The Wise Pickle, written by Sarah Howden and illustrated by Sabina Hahn. tundra, Peguin Random House. 2026. $24.99 ages 4 and up

  h

"A curious earthworm had a harder 
question. "Why are we here?"

"I used to think I was meant to be a 
tasty snack. But now I am here, 
talking with you. Purposes can 
change." 

Day after day, the pickle sat there, 
shriveling in the sun. (It was a dry 
summer.)"

When a pickle lands next to a dry cleaners and speaks about his dilemma, resident animals have questions. As they gather, the pickle offers thoughts for them concerning his ability to communicate and why what he has to say is important. A bird asks why he considers himself so wise. Apparently, the pickle just knows it to be true. They continue to ask, and the pickle continues to provide clear answers. When a mouse asks about hunger, the pickle explains he is meant to feed not to be fed. 

A passing earthworm has a more philosophical question, wondering 'why we are here'. The pickle responds that, at one time, he was a snack and now he is talking with those who have enquiries about him. Seems the purpose in life can change. The question about his path to being where he is surprises with this answer. 

""I used to live underwater," began the pickle. "In a salty brine like the sea, 
but with more garlic. Then I was served beside a hot dog to a person ... who
hated pickles."

The summer days are warm and the pickle shrivels. A question about choice concerning his fate, leads to the answer that being eaten by a dog would be fine. His animal friends prepare to fulfill his wish, and call for a dog. Just when his fate seems set, another surprise adventure begins. 

Kids who hear this story will feel concern for the pickle and its dilemma, while the adults reading it may look at it differently. All in all, it is a fun read with humor and empathy clearly shared in illustrations created using black graphite pencil, watercolor and pickle brine. 

What are your big questions? 

The True Ugly Duckling: How Hans Christian Andersen Became a Swan, written by Sandra Nickel and illustrated by Calvin Nichols. Levine Querido, Raincoast. 2026. $25.99 ages 8 and up

 

"Sometimes, to comfort his heart, the boy 
cut out shapes from paper, since that was 
all he had. 

One day, a neighbor girl asked him why 
her flowers had faded overnight. The boy, 
who was a young man by now, answered 
with a story. And as he spoke, he took out 
his scissors and cut out pictures of hearts, 
little ladies who danced, flowers, and great 
castles in which one could open the doors."

Using the style of storytelling that made Hans Christian Andersen famous, Ms. Nickel shares the details of his life from the time he was a young child. That early life was not an easy one; Hans was not like the other children. He did not attend school as they did. He looked different; he had a tender heart; he created costumes for toy actors and then used them to tell stories to anyone who would listen. He loved to entertain. A few offered coins helped while most who listened made him feel unwanted and sad. 

In a quest to find a better life, he sailed off to Copenhagen. The manager at the Royal Theater was not impressed with his look or his manner. The dance school did not need a young man who could not dance. He held his own in a boys' choir until his voice changed. Without money and a way to earn any, he made one last attempt to get the attention of the directors of the Royal Theater. He wrote a play. One said no, another thought it help promise. First, he would need to go to school.  At 17,  he spent his days studying with much younger children and was not allowed to write stories. 

Though always sad, he found comfort in cutting shapes from paper. A simple question asked by a young neighbor girl led to his telling her a story using scisssors to embellish it. Because she loved it so, he wrote it down and had it published with three old stories he retold in his own unique way. Children loved them. Hans was on his way, telling tales and writing stories children loved to read.    

"Before long, even adults were reading about a one-legged tin soldier
who yearned for love. A poor match girl. A mermaid who gave her 
voice for a prince." 

Brilliantly told with empathy and admiration, this picture book biography includes clever references to some of his most famous tales and invites readers to learn more about the man whose stories were drawn from his own experiences as a 'strange child'. His love of creating cut-paper artwork is replicated by the stunning illustrations of Calvin Nichols. The closer a reader looks, the more there is to see. It isn't until Hans finally achieves success that Mr. Nichols allows readers a clear look at who had become; once an ugly duckling, now a beautiful swan.   

The author ends with a note about neurodivergence, and the fact that some experts believe Mr. Andersen was likely on the autism spectrum. She also talks more about his work and includes a select bibliography that will certainly offer help for readers who want to know more.
                                                                                       

Bartleby, words and pictures by Matt Phelan. Farrar Straus Giroux, Macmillan. Rainccoast, 2026. $25.99 ages 3 and up

"During music time, everyone plays
the giant xylophone. 

           I PREFER NOT TO.

Then everyone sings a silly song. 

           Bartleby says, 

                I PREFER NOT TO." 

Bartleby, a dapper white bear all dressed in red, says one thing a LOT: I PREFER NOT TO. He says it with little emotion, and is never impolite. He just states his case. His teacher, Ms. Melville, always offer an invitation to her students, including Bartleby. Bartleby remains reluctant whether it is sharing time, or music, play time, or games. 

When it is time for art, Ms. Melville invites all to draw a picture of themselves. She adds a special instruction that they 'show me who you are!' Only then does Bartleby step inside the circle to ask his teacher a quiet question and for some special paper. She agrees. Everyone gets to work, including Bartleby. When all artists have finished their work, Bartleby collects each portrait, and arranges them on the frame he has created.  

"Everyone loves Bartleby's display." 

As the day comes to an end, his classmates ask if Bartleby would like to play with them tomorrow. 

"I WOULD 
LIKE TO."

From the beginning of his story, Bartleby chooses to stand apart from the others in his class. While his classmates are enthusiastic participants, Bartleby would rather be an observer. Until that art class when he chooses to do something in his own way, and his teacher provides support for him to be himself. 

Bartleby's red draws attention at every turn; and his standing apart as he considers requests and questions keeps him true to his own feelings. Matt Phelan's ability to create an accepting and inclusive place for all children makes this an exceptional book to read aloud.

                                                                                   

Buttfish, written by Pauline Pinson and illustrated Magali le Huche. Kids Can Press, 2026. $21.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Suddenly, one day, the two friends get 
trapped in a big net.

Help!

But the fisherman takes one look at them
and throws them back into the sea because
he doesn't think they will taste good. Phew!"

Buttfish knows that his face resembles a butt; everyone tells him so. When he isn't sure how to respond, he blows farts with his mouth and entertains everyone, while also distracting them from their campaign to make him feel bad about himself. In trying to avoid their taunting, he leaves the area and heads deeper into the sea. Amazed by all he sees there and leading to his meeting a cheese fish make his days much better. Steven, the cheese fish, becomes his best friend; the two spend their together learning new things, keeping other fish safe from fishing boats, having a great deal of fun, and travelling together. They even play in a band - just the two of them.

Life is good! There is always something new to discover. A sea urchin helps Buttfish realize something very special about himself. 

"Hey, your head looks like a heart!"

And so it does when he's upside down. What a revelation!

This a fun book to read aloud in early years classrooms; its message about loving who you are is never overbearing. The colorful and varied inhabitants of the sea attract attention on every spread. They are constantly moving and very expressive, leaving readers to enjoy the many details of Buttfish's life. 

The Bear Fairy, written by Paul Coccia and illustrated by Fred Blunt. tundra, Penguin Random House. 2026 #24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"The next day, Spencer and the Bear Fairy
got ready to go back to the park. 

Can you go a bit faster? Mariah will have 
gone home by the time we get there."

What do you imagine a fairy looks like? If you have read about such magical beings, you are likely to have an idea about what to expect should your attempt to catch one works. That is certainly what Spencer is hoping when he sets out to trap a fairy in his backyard. 

Spencer's friend Mariah is quite sure his plan will not work; she thinks fairies are meant for 'beautiful little girls like me'. Spencer is unconvinced and continues with his quest. As she wanders off, Mariah leaves a potato chip bag on the lawn. While waiting for his catch, Spencer takes time for a short snooze. Imagine his surprise when he wakes to find the leftover chips sparkling with fairy dust. And a bear fairy to boot who loves potato chips! Appetite sated for the moment the fairy soon departs. Spencer chases the fairy down, wanting to show Mariah. The fairy agrees to hang at the park with Spencer, despite the lack of potato chips. They also spend time at Spencer's home where the fairy finds a secret stash. A bear fairy is not the best kind of guest to have: always hungry for chips, messy, snores, and sleeptalks. 

The challenge to prove Mariah wrong is met with pushback. Mariah names everything that fairies are that the bear fairy is not. Spencer cannot hold back his temper, and lets his friend know just how he feels about his bear fairy. To Spencer, this fairy is perfect.  Off they go with chips and ice cream in hand to spend happy times together. The final spread shows Mariah setting a fairy trap of her own, using a bag of chips as bair. 

There is a lot to like for young readers here: wordplay, cartoon-like art, expressive characters, lots of movement, and the argument about how real fairies should look. It's a funny book to read aloud, with a side of chips.                                                                                     

We Could Be Magic, written by Marissa Meyer with art by Joelle Murray. Feiwel and Friends, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2025. $23.99 ages 12 and up

 

"Are you sure we can do this? I mean, 
I've read a lot of those "Secrets of 
Sommerland" books, and I don't 
remember anything about a secret 
passage by the Mystic Manor ... 

My theory is that it isn't in those books 
because it's not technically supposed to 
be a secret. Winda Sommers had intended
for this to be a part of the attraction all 
along. She just didn't realize how long 
the lines would be and how that would 
keep people from straying off the usual 
path."

Tabitha has loved Summerland for as long as she can remember. She believes in its magic; its promise of true love, especially important after being so shocked when her parents divorce. She is thrilled when she is able to work in the summer program for high school students. It surprises her to learn that others working there do not share her feelings. They often complain about the guests they must deal with, and with some of the demands of their jobs. 

Tabi is especially interested in being one of the actors. A meeting with Princess Madeline as a child left a lasting impression and it has been a dream to follow in those princess footsteps. That dream is dashed with her assignment to work the nacho stand. Her audition for a princess is met with the cruel realization that not one of the princes or princesses in the park is 'fat'. While coming to terms with her disappointment, she does her best to hold onto the magic Summerland has always had for her. \

The colorful artwork will be appreciated by graphic novel fans as they are emotional and empathetic to Tabi's early insecurity that leads to acceptance of who she is and how she deals with the disappointment. Marissa Meyer is a great storyteller and it shines through here. Themes concerning body image and facing bullying are handled deftly and will leave readers admiring both Tabi and those strong friends who support her unconditionally. She is valued and she knows it. 

You Can't Tame a Tiger, written by Stephanie Ellen Sy and illustrated by Jullien Chung. Owlkids, 2025. $22.95 ages 3 and up

 

"Another time, I painted polka dots 
all over him. 
Imran raised an eyebrow. 

A spotted tiger? 

Everyone thought he was a cheetah."

The child narrator of this pet story will delight little ones when they learn his pet is a tiger named Imran. The strange thing about Imran is he is not orange and there are no stripes. How can that be? The child has mentioned to his pet that he's not sure that he is a tiger at all. Imran is quick to ask why he needs stripes to be a tiger. 

Painting on stripes only has friends thinking Imran is a zebra. When they try feeding him grass, Imran spits it out and lets them know he eats 'animals that eat grass'. Oops! Discussing civility, Imran lets them know you can't tame a tiger. Spots have children thinking he's a cheetah ... and fast. Imran assures that tigers only run when the spirit moves them. Each attempt to make him conform results in the constant reminder about trying to tame him. 

No matter the argument about the characteristics he's missing, Imran is adamant that he is a tiger. He proves it to the boy by making a high leap and then plunging into a pool to swim. What he's best at is ROARING! That roar turns the tide, and has everyone impressed about the tiger in their midst. It's final ... Imran is a tiger, who cannot be tamed! It turns out you don't have to look like every other tiger to actually be one. That's a great lesson to learn, no matter who you are. 

How To Draw a Secret, written and illustrated by Cindy Chang. Harper, 2025. $19.99 ages 10 and up

 

"Class, let's take a look at your 
homework, I want to see all those
ideas on "What Family Means To
Me"!

I never finished my homework 
after reading Baba's email 
yesterday!

But how could I have come up 
with anything without revealing 
my family's secret to the whole 
school?"

Living in San Francisco with her mother and older sisters, Cindy must deal with a family secret, almost impossible to understand. While the rest of the family remains in the United States, Cindy's father made the decision four years ago to move back to Taiwan. The explanation is that he has moved for work. There is little communication. Her mother insists that it must remain a secret.  

Cindy is a sixth grader with artistic talent; she is encouraged by her art teacher to enter a contest that is titled "What My Family Means to Me". Uncomfortable with the truth of their family's situation, Cindy has difficulty deciding how to depict it through her art. Should she somehow create a perfect family portrait in hopes that it will bring her Baba home again?

When her father's mother dies in Taiwan, the family makes the trip to attend the funeral. While they are there, they learn the real reason for their father's absence. How will knowing this difficult truth impact Cindy's art project? Using expressive and telling art, Cindy Chang shares an emotional time for her family in her debut novel. Readers will be clearly aware of the strain placed on family members as they process the reason for the abrupt changes to their idyllic life.  

This autobiographical novel is poignant and complex. Variety in the artwork moves from the strength of her mother and sisters as they learn to accept their new reality to the anger and frustration Cindy feels in having no say about their situation. Journal entries help her sort through the myriad of feelings that eventually allow her to speak up, and accept what cannot be changed. 

Raven's Ribbons, written by Tasha Spillett and illustrated by Daniel Ramirez. Owlkids, 2025. $22.95 ages 4 and up

 

"Women from all over ask Grandma 
to sew ribbon skirts for them because
hers are the most colourful. 

Grandma says that every ribbon 
skirt she makes is as beautiful 
and unique as the person she 
sews it for."

Raven loves to listen to the rhythm of the drums, and to join with his grandma in the round dance. They sway and shuffle as the drum beats bring joy to their hearts. As they dance, Raven watches the colors of the ribbon skirts that the women are wearing. Many of those skirts have been made by his grandma; they reflect what Nohkum knows about each dancer. Just as people are not the same, neither are the ribbon skirts. 

After dancing, Raven has an important question for his grandmother; he wonders if boys can wear ribbon skirts. She has an immediate answer, telling him that she has not seen a boy in a ribbon skirt in her long life. That evening, as her grandson sleeps, Grandma works at her sewing machine. In the morning, she has a surprise for her Nosesim. She has sewn a ribbon skirt for him, filled with the colors of the rainbow and meant only for him. 

She explains: 

"I’ve lived for a long time, Nosesim,
and I’m lucky to see beautiful things
that I’ve never seen before." 

At the next round dance, Raven is thrilled to be able to go round and round in a swirl of color made specially for him by his beloved grandmother. 

Acrylic paints on canvas are used to portray the differing designs and colors of the ribbon skirt and the distinctive styles worn for the round dance, a very important cultural tradition of the Indigenous community. Back matter includes notes from author Tasha Spillett who honors her Two Spirit relatives who taught her there is a place for everyone in the circle, and artist Daniel Ramirez who uses his work to tell the stories of his people. 

"May we know our place in the circle, 
standing side by side, heart by heart."                                                                                       

Marcel with a Splash, written and illustrated by Julia Sorensen. Translated by Shelley Tanaka. Groundwood, 2025. $22.99 ages 5 and up

 

"Even if that often means
starting over again, trying again
and again and again.

This is how he learns to walk. 

And ever since, he has been 
wandering all over the village
with his doll that has no name, 
watching the tractors go by, 
knocking on every door to 
deliver smiles."

Marcel is a child who has Down syndrome. At birth, the midwife notes that he has webbed toes. His mother, knows Marcel is a Pisces, the fish. Marcel is much the same as other babies; he's hungry and sleepy, and then hungry and sleepy again. His family and their friends are very happy to meet him. 

After examination, doctors notice his almond-shaped eyes and a single crease on his palm. Marcel displays the usual features of a child who has Down syndrome. Hearing that Marcel's life will be different from many children, his parents feel both happy and sad. Reactions from others vary; most everyone does have an opinion.

"Marcel's parents don't quite know
what to think, so they decide to 
bury those strange words at the 
bottom of the garden."

They will watch to see what happens as he grows. Marcel is a happy boy who rarely cries, often smiles, and continues to eat and sleep. Learning can be hard, and Marcel takes his time to learn what he needs to know. His determination holds him in good stead as he tries over and over to accomplish each new task. He loves to walk, and meet people. Some children are reluctant to play with him, offering reasons that can be hurtful. 

True friends like Marcel for good reasons. Anthony likes that Marcel is funny, and Melody understands him even if he can't talk. They love to hide in the grass together and collect the stones they all love. Marcel loves to be silly, too. In fact, Marcel is much like many of the kids he will meet in his life. 

Esther, an adult with Down syndrome, meets the family, and sees a child who looks like she does. Esther has an apartment, lives on her own, and loves to dance more than anything else. She helps them see that the rest of the world doesn't make much difference to the love they feel for their son. It isn't long until Marcel goes to school, with support. He likes it sometimes and not others, and he looks forward to summer vacation just as all school children do. He loves to swim.  

Ms. Sorensen, the author, is the mother of a child with Down syndrome. This thoughtful and heartfelt book is a tribute to children like him; he is a very special boy.  

Turning Twelve, written by Kathryn Ormsbee and illustrated by Molly Brooks. Random House Graphic, 2024. $18.99 ages 10 and up

 

"I probably don't have a crush on Grace 
after all. 
I think a lot of my friends are funny and 
cool. 
And talented. 
But I don't have crushes on them." 

In her first book about Katie, Growing Pangs (2022), Kathryn Ormsbee focuses on Katie's anxiety and OCD, and her friendships. A year later, Katie is very happy about her summer between sixth and seventh grade. As the new school year begins, she has her first babysitting job taking care of Jake and Courtney every Saturday morning while their mother goes to work. She's going to audition for a role in Annie, and thinks she has a chance at the lead because of her red hair and her voice. She will also have time to spend with Ginni and Amalie, her best friends. 

As happens, being 12 is not easy. First, her two friends must move away with their mother to care for their ailing grandmother. Next, she does not get the lead role in the musical. All alone at her church youth group, she is bullied by everyone's worst enemy - the mean girls. It ups her anxiety. When she realizes that she has her first crush, and it's on the new girl Grace, she is confused. Having grown up homeschooled in a religious household, she is steeped in the teachings of the church concerning dress codes for girls and strict opinions on marriage that happens only between and a man and a woman. As her feelings for Grace become stronger, Katie struggles to be confident with who she is and those feelings she is experiencing. 

Ms. Ormsbee explains in an author's note that Katie's story has some parallels with her own. Readers will feel both the heartache and the excitement of adolescence. Illustrations are expressive and show empathy for Katie's worries and triumphs. If you have middle grade kids or students who like to read graphic novels, this one will have real appeal. 

"Being twelve isn’t turning out like I’d planned at all.
I kinda wished I’d stayed eleven," 

Whereever You Go, My Love Will Follow, written and illustrated by Birgitta Sif. Magic Cat Publishing. 2024. $24.99 ages 5 and up

 

"Sometimes, things don't go as planned. 
Sometimes, things fall apart. 
But never lose heart. 

It's OK for things to fall apart, sometimes. 
Know that you can always build them back again. 
It's the chance to start something new, 
something different. 

It's the chance 
to dream a new dream." 

This lovely collection of eight stories, written from parent to child, focuses on lessons about love and wisdom. The stories are short and meaningful, the lessons are what parents want for their children as they grow and go, and Birgitta's tender images offer quiet reassurance. The stories are about beginning, love, dreams, moments, courage, friendship, imperfections, and hope. 

Each follows a tiny bear as it explores the world, takes in what there is to see, and finds a way to use that learning to make its life better. The first one about beginnings holds a special place in my heart for its story about reading and books. A quiet peek from behind a tree at a reading fox suggests that the fox may 'know everything already' in the little one's mind. Luckily, it does not deter the bear from figuring out what is needed to begin to be the same. The seeming difficulty starts with a determined step to find one book and then another ... each creating a tiny spark, then a flame and finally a fire in the heart for reading. Creating a Book Club tree house, hoisting a load of new books upward, and settling in for a good read proves the perfect ending to a wonder-filled beginning.                                                                                   

Another story features the bear and a duck, friends of the best kind. They accept each other for who they are; days spent together prove them willing to help each other be the best they can be. 

Cherish the freinds who feel like home. 

The New Girl, by Cassandra Calin. Scholastic, 2024. $16.99 ages 9 and up

 

"Anyway ... I wanted to tell you I saw an 
ad at school. They're looking for an artist 
to work on the school magazine. 

I'm thinking of applying.

What a fantastic idea! 
I agree, honey. It'll be a 
great way to meet more 
people. 

True ... plus, I've always 
wanted to share my art 
with more people."

Can't imagine being the new girl ... never mind that you are 12, have just arrived in Canada from Romania, and got your first unpleasant period while waiting at the airport before your flight to Canada boards! Are the odds against Lia, or what? 

Her family settles in Montreal. Lia, who does speak English, doesn't speak French. How will she make friends at her new school? She is in the school's iimmersion program to help her learn the new language, but she understands little that anyone is saying to or around her. She meets other international students, many facing some of the same issues. It takes time; together they find common ground and begin to deal with friendship, school, after-school activities, crushes, cliques, body image and the changes that happen in adolescence.  

Lia's transition to this life is difficult at times. She has support from her family, perseveres through many of the same issues that others her age are facing, and works through the misunderstandings. Her love of art and creativity help her find some common ground while also posing some problems. In the end, she is content with life as it presents itself and enjoys the results of the changes for her family. 

Ms. Callin's storytelling is engaging and real. Lia deals with those things common to many immigrant youth as they come to terms with life in their new country. Lia's middle school days are often chaotic as she deals with so much all at once. The illustrations are effective and often humorous. Her use of text speech bubbles helps readers see other languages in colored coding, while scribbles represent the French that Lia does not understand. There is a real awareness for the difficulty in learning a new language. Graphic novel fans will find much to like here. 

Gray, written by Laura Dockrill and illustrated by Lauren Child. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2024. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"I am gray today. 
I just am. 

I am gray. 
I'm the scribble on a page. 
The storm in the clouds. 
The puddle in the road." 

As adults, we know that we can have 'gray' days. Kids need to know that, too. They need to have those feelings respected and understood. This encouraging and thoughtful book helps readers understand that it is perfectly normal not to feel 'sunshine yellow' every day - even if the sun is shining. 

Colors help express different feelings - and all are felt at one time or another. The young narrator has the space needed to let readers know that different days offer different perspectives. Today, this child is gray. It's not the same as being sad; and it's really not like any of the other colors. 

"Gray is when I don't feel like me."

Clear words and short sentences give the book an honest feel, allowing readers to consider what the child is explaining in carefully-chosen text. Relating keenly to surroundings allows the feelings to be at the forefront of the day's actions. Once the child has finished with their own observations, a different voice offers a different perspective. This one says that all the feelings of gray being felt are real and valid. 

There will be other colors on days to follow. 

"Today you are gray like 
the sidewalks, 
but you can scribble on those 
in whatever colors you choose."

Feeling gray is simply that. It's a reminder that respecting feelings when they are felt is part of life. All of those feelings have purpose. 

Lauren Child uses mixed media to create artwork that perfectly reflects the importance of accepting the emotions that can sometimes make each of us feel gray. Keeping the child close on each page captures the mix of emotions that make us who we are. As color returns, it is evident the child is feeling the safety and acceptance for the many colors that reflect their inner self. 

“All of these colors are your feelings…and each one of them is still inside you.” 

When Rabbit Was a Lion, written and illustrated by Eugenie Fernandes. Owlkids, 2023. $21.95 ages 3 and up

 

"With oodles of things that had to be done, 
the rabbit whispered to himself. 
"One thing at a time, Rabbit. One thing at 
a time."

He mowed the lawn and weeded and raked
and watered the garden and scrubbed and 
baked. He gathered flowers and decorated 
the yard." 

Rabbit is keen on his friends and likes having them near. The little girl, who lives with him and knows him very well, is surprised when he suggests he would like to have a party. Rabbit doesn't like noise or crowds, but he likes those friends. So, she helps him with plans for the costume party. 

Rabbit immediately begins work on his mask, keeping what he plans to be to himself until he is finished his work. It's a busy time for both as they make preparations for a good time. When everything is done and the party is about to begin, Rabbit starts to question himself.. 

"What if I look silly in my costume? 
What if the party is a flop?"

The little girl assures him that it might be very good and a lot of fun. As the guests arrive, Rabbit is impressed with their costumes; the guests are delighted with the party. The air is filled with music, laughter, talk ... all very loud! The rabbit, dressed as a lion, is happy to see his friends having a great time. Then, he isn't. He finds a place to rest as the noise hits a crescendo, covering his ears before landing in a flower bed. Poor rabbit. He is done. 

His friends realize what is happening and very quickly change the tone of the celebration. Speaking softly, choosing quiet pursuits, and having time to paint leads to a happier lion. When asked the following day what he would like to do next week, the rabbit has a surprise in store for his friend. Or is it? 

Warm, softly-colored images fill the pages and offer a story that speaks for those introverted kids who like to party in their own quiet way. Rabbit is lucky to have thoughtful, caring friends who accept him for who he is and honor that.                                                                                       

Unicorn Boy, by Dave Roman with color by Heather Mann. First Second, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2024. $19.99 ages 8 and up

 

"My friend Avery has been taken by the 
shadows. And it's probably my fault. 

I need to find them. 
I'll give whatever you want.
Just please help us. 

Ugh. Friendship. More 
trouble than it's worth.
How do you know this friend
is worth risking your own neck over?"

Brian Reyes is just an ordinary kid ... until he sprouts a unicorn horn and is able to do things he has never done! As he tries to ignore the taunts of his classmates, he learns a little about his ability to fly through the air. It is of great use when his best friend Avery is pulled into a whirlpool in the back yard. The tables turn when this happens; Avery has always defended Brian. Now, it is Brian's turn to help Avery.  With help from Maggie Mandrake, a talking muffin, and a black cat he is encouraged to accept his abilities and do something. 

Following Avery, Brian shows the bravery and self-confidence that comes when your friend is more important than anything else. The underworld is populated by shadow creatures controlled by the Skull-King, and other oddball characters, including a gondolier and the Gran Reaper. Will bravery and friendship be all Unicorn Boy needs to prevail? 

This is the first in a new series from Dave Roman, whose previous books include the Astronaut Academy series. He is a great cartoonist and storyteller. The art is bold, immersive and is sure to appeal to many graphic novel fans. There are moments of uncertainty, fear, humor and engaging triumph as Unicorn Boy becomes more confident while doing all he can to help his best friend. This imagined journey is one many middle graders would love to take. 

Not A Cat: A Memoir, written by Winter Miller and illustrated by Danica Novgorodoff. Tilbury House Publishers, Firefly. 2022. $24.95 ages 4 and up

"I go for walks wearing a sweater
and a leash. Am I a puppy?

I run in pastures, so how do 
you know I'm not a horse?" 

Gato is a cat who has no interest in being labelled in any way. While he will admit that he has the attributes of most cats, he doesn't feel like one. One label does not describe him. He does so many things that are similar to other animals, and makes funny suggestions for what he could be because of that. 

After clearly comparing himself to animals such a puppy, a horse, a cow, a rabbit, a bee and a duck, he goes on to share some of his life's memories.  They hold elements of surprise for readers, and certainly pique curiosity for the adventures that provide them. 

"I have fallen asleep reading 
Go Tell It on the Meowntain. 

I have ridden the subway
all around New York City." 

Really? Has he? In fact, he is not done yet. Does wearing sunglasses at night constitute his bearing a resemblance to people? He then makes a number of suggestions about how people might perceive animals familiar to them. He follows that up with images of real people and how different they can be.  

While reading the Mew York News, and peering straight into the face of those reading the book, he has a final statement to make. In looking closer, those sharing this book should see a very funny combination of every possible creature and adventure he is! 

Gato proves that he defines who he is. The humor-filled images of Gato created by Danica Novgorodoff help Gato prove that he is the result of all that has happened in his life. No matter what we think, Gato is Gato and that's all there is to it. Actual photos taken of Gato enhance opening and closing endpapers. The more often you read this book, the more you will see. This is fun! 

"YOU BE YOU" 

The Three Little Mittens, written by Linda Bailey and illustrated by Natalia Shaloshvili. tundra, Penguin Random House. 2023. $23.99 ages 3 and up

 

"And that's when the mittens heard a very BIG 
voice. "Excuse me," said the voice. "I have a 
question."
The mittens gasped in shock. They looked waaaay
up. It was the Little Girl! 
"Why do you have to match?" she asked."

While Dotty and Other Dotty are a 'pair' of mittens that exactly match each other, Stripes has no match. The Dotty pair are aghast, reminding Stripes that the Little Girl will never need a blue striped mitten as she only has two hands. Stripes thinks there must be a reason for being in the Little Girl's pocket. But, she never gets to do anything that is fun. 

When the Little Girl loses a Dotty, she decides to wear Other Dotty and Stripes. Other Dotty is not at all pleased with the situation until the two mittens get to know each other. As partners, the two come close to being friends. What a surprise when Stripes meets up with Other Stripes! They are quick to dismiss Other Dotty ... she will no longer be needed. The Little Girl has only two hands. Luckily, their owner is pragmatic; she wants to know why mittens must match. 

Too often, mittens are lost. Too often, there are mittens that don't match. Is there a solution to this common dilemma? Little Girl thinks there is. She is absolutely right! The surprise ending is delightful! 

Artwork, created using acrylics and watercolor pencils, give the feel of a cozy, warm mohair blanket. Readers will want to reach out and touch the fuzziness of the expressive images. I love that the children who follow in the Little Girl's footsteps are as diverse as the mittens that find new purpose on their hands! 
                                                                             

My Mama Is a Work of Art, written and illustrated by Hana Acabado. Running Press, Hachette. 2024. $22.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Memories and lifelong dreams etched
artfully on their skin. 

My Mama is a work of art. 

When we go out, my Mama 
Gets attention everywhere."

In a world where so many people feel entitled to have a say about almost everything, whether it has anything to do with them or not, I found myself cheering for the young boy who tells this story. He wants readers to know that he sees his Mama as a real piece of art. She just doesn't need a frame. 

She is covered in tattoos that have meaning for her. She is proud of every one of them. The child, while sitting in his mother's lap, points out pieces of art that are part of who she is. He explains that her right arm is testament to her life story ... one that says "Hey, world, this is me!"

As the two make travel through their community, they see others who have tattoos that help to tell their  life stories. Reactions from those who don't know them vary: they all pay attention, but some don't seem to appreciate what is so important to his Mama and to him. Different people like different things. It is the way of the world. 

His mother has taught him an important lesson that helps him deal with the silent stares. 

"I learned from her to treat with kindness 
everyone I see -

Tattooed or bare, I should not care, but just 
let people be."

Would that we all were taught the same lesson. A scene at the end of the story shows Mama returning to her favorite place whenever she wants 'to honor a memory' with a new piece of art. That is as it should  be! 

Joyful, colorful art celebrates diversity in character, and body art. It's a wonderful way to get a conversation started.  

Other Boys, written and illustrated by Damian Alexander. First Second, Roaring Brook Press. Raincoast, 2021. $19.99 ages 10 and up

 

"I didn't want to talk about it. 

They couldn't help me.

They couldn't stop kids from picking on me. 

They couldn't make me more interested in 
stuff boys were supposed to like. 

And they definitely couldn't bring my 
mom back."

In this memoir, that is also a poignant graphic novel chronicling his year in seventh grade, Damian Alexander offers numerous looks back to earlier times in his life. After a lot of bullying at his former school, he decides he would prefer to be invisible at his new school. To that end, he chooses not to speak. In that way, he is not likely to make any impression or give anyone occasion to bully him. 

At home, he speaks to his grandmother and his older brother, and tells them little about his school life. At school, he speaks to no one even though a few pay interested attention to him. In the flashbacks, he remembers having friends (mostly girls) until the fourth grade when they decided they should not be spending time with boys. His male friends were those who shared his interest in video games. He knew he was different from them, as he had often been criticized for liking 'girl things'. He certainly didn't talk about his mother who had been murdered when he was very young. 

Choosing not to talk at school results in his being put in a special class as no one knows his academic abilities. He is also required to see a therapist who works there. His growing awareness of an interest in other boys makes talking even more difficult. Growing trust in his therapist finally allows him to share his feelings with her. Her reaction makes all the difference for a confused young man. 

"I think ... 
I LIKE-like boys. 
Like, crush like. 

Like how most 
boys LIKE girls. 

Oh?
Do you mean, like ... 
    you're gay? 

There was something about the
way that she said it. 

Not a bad thing.
Just a thing. 
A matter of fact." 

Having someone to talk to about all of it feels good. 

Powerful, honest and emotional, this debut novel will find fans in those who feel different, who question their own identity, and who are bullied. An author's note offers more heartbreaking details and explains how this graphic novel came to be. It also offers hope for those who might be dealing with some of the same trauma. 

"Eventually, I did speak and make friends. But it wasn't until I was well into high school. I learned later that I had C-PTSD, or complex post-traumatic stress disorder, not only because of the death of my mother, but because of the homophobic bullying I faced growing up."