Frog Face, written and illustrated by Blythe Russon. Ten Speed Young Readers, Penguin Random House. 2026. $26.99 ages 4 and up

 

"The thing was, Frog just had a frowny face.
It'd been that way since she was an itty, bitty 
little egg. There was nothing she could do 
about it. 

"I am not grouchy," said Frog. 
And she set off again."

How delighted she is when Frog awakens one morning. It's a rainy day, she's home and happy, and she has all that she needs. Or does she? When she finds her cupboard empty and herself in need of snacks, she heads out on a search, all the while hoping that she will not encounter any of her neighbors as she goes. Instead, she peeks out to see a plethora of them right outside her door. Not to be deterred, Frog pops out. 

Thus begins her encounters with many. Butterfly is concerned with Frog's long face. This happens too often. Comments are regularly made about the way Frog's face looks. Naturally frowny, Frog tries to reassure the others that she is happy and content. Every creature feels the need to comment on what they see when they look at her: long face, no smile, a need to cheer up, have some fun, relax, let loose. When she has had ENOUGH, Frog splashes into a nearby pond in frustration. 

A rotten mood settles over Frog, leaving her with no appetite for the food she out to find. Sugarbird stops to see how Frog is doing; Frog lets the bird have it. Sugarbird explains her concern for her friend, and Frog apologizes. A silly joke breaks the ice and sends the two into fits of laughter, then leads to a shared snack and a heartfelt compliment. 

""By the way, Frog ... 

I love your face exactly the way it is." 

Isn't that what true friends do? 

Amusing artwork puts emphasis on every emotion felt. The weather changes, the facial expressions of each creature with an opinion, and the dramatic movement across the pages will hold interest as the story is read, and then read again. 

Marian's Big Dig, written by Laura Bontje and illustrated by Scot Ritchie. Groundwood, 2026. $22.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Mom held Marian's discovery up to the light.
"I'm not sure about that, sweetie."
Marian's mom knew a lot about rocks. But 
Marian knew a lot about determination. She 
needed to talk to a fossil expert."

Scot Ritchie always does a commendable job of bringing a sense of discovery to the books he has been tasked to illustrate. Case in point: the endpapers will have interested readers immediately considering the child protagonist and her sustained interest in dinosaurs and discovery. The opening illustration shows her pushing a wheelbarrow filled to the brim with a large tarped object. Her companion cat is riding shotgun. Only now, on the title page, are we witness to further evidence that Marian is intrigued by dinosaurs. 

Marian's mother is a collector of rocks, and has passed her passion on to her daughter who curates her own collection. She has one spot on her shelf for the 'best one of all'. At recess one day, she makes an unexpected discovery. It is a tiny fossil, and it is in a big boulder which she can not move, no matter how hard she tries. Right beside that boulder, she finds something even better ... a dinosaur tooth! Or is it? Marian's mother is not so sure; so, Marian searches for a fossil expert. 

She starts with a letter to Wendy Sloboda, asking her advice about the rock she has found. Wendy responds saying she can not be sure about it until she actually sees it. Marian is not willing to send it to Wendy. Thus begins her search for more fossils, starting in her own backyard. When she finds what she is looking for, her parents lend their support to a further search. Trying to piece together every found object is quite the task. Her tiny rock becomes part of a much larger 'dinosaur'. I wish you could see it. 

""What's it called?" someone asked.
Marian gazed up at the marvelous creature. |
Her dinosaur stared proudly back. 
"I was thinking ... Marianodon."
It really was her best discovery yet."

She doesn't stop there. 

Final pages discuss what a fossil is, and lists real-life kid scientists who have been adding to scientific discovery since 1811: Mary Anning, Ruth Mason, Wendy Sloboda, Diego Suarez, Lily Wilder, Julian Caners. Along with a list for further reading, those names will be enough to have interested readers do a deep dive into learning more about dinosaurs and other fossils. 

Stubby, written by Sydra Mallery and illustrated by John Hare. Greenwillow Books, Harper. 2026. $25.99 ages 6 and up

 

"Thankfully, the sparkly unicorn nail polish 
hands of Barbara Ann Brown chose me.

She threw the ten of us into her cart, along 
with two notebooks, one purple folder, and
an eraser shaped like a pig. 

On the first day of school, Barbara Ann 
put on her new outfit. The other pencils,
the pig, and I danced around in her 
pencil box."

Stubby the pencil tells his own story in this autobiography that begins in a forest. Stubby starts as a giant cedar tree there. He is home to birds and bugs; helps feed bunnies and mice; provides midnight snacks for passing foxes; and even feeds a mama bear and her cubs when they are hungry. It is a fulfilling life. That life takes a big turn when huge machines arrive and go to the work of felling the forest trees. 

Every step of the process is explained. Once completely ready for transport to the timber yard, Stubby is off. Further preparation is required there before he can be hauled to the next factory. Upon arrival, many machines and a conveyor belt complete the work that turn Stubby into a pencil. Boxed with nine friends, his journey continues to a store selling back to school supplies. There he stands waiting to be picked up. Finally, he is chosen by Barbara Ann Brown and taken with her to the first day of school. 

His life in the classroom is fraught with endless change. From one desk to another, one task to the next, the days pass in all the ways pencils are used and abused in their lifetime. Once relegated to the Sharp Pencils bucket, Stubby moves from one person to the next, constantly sharpened until he fears for his future.

Everything changes when he is chosen by 'you' and becomes the pencil he knows he was meant to be. 

John Hare's artwork is created with hand-drawn pencil that is digitally colored, and uses panels to great effect while allowing readers to witness the full life that transforms tree to pencil. The target audience will find much to hold their attention as they pore over this life story so effectively documented as both information and adventure.                                                                                     

                                                                                        

STEVE, into the great unknown. Written and illustrated by Kelly Collier. Kids Can Press, 2026. $18.99 ages 4 and up

 

"OMG!
OMG!
OMG! 

Deep breaths. Don't panic, 
Bob. After all, you packed
some emergency supplies 
just in case. 

Okay. I've got some trail 
mix. A flashlight. First aid
kit. Field Guide. Walkie-
talkies ... 

C'mon, Bob. 
Surely you are overreacting."

Young fans will be thrilled to welcome Steve back! This terrific graphic novel starring Steve the Horse is much beloved by early readers wanting their own series of books to enjoy, while also tickling their funny bone. In this fourth book, Steve is tired of the incessant boredom. No matter what his friend Bob suggests to alleviate the ennui, Steve has a reason for not making any change. After doing his best to help, Bob heads off to read The Adventures of Bluebird.  

The title sparks an idea in Steve, who is now determined to seek his own adventure; he's ready to find a new land. Bob is very concerned about Steve's inexperience and lack of planning for this exciting new endeavor. Although Steve is raring to go, Bob takes time to prepare for their upcoming excursion. Once needed supplies have been gathered, Bob is ready and full of enthusiasm. Steve is showing signs of reluctance as the walk is long, before finally finding a place to stop for the night. 

Bob asks Steve to unpack the provisions Steve has been carrying all day; only then does he learn that Steve has abandoned the heavy pack 'hours ago'. All of their food and water is gone! Bob is furious that Steve is so nonchalant about the whole thing. As rain pours down, Bob is pleased to have carried an emergency tent - only meant for one. As he watches Steve whimper and cry, he finally invites him in for some shelter and an earnest conversation. Bob leaves Steve in charge of their campsite as he searches for a shortcut home. 

What are the odds that Steve will follow Bob's instructions? Final spreads are filled with the gentle humor we have come to expect from this exceptional series. What a pair of friends Bob and Steve prove, once again, to be. 

Cow and Sow, written by Matthew Farina and illustrated by Doug Salati. tundra, Penguin Random House. 2026. $26.99 ages 3 and up

 

"Twirling turned into spinning. 

Hops grew into jumps.

Steps whirled into footwork. 

Unsteadiness gave way to flair. 

Days of skating passed at Shallow Pond. 

Before long, everyone had invented a 
special trick or two of their own."

Winter seems endless to Cow and Sow, who spend long days playing board games inside their home. Boring, and unproductive is how they feel about what is happening. Their interest has waned, and they are hungry for adventure. One chilly, cloudy afternoon, they go for a walk that leads them to the frozen pond at the edge of town. As Cow bends down to taste some winter wheat, she falls and lands on the ice. In trying to help, Sow loses her balance as well. 

They have never been on ice, and find its slippery surface quite enjoyable. Holding on to each other, they are able to stay upright while making their way across the pond. In quick time, they are can skim the surface without help, until they have to find a way to stop. The fallen snow offers a soft landing. The following day, their friends are happy to join in the merriment. Cow and Sow provide all needed instruction. With time to improve, the animals begin to find their own moves. Each is spending the days developing tricks while finding joy in this new adventure. 

When Sow is ready to show her new and very impressive move, she holds sway with the crowd. Cow is not as easily impressed. She refuses to let Sow take credit for the jump that was first hers. A real kerfuffle ensues. Before long, the arguing is louder than the sound of the ice cracking beneath them. Cow plunges into the cold water, and a rescue is quickly organized by Sow. Luckily, Cow is saved and the entire crew builds a fire at the edge of the pond in celebration. 

The disagreement is solved when the two finally consent to a favorable name for their signature move. Sure to be make readers giggle, I will leave it to you to make the discovery for yourself. 

The storytelling is filled with charm, and a great deal of fun for readers. The artwork, drawn in pencil and gouache and colored digitally, oozes emotion at every turn while also giving readers a close and careful look at a friendship that is meaningful and only slightly confrontational. Kids are going to love it. 
                                                                                     

carrots make me suspicious, written and illustrated by Robin Mitchell Cranfield. Greystone Kids, 2026. $24.95 ages 3 and up

"My father likes to eat carrots sliced into
thick rings with a sprinkle of salt. He pops
them into his mouth: pop pop pop. 

My mother prefers carrots sliced 
into sticks. She dips them in dips:
dip dab dip. 

But I don't and I won't dip dab
dip or pop pop pop. 

That is just not my style."

I am indebted to Sydney at Greystone Kids for sending along a box of books that I am very excited to share with you. First up in this one about a rabbit who does not eat carrots for a mix of valid (to him) reasons. 

His parents encourage him to eat them because they are good for him, and they are sweet and crunchy. Rabbit likes quiet foods, and cannot be convinced to give them a try. He would rather eat the yummy dip than the carrots for dipping. When a party has nothing but carrots for food, he would rather be at home. While he may, at times, be curious about them, he keeps those feelings inside. He would rather know what they are like before ever trying them. His mother suggests an investigation. A notebook is provided for careful observation. Carrots are orange; do they taste like an orange? No, and not all carrots are orange. They are triangles; but not all carrots are triangular. 

It's time for further research. Rabbit learns something about gardening (and rosemary) from a neighbor. He discovers they are a root, but do not taste like root beer. Needing more data, he checks out a library book about carrots and learns a great deal concerning preparation, shape, and even finds some appealing recipes. One is for cinnamon carrot soup which is a big hit. Just don't suggest lettuce for dessert. 

"Lettuce makes me suspicious." 

Brilliant! 

The text captures a child's feelings about trying something new. The artwork is childlike, and perfectly matches the rabbit's narration. The color palette is dominated by orange images, in keeping with the rabbit's full attention to this unfamiliar taste. The parents show great respect and understanding for their child's reticence, encouraging without pushing, and offering ways to explore learning more. 

Who Knows the Way to Mr. Grimly's Classroom? Written by Chris Priestley and illustrated by Mariachiara Di Giorgio. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2026. $26.99 ages 6 and up

 

"But Grace did not see anyone along the way.
It just got darker and darker and more and 
more cobwebby. 

"This school is so big," said Grace, 
and her voice echoed down the corridor:
"So ... so ... so ... big ... big ... big ... "

Just then, a wooden door creaked open and
a pale figure stepped slowly forward. 

Grace gasped."

This is another truly exceptional book to read to your kids at home, or for a classroom read. Grace loves to volunteer for any task suggested by her teacher, Miss Flytrap. Asked to return a book to Mr. Grimly, Miss Flytrap wants reassurance that Grace does know the way. Grace is sure! Or is she? 

It's Grace's first week at her new school; a school that is decidedly stranger than her last. Grace does not know the way, and she has no idea who Mr. Grimly is. Having this information sets up listeners for an eerie walk through the school, always on the lookout for surprises along the way. Prepared to ask for help, Grace begins her journey. 

There is no one in the hallways. Finally, a door opens revealing Miss Endpaper, the librarian. She is happy to give instructions which Grace is not sure are all that helpful. Miss Endpaper is back to her work before Grace moves on. Now concerned that she will fail her assignment, Grace worries aloud, only to be heard by a woman in the shadows. Mrs. Nightshade, the head teacher, offers a more complicated answer to her query. 

Outside Grace goes and across the playground to an extremely high tower. The steps are steep and Grace, once again, worries aloud about finding Mr. Grimly's classroom. A bat offers help, and a zip line is marked by a finger pointing the way. Grace lands in a kitchen filled with delectable sights and smells. Mrs. Macaroon, the school cook, gives her final instructions. 

"You're almost there.
You just have to go through that door, 
down three flights of stairs, 
up two more flights of stairs, 
turn left, 
turn right, 
then left again, 
and there you are."

Finally meeting Mr. Grimly, Grace is faced with another dilemma. Her response to it is absolutely perfect!

Though lengthy, this is a book of wonder that I would first read without benefit of illustrations. It is told with a suspenseful tone, and hints of both mystery and humor. I would love to hear what listeners think once done, after asking what they have imagined throughout the reading. And then ... read it again with the breathtaking watercolor, gouache, and colored pencil artwork of Mariachiara Di Giorgio. Her meticulous images use light and shadow with perfection as Grace makes her increasingly complicated and daring journey in search of Mr. Grimly and his classroom. 
                                                                                 

A Riddle of Eels, written by Nicholas Day and illustrated by Corey R. Tabor. Random House Studio. Penguin Random House, 2026. $27.99 ages

"It is easy to see how people might disagree
about the terrifying, isolated Komodo dragon, 
it's terrifying! It's isolated! 

rar!

It is less easy to see how people might 
disagree about the eel. 
The eel is not rare. The eel is not 
terrifying. The eel is not isolated.
The eel is all around us.

glub!"

Sibert medalist Nicholas Day begins by talking about all the books we read that give us facts that relate to what is familiar to many. He also presents some of what we know about eels; but adds 'the more we study it, the less we know about it.'  He then suggests that it would be helpful if the reader could suddenly become an eel and pass along all that is learned while being one. In that way, this picture book would tell us all we need to know about eels. 

Mr. Day moves on to report that the many who have studied the eel in the past have made statements that they felt were true from their observations. They presented their evidence and it was accepted until someone disproved it with another theory; on it went from one conclusion to the next. 

"All this disagreeing went on for centuries, because eels are both 
fascinating and bewildering, and after a while, everyone 
managed to agree on this: 

Eels are really easy to disagree about." 

It should be easier. People could stand at the mouth of some European and American rivers and watch as a billion eels swam up them. Even being able to touch and hold them did little to help with the learning. Where did they come from? Where were the babies? How did they make those babies if there were any? There were no easy answers. 

After many years and much study, Danish biologist Johannes Schmidt observed that all eels were born in the Sargasso Sea, migrated to the rivers of Europe and North America, and returned at the end of their lives to spawn new eels though he never saw a full-grown eel there. We are sure of those things, and that their migration journey is unimaginable. How do they know where they are going? As we come to the end of this remarkable book, what have we really learned about them? 

For all we do know about today's world, there is so much left to explore and reveal. 

Chatty and accessible for his target audience, Nicholas Day has done his research and presents it with questions in mind and few answers despite all the scientific study. It has humor and lively appeal. Cory Tabor's mixed-media digital artwork places readers in the middle of an eel's world with his agile, undulating forms and historical and contemporary settings. Illustrations are filled with motion and wonder, while adding context for the learning. The endpapers are brilliant and the book's case wrap offers a giggle. A closing note from the author further enlightens the text, while also focusing on the steep decline in eel populations. Sources are included. 

Small-Girl Zora and the Shower of Stories: A Tall Tale Based on the Life and Work of Zora Neale Hurston. Written by Giselle Anatol and illustrated by Raissa Figueroa. Viking, Penguin Random House. 2026. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"By the time all those stories bubbled forth, 
and Jamie and Tea Cake had laughed until 
they cried, Small-Girl Zora wondered if she'd 
be able to lug the watering can all the way 
back home. 

But when she looked inside, it was almost 
as dry as a bone! Only a few drops!"

Small-Girl Zora is not the kind of girl who does what others expect of her. She likes to climb high in trees and 'play tag with the moon' to the consternation of all members of her family. She doesn't wear a hat when she's playing outside on a sunny day; she loses her sandals; and she likes to get messy when she's in the outdoors. She LOVES to tell preposterous stories, with encouragement from her listeners. There are those who do not encourage her plan for changing the world with her stories. Zora does not listen to their complaining. 

She expects to inspire tears of joy and laughter whenever she tells those stories. To that end, she takes a watering can with her to collect the tears and use them to help end the drought that is plaguing her small town. She begins with a rich farm family; they don't want to hear her stories. She persists with a story of a serpent which scares the farmer's wife, wakes the farmer from his nap and leads to Zora leaving their home as quietly as possible. Moving on to the general store, she tells a story of 'magically multiplying eggs' that have kept her full for days. Nothing stops her from embellishing that story with other details until the store owner sends her packing. 

She has so many stories to tell! No one is giving her a chance to make them cry and add their tears to her watering can. Her stories do work on Janie and Tea Cake; they laugh until they cry. The watering can is filling up and getting pretty heavy. When she looks inside, a few drops are all she sees. Sad and dejected, she sits herself down. Janie and Tea Cake offer encouragement as they say her stories wash their troubles away. On the way home, with rain falling gently, she is able to consider that her stories are being shared, bringing smiles of happiness. Suddenly and joyfully, Zora realizes a very important thing. 

"The drought was over! 
Her storytelling had worked!" 

Ms. Anatol's word choice in sharing the exuberance that was Zora Hurston's life is humorous and inspiring for the children who will have the good luck of hearing it. Raissa Gigueroa's artwork creates a setting that takes readers back to Zora's childhood home and the historical setting for her early life. She weaves the reality of Zora's life with the magic of her storytelling in spreads that will capture attention and inspire a closer look. An extensive author's note reveals Zora Neale Hurston's life story and her influences on the author. 

Tom Nancy: The Sheep Who Swapped Brains with a Boy, written by Mac Barnett and illustrated by X. Fang. tundra, Penguin Random House. 2026. $26.99 ages 4 and up

 

"The next morning Tom Nancy went 
back to school. Felix tried to go too. 

"Look at that!' The children pointed 
and giggled. "A sheep followed you 
to school! Just like in a storybook."

Felix tried to tell them he was actually 
a boy, but nobody listened to a sheep."

Kevin lives on a farm with his parents and an assortment of animals that include an arrogant sheep named Tom Nancy. Because Felix looks ready to have a conversation, Tom Nancy speaks to him one day. He has an important question. 

"Do you want to see a marvelous thing?" 

Felix, being Felix, says yes. With Tom Nancy in the lead the two are off to the old barn, where Tom Nancy shows Felix a brain-swapping machine he has built. He explains its workings and suggests they try swapping brains for the day. It's easy to see Felix's vulnerability, and Tom is quick to take advantage. 

BING! 

Tom becomes everything Felix, and Felix is suddenly a wide-eyed innocent sheep. Tom Nancy loves his day as a boy! Everything about it makes him happy. Felix does what sheep do; he spends his day in the pasture chewing grass, which he finds 'interesting.' When Felix is ready to switch back, he is distraught to learn Tom Nancy has no intention of doing so. Tom Nancy takes advantage of every opportunity to keep his new identity, while Felix tries to explain to the other animals what has happened. The other animals are perfectly content with Felix as he now is. They like him that way, and have no warm feelings for Tom Nancy. 

Tom was happy until he has to deal with the realities of school, and the expectations of him concerning homework. He complains to his dad who isn't open to letting him stay home since he hasn't been helping with the chores. With warnings from both principal and father concerning the work he will be expected to do in the future, Tom runs to Felix with a request to switch back. When they get to the barn, Tom Clancy is met with a very big surprise; a comeuppance from Felix and the other animals concerning his future. 

X. Fang drew her eye-catching illustrations with graphite and then added color in Photoshop. She keeps characters center of attention against all backgrounds. Tom Nancy is quite the individual; everything about him is big and outrageous. This is one terrific picture book from the very funny and irreverent Mac Barnett.  

Shake This Book, written and illustrated by Dave Whamond. owlkids, 2026. $22.95 ages 3 and up

 

"You're clearly VERY strong! 

I feel weird. 

WHAT JUST HAPPENED? 

I think you may have shaken 
the book too hard. 

SOMETHING DOESN'T 
SEEM RIGHT ... "

Things in the animal kingdom seem just a little too quiet and mundane. A bright blue and bored-looking rabbit thinks it is time to 'shake things up'. A tiny caterpillar shows concern for upcoming nonsense. The rabbit knows just what to do. Get readers to give the book a shake! Why not? The other animals show concern - and well they should! 

A turn of the page and chaos ensues. All animals are strewn hither and you, with surprised and frightened looks for what is happening to them. Another turn of the page and each of the animals is now sporting another's body parts. The mayhem is described: 

"I'm half crab and half rabbit. 
I'm a CRABBIT!

I'm I guess I'm a 
LADY-PUG. 

Am I a KANGA-ROOSTER?"

There's only one thing to do now. Can you guess? Kids will know and will be tremendously happy to help the animals get back to their former selves, no matter how long it might take. Are you ready? 

Speech bubbles, bold colors, cartoonish and recognizable animals, and just the right amount of playfulness makes for a very appealing book for young children. You know you will be reading it often!  

Willa and Wade Are Definitely NOT Spies, written by Judith Henderson and illustrated by Sara Sarhangpour. KIds Can Press. $16.99 ages 5 and up

 

"Here. Now let's 
practice reading the 
newspaper while keeping 
a lookout. 

Like this?

Almost. But 
don't move your head ... 
just your eyeballs. 

How did I do? 

Brilliant!" 

In this third book about them, a penguin named Wade and an ostrich named Willa read a story in their local paper about spies. As they discuss it, the two begin to make an assumption about spies being in their community. They decide to take their observation skills to the street to see if there is evidence to support their concern. Willa comes up with the idea that they should go undercover. 

How will they do that without anyone being suspicious? Willa has the answer; it's time to shop at Eye Spy Outfitters where everything is on sale. Clad in trench coats, sunglasses and fedoras, they pull up their collars and pull down their hats. It's time to practice their wily spy skills. They must be calm and casual ... and stealthy. Pointing their finger guns in classic style, they begin their reconnaissance with gusto. 

They have questions for community members who are frustrated by the birds' insistence they might be spies because of their actions. In fact, they are told, they are the ones who are the likely spies. Those questioned can tell by their appearance. Back where their day began, Willa and Wade get the feeling that far too many patrons are looking their way. Why, they wonder. 

This is fun, and kids will appreciate the storytelling and graphic format. It's a great new addition to a popular series. 

Fred Rex, written and illustrated by Joaquin Camp. Kids Can Press, 2026. $21.99 ages 5 and up

"Elvira had a good point. Fred Rex had
spent so much time roaring, he hadn't 
considered what else he might like to
do. It was time to try new things. He 
discovered he enjoyed dancing and 
meeting new people. 

And catching up with old friends."

Fred is a T-Rex whose mission in life is to frighten as many as he can. It is his calling, and he takes it seriously. He's following in his family's footsteps. His education at the School of Fear holds him in good stead for going out on his own to practice all he has learned. He enters the real world with anticipation for hearing plenty of screaming and causing much mayhem. 

None of his lessons are working; Fred is ignored by all. Meeting Elvira and telling his story, he is amenable to following her best advice. She suggests he find other ways to enjoy life. Fred soon realizes that he likes to dance and to meet new people. To his great surprise, he discovers a passion for the opera that leads to trying his hand at singing. 

Not wanting to disappoint his parents, Fred regales them with exactly what they want to hear from Fred Rex the Terrible. Soon, they call to let him know they are planning a visit to see him in action. What will Fred do? He turns to Elvira for further advice. She shares her plan with the cityfolk, who agree to cower in fear when Fred appears. Imagine everyone's surprise once Fred breaks out in song, evoking much admiration from all who hear him. 

Mixed-media illustrations are very appealing for those who love stories about dinosaurs. They will admire Fred's size, strength, and talents as he discovers for himself who he wants to be and what he wants to do with his life.

Bad Badger: A Family Story, written by Maryrose Wood and illustrated by Giulia Ghigini. Union Square Kids, Hachette. $12.99 ages 8 and up

 

"The skies were clear, the seas were calm. 
Some bait for the fish - leftover sausage 
would do - perhaps a sketchbook for 
doodling in case the fishing was slow, 

and he would be off. 

O, happy badger! Alone and paddling
and at peace while Gully minded the 
chicks. 

"Seagull things and badger things," he
sang to himself, fastening his sun hat 
beneath his muzzle."

I first met Septimus, a badger, and his seagull friend Gully last year, when I was anticipating reading it to Chelsea during her summer visit. Recently, Chelsea, her mom and I were all reading this sequel at the same time; they at home in British Columbia and me here in Manitoba. It turns out that we each enjoyed it as much as the first one, and are very happy to have had the opportunity to read this one as well. 

When we left them in the first book, the two were preparing for the arrival of three chicks. Now, the four birds are living with Septimus in his cottage by the sea. Gully and Septimus are doing their best to parent the three hatchlings, who prove to be loud, messy and not at all in tune with the opera music loved by Septimus, their adoptive father. Despite some misgivings, Badger is doing his best to provide care and understanding. Exhausted but loving, the two are capable of sharing their duties; the little ones are thriving. 

When an unexpected group of forest badgers show up for a surprise visit, things change. These badgers are smelly and loud, with a need to learn about Badger's family and his love of village life. Once they become accustomed to being together, the forest badgers prove to be adept helpers and life settles down. Gully's growing worry over her offspring's lack of interest in flying leads to the realization that badgers and seagulls have different goals in life. The chicks want to be independent, but fear it as well. They are happy burrowing underground and eating worms with their new friends, while ignoring their mother's fear that they will not learn to fly. Can Septimus find a way to inspire in them a willingness to try it? 

Their story allows for a look at family dynamics not unlike most. With humor and heart, Maryrose Wood brings readers back into their lives with a follow-up book that clearly presents a chaotic, loving family who can count on each other and their friends for all they need. It is a wonderful family readaloud. 

The House With Nobody In It, written and illustrated by Jon Klassen. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2026. $19.99 ages 3 and up

 

"This room has a table. 
And there is a clock 
on the wall. 

Let's go into the next room."

I don't often post board books to my blog; that is, unless they are written by Jon Klassen. He continues to amaze with his thoughtful and inspired writing. In this new book, he invites readers inside to explore a house with no residents. The door is open and there is no sign of anyone as the tour begins. The first room has a chair, the second has a table and a clock. Do you notice the interior is getting darker as the exploration continues? 

In the room with a stool and a lamp, a ghostly shape also appears. The walls have changed from warm yellow, to cool blue, to forest green. Moving on, with the ghostly figure appearing at the door of the next room, there is only a bed in an even darker green room. One more door leads to a room with boots only, and the last door offers a chance to move outside into a moonlit evening. 

Repeating the first few lines again at the end adds to the eerie feelings explored. 

"There is nobody 
in this house. 
There used to be somebody. 
But there is nobody 
now." 

Die-cuts, an unmentioned, though evident, resident, and diminishing color in the visited rooms deepens the mystery, and proves that Jon Klassen knows how to tell a ghost story for even our youngest readers. 

Don't miss it! 

Mr. Chow's Night Market, written by Emily Sun Li and illustrated by Yu Ting Cheng. Penguin Workshop, Penguin Random House. 2026. $26.99 ages 4 and up

"Mr. Chow doesn't know what to think.
Outside, city lights glow. Cicadas buzz. 
Inside, the fridges hum with energy. 
"I should get ready for bed," Mr. Chow
reminds himself. "I have to get up in a 
few hours!"

But dread pricks his stomach like fish bones."

Mr. Chow and I have something in common; we don't like to get up early in the morning. We would rather stay up late. Our circumstances are very different; he owns a grocery store where patrons line up early to make their purchases and I am a retired teacher with few commitments in the early morning. 

When he sleeps in one morning, despite calls from his grandchildren, angry customers are waiting in a long line for him to open; he has done no cleaning or organizing for the start of the day. His grandchildren offer needed help, but it is not a great day. Mr. Chow turns to his friends for advice. There is little help until someone suggests that he should 'try something new'. That is exactly what he does!

With help from those same grandchildren, he does all the work needed to open a night market. It is a welcome idea, offering a place to shop at night with games, bright lights, and food booths for customers to enjoy. The real bonus for Mr. Chow is that he now has more time to spend with his grandchildren, and the opportunity to sleep in every morning. 

Using lovely, descriptive language, Ms. Li pens a story that is fun to read aloud and informative. Yu Ting Cheng's brightly-colored and expressive illustrations add much to the appeal of the story. The spreads are filled with expression, movement, and so much to see. In an author's note, Emily Sun Li tells her readers about the night markets in Taiwan. Those markets are famous for their snacks, beverages, and sweet desserts, while also attracting many community members on a nightly basis.                                                                                         

The Stuffie Stand, written and illustrated by Maddie Frost. Hippo Park, Penguin Random House. 2026. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"Moose had no time to waste on annoying children. 
He was in over his antlers.
And he had a case of NOODLE ARMS - a crafter's 
worst nightmare.

He couldn't pick anything up. 
He couldn't put anything together. 
Sewing was impossible!" 

Moose has a lifetime love of stuffies! As he grew, he learned how to make his own. What an artist! Every one he made was perfect; finally, he decided to open a stuffie stand and sell them locally. Mabel, whose love for stuffies was akin to the way Moose felt about them, wanted all he had to sell. She was loud and very excited to let Moose know that. 

Mabel also made stuffies; bedazzled and accessorised. She showed an interest in selling her wares at Moose's stand. Moose does not need to sell such stuffies, and sent Mabel on her way. He wanted only 'simple stuffies'. His stand was so busy that he had to take special orders. My, he was busy! The sewing never stopped; the waiting lines were endless. He began to make mistakes. Mabel was worried. 

Wanting to help, she checked in with him. Moose wanted no help. In fact, he was quite rude to her. Only when he could no longer do all the work did he turn to Mabel. It was very difficult for him to ask for help, and Mabel grew impatient. Having a partner didn't solve all of the problems, but Moose was okay with that. Their new business was a huge hit! 

Digital illustrations add visual appeal for young readers, who are sure to appreciate the variety in the offerings at the stuffie stand and have a giggle at Moose's attitude toward Mabel. 

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 VERY GOOD PARADE, written and illustrated by Eleanor Davis. Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2026. $26.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Gabby was very good 
at getting people to join 
the parade. 

FEEL THE CITY BREAKIN'
AND EVERYBODY SHAKIN'
AND WE'RE STAYIN' ALIVE
    STAYIN' ALIVE "

The title page shows a little one, all decked out with a starred cape, a crown, a tutu and a spatula; what is she ready to do? The opening page shows just exactly what she has in mind. Gabby announces loudly to her gramma that it is time for a parade! Out she goes, calling out to all the neighborhood kids to join her. Miguel says he has no skill to bring to the parade but his dad's horn which he can't play. Gabby thinks it's a fine horn even if he doesn't play it. Miguel joins. 

Everyone is invited to join the parade, with whatever they have.  Anthony worries that he has nothing but his aunt's big cowboy boots. Gabby encourages him to wear them in their grand parade. Everyone she meets is convinced they have an important role to play, including Noah who's pushing a stroller. By putting the baby on his shoulders, Noah becomes the Tallest Baby in the World! What more could one ask? 

Gabby even rescues a young boy from two bullies; he is asked to join, they are not. Only nice people are to be included in Gabby's parade. As they go, there are more and more interested in joining. Finally, they reach the park and it's time to stop and PERFORM. Spatula in hand, Gabby leads all paraders in a cacophony of sound and performance that ends with Miguel finally coaxing a BAROOMPA out of his horn! The crowd of adults that has gathered to watch is spellbound. When Gabby's gramma, who has been following since Gabby stepped outside, announces dinnertime, the parade is over. In the darkness, the participants head for home. What a success!  

Gabby is one superb parade marshal. She leads with conviction and encouragement, and accepts all participants (except the bullies). Digital art creates a perfect accompaniment to the text, adding a familiar setting and impressing with the energy and enthusiasm that one little girl sparks. Speech bubbles, onomatopoeia, and regular text tell this story with humor and delight. It's simply wonderful!   

The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza, by Mac Barnett and Shawn Harris. Harper, 2022. $16.99 ages 8 and up

 

"The navigation on this thing is busted.

First Cat, can you make any sense of 
that map?

MEOW.

Then I'll just have to point this 
thing upward and hope we pop
past the Land of Frost."

This hilarious graphic novel is the book Chelsea chose for our book club read this month. She read it quickly and suggested I do the same. I had read about this series; I had not seen any of the four books. Start with the first was a grand idea. To say it's as funny as the title suggests is testament to this collaboration between Mac Barnett and Shawn Harris, close friends and equally keen on humor and crazy antics for their young readers. 

When rats from another galaxy begin to eat the moon, scientists launch a cyber cat to protect our closest celestial neighbor. This First Cat in Space is destined to deal the rats. A toenail-clipping robot (LOZ 4000) is a stowaway and the cat's companion for the mission. The Moon Queen greets the two and joins them on their quest. Their mission to deal with the Rat King takes them through a crazy mix of geography that includes a frozen wasteland, wild seas, and forest. The fast pace is captured perfectly by Shawn Harris as he creates compelling characters who move from one improbable place to the next. In full color, the art is as entertaining and hilarious as Mac Barnett's madcap plot. 

One question is constant: despite the many obstacles placed in the way, will the cat tasked with ridding the moon of the Rat King and his minions ever get to taste a slice of pizza? 

An expanded version of their Live Cartoons that were released on Instagram during the pandemic, the quirky humor and wonderful artwork up that hilarity in graphic novel form and has fans who eagerly read each new adventure. To add to the fun of discovering this first cat in space, visit www.thefirstcatinspace.com to see about joining the official FIRST CAT FAN CLUB. 

Be on the lookout for The First Cat in Space and the Soup of Doom, The First Cat in Space and the Wrath of the Paperclip, and The First Cat in Space and the Baby Pirate's Revenge.  

Coming this fall: The First Cat in Space Activity Book.