Backpack, written and illustrated by Katie Arthur. Owlkids, 2026. $22.95 ages 3 and up

 

"A backpack means you're going somewhere. 
Hopefully somewhere fun! 

And it's usually better to be coming or going
instead of staying still, don't you think? 

Plus, there's all that wonderful stuff inside."

As I watch children arriving at school in the mornings and leaving at the end of the day, many are carrying backpacks - or their parents are! The styles, the sizes, the weights they carry, and their way of carrying them are as varied as the children themselves. Some seem almost overwhelmed by how heavy they really are; others are more interested in the logos they sport. They are definitely an integral part of school garb. 

This book honors the niceness of the backpack, and explains its role in the daily routines of many people today. It is a sign that you are 'going somewhere' and that is a good thing. It's a perfect place for carrying important, even significant stuff. A double-page is quick to show readers the many treasures that can be found inside. Young ones will want to take the time to check each out, and name every one of them. A backpack carries joyful things one day; perhaps something sad the next. 

"But you can always count
on your backpack to rest on
your back.

Like a shell. Or a hug."

People call their backpacks by different names, and choose their favorites from a wide assortment of styles. Once again, readers will very much enjoy having a close look at the many shapes and colors created. I love the idea that a little brother can be a backpack for his big sister when he gets tired, or that a backpack can be used as a pillow for a quick nap under a shady tree. The benefits are endless! 

Muriel and the Mystery, by Charlotte Parent. tundra, Penguin Random House. 2026. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Muriel suddenly feels like she is being watched. 

She walks more briskly than usual on the way home. 

Back at her burrow, she finds a mystery in her 
flower box!"  

Muriel lives a life governed by habits. She knows her forest home 'by heart', and her days are mostly spent foraging for snails. One morning, while on the lookout for her next snail, she lifts a leaf to notice a tiny mystery under it. Not to worry, Muriel is ready to press on. In the afternoon, on her way home, she is not thinking about the mystery at all; rather, she is thinking about the soup she will make for supper. 

After a pleasant evening, she retires to her bed for a good night's sleep and wakens to another normal morning. Off she goes in search of snails; again, she spies a mystery - bigger than the other. It gives her an eerie feeling of being watched. She hurries home where she spots yet another mystery.  And another ... and another. She sweeps each one out the door. In her anger, she steps outside only to discover mysteries everywhere she looks. Another surprise is the entrance to a tunnel she has not seen previously. She suspects it might house the mystery. 

Back home she goes. Her sleep disturbed by what has happened, she heads into the dark (not her habit) to return to the tunnel. Upon entrance she realizes she is right. In the darkness she shares a cup of tea, and once again returns home. After a deep sleep, she begins her day in the usual way. For the first time, she acknowledges the mystery with a warm 'hello'. Life goes on, as usual ... or does it? 

Your Horse, written and illustrated by Jon Klassen. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2026. $12.99 ages 2 and up

 

"But do you know

what else horses do? 

They keep secrets. 

They are really 

good at it."

Earlier this year, Jon Klassen added Your Truck to his series called Your Things. In recent reading about upcoming books, he will add Your Rock in January 2027. We are highly anticipating the arrival of a new baby in our family come April 2027. I have begun to put together a book basket filled with board books for that little one. Many will be copies of some of Mr. Klassen's most recent publications. 

In this book, an unseen narrator gifts a young reader with 'your horse'. It is brown, but could be other colors as well. As all horses can, this horse walks, runs, and jumps. Perhaps its most endearing trait is that it will keep a secret. Horses are good at doing that. Apparently, any secret can be shared with the horse, and it can be fully trusted keep it. 

The narrator even offers the reader a chance to check it out. 

"If you have a secret 

to tell your horse, 

turn the page 

and do it then."

A turn of the page offers a closer look at a serious and silent horse making absolutely no sound at all. Again assured that the horse will never tell, the book closes with said horse feeling the pull of a good night's sleep and sinking into slumber in the advancing darkness. No secret shared! 

I love the peaceful feel of the world created in this truly wonderful series. Other books include Your Farm, Your Forest, and Your Island. Each book's minimalist feel and familiar objects are wonderful to share with our youngest readers. There is a comfort that comes from reading each book one time, and then again. Bedtime ends every book, after showing the wonder to be found in 'your things'. Life is safe, full of comfort, and discussion is encouraged. 

Two Jon Klassen board books in the past week; how lucky are we? 
                                                                                    

Another Tongue, written and illustrated by Yevgenia Nayberg. Neal Porter Books, Holiday House. Penguin Random House, 2026. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Different countries
have different mother tongues.

When you come to a new country,
you may not understand its language
at first. 

Your ears may get tired of listening 
to the new language."

Countless people who emigrate from their home countries to a country where the language is different have much to learn before they can communicate effectively with those who live there. In this new and playful look at language learning, Yevgenia Nayberg takes on the task of helping preschoolers and adults alike begin to understand the ins and outs of learning a second language. 

In simple text, sporting eye-catching artwork, she explains that the mother tongue is the first language learned. The words you hear as a baby, and the words used to make sense of the world around you. Often, those words can be difficult and will need to be heard again and again. Despite the complexity and long list of words needed to communicate, the language becomes your own. Mother tongues are different, according to where you live. 

Moving to a new country where another language is spoken is hard. There is no understanding of what is being said; ears get tired of listening to unfamiliar words. Some words may seem familiar, while others have never been heard. With context, the task is easier; seeing a chicken and being told it's a chicken imprints on your brain. 

It does take time and patience to continue learning. Speaking with others will begin to change. Soon, you will be bilingual ... what a feat! 

An author's note is of great interest as readers learn just how difficult it was for Yevgenia to understand, then speak English following emigration. Even for her today, it has its obstacles. Just wait for the conversation when the reading is done! 

A Door Is to Open, written by Kyo Maclear and illustrated by Julie Morstad. tundra, Penguin Random House. 2026. $24.99 ages 3 and up

 

"When you see a door out in the world, 

you may wonder:

Who will come through it?

Where will it lead?" 

As the first door opens, a child allows a mother cat and her four kittens access. A page turn shows another door being knocked on by a child carrying a bouquet of flowers. Once opened the next door provides an invitation to come inside and enjoy a warm meal. There are so many doors that function as a passage from one place to another. 

Each offers variety: entry to a birthday party, door knocking games, transparency from the outside for visitors, the screen on a backyard tent to let in welcome air, a door that revolves offering access, entertainment, and enjoyment. The list goes on, each one giving readers a chance to develop a further story to match the door presented. 

Is the reading child hiding in the closet or using it for a safe and quiet place to finish her book? What about a door to the imagination that allows for discovering a place never considered? Where might a trap door lead? What kind of adventure might it offer? What lies behind the classroom door on the first day of school? What door does a new book offer? There is a myriad of doors in nature, on land and in the water. Just think of it! 

"If you find a small door 
with a knob the size of a pea, 
there might be tiny friends to visit."

The beauty of a door is the invitation to go through it, to wonder what's on the other side. Can you make a door of your own? 

Julie Morstad certainly used her creativity to fill each spread with images that invite readers to pay careful attention to the details and settings shown here. Her use of white space allows readers time to consider other ideas. Whether it's a rainbow-striped tunnel, an inviting school classroom, or a rabbit warren, she enlightens and engages young readers to think about where a door might lead. Those doors provide endless possibilities. 
                                                                                           

More Than A Million, written and illustrated by Grace Farris. Bloomsbury Children"s Books, Raincoast. 2026. $24.99 ages 3 and up

"Love you more than a million 
blueberries on the floor

Love you more than just one more
goodbye at the school door

Love you more than 365 lunch box notes

Love you more than a truly astounding 
number of fevers and sore throats"

I have long forgotten how many times I heard 'MOM' when the kids were young. My daughter lives in the midst of it whenever their kids are home from school or bike rides or being with friends. Anyone with kids at home will know what I mean.

Front matter begins with a worry from a pajamaed child while mom is trying to sleep: 'Mommm. I had a bad dream. I dreamed you didn't love me.' Oh, dear. That statement provides the impetus for every page that follows. Each one offers one more way that parents love their children. Each shared assurance begins with the words ... Love you more than ... 

In rhyming couplets, the child is reminded of the many ways that parents prove their love. There are no conditions that will change that. The experiences are those often shared in families: writing on the wall, illness, spills, art accidents, lost clothing, loud noises, constant questions. Who hasn't been there? Parents will understand the frustrations, while children may not even acknowledge the problem. They only want to remember how much they are loved. 

Illustrations are created digitally, filled with variety in the adults involved, and add context and interest for young readers. Funny at times, and mostly heartwarming, this is a book that will be read again and again. 

Fly Away Home, written by Betty Quan and illustrated by Akin Duzakin. Groundwood, 2026. $21.99 ages 3 and up

 

"Little bird, little bird
Time to fly home
A troubling of hummingbirds
Brings news of beyond

Little bird, little bird
Time to fly home
A mischief of magpies
Clouds over the sun"

This book reads like a nursery rhyme while also introducing young readers to the idea of migrations that include people. For a small white bird, the text repeats lines that provide a collective noun (some real, some invented) for goldfinches, flamingos, hummingbirds, and magpies as they prepare for the journeys they will make. When the little one is joined by two larger birds, a young girl and her mother are shown to join a line of people making their way along a single path. 

Through day and night, the birds and migrants move forward. All travelers are wearing packs on their backs, holding hands, and looking weary and defeated. As the skies fill with dragonflies, sunshine and butterflies, the walk continues. When they reach water, boats fill with people while the three birds float upon the back of turtles, all headed toward a land where caribou roam and offer further rest and transport for the birds.

Attacked by crows, the birds seek shelter. Still, the line of people moves ever onward. While the birds find protection and sanctuary with nightingales, bobolinks, cuckoos, doves, larks and robins, the human travelers find their place with people who welcome them along the way and provide a new home where they can rest and find safety. In a final spread, the little girl and tiny bird make each other's acquaintance on the balcony of the girl's new home. Lovely, with a touch of hope at a time of unprecedented migration. 

Sparrow, written by Mary Tebo and illustrated by E. B. Lewis. Astra Young Readers, Penguin Random House. 2015. $24.99 ages 5 and up

 

"Her belly full, 
Sparrow flies to the high perch
so she can see far and wide. 
She needs something else. 
She doesn't know what it is, 
but she knows that it is something special."

Sparrow lives in a dusty crack in a stone wall where every morning at dawn she hears singing and bells ringing. Today, something tells her that change is coming and she must prepare for it. Not knowing what is about to happen, while knowing that she needs something, she flies out to familiar territory. She flies past the bakery and the food stand where she finds the sustenance she needs. With food in her belly, she lands on a high perch where she can see the city below her. 

She still needs something special; she does not yet know just what it is. She notices many things but none of them strike a chord with her. Only when she returns to her crack in the wall does she notice 'something small and fluttery, and bright'. Suddenly, she knows exactly what is needed. She takes those tiny things and places them tightly into her nest, softening it for the chaange. When the nest is ready, so is Sparrow. Just in time, she lays her first egg. Now, she can rest, relax and protect. Though she knows little about it, she does know it offers what she so badly needs ... hope. 

Don't we all? 

In an author's note Ms. Tebo explains the storied history of the Western Wall and its meaning for many. Visitors from all parts of the world leave wishes and prayers in its cracks. The prayers left there are written in hopes for a better world for all. In Latin spero means "I hope". In a further note, she adds a family story of a visit to Jerusalem and what the family found there. 

E. B. Lewis's familiar watercolor artwork is fabulous and brings the city to life for young readers.  
                                                                                       

The Museum of Willa and Wade, written by Judith Henderson and illustrated by Sara Sarhangpour. Kids Can Press, 2025. $16.99 ages 4 and up

 

"I have a treasure, too. 
A real dandelion puff. 

I have an acorn and a 
dead beetle. 

I love snacks."

Endpapers give a glimpse at what is to come when discussing the 'treasures' that inspire Willa and Wade to create their own museum. Sure to spark a few giggles, it's an intriguing invitation to see why these items have been chosen.  

Willa, an ostrich, and Wade, a penguin are embarking on their second book together. While out walking,  they spy a shiny something on the sidewalk in front of them. It inspires curiosity and some telling opinions. Their decision that it is a treasure leads to thinking about the need for it to be placed in a museum. Willa's excitement has the two creating their own museum ... a home-made one. They will be able to share that shiny object with everyone.

As they move forward, adding other items for exhibit, their passion for the project grows. With each new addition they have a conversation together about the reasons for display. After adding a rock and a dinosaur figurine, Wade is ready for a snack; Willa is busy pondering a new idea. 

"Maybe our museum needs something less old ... 
more contemporary. 

What's "contemporary"?

Modern. Something new and fresh. 

On it!"

One of Wade's art pieces is placed on the back wall. Before a chance for a snack, Willa decides they should be thinking about both a cafe and a gift shop. First they will need a GRAND OPENING! Their friends are not entirely sure about the gathered items or the look of the museum. They are encouraged by Willa and Wade's willingness to add artifacts to the collection.. Wade is now sure it is time to snack ... and an appealing funny ending. 

This graphic novel is perfect fare for emerging readers. Imaginative, humorous, full of conversation, and inspiration for thinking about future additions to the collection, it will leave new fans hoping it won't be long until they meet these characters again. Readers will surely want to discuss which of their own valuable pieces they would like to add. 

Have Yourself a Cheesy Little Christmas, written by Jory John and illustrated by Pete Oswald. Harper, 2025. $19.99 ages 4 and up

"Wedge's house was nothing like mine.
While my place was gigantic and flashy and imposing, 
Wedge's place was small and understated and cozy.

Wedge opened the gathering with a brief speech. 
Of course he was eloquent and welcoming. 

And then there was the party itself. 
It was just so ... so ... simple."

There's not much that the Big Cheese appreciates about Christmas unless it is celebrated on a grand scale. That means BIG. Not satisfied with normal efforts, he hosts the best parties with trees galore, lights on every surface, decorations at every turn, and all symbols of the festive holiday evident. The fun never stops! Every year things get bigger and better. 

Until they don't. The day's disastrous events begin with a broken-down washing machine. Spewing soapy water through house leads from one calamity to the next, involving tree lights, the refrigerator, and a lengthy clean up that bring an end to the planned extravagant party. What will he do?

Attention turns to best friend, Wedge Wedgeman, who agrees to take care of it all. Big agrees reluctantly, but what else is there to do? His guests are contacted with the new venue, and Big is off to the party. What a stellar surprise awaits them! Could this be what Christmas is all about? As December days fill with errands to run, gifts to buy, dinner plans to make, parties to attend - is it time to take a step back and let the beauty of the season and the joy of spending time with those you love take a front seat?  

A tear-sheet of 12 Christmas cards for kids to share is included.                                                                                      

The GIFT of WORDS, written and illustrated by Peter Reynolds. Orchard Books, Scholastic. 2025. $26.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Jerome loaded his sled 
full of his favorite words
and headed to the downtown park. 

He put a call out 
to everyone to join 
him in decorating 
a tree with words.
A holiday tree. 
Ekko barked excitedly." 

Jerome is back! I'm so happy to see him again. I met him first (as we all did) in 2018 when he started collecting all those words he loved. Now, he and his rescue Ekko are keen to begin collecting words for the holidays - words that reflect the peace, hope, and joy of the season. He wants to gift the words he collects to all those who have special meaning in his life. 

His upbeat mood soon turns somber as they walk together. The words he is seeing along their path give him no pleasure: buy, sale, no parking, cheap stuff, no dogs allowed. It immediately changes how the two are feeling about the task at hand. 

"These were not holiday words. 
They did not warm his heart. 
These words left Jerome feeling cold." 

There is nothing to add to his already empty notebook. Even listening to the words people around him share make him feel uncomfortable and sad. Wanting more, an idea sparks action. Can he find the words that will make everyone feel festive and joyous? 

Racing back to look through his original collection, Jerome finds exactly what he is looking for. His sled is loaded as he heads to the park. Once there, he invites all park-goers to join him in decorating a tree with 'joyful words'. Community friends and neighbors gather to fill that tree and share wishes for a happy holiday season. It's the most memorable way to bring friends together.                                                                             

I'm Longer Than You! An Epic Contest of Measurement. Written and illustrated Carolyn Fisher. KIds Can Press, 2025. $21.99 ages 6 and up

 

"12 HOURS LATER

I have finished measuring Blue Whale ... 

in inches! 

I have good news ... and bad news. 

What's the good news?  

Blue Whale is 1300 inches long. 

What's the bad news? 

That took more time 
than I expected! 

And now I have to go into my 
cocoon for two months."

If you are looking for a book that will impress young math wizards and make them think, this is the book for you. The contest hinges on a free lunch. Its main characters are favorites of the younger set - a supersaurus and a blue whale. What could be bigger? And which one is longer? Let's find out. 

Each has compelling arguments to make the case that it is the longer one. An inchworm enters the picture, suggesting they measure themselves. Turns out neither have invented measurement yet. Inchworm offers to do the measuring in inches, and makes a suggestion for the contest's prize. Lunch choices are quickly discussed with great gusto. 

The measuring begins, and goes on and on. The whale is measured before inchworm must call it quits. Now, it's up to a centipede to measure the supersaurus in centimeters. Measuring begins for the second time. 12 hours later (the same time it took for the blue whale), the results are in. But wait, inches and centimeters are different units of measurement. How will that work to determine a winner? 

A dragonfly has the answer to their dilemma! What do you think it might be? 

Readers are invited to meet the story's cast in a full spread in back matter that ends with additional information about different ways to measure something. Excellent, entertaining and very engaging!

At The Rescue Cat Cafe, written by Anne Humphrey and illustrated by Kari Rust. Owlkids, 2025. $22.95 ages 3 and up

 

"On Monday, a boy and his parents come 
to visit. 
ChiChi and Bunnykin tackle and tumble 
while the boy tosses toys and twirls 
streamers." 

Do you have an affinity for cats? If you do, have I got the book for you. What better way to spend a week than in the cozy atmosphere of the Rescue Cat Cafe? That's exactly what happens when mother and child open the door early Monday morning. Readers are offered a chance to meet the twelve, once homeless, cats who take up residence there. In truth, the cats are looking to be adopted. Readers get to see them up close and personal before that happens. 

The first two are adopted on Monday when a boy and his family fall in love with their exuberant personalities. On Tuesday an elderly man arrives to sit quietly in an easy chair and let Honey find a warm and welcome spot on his lap - a spot Honey does not want to leave. Moving forward over the course of the week, others arrive with adoption in mind and find exactly what they are looking for. 

The child and mother are there every day to care for the residents, participate in the activities, and welcome all visitors. Observant readers are sure to notice the tiny kitten that stays mostly hidden from sight. All the way through the week until Saturday, the rescue cats meet perfect companions for themselves, and happily leave with them. 

"And on Sunday ... 

on Sunday ... 

a little girl decides which cat is exactly right for her." 

After a long, loving week of work, the mother and child walk home together with Mouse in a soft carrier. Home at last! 

A lovely readaloud, accompanied by appealing and colorful, light-filled artwork, this book will find many fans. Listeners will want to hear it again, as they search every page for a glimpse of Mouse, the tiny and shy final adoptee of the week. 

Together: A Book About Community, written and illustrated by Elise Gravel. Scholastic, 2025. $21.99 ages 4 and up

"But in reality, 
if we were completely alone, 
life would be very, very hard. 
Being part of a group 
makes us much 
SAFER."

Elise Gravel's popular and pleasing monsters are back to help young readers begin to learn about what communities are and how they work. It's not always an easy concept. Creating a caring community is one of the most important things we can do for the kids in our classrooms. Within that community they feel safe and protected by those they spend their days with - their teachers, their classmates, and all those who support their learning. 

They learn that having people around them can make them feel terrific. There are also those days when things go wrong, but that is part of spending so much time together. We don't always get along. Being safe to express feelings and concerns ensures that community members know they have an important role in what happens. Being alone can be a frightening feeling. 

We learn about being part of a community for our whole lives as people move in and out. We have lessons to teach each other as we care for one another and share what we have. Acts of kindness become more plentiful once we learn how good it feels to help and hear how much we are appreciated. It isn't so much about what we have as what we give. 

Because everyone in our community is important, we take a stand if one is bullied, teased, or hurt. We are stronger when we act together. Differences make us who we are, all having the same imprtance in the group. 

"Solidarity makes all of us
Safer and stronger. 
We're all in this world
TOGETHER."

Without being preachy, Ms. Gravel shows her readers just how important it is to live in communities where each person respects and supports the others who share their space in this world. An especially important lesson for the world today, I think.

The Arguers, written and illustrated by Corinna Luyken. Rocky Pond Books, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"When they began to argue 
            with the flowers,
some said they had gone too far. 

But most agreed 
it was a great talent
to be able to argue with a fence
or a doorknob,
or the wind."

I am always intrigued by Corinna Luyken and her storytelling. In this fairy tale that features a royal family and those who serve them, she shows how constant bickering can create endless fodder for those involved. The first argument rages over a comb and a brush, clearly shown on front and back endpapers, and which would be best for untangling the abundant king's beard. It flows from his chin across the width of the throne room, bow-tied at many points to keep it from being totally unruly. 

The arguments move on to the letters to be used to bedeck the new throne belonging to the princess: cursive or plain, large or small. I'm sure there were other considerations. Next, which spoons should be used to serve noodles to the the queen's dogs? The constant arguing leads to a time when no one can  remember when the arguing started or why. They all know they are very good at it. 

"They could argue forward
and backward, 
right side up, 
and upside down. 
They argued in fog
and sun
and sleet 
and snow."

When a proclamation goes out to find the best arguer, they all work tirelessly to improve their skills. Finally, the contest is ready to begin ... the gathering is huge and heated. It is so noisy, they can not hear the announcement to begin. It is a classic case of no beginning; will there be an end? A lightning bolt changes everything! The arguers make a discovery no one could have ever thought possible. Will they go back to their old ways?  

This is a delightful story to read aloud. Funny, and thoughtful. The art, done in watercolor, ink, pencil, and gouache, is filled with expression and detailed images of imposing and enormous hairstyles that attract attention at every turn. The kingdom setting is perfect, and the constant arguing will elicit constant giggles.

What makes you want to argue? 
                                                                                       

If You Want to Write a Story, written and illustrated by Jeff Mack. Neal Porter Books, Holiday House. Penguin Random House, 2025. $25.99 ages

 

"Good stories have all kinds of feelings. 

Happy parts. 

Sad parts. 

Even homesick parts. 

That's why we care 
what happens from 
beginning to end." 

If you are a writer, or have tried to write a story, you will empathize with the tiny mouse who graces the title page of this appealing and informative book from the prolific Jeff Mack. Using second-person voice, he does all he can to encourage said mouse to put pen to paper. 

Sitting at a table, rejected beginnings surrounding it, the mouse looks in need of support and advice. First, says the narrator, an idea is needed. Finding one should prove easy. A stuffed rabbit becomes the idea to chase from place to place, never letting it escape. A hint of an idea is definitely needed before there is a chance to consider where the story will begin. 

There's really no way of knowing where it might lead, but it is worth being patient while waiting. Next is the plan, which can be explored going forward. Is there excitement? Is there a problem to solve? It's hard work, and can be very tiring. Giving in to fatigue is not the answer. Keep believing you are making progress, even when the going gets even tougher. The story belongs to the writer. 

There are many turns it might take. All will help as one problem after another is considered, and the story refined. Be strong, enjoy the surprises along the way. Be positive. When it comes to the ending, accept help. Finally, it's ready to be shared. 

Are you ready to write another? The steps for getting a story onto the page are clear, the illustrations are full of color and action, the ending provides encouragement to take what has been learned and begin again. It can be done! 

                                                                                             

The Perfect Place, written by Matt de la Pena and illustrated by Paola Escobar. G. P. Putnam's Sons, Penguin Random House. 2024. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"When Lucas came upon a towering gate made of gold,
he stepped across the threshold, into a glorious morning,
and found himself standing in the place
where the perfect people lived. 

He watched in awe as they drove their beautiful cars
and beamed their beautiful smiles
and spoke their beautiful words. 

Is there a perfect place? Many would love to think so; many work hard to find it. When Lucas receives a perfect score for his robot report, he is beyond happy. He is walking on air until his dad's work truck stalls at school pickup and Lucas has to help push it away. It is embarrassing for him. 

By the time they get home, after having it repaired, it's dark and the electricity has been shut off ... again. He finds his mother getting ready for work by candlelight, with no time to look at the robot report. His grandfather is on the fire escape playing music that makes him so sad he is in tears. His explanation for doing so doesn't make sense to his grandson. 

As he looks out, there is a lot going on in his neighborhood. In the bedroom he shares with his baby sister, Lucas takes stock of their imperfect room and has a final look at his robot report. In the night, Lucas is awakened by an unfamiliar light. It leads him to get up, get dressed, and climb down the fire escape. Following the light, he finds himself at a shining gate of gold. 

Through that gate he finds 'the place where the perfect people lived'. He quietly watches those people who have it all, and who are willing to listen to him read his report. Universally loved, a celebration is planned for Lucas. That is when things begin to change. Lucas watches as an inconsequential juice spill leads to the child who spilled it leaving in shame. The mayor makes a speech about the disruption the juice spill has caused for all. 

Once the cleaning crew does its work, all will be back to perfect once more. As the mayor calls for Lucas to come forward, the boy suddenly hears the sound of his grandfather's music, smells the food he so loves, and listens to the faint cry from a baby. What is he missing? 

Morning brings clarity, and an understanding that perhaps imperfect is what makes life perfect. 

There is such warmth and inspiration in the way Matt de la Pena tells his stories. I eagerly anticipate every new book. Paola Escobar's digital artwork contrasts Lucas' welcoming community and home with the exacting reality of the perfect place he visits. 

Dare I say it? PERFECT!
                                                                               

George & Lenny Are Always Together, written and illustrated by Jon Agee. Rocky Pond Books, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"No, George. 
I can't be alone 
if we are together. 

Is that so? Then I 
will be alone too!"

You know I am a big fan of Jon Agee's awesome work. In this new book, he introduces two fine friends who are devoted companions. They like to spend all of their time together. As they swing at the park, they discuss that fact. Lenny has a question: 

"I wonder, George. 
What is it like 
to be alone?" 

George considers the query and thinks it might be both lonely and sad. Lenny is not as convinced. Maybe it would be fine to be alone, and he is going to try it.  George wants to accompany his friend. Lenny is adamant; he wants to be alone. George reluctantly agrees. As Lenny looks for the just-right spot, Geroge follows along hoping it might be big enough for two. 

Really, George? You are not getting the point, are you? Lenny finds the perfect place and encourages George to leave him there alone. Unfortunately, being by himself is not quite as enviable as he had hoped. Too soon, he is thinking about his friend and wondering how he's doing. In the dark, Lenny cannot see George. Oh, dear!

If you are an Agee fan, you will not be shocked at the surprise ending! 

Love the dialogue, love the relationship, love the ending! 
                                                                                 

If I Could, written by Matt Zurbo and illustrated by Patrice Barton. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2025. $24.99 ages 3 and up

 

"I'd whisper legends sung by mermaids,
about sorrowful whales and octopuses that
save the world. 

About troublesome princesses, heroes,
dreams without end."

Are you looking for a joyful new book to gift to new parents? If so, I have an idea for you. This emotional and imaginative new book arrived in my mail box this morning, and I want you to know about it ... just in case! 

These are the wishes all new parents have for their children. With a focus on nature and the beauty to be found there, Matt Zurbo offers a series of scenarios meant to open a child's eyes to the wonders of their world. Each refrain begins with If I could, I'd give ... 

Then, using the imagination to describe stories to be told, music to be shared, feelings to be felt and experiences to come, the details of the text are enhanced by gorgeous pencil sketches filled with elegant details and familiar daily events in a child's life. There are sure to be stops for discussion along the way, as listeners explore each page. 

"If I could, I'd give you constant happiness! 

             Joy!"

This book is filled with love and comfort, and makes a perfect gift for that new baby.                                                                                 

This Is a Moment, written and illustrated by Micah Player. Rocky Pond Books, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.99 ages 3 and up

 

"There are 
fast MOMENTS. 

brave 
MOMENTS. 

CROWDED 
moments. 

PEACEFUL 
moments."

Having just spent five wonderful weeks with my daughter and granddaughters as they made their annual trip to the Canadian prairies from their home on Vancouver Island, I have many precious moments to hold in my heart until I see them again next summer. As happens in most families, there is much to discover as time is spent in their company doing what they love to do while they are here. 

The moments experienced in this book are worthy of attention and understanding. Sharing and discussing them with young readers will help them focus on what makes certain times in our daily lives so very special and worthy of remembering. It might be sitting to tie a shoelace, introducing a new student, listening to your favorite music while making art, riding a ski lift in the sunshine ... every single moment simply needs time to stop and really feel what is happening.  

Reading it together with a child and taking a close look at the effective and expressive digital illustrations will allow them to consider some of their own memorable moments ... ones that made them feel happy, powerful, brave, or peaceful. 

In talking with my granddaughters over the next few days, we will be sharing our memories of the 'good times' they spent here and thinking about what we might add to our plans for their next visit. They are sure to include our days at the lake, our many visitors, afternoon swims, breakfasts at their favorite restaurant, reading books, and the weather which was not always conducive to being outside because of the heat and smoke from raging wildfires. 

We will treasure these moments and use them to determine what next year's visit might include, before we add other ideas to the list their mother will no doubt keep for us until then. What adventures lie ahead!