Louisa Learns to Write: Louisa May Alcott Creates Little Women, written by Kate Hannigan and illustrated by Sofia Moore. Calkins Creek, Astra. Penguin Random House, 2026. $25.99 ages 10 and up

"WRITE 

Louisa loved to climb trees and run 
through the woods, sometimes under
moonlight. On her tenth birthday, 
Mother presented her with a special 
gift. Opening the pages of a journal, 
Louisa let the words flow - from 
poetry to petty complaints and even 
private dreams." 

Louisa May Alcott wrote what she knew when she penned the story of 4 girls and their family in Little Women. Her family lived a similar life to the March sisters. Her father was a teacher who often changed jobs, leaving the family in a life of poverty with little food to eat and only used clothing to wear. The four girls loved the worlds they found in their father's books. Louisa loved being outdoors, and she loved to write in a journal from her mother. 

As they moved from place to place, the older girls worked to make the money the family needed. Their jobs were difficult and left Louisa dreaming of riches that would make life more comfortable for everyone. An inheritance left to her mother helped to ease the burden and let them buy a new home. Life became easier and Louisa could give herself over to the reading, writing, and dreaming that she loved to do. The family was happy using her writing to perform in the stories she told. 

Family friends Henry David Thorseau, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Ralph Waldo Emerson were often present for meaningful discussions about important topics. The family home became a stop on the Underground Railroad. In a search for new jobs to improve their lives, they moved to Boston. After helping with many household chores and caring for children, Louisa began to write in earnest. She hoped that she would make enough money to improve their family circumstances. 

"I will do something by and by. 
Don't care what, teach, sew, act, write, 

anything to help the family; and I'll 
be rich and famous and happy before 
I die, see if I won't!"

Family circumstances changed dramatically when one sister died, and another got married and moved away. Louisa wrote more and more, despite setbacks. As a working nurse during the Civil War, she wrote Hospital Sketches, a hit with readers and critics. She wrote, and wrote, and wrote. Would she write for girls, she was asked. Yes, she would - and write she did. She wrote what she knew; she wrote about her own family. It wasn't long until Little Women became a huge hit. 

Back matter includes an informative author's note, archival photos of the four Alcott sisters, a list of ten habits for becoming a writer (all discussed in the pages of the book), a timeline, facts and fiction comparing her family and the March family, and a bibliography.  

The focus throughout remains on the similarities between Louisa's reality and the story she created for the March sisters. Many significant quotes are included. Mixed media artwork provides a setting for the time and the family, and for Louisa's perseverance as she pursues her dreams. This might just be the spark that shows an up-and-coming writer the key to success. 

My Presentation Today is About the Anaconda, written by Bibi Dumon Tak and illustrated by Annemarie Van Haeringen, with translation by Nancy Forest-Flier. Levine Querido, Raincoast. 2025. $29.99 ages 9 and up

""But unlike the koala, the Tasmanian devil isn't
a marsupial that eats the leaves of trees, but a
marsupial that spends the whole day eating meat.
His jaws are stronger than those of any mammal
of the same size. So the lynx and the wolverine and
the Norwegian Forest cat don't stand a chance with
their teeth and fangs. The grip of a Tasmanian
devil's jaw is much stronger than theirs. That's
because his head is huge compared to the rest of
his body. He can rip the skin off a kangaroo with 
the greatest of ease, and break the bones of a
wallaby as if they were twigs."

I had not read anything about this book when I ordered it. It was the title that intrigued, and made me wonder what I might find within its pages. I am so happy to have read it, and to tell you about it. You will know exactly the reader who will give it a try and then pass it on to a friend sure to enjoy it as well. 

The premise is that one animal presents a report on another. There are twenty different pairings. They will surprise and delight interested readers with their views and opinions as they tell their audience about the animal they have chosen to present. While one speaks about the other, they provide some very interesting information, and perhaps a touch too much about themselves. That definitely happens when the cleaner fish chooses the shark, and then goes on to ensure the offering provides plenty of personal data about the cleaner fish.

At the end of the report (and sometimes in the middle, or at any other time) unnamed participants interrupt with questions and comments about what is being shared. There are some tense moments, and animal personalities provide ideas that may never have been considered. The animals come from across the globe; some may be unfamiliar. In general, readers will gain knowledge that is common or not. A cassowary speaks about the many species of hummingbirds in the Americas. The howler monkey chooses the unicorn, then fills his report with blatant lies. When called on it, he admits he made it up as entertainment and reminds critics that they all listened while he was giving his account. So, what's the problem? 

The book is very entertaining, and informative. There is much to learn here. The illustrations hold strong appeal, while matching the tone of the often-humorous text. The ending, an index created by the earthworm and a midwife toad, explains how the animals will be listed and how the index itself works. 

"Each animal's name is followed 
by the number of the presentation
they give, or in which they have 
something to say." 

It's a perfect book to share in a classroom where a class presentation is part of the learning. So many kids fear such an assignment. This allows for a bit of comic relief prior to those presentations. It's chatty and accessible for sharing with the class or passing on to teams of readers who could use it as a readers' theater project.  

The Sustainable School: A Journey Through Time and Energy. Written by Erica Fyvie and illustrated by Scot Ritchie. Kids Can Press, 2025. $19.99 ages 9 and up

"The woodstove keeps our class very warm in the winter.
At lunchtime, we can buy a hot lunch for a penny, but 
most of us bring our own lunch in a metal pail. Sometimes
we bring a carrot or potato to school and the midday 
helpers cook a stew in the school kitchen for us to share."

Many surprises await those middle graders who read this book about Birch Elementary and its sixth- grade class that is learning about sustainability. A sudden halt in the construction happening outside their classroom windows leads to them being offered a time capsule from 1900 that the workers have unearthed. The sixth graders from that year had buried it to be found 100 years later. As they examine its contents, they read letters that describe their school at that time. 

Mr. Maron organizes the class into four different teams to consider what life was like then and might be like in coming years. They will work together to create a science fair project, the final assignment for the school year. Each team is given a topic to research by reading letters from the past before looking to the future to investigate and imagine coming changes to electricity, plumbing, buildings, and transportation. The book's structure then follows the teams as they consider what they are reading from the past and considering questions and ideas for the future. 

Time capsule information boxes discuss The Global Seed Vault (Future Fair), The Terracotta Warriors (Electricity), The Wreck of the Titanic (Plumbing), Voyager Golden Records (Buildings) and Scott's Hut (Transportation). Double page spreads for each begin with a focus question, followed a prediction concerning the future, the good news from today, the challenges ahead and a concluding statement. Finally, Mr. Maron's class of 2025 produce their own time capsule for the class of 2125.

Highly informative and sure to intrigue those who read it, this book will have middle grade students keen on thinking about the future and what it holds, based on the learning they do in their classroom. Cartoon style artwork is very appealing. Sepia tones show what life was like in the past, offering today's readers a chance to take a careful look at the differences and similarities from one time to the other. In the end, the students are introduced, instructions are given for creating a 'your very own time capsule', a glossary, a list of resources and an index are added.  

It's an excellent mentor text for any classroom interested in a project concerning energy and a greener and more sustainable future.                                                                                             

A Hummingbird on My Balcony, written and photographed by Isabelle Groc. Orca, 2025. #$21.95 ages 5 and up

"A tiny white egg the size of a jelly bean appeared 
in the nest. The next day, the hummingbird laid 
another egg. Day after day Noah watched her sit 
on the eggs, taking only short breaks to feed
herself. She seemed so calm, oblivious to the city 
lights and traffic sounds."

Isabelle Groc is an accomplished conservationist, photographer and writer. Here she brings her talents to telling the story of a wee Anna's hummingbird who built her nest on the 22nd floor balcony of an urban high rise. Ms. Groc's lasting fascination with the tiny bird, and its ability to adapt to its surroundings led her to seek stories from people whose experiences with this beautiful bird concerned the amazing places they built their nests. 

One of those stories came from Noah's family. They had just moved into their apartment. Noah loved the lights they had strung on their balcony; so, the lights remained. A first photo of Noah shows him watering the plants there. On the facing page, Ms. Groc offers a clear photo of an Anna's hummingbird with pertinent information about hummingbirds themselves.

The balcony lights got the attention of one small female Anna's hummingbird. Noah knew little about them; he learned a lot. Over following pages, readers learn many valuable facts about this particular hummingbird. First, she has adapted to having people close by. She puts all her work into finding necessary materials to build a nest that is hidden from predators and offers protection from wind and rain. Noah has worries about the dangers of being where she is. 

As the text passes back and forth from what is happening with Noah and his bird to the factual material, the author ensures that readers are given an astonishing number of facts about the hummingbird species. Noah's days are filled with observation and learning as he spends time watching and waiting.  As readers become part of Noah's experience, they learn about anatomy, song, nesting, incubation, threats to their existence, caring for injured and orphaned hummingbirds, and birth after 17 days of incubation. 

Feeding the newly hatched is an onerous task. Noah watches as the mother bird returns constantly to the nest with nectar and tiny bugs. They grow quickly; two weeks later the nest is almost too small for them. At three weeks, they are ready to test their wings. Too soon, the family is gone. Two years later, a second bird returns to the exact spot and also cares for two babies. Noah can only hope it will happen again. 

The author's research offers clear science for readers interested in learning more about these tiny treasures of nature. Her storytelling presents the touching tale of a boy whose patience and wonder allow the whole experience to unfold as it should. 

And from Ms. Groc:

They are a reminder of the power of nature in our lives and why it is so essential to protect it. I hope this book will be an inspiration for young readers to pay attention to the beauty of nature around them.                                                                                      

Behold the Chameleon! Written by Suzanne Slade and illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez. Peachtree, Penguin Random House. 2025. $25.99 ages 8 and up

 

"As a chameleon sleeps, its skin color lightens. 
Scientists believe this occurs because the chameleon's 
pigment cells (which affect skin color) relax as it rests. 
Desert chameleons sleep in burrows beneath the hot 
sand. Tree-dwelling chameleons sleep in areas where 
they normally feed by clutching branches with their 
claws and tails about 1 to 12 feet (0.3 to 3.6 meters)
above the ground."

On a spring day in April when a bold, blue sky makes everything glow and even hints at shades of green in surrounding trees, I am reminded of the brilliance of the artwork created in pastel, colored pencils and airbrush by Thomas Gonzelez for his newest collaboration with Suzanne Slade. The realism of the illustrations that accompany the research information provided by the prolific Ms. Slade is truly mesmerizing. 

Each spread places descriptive words for a variety of chameleons on the verso, and a detailed, revealing paragraph concerning the species on the recto. Readers learn that there are over 220 different chameleons, that most live in Africa and Madagascar, and that their habitats include mountains, savannas, deserts, and rainforests. We see that they are remarkable creatures of beauty when considering the diversity in their coloring. 

Verbs used accentuate their many capabilities as they find food, shelter, and safety: stalking, snatching, dining, clinging, changing, and shining. The text is perfectly paired with wondrous images that allow readers a close look. There is a lot to learn here for those kids who are keen to know more about the natural world.  

"A chameleon's natural coloring already matches 
its habitat. A chameleon may change color to 
control its body temperature (darker colors absorb
more heat from sunlight) or communicate feelings.
For example, a calm chameleon may turn green."

For those who don't get all they need from these opening spreads, they will want to carefully read the back matter provided. Two pages of additional information are there, along with acknowledgements, a selected bibliography, and three Internet sites for further learning. 

This is a companion book to Behold the Octopus!, and Behold the Hummingbird!
                                                                               

In and Out the Window, written by Jane Yolen and illustrated by Cathrin Peterslund. Philomel, Penguin Random House. 2024. $13.99 ages 8 and up

 

"Our Kitchen

Smells of mornings, 
blueberry muffins,
hot chocolate, tea.

It smells of bacon
         and of eggs.

It smells of family."

It's hard to imagine that Jane Yolen has written 'well over four hundred books'! I have read many, and some have been favorites for years. Her bibliography is obviously very long; it is also varied. I have cried through some, laughed through others, and feel lucky to have had so many to relish. 

This new collection of short poems is mostly new. Any that have been published prior to now have a notation made on the poem's page. The topics are diverse: home, school, seasons, the calendar, sports, nature, and animals. As with all books of poetry, some will be chosen as favorites and others, perhaps, not so meaningful to each reader. She writes about perspective, both inside and out of the subjects chosen. 

The language is pleasing to the ear, and offers a conversational tone for many of the entries. Each new section begins with suggestions for writing poetry: the why, how, when, where, the poem in your heart, if there is no poem today, and who can write a poem. 

"Who Can Write a Poem

Anyone with a brain who can scan
                          can.
Anyone who can look at the sky. 
Anyone who can watch a squirrel
             crossing the road, 
or imagine the scene, should try. 
Anyone hearing a song in the heart,
or rhymes that are sharp as a knife ... 
And if you imagine a poem in your pocket, 
     it's there for the rest of your life."

There is a lot to savor in the more than one hundred poems included in this collection. As readers move from page to page, section to section, in to out, it will be of interest to see the poems they choose as favorites. The book ends with a thank you from the poet to readers for taking the time to read the poetry she has penned for enjoyment and careful thought. There are poems to read alone, or out loud, or even with friends. They remind us to look around and see what is happening in life, and then to write about it. As she writes about everything, she encourages those reading to try to do the same. Learn about the world, and then write what is seen and understood from those observations. There's good and there's bad; everything is there to be considered, and even connected. 

How about this one to get started? 

"In My Locker

... 

Inside they'll find
      one 
      holey 
      sock, 
   the insides of 
   a broken clock, 
a bag of feathers, 
three brown stones, 
         a hanger
with three old pine cones, 
my last year's notebook, 
        tons of tests, 
   all marked in red,
      a blue jay's nest, 
         a note from 
    Mary Ellen White, 
my retainer that feels 
     much too tight ... "

There! Ms. Yolen got you started. It's up to you what you do next ... your backpack, your closet, your bedroom, your own school locker, your sports bag? You get to choose and see what you see when you take a close look. 

Ten-Word Tiny Tales of Love, by Joseph Coehlo and 21 Artist Friends. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2024. $24.99 ages 7 and up

"She painted every stroke
with the colors of her heart."

This companion book to Ten-Word Tiny Tales to Inspire and Unsettle (Candlewick, 2023) is just as intriguing, following the same format as the first. It is another exceptional collection of ten-word stories that are accompanied by stunning artwork by a different artist for each one. 

Can you really tell a love story in only ten words? It turns out that, from the pen of this acclaimed British writer, you can indeed. In fact, you can tell 21 stories, ask 21 artists to accompany each with their personal interpretation, and design another wonder of imagination and creativity sure to please readers. They are also certain to activate thoughts and interpretations of their own, and perhaps encourage keen readers to try more of the same. Just imagine! 

There are stories here about family, nature, pets, broken hearts, ghosts, color, and so much more. You will have your favorites, as I do. Kids will go back to read them again, and then again. Each time they are sure to discover something they have not considered in earlier readings and viewings. 

It begins with a note that explains how Joseph Coehlo found power in words of 'love and kindness'. He describes them as 'stories of love of all kinds', and explains how the words found him. Once written, they provided the encouragement he needed to ask these fabulous artists to contribute their personal interpretations. Final pages offer inspiration for budding writers to think about the five parts of a story: a normal day, something unusual happens, what do they want, there's a problem, and they solve the problem and get what they want. Or do they? 

He ends with terrific advice for all would-be writers. 

"Remember, the important thing is to have fun with your story. Enjoy the adventure of making your story reach its full potential."                                                                             

Mushrooms Know: Wisdom From Our Friends the Fungi, written by Kallie George and illustrated by Sara Gillingham. Greystone Kids, 2024. $23.95 ages 6 and up

 

"But mushrooms know to look for 
opportunities, to find magnificent 
ways to carry on. 

Mushrooms grow on green roofs in cities, 
on pinecones, and even in flowerpots inside 
houses. They can survive forest fires. 
Studies have shown lightning strikes 
make some mushroom species multiply."

This introduction to fungi is highly informative, while also being engaging. Inviting readers to see mushrooms as always wearing their 'thinking caps', Ms. George presents numerous labeled species. She explains the roles mushrooms play in almost every ecosystem. 

Their growth is mostly underground in a network called mycelium. What the world sees is what is above the ground, while much is happening below. They make countless spores which are carried by the wind to find appropriate places to grow and prosper. They are strong enough to grow through concrete. Some glow in the dark, while others help trees grow. 

Young readers are sure to enjoy double-page spreads that name a number of species while also showing the variety in color, size and shape. It is quite amazing to learn that there are thirty thousand species, and more are being discovered. I love the names! 

There is a lot to learn here, offered in small bites of information so as not to overwhelm. Ms. Gillingham creates bright and lively faces on each mushroom, and provides backgrounds that make each stand out on the page. A list of further facts is added in a Did You Know? section on final pages and a warning is offered about some mushrooms being poisonous. Better to look rather than touch when on a mushroom-spotting excursion. 

"One honey mushroom has an underground network 
that covers thousands of acres and has been living for 
nearly 2,500 years."
                                                                         

Thank You, written and illustrated by Jarvis. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2024. $23.99 ages 3 and up

"And I had a reason
to thank 
elephants, 
but I seem to 
have forgotten, 
               so ... 

I'll thank the 
Tyrannosaurus 
for being the longest word I know."

There is much to be thankful for when we look closely. The young child narrator, clad in red knit cap and matching boots, is aware and shares many of the things that fill him with gratitude. He begins with the moon and the sun, thanking them for night and day. 

With each page turn, he finds endless reasons to be grateful to nature, his family and friends, and the many other sights and sounds as he goes about his day. It is such an important concept for each one of us; to take the time to look closely at our world and to be truly content with what is there. 

There are unexpected twists and turns in his gratitude journey: a tree for shade, a hat for keeping thoughts in his head, a plant for a hiding place, a bowl for jelly, and his belly for making room for that deliciousness. 

"I thank the itch 
for the scratch.

I thank Mr. Jeffers 
for the purrs." 

When the time comes that he thinks he has done all his thanking, he just starts all over again! 

The digital artwork is energetic, colorful, and fills the pages with warm and joyful details. Jarvis says this book started out as a song he sang, and led to his looking for those things he wanted to thank. It was the start of a long list. Wouldn't it be a fun way to start a new school year with your students? 

Taking time to be thankful is a worthy pursuit, and one that can be practiced daily until it is second nature. Endpapers are filled with the great variety in ways world communities say thank you. What are you and your kids thankful for? Start your list!                                                                                   

Go and Get with Rex, written by David LaRochelle and illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House, 2024. $23.99 ages 3 and up

"Great! When I count to three, 

GO and GET 

something that begins with the letter 

                      F!

One ... two ... three! 

ZIP! ZAP! ZOOM!

Back already? That was fast!
Let's see what you found."

That is the premise for this terrific new book by a veteran pair of collaborators. Jack, Jill and Rex (a dog) are taxed with finding something that starts with a given letter of the alphabet. Jack and Jill follow the rules to the 'letter'; Rex, who has a grand love for ducks, is always able to explain why a duck is his go-to answer for each letter provided.

The game continues. Kids will absolutely love the search results. With each new letter, the resulting text becomes wordier and more descriptive. 

"a MOUSE! 
And the way she's making a meal of
that Muenster, she must be hungry!
Mouse does indeed begin with the 
letter M!"

The surprise ending is perfect. Asked to find something that begins with D is certain to lead readers to expect that Rex is sure to return with a duck. Rex, as with every other search, has a perfect explanation (WOOF! WOOF! WOOF!) for the choice he makes. The final spread is a culmination for this apt lesson in the sounds that letters make. 

Mike Wohnoutka's artwork is familiar and exactly right for bringing meaning to the text and providing all that young readers need to make this experience the best it can be. 

When you are looking for books that insert phonics into learning to read in a meaningful way, this is exactly what your kids need. It holds their attention, it is full of energy and enjoyment, it is creative, and it will definitely encourage them to take what they have learned here and try it for themselves.  
                                                                             

Have You Seen An Elephant, written and illustrated by Elina Ellis. Kids Can Press, 2024. $21.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Did you know that elephants
have poor digestive systems? 

That's why they are always full of gas! 

Have a look in my journal."

Wouldn't you think that an elephant would be easy to spot? Apparently not! 

Alex is a young explorer with a penchant for elephants; she knows a great deal about them. Since she has not seen a real one, she is preparing for a search. Backpack full and armed with her elephant journal. she sets off. She is bold in her meetings with a giraffe, meerkats, even a snake while asking for help in spotting an elephant. 

It won't take young readers long before they catch on to the joke being played on Alex. While she is intent on speaking with a rhino, observant readers will be quick to point out that there is an elephant right behind her - and it's walking away into the forest! 

When the rhino appears perplexed with the question, Alex pulls out her journal and offers a look at two pages of highly interesting information about elephants, both African and Asian. Three such spreads are shared as she searches. Moving ever onward, she perches herself in a vulture's nest, not knowing that a herd of elephants is walking beneath her. Nothing stops her in her quest, while all the while elephants can be seen on every spread. 

When she is finally ready to give up, Alex offers a clear hint at what's up next. Since elephants are so hard to find, she tells a monkey that she might just start looking for a tiger. 

"I LOVE TIGERS!

I know everything about them."

Only then does Alex ask an elephant if she has seen a tiger! Kids will be roaring. 

Digital illustrations engage readers with a myriad of details certain to tickle their funny bones. Back matter offers suggestions for creating a journal. Once finished the first, it's easy to start on another. 

Be on the lookout in September for Is This a Tiger? the second book in this promising series. 

Peaceful Me, written by Sandra V. Feder and illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell. Groundwood, 2023. $19.99 ages 3 and up

 

"Sometimes I feel peaceful
when I do something nice. 

"For you,"
peaceful. 

"I'll help,"
peaceful."

The child narrator of this follow-up to Angry Me (Groundwood, 2022) is quick to assert that feeling peaceful is a good thing. There are a multitude of ways that make one feel content. Many examples are expressed in clear, simple words that bring understanding for young readers. There are also times when feeling peaceful is not quite as evident. The mood changes and what was fun is no longer. 

Luckily, the child knows what to do to calm down and bring peacefulness back. Perhaps a deep breath, or finding a quiet place will do the trick. Why not find a tree to hug? It's not always easy, but with some work, it is worth it. 

Ms. Bell works digitally to create textures and depth in scenes that show the child spending a day in pleasant surroundings, doing things that will invite discussion of similar activities for the young audience. Her artwork is detailed and colorful, lending its own air of calm at every turn. 

"Sometimes being peaceful 
is easy. 

Sometimes it takes 
work to get there. 

But when I do, 
I'm happy to be 
peaceful me."                                                                           

Twenty Questions, written by Mac Barnett and illustrated by Christian Robinson. Candlewick, Penguin Random House, 2023. $23.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Who gave Mr. Beckett 
a bump on his noggin? 

What did the lion
get the lamb 
for her birthday?"

Yes, there are twenty questions! The first sets the tone: count them and readers have an answer. The second sets them back a bit, offering a perfect opportunity for careful thought, much discussion, and a story or two. That will open the floodgates as each new spread offers questions to ponder, reconsider, and most of all, enjoy! 

Each question is new, and totally independent of every other question asked. Christian Robinson fills the spreads with mixed media images that are boldly colored, and offers a world to explore. Many are funny, while others invite further emotional connections. Inspiring creativity at every turn, it would be interesting to have readers respond both orally and in writing, depending on their ages and abilities to express themselves. Each question prompts kids to think outside the box and with independence in their respsonses. I love that, for the most part, there are no 'right' answers. 

Inventive? You bet. Brilliant? I would say so. Unexpected? Oh, yes! Mac Barnett is a wonder, and this collaboration with Christian Robinson, also wonderful, makes for a book to be read a lot. Be sure to savor it each time. The artwork doesn't help with answers, but it does provide excellent and appealing context for each of the twenty questions. 

Full of humor while giving kids pause to think deeply and consider their responses, you will not go wrong getting this book for your kids, your classrooms, and your school libraries.  

"Which of these children is dreaming of peaches?" Your turn ...                                                                      

https://youtu.be/vsJNlrkU_FU 

What Will I Discover, written by Tanya Lloyd Kyi and illustrated by Rachel Qiuqi. Greystone Kids, 2023. $22.95 ages 3 and up

 

"They know macaws have bones
inside their tongues to help them 
crack the toughest shells. 

And glass frogs have see-through
skin so they can hide in the leaves."

Do scientists know EVERYTHING? I think not, as there is something new to learn every single day. They do know A LOT more that I do. For that matter, they likely know much more than many of us do. 

The little one who makes the first statement about scientists goes on to share what scientists do know. Each statement made makes clear that there is much they know about otters, sea stars, desert sands and thorny shrubs. The list does go on from page to page and about many places, events, and even people. 

Soon there comes a time when; 

" ... I have questions. 
And no one - no one! - has the answers." 

Text that follows offers an opportunity to ask the questions that have no simple, obvious answer. They are exactly what inquisitive, thinking kids are keen to ask for themselves. Just imagine what thoughts reading this book to a group kids might spark. 

Digital artwork is warm and engaging. The settings are diverse, and encourage curiosity. A final page asks readers to return to their reading and find 10 different images from the book. 

What questions do you have? What might you discover if you are creative and curious? 

Do Fire Ants Fight Fires: How Animals Work in the Wild, written by Etta Kaner and illustrated by Jenna Piechota. Owlkids, 2023. $19.95 ages 4 and up

 

"Do puffer fish create art?

YES!

Some male puffer fish create fancy designs 
in the sand on the ocean floor. And all they 
use to make these huge patterns are their 
small fins! A puffer fish will work all day 
and night for a whole week so the ocean 
currents don't have a chance to destroy 
his masterpiece. Why does he work so hard?
To attract a female who will want to lay 
her eggs in the center of the design."

And now you know! 

By the time you finish reading this third book from an informative and engaging series that includes Do Frogs Drink Hot Chocolate? (2021) and Do Lizards Eat Ice Cream? (2020), you will have again learned some very interesting facts about the animals of the world. These books have high appeal for their intended young audience using a question-and-answer format that provides an immediate response. The question is asked and answered with a resounding YES or No, followed by a chatty paragraph of explanation. 

The text explores similar feats between humans and the animals presented here. Dolphins do not teach their children colors, but they do teach their calves those lessons that help them survive. Birds don't build apartment buildings, but weaverbirds build "giant nests that can hold as many as one hundred families." Pretty amazing stuff! 

This is the kind of book that serves as a mentor text for young researchers wanting to share what they have learned in an impressive format. It delivers some surprising explanations, accompanied by cartoony artwork that enhances the facts and charms its readers. 

As the book closes, it leaves readers with a question. 

"What jobs do you have at home or at school?"

Twelve Dinging Doorbells: An Every-Holiday Carol, written by Tameka Fryer Brown and illustrated by Ebony Glenn. Kokila, Penguin Random House, 2022. $23.99 ages 3 and up

 

"At the fifth dinging doorbell
                this holiday I see:

BAKED MACARONI AND CHEEEEEESE!

Four pounds of chitlins, 
three posh sibs, 
two selfie queens
and a sweet potato pie just for me."

If you are looking for a book about celebrating holidays of any kind, this might be just the one for you. Using the format of The Twelve Days of Christmas, it tells the story of a family party. Each ding of the doorbell ushers in new visitors who add to the joy of the celebration. 

The first offering is exactly what our child narrator is hoping for ... a sweet potato pie. As each member of the family group arrives, the house becomes more boisterous and over-filled. All dishes are added to a communal table or two to accommodate the many guests. The cumulative nature of the story constantly impresses upon readers the growing number of foods to be eaten and fun to be had. Kids love the repetitive nature of such books ... the ever-increasing accumulation of foods and noise amps up the energy and delight for them. As the party moves forward and becomes overwhelming, the words and tone in the verses change. 

By the time the doorbell has dinged eleven times, much of the food is gone to feed those in attendance, including the sweet potato pie! Oh, the sorrow seen on the little girl's face is clearly visible. How sad that she missed what she wanted most. The verse for the twelfth dinging has a decidedly different vibe. 

A surprise ending proves welcome and endearing for the little one.

The lovely and very lively artwork was 'collaged using textured color papers, with finer details rendered digitally'. Color choice is very appealing, and the action-filled spreads are sure to hold attention and provide much information about this exuberant family get-together. The characters exude happiness at being together and sharing the potluck dinner devoured by all. Constant changes in perspective are used effectively, allowing readers to take in all of the action.                                                                               

Very Good Hats, written by Emma Staub and illustrated by Blanca Gomez. Rocky Pond Books, Penguin Random House, 2023. $25.99 ages 3 and up

 

"Hardcover books are nicely dramatic hats,
if you have excellent posture. 

Paperback books are 
floppier than a soggy beret. 

Bubbles make very fine hats, 
if temporary. 

A crown is a hat for a queen, 
but flowers can be too."

This is Emma Staub's first picture book ... you would not know it. It is a book that charms from the first turn of the page. She starts with the premise that her readers might think they know what a hat is. She does not go on to describe those hats for the good they do, or when each should be worn. Instead, she wants her audience to know all the many things that can be a hat! 

"Acorns make snug hats for your fingers. 
Raspberries, chewed-up gum, tortellini,
and doll shoes work too." 

Digital collage artwork brings the many ideas shared to bright and glorious light, adding humor and context for the variety of objects that make 'very good hats' for anyone willing to give them a chance. Imagine the hat you might make using a pudding cup, a pet, a pot lid, even pajama pants. The list is endless, and will certainly encourage involvement and ideas for even more things to try. 

To add to the fun, the author wonders why only people wear hats. What about houses, and stuffies, and animals in the forest. Kids will want to hear it again and again, and they will surely want to add their ideas to the long list of hats presented for their reading pleasure. Try reading it at home or at school, then listen to the ideas it will inspire. Now you can make it an art lesson so kids can create their own hats and share their ideas for more. What fun! Have your camera ready! 

"Anything can be a hat if you believe it is."

Do you know what a haberdashery is? 

Find Out About ... Animal Babies, written by Martin Jenkins and illustrated by Jane McGuinness. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2021. $23.99 ages 3 and up

 

"Some animals keep their babies 
in very strange places: in their 
mouths ... 

A female mouth-brooding cichlid fish lays 
eggs that she keeps in her mouth until 
they hatch. Once released, the babies 
leave her mouth but dart back in if 
danger threatens."

Last month, I posted a companion book to this one: Find Out About ... Animal Homes. This other one about animals and their babies follows the same format. Mr. Jenkins explains that all animals in the world have babies. How they do that, and how they take care of them is the subject of this book. He reminds that this book includes only a few from the countless list of animals in our world.  

Again, he uses opposite comparisons: big/small, look alike/do not/babies together/babies alone. The introductory statement is once again printed in bold-face and the facing page adds further data written in a much smaller font. Most animals are familiar, with a few exceptions. The ways in which they care for (or don't) those babies are varied and at times surprising. 

"And some don't look after them 
at all. 

A female sea turtle comes out of the ocean
to lay her eggs on a beach. She covers 
them with sand and goes back to the sea, 
leaving the eggs to hatch by themselves 
weeks later."

Once again, the colorful and engaging mixed media artwork is sure to attract interest and full attention as the book is shared. Encouraging young children to think about other animals and the babies they would like to know about will generate a list leading to further research. That's a real bonus. Then, further information about animals and their babies, and an index complete the book.                                                                              

Like, written by Annie Barrows and illustrated by Leo Espinosa. Chronicle Books, Raincoast. 2022. $23.99 ages 4 and up

 

Mushrooms grow, like we do. They need 
air and water and food, like we do. They
make more mushrooms, like we do (okay,
okay, we don't make mushrooms; we 
make people).

But mushrooms don't have anything to say, 
and even if they did, they wouldn't have a 
way to say it. They don't have mouths. 
They don't have brains either. 

It's not a rude thing to say. It's the truth."

I LIKE this book. 

A child narrator speaks directly to readers, relating that we are all people and that makes us different from most other things that live on Earth with us. First up is the tin can. There is not one thing that makes people similar to a tin can. What about a swimming pool? We have 'water, chemicals and dirt inside us.' A bit like a swimming pool is what we are. 

There are ways children are like mushrooms. But the differences outweigh the similarities. So, readers are moved to the next comparison: an excavator! Before turning the page, what do readers think? Are we the same in any way to an excavator? Can it do things better than we can? Then, what about a hyena? 

I love that this book asks readers to think about comparisons between a wide variety of objects. Each additional character comes a little closer to being 'like' humans. 

"Hey, It's me! And there's you! 
Look at us! 
Are we alike? 

We are not exactly alike." 

What a terrific book to use with kids to inspire critical thinking. How many other comparisons can they make?. With guidance and discussion, this book also offers an invitation to do some follow-up writing. 

Colorful, energetic artwork by Leo Espinosa is sure to appeal to listeners as they watch this family work together to consider comparisons and be an important part of the learning. 

Find Out About ... Animal Homes, written by Martin Jenkins and illustrated by Jane McGuinness. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2021. $23.99 ages 3 and up

 

"There are animals that build 
homes that last for years and 
years. 

Prairie dogs live in big underground
towns made of tunnels that they dig 
themselves. The tunnels have rooms
for sleeping, to use as nurseries, and 
for going to the bathroom. The towns
can be dozens of miles long and decades
old."

This is an exemplary introduction to variety in animal abodes; it will be much appreciated by young children wanting to know more about the world of nature. The author begins each double-page spread with an opening statement about the home itself, shown in bold-face lettering. In small font on the facing page, he adds digestible bits of information for the animal that lives there. The following spread  compares an opposite type of home - tidy/messy, big impression/barely see, sticks/stones/spit. While the homes are as different as can be, so are the animals' behaviors. 

As happens with excellent nonfiction, this book may spark wonder for small children about what other types of homes animals build and live in.  Simple, directed research will help them to discover more, and that is surely the point of reading good nonfiction text. Animals included are beavers, spiders, birds, polar bears, termites and more. Creating a list of other animals is a useful first step in expanding interest and furthering knowledge. 

Mixed media illustrations are warm, captivating, and engaging for little ones. A final spread reminds that some animals have no homes at all. Back matter includes further material concerning animals and their homes. An index will take readers back to their favorite pages.