jam cookies, laughter and joy, and beautiful experiences into their lives. From every part of  my being, I want to thank you for giving me and my family the gifts of friendship and love."

Long Way Down, by Jason Reynolds. Atheneum, Simon & Schuster. 2017. $23.99 ages 14 and up

"I Had Half A Second

to

get a grip,
grab the grip,
tuck the gun,
turn around,
ignore Buck,
catch my breath,
stand up straight ... "

In Will's neighborhood, there is a code: no crying, no snitching and get revenge. So, when his brother Shawn is killed, his path is set for him. Will has never even held a gun. He knows where Shawn keeps his, and he walks out of his apartment, gun in his waistband, on his way to seek revenge on the person he thinks is responsible.

The elevator is his means to get down to the street. As the elevator stops on each floor, Will comes face to face with significant people from his life, each a victim of the violence that has taken his brother, and that he is about to commit. The ghosts speaks to Will as the elevator moves from floor to floor.

Jason Reynolds uses free verse poems to tell his story; poems that are filled with scenes of violence, powerfully shown through the conversations shared. The trip lasts only one minute, but the emotion, story, and environment are full of impact and thought provoking for Will and for the readers of this remarkable book. The six stops, the friends met, and the stunning effect on Will himself offer a chance for deep discussion and careful thought for those sharing it.

I read the book in thirty minutes: its characters, scenes and importance will be in my heart and mind for much, much longer.

Please take the time to share the following interviews. They need to be heard. Then, introduce your kids and students to his website where they can learn more about this amazing young writer.

https://youtu.be/58hF22Yz9gs

https://www.npr.org/player/embed/560286304/560767537"

http://www.jasonwritesbooks.com/

Where Oliver Fits, written and illustrrated by Cale Atkinson. Tundra, Penguin Random House, 2017. $21.99 ages 3 and up

"It didn't go so well.

His second try wasn't
much better.

Too round!
Not enough square!

And on his third try ...
Well, all he got was
a laugh."

Oliver is tiny. A small piece with no notion of where he fits, Oliver sets out to find his place in the puzzle world. He has big plans. He knows that he would like to fit in somewhere, and he's willing to take the time it takes to find his ideal spot. Unfortunately, while he can see others who sport the same colors, he cannot find anywhere that needs a blue, orange and purple round-headed piece. It's hard to take!

The other puzzle pieces are disparaging, and argue that he will never find that place. It makes him sad enough to try and alter the way he looks. No matter what he tries, he fails to find acceptance. Finally, he restructures himself and paints himself purple. That should do it!

"Oh, hello there!" the other pieces greeted him.
"Please join us, friend. We love your fancy shape,  
and what fetching colors!"

"Where were you hiding? Where have you been?"
Finally, he finds a fitting spot. But, no one really knows who he is. It doesn't sit well with him. Removing his disguise has dire consequences. It doesn't take long for him to find others in the same predicament ... they don't fit anywhere. Might they find a place together?

The attractive colors and heartfelt scenes created 'with puzzle pieces, glue, space unicorns and Photoshop' are a perfect fit for the story. Readers will be intrigued to see how they match up, and to read the many speech bubbles that show emotion throughout the telling. Be sure to have some puzzles nearby when you finish reading it to your kids, or your class. It might prove just the right time to try their hand at puzzle building skills.                                                                     

Another Way to Climb a Tree, written by Liz Garton Scanlon and illustrated by Hadley Hooper. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2017. $24.99 ages 3 and up

"Lulu climbs the trees
that trap cats
and the trees
that catch kites
and
the
trees
other
kids
won't 
climb."

Unlike Lou, from yesterday's post, Lulu likes nothing better than climbing trees. She loves their leafy branches, the joy found in being above the ground, the ways she can help others who are not so keen to climb as she does. She has no fear, despite the dangers inherent in her many ascents.

"When Lulu sees         
a climbing tree,

she's here

and then she's gone,
just like that."

When Lulu is sick and unable to climb, the trees miss her as much as she misses them ... not to mention the other inhabitants who share her lofty perches and those who share the outdoors with her.  As she sits inside and watches, she sees that both the sun and moon get to spend the day and night in the tree where she so badly wants to be. It makes her even sadder. She no longer wants to see her tree. So, she turns her back to it.

But, the sun has a surprise for her! Lulu only has to use her imagination.

What a celebration of Lulu and her trees! Hadley Hooper creates her illustrations using 'traditional art materials and printmaking techniques that were scanned in and assembled in Photoshop'. They are warm and welcoming with leafy greenness enveloping young Lulu every time she climbs a tree. Even her indoor world speaks to her ongoing love of the outside world, and her big window is used to great effect when separating her from it.
                                                                         

The Thing Lou Couldn't Do, written and illustrated by Ashley Spires. Kids Can Press, 2017. $18.95 ages 4 and up

"Lou tells them that
her arm is sore.
And anyway, the cat
needs a walk.
Also, she read once
that you shouldn't
climb so soon after
eating.

There are SO MANY
REASONS not to try."

Lou and her friends are wild with imagination! They imagine themselves all kinds of brave and spunky for the many backyard exploits they dream up. Lou is an active participant. Then, when a nearby tree becomes the ship for a pirate adventure, she wants to take a step back. Lou has never climbed a tree, and she is not in the least bit interested in trying it. Lou is afraid of what might happen.

Her friends are adamant; they want her to be part of this new outing. Lou is equally sure that she does not want any part of it. She starts by making excuses for not being able to join them. All are inventive, and slightly suspect. Even the ingenious ways she imagines for getting her up there without climbing are unreasonable.

With her friends' faith in her ability to do it and their need for a leader to neutralize an imminent attack, she decides to give it a try.

"The pirate captain has faced
some pretty scary things - sea monsters,
hurricanes, even a super-bad brain freeze.
And now, Captain Lou Skullbuckle is going
to do the scariest thing of them all. She's
going to CLIMB THIS TREE!"

Is she, or is Lou right in thinking that tree climbing is not her forte? Maybe another day, but not today.

I know how Lou feels. There were some things, as a child, I was just not willing to try. Tree climbing was one of those. I admit to envying those friends to whom it was no challenge, but it was not my cup of tea. Sometimes being afraid of something is your safest bet for staying safe. Lou did her best, and that is really all anyone can ask.

Ashley Spires' band of daredevils are appealing and expressive. They love to be together and their many escapades show the fun they share. Lou's reserve over trying something that elicits genuine fear make her vulnerable and honest. When it comes to helping her friends, she decides it's worthy of an effort, no matter how hard it is on her. Her facial expressions show the emotions she feels from start to finish.