Hike, by Pete Oswald. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2020. $23.99 ages 3 and up

 

"A father and child head 

out on a hike, 

keeping a cherished family

tradition alive."

In this wondrous tale of a father and his child exploring nature with a clear purpose in mind, there is no need for words. Rather, the joy to be found in the telling is in keen observation of the many details that take them from early morning to bedtime. You will be amazed at how much there is to see! 

The child's room in early morning light shows all that will be needed to ensure a full and happy day of being together in the outdoors. Dad is a human alarm clock, allowing time for preparation for the day ahead. Once ready, the jeep is packed and they are off. Out of the city and into forest wilderness. One there, their trek is long, peaceful, and uphill. They pass wildlife at every turn; some seen, some unseen. With binoculars, a magnifying glass, and camera in hand, they often stop to explore and carefully observe their surroundings. 

Donning helmets for the final ascent to a rocky peak, they are rewarded with the beauty of everything below them and of high-gliding eagles above. It is quite the vista. There, the purpose of their hike is revealed. They have come to plant a tree in a copse of evergreens nearby. A timed photo captures their special moment. The descent is marked by darkening skies, and ends with a celebratory thirst quencher as they return to the trailhead for the ride home. The rear-view mirror clearly shows the joy felt in the day spent together.

Once home, they share milk and cookies, and a visit to a photo album which shows their day is part of a long family tradition. No further words are needed, except to say this remarkable and memorable book is meant to be visited again and again.                                                                                      

In My Garden, written by Charlotte Zolotow and illustrated by Philip Stead. Neal Porter Books, Holiday House, Penguin Random House. 2020. $24.99 ages 3 and up

"In the FALL what I love best in my garden 

are chrysanthemums. 

Of course there are other things I love in my 

garden - the tree turning red and golden brown, 

the wild wind blowing and the squirrels 

gathering nuts. 

But what I love best are the chrysanthemums, 

tangled and shaggy and smelling like spice. 

This lovely book was first published in 1960, and is an homage to the seasons and the pleasures they bring. There are two speakers. One is an older woman in a red raincoat. She speaks to the joys she finds in her garden as the seasons come and go. The other, a young child in a a yellow raincoat and red boots, loves each season for a different reason, all related to play. 

"In the fall what I love most to do is rake leaves. 

Of course there are other things I like to do 

in the fall - buy new sweaters and skirts and pencil

boxes for school, and pick the ripe golden pears

from my tree." 

Philip Stead has created amazing images. "The artwork for this book was handmade using oil-ink linotype techniques and carbon transfer printing." He places his characters in warm natural surroundings that speak to the peace and contentment they feel as they explore and enjoy their world. Young readers will pay full attention to the tiny black kitten that accompanies the young girl.  

In the following video, Mr. Stead describes the process he uses to bring these characters and their world to his readers. 

https://youtu.be/FWwh6EhWSrE

Pokko and The Drum, written and illustrated by Matthew Forsythe. Simon & Schuster for Young Readers. 2019. $23.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Pokko started tapping on her drum 

just to keep herself company. 

But something stirred behind her. 

A raccoon playing a banjo started 

following her. 

So Pokko hit her drum louder."

I am late to this party, I am so happy to be here now. Pokko's tale is a very special one, finding many fans for its upbeat family story. Pokko has wonderful, though fallible, parents. The proof is in the pudding when they gift her with a drum. What are they thinking? 

Pokko loves her drum as all young ones would do. The din she creates in the home has her father quickly suggesting that the outdoors would be much more appropriate for her music. Off the little frog goes into the nearby forest. It is so quiet there - much too quiet for Pokko to feel comfortable. She begins a light tapping meant to keep her company.  

She is soon joined by a raccoon with a banjo; and she beats her drum louder. Next a rabbit with a trumpet tags along. Pokko keeps playing. The wolf that joins them has no musical ability, but loves listening. They march on ... 

When the wolf eats the rabbit, Pokko has something to say. 

"No more eating band members

or you're out of the band."

The wolf apologizes. The band moves on, adding additional members as they go. Everyone is following Pokko, while enjoying the parts they are playing with instruments or not. Just at that moment, Pokko is called to dinner. What a surprise to hear music grow louder and louder outside their door! That is not the only surprise for Pokko's proud parents. 

Read it first without the illustrations; then read it again. What a feast for the eyes the second time through ... full of forest glow, gorgeous fall colors, and a myriad of characters to capture attention. The kids are going to LOVE this one. Oh, and music teachers, too.                                                                                

How I Survived Four Nights On The Ice, by Serapio Ittusardjuat and illustrated by Matthew K. Hoddy. Inhabit Media, Fitzhenry & Whiteside. 2020. $18.95 ages 9 and up

 

"It was getting late. 

I decided I would spend the night on the ice

and try to fix my snowmobile in the morning. 

I needed to stay dry." 

This graphic novel is a page taken from the author's life. An Inuk stone carver and former mechanic, Serapio was on his way back from a fishing camp north of his home in Igloolik.  The pull cord on the engine of his snowmobile was broken, and there was no way for him to continue his travel toward home. Little did he know that he would have to use everything he had been taught about living through dangerous times on the polar ice. While optimistic that he would be fine because of those teachings, he knew to fear the situation that would take all those skills to ensure survival in the harsh climate.

His first-person retelling is as calm as he appeared to be while spending those four long days and nights alone in the Arctic wilderness. His first real concern was thirst. Using traditional knowledge, he had to pay attention to his need for safe water. Improvisation and constant attention to staying dry and as warm as possible was his main task. For most of the days and nights he stayed on his snowmobile, doing his best to keep his own spirits up, and also understanding help would come. Would it be too late? 

Glistening light and deep, dark shadows match the tone of the telling, with blue and grey tones accompany the text to give context to the passing time. Pages of white wilderness add to the feelings of how trully alone the storyteller is. The engaging design, and a well-told survival story are sure to garner attention with readers who enjoy true tales of adventure and survival.  

The Blue House, written and illustrated by Phoebe Wahl. tundra, Penguin Random House. 2020. $21.99 ages 5 and up

"Leo loved the blue house in winter, 

with its hiding places and cozy spaces. 

When the old heater broke, they would bake

a pie just to warm up the kitchen. 

They would dance." 

 How are you at adapting to change? I feel about the same as Leo does - I would rather avoid it. Leo has many good reasons. They both love the old house. Despite its many flaws, they are happy there together and cannot imagine living anywhere else. They love it in all seasons, and for many good reasons. 

Their neighborhood is changing - much construction and new builds happening right next door. His dad doesn't know that Leo heard him talking about having to move. He remains optimistic that things will not change for them. Then, they do. 

His dad breaks the news while they are enjoying ice cream at the beach. Their house is sold. Leo is furious, and determined to stay that way. Dinner and loud music help a little. Like it or not, the packing up begins. Just before leaving the blue house, Leo and his father leave a lasting impression on the wall. A final goodbye to the home they have so loved. 

Their new house holds none of the feelings of warmth they left behind at their blue house. Walking past the hole where the house had been has them longing for it. Wait! Leo knows just how to make the new home seem a bit more like their beloved blue house. Perfect! 

Ms. Wahl's colorful artwork is created using watercolor, collage, and colored pencil. Its rich and detailed spreads speak eloquently of the love felt for their beloved home. There is so much to see on every single spread. The handwritten text adds depth of feeling and emotion at a difficult time for the two. Memories are strong, feelings stronger as they navigate a new reality. It is felt intensely by readers. Endpapers show just how clearly the changes impact their neighborhood. 

What a treasure this is! 

                                                               

The Screaming Hairy Armadillo and 78 Other Animals with Weird, Wild Names. By Matthew Murrie and Steve Murrie and illustrated by Julie Benbassat. Workman Publishing, Thomas Allen & Son. 2020. $19.95 ages 10 and up

 

"While other tortoises and turtles tuck into their shells

when threatened by predators, the African pancake tortoise

takes off running or climbs over rocks in order to escape. 

That's right - a climbing pancake tortoise. Has the world 

gone mad?"

If you have been reading my blog for any length of time, you will know that I love books like this. They are books that kids love for the information they present. They are intrigued by animals they have not heard about, and do not know. They look forward to learning new information they can share with others. I feel the same, and often find myself caught up in reading such books from cover to cover. 

This one focuses on names, as you learn from the subtitle. The introduction discusses why names are important, how scientists name animals, and the way those scientific names then help identify variety in the animal kingdom, and they even present some crazy common names. All this before the first chapter: Funny Names. They follow that section up with Magical Names, Fierce Names, Delicious Names, and finally, Just Plain Weird Names. 

I started by scanning through each chapter looking for names I recognized. There were six. Then, I chose a section I thought sounded interesting: Delicious Names, because I like food. 

"Rasberry crazy ants are the first known species of 

insects capable of neutralizing another creature's venom. 

They can coat themselves in formic acid, which acts as an 

antidote to the venom of fire ants."

The design is familiar and welcome. An illustrated, labelled image of the animal itself, accompanied by an information box giving species name, habitat, and a short description is there. Included as well, on each two-page spread, is a carefully chosen, clear photograph of the animal in the wild, and a descriptive entry with further helpful information. 

Will just reading these names - sparklemuffin peacock spider, the Australian ghost shark, the bone-eating snot flower worm, the cookiecutter shark, the headless chicken monster- entice a reader to check it out? I think so. Almost 80 species are described. What's not to like about that? As if that weren't enough, the authors include a further 15-page section called More to Explore. First awards are given to longest scientific name, most head-scratching name, etc. They then provide a method for discovering and naming an organism, an alphabetical and extensive glossary, a list for further reading, and a note on conservation. What more could we ask for, I wonder? 

The List of Things That Will Not Change, written by Rebecca Stead. Wendy Lamb Books. Penguin Random House. 2020. $22.99 ages 8 and up

 

"I had forgotten to do my worrying before dinner,

which is probably why things kept popping up in 

my brain: Angelica. Sonia. Mission. I kept telling 

them, "I'll see you later," the way Miriam taught 

me, but worries don't always listen. I took a 

little RSVP envelope and rubbed one sharp 

corner on all the itchy places between my fingers."

Bea is thinking about what life is like since her parents' divorce four years ago, when she was 8. At 12, she talks about the way her family now works. Her first-person voice makes for a directness that is appealing, and reflects on her age and response to all that is happening. She talks about how the two parts of her one family are coping with the changes marked by separation. We learn about her mother, her father and his new partner, their extended family, and the new 'sister' who will be hers when their dads finally get married. 

As she shares moments from her life at school, readers recognize the frustration she is feeling, and the angry outbursts and aggressions toward others. Many concerning issues are part of Bea's life now; things like divorce, gay parents, anger, needing and getting help for her personal struggles, family upsets, and her battle with severe eczema.  

Bea's voice is always real and open; her responses are moving and authentic, if not always carefully considered. She has a great family, good friends, and a belief that 'the list of things that will not change' is viable and true. Not every problem can be solved, but there is always hope that, with help, it can be improved. 

Empathetic, messy, wonderful and full of love, you need to read this book! 

Skunk and Badger, written by Amy Timberlake and illustrated by Jon Klassen. Harper, 2020. $16.99 ages 8 and up

 

"Skunk sighed and nodded. "Yes, 'hope' seems right to 

me. Gentle and kind is the way I would like the world 

to be. I hope it will be that way. But Badger, if it were 

true that kindness and gentleness were the best way 

to win a kingdom - or win anything at all - wouldn't 

everyone do it?  Not everyone is gentle and kind."

Just say Jon Klassen and I am going to look to buy a book he has illustrated. Because of my admiration for his work, I found this new novel by Amy Timberlake. I am very pleased that I did. Thank you, Jon. 

We meet Badger first. Badger loves his quiet life. He lives in a house that belongs to his Aunt Lula who no longer lives there herself. The biggest room in the house (known as the living room to many) is given over to his Important Rock Work. He has filled it with rocks and minerals, and spends many quiet hours and days identifying them. To him, it is necessary and provides much-needed research and learning. 

Then, Skunk arrives, full of noisy bravado and insisting on a comfortable place to stay. Badger is not keen on company, and does his best to discourage Skunk's occupancy. Skunk is determined, and begins making changes that are very uncomfortable for Badger: taking over his Box Room, making a mess with his cooking while expecting Badger to do the clean-up, inviting chickens for a visit, and so on. 

Can things actually get worse? Oh yes, they can. A visit from a stoat causes terror, and an accidental skunk spray leads to an angry and hurtful response from Badger. Skunk makes quick work of leaving. Badger is happy to be alone once more, or is he? 

You are going to love this book; kids are going to love it, too. Great as a classroom read, or for a family, this is a story that will resonate with all who share it. Humorous, poignant, sly, and silly, kids will want to hear it again and again. 

Oh, and Jon Klassen's artwork? Everything we have come to expect. He gives such character to Badger and Skunk ... and all those many chickens! Expressive? Yes! Exquisite setting? Yes! Charming? Of course, they are. Enjoy every minute spent immersing yourself in this new 'classic' read. You will not be sorry! 

"It would never work out! But Skunk certainly has his moments ...” 

Could this be a new series? One can only hope so. 

Hockey Night in Kenya, written by Danson Mutinda and Eric Walters. Illustrated by Claudia Davila. Orca Book Piublishers, 2020. $7.95 ages 7 and up

 

"Kitoo rolled around the dining hall. It was 

the only paved surface at the orphanage. 

In fact, it was the only paved surface in 

all of Kikima." 

Kitoo and his best friend Nigosi have a good life at the orphanage. Nigosi loves to play soccer; Kitoo loves to read. While Nigosi is off playing, Kitoo can be found helping the librarian in the orphanage library and borrowing books. When the librarian offers a few books to Kitoo before they must be destroyed, he is delighted. One concerns sports of the world; for the first time, Kitoo reads about ice hockey. Mrs. Kyatha explains ice to him, as she has spent time in Canada where it is a revered sport. She tells them there are people playing roller hockey in a city park close by. 

The next time Jackson goes to the city for supplies, the boys ask if they can help. While there, they visit the park and see a roller hockey game. Kitoo comes home with discarded boots and blades. Jackson promises to help him fix them up. From then on, Kitoo is more often on skates than in shoes. Practice makes perfect, always with encouragement and support from Nigosi. While he has an imagination that keeps him ever hopeful, Kitoo is quite sure he will never see an ice rink or know what it's like to play ice hockey. 

Little does he know that a surprise is in the offing. The next time the boys offer to help Jackson with supplies, they drive all the way to Nairobi, and The Paneri Hotel, site of the only ice rink in East Africa. Will Kitoo's dream come true? What do you think?  

Uplifting and welcome. The book allows young readers to learn about life in an orphanage in rural Kenya, which is based on the Hope Development Centre that was co-founded by the author's parents and Eric Walters and his wife. 

https://www.hopestory.ca/ 

Before The Ever After, written by Jacqueline Woodson. Nancy Paulsen Books, Penguin Random House. 2020. $23.99 ages 10 and up

 

"Too many of them, Mama says, 

are going through some kind of thing. 

Headaches and rages, memory loss

and fainting spells. Zachariah isn't the only one

suffering. And yet, Mama says. 

setting her coffee cup down hard,

the doctors act like this is new. 

I'm not the only football wife out here, Mama says, 

who thinks they're lying."

I will admit that I have never read a Jacqueline Woodson book that I have not loved. She is a stellar poet who writes with clarity, feeling and absolute perfection. So, I was thrilled to read about this new verse novel that centers on a hidden health epidemic among many sports stars. This book concerns football, and the rising numbers of young (and older) football players dealing with chronic traumatic encephalopathy. 

The first part is set in 1999, when ZJ's dad, 'Zachariah 44', begins to show symptoms that something has gone definitely wrong with him. ZJ Senior is a revered football player, an attentive and loving father and husband, and a faithful and caring friend. The many concussions he has endured are ending his career and the life the family has known together. ZJ has three very special friends who are also loyal, supportive, and see him for himself, not as his famous father's son. 

As the headaches, memory lapses, and angry outbursts intensify, ZJ and his mother are frightened. The many doctors they see have no answers, and offer no real treatment. 

"There's not a name for the way

Daddy's brain works now. 

The way it forgets little things like 

what day it is and big things like 

the importance of wearing a coat outside

on a cold day. There's not a name

for the way I catch him crying 

looking around the living room like 

it's his first time seeing it."

Written with impact through ZJ's first-person narration, this heartbreaking story includes exceptional and caring friends and family members who give support and love to a family dealing with the tragic effects of brain trauma. It has only been in the past few years that the NFL has begun to recognize the lasting effects of football injuries on many of their layers. Still, this does not read like a warning; instead, it is an introspective look at loss and the longing a family feels about that loss. It is also a testament to the hope felt by even a tiny flicker of hope.  

Stepping Stones, written and illustrated by Lucy Knisley. Random House Graphic, Penguin Random House. 2020. $27.99 ages 9 and up

 

"I thought we talked about this. 

Your dad said he's been doing your 

flash cards with you. 

I know - I know my sixes pretty well, but ... 

You've got to be able to make change

if you're going to work at the market."

I have read other graphic novels by Lucy Knisley; this is her first for young readers. What an excellent way to share, in often funny and very poignant text, some aspects of her own life story. 

Following her parents' divorce, Jen and her mother move to a rural setting. Jen is not thrilled; she misses the many amenities of her city life. She loves comic books and Chinese food. They are not to be found anywhere close to where they live in the country. Now, her days include caring for their chickens by keeping them fed and their henhouse clean, hauling water, milking cows, laying down wood chips to create dry pathways around the farm. She must also contend with the grumpiness of her mother's boyfriend, Walter and his daughters who visit on weekends. 

Jen helps at the farmers' market. Her math skills are lacking and causing some issues. When Walter's girls start making their weekend visits, Jen has more to make her angry. Andy is a know-it -all - capable and bright, and always wanting things to be done her way. She is also good at math. The three must share Jen's room; it is an uncomfortable time of adjustment for everyone. Jen relies on her art and writing to give her outlet for her conflicted feelings. 

Humorous and emotional, this book will resonate with middle graders who feel burdened by their own inablitity to make decisions for themselves, while under parental control. It is heartening to see that Jen grows and thrives as she learns new skills, focuses on her artistic ingenuity, and becomes friends with her new 'sisters'. 

A realistic story that allows readers to relate to well-developed characters, accompanied by expertly crafted visual storytelling. Love the farm scenes, and the rural setting. Back matter is much appreciated.                                                                    

Catch That Chicken! Written by Atinuke and illustrated by Angela Brooksbank. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2020. $22.99 ages 3 and up

"Big brother Bilal 

is brave with bulls. 

But when it comes 

to chickens ... 

Lami is braver."

Life in Lami's Nigerian compound is filled with adventure for the young girl. That's because there are so many chickens, and she loves each and every one of them. Everyone in the village counts on Lami's prowess at nabbing those chickens and keeping them under control. Lami may not be as good as others at certain pursuits; she is definitely the very best at chicken catching. 

One day, her determination to grab hold of a black-and-white chicken leads her into dangerous territory. With everyone cautioning her to 'slow down; (SANNU!), she pays no attention and follows that chicken up into the branches of the huge baobab tree. Lami will NOT give up. Unexpectedly, she loses her balance, slips, and falls. The result is a sprained ankle, and an inability to catch any chickens. To the rescue comes Nana Nadia, who offers sound advice for Lami to use her head rather than her legs to get the job done. Lami considers what her Nana has said, and comes up with her own plan for catching chickens in a fully productive way. 

Angela Brooksbank's splendid mixed media artwork offers a close look at Lami, her chickens, her  family, and her home. She also allows a bird's-eye view of the compound and fills it with people, action and a remarkable setting this warm tale. White space on many of the spreads keeps attention fully focused on the chicken chaser - her braided hair, blue jeans, bright shirt and neon green flip-flops. Other scenes show the huge baobab and the role it plays in the community. Superb!

The beauty of the people, their home and their daily activties assure a very special read aloud experience for young children. 

This Poem Is A Nest, written by Irene Latham and illustrated by Johanna Wright. Wordsong, Pengin Random House. 2020. $23.99 ages 10 and up

 

"HIDDEN TREASURE STORY

This poem has gemnstones, 

pirates and feast

glittery gold

      and a ladder - 

time now to stop, 

ask, why mouse-squeak?"

In Part I, Irene Latham writes four seasonal poems, collectively called NEST.  Her premise is to then use these poems to provide words and phrases for each 'nested' written for Part II. The first four poems describe a robin's nest from building, to nestlings, to fledglings, to independence, to the abandoned nest being used by a squirrel as a haven from winter's chill. The first three lines of the spring poem parallel the first three lines of the winter poem, with slight changes made to describe the nest's different inhabitants. 

From those poems, the accomplished Ms. Latham goes on to pen 161 'nestlings' poems - all created from the original NEST. Each of the short 'found' poems deal with a variety of themes: time, color my world, animals among us, only human, for the love of words, places seen and unseen, and (out of) time. Quite the incredible accomplishment.

Each is titled; some titles are longer than the poems themselves. Only those title words are not found in the initial poetry.  

'THE POWER OF IMAGINATION 

turtle tucked in moonlight

makes cathedral 

inside"

"DANCING

wordless flight 

of heartbeat 

and feet

I found myself going back again and again to find the 'nestlings' and be amazed by the rich language. In Tips From a Nest-Builder: How to Find Nestlings, the poet gives clear instructions for choosing the nest with care, and then doing the research needed to find the words, play with them, write carefully, and let them go. This is wonderful guidance for teachers and students wanting to explore poetry and to try writing found poems of their own. An index of poem titles follows, allowing readers to go back to their favorites.

Inspirational! 

Robobaby, written and illustrated by David Wiesner. Clarion, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Raincoast, 2020. $23.99 ages 4 and up

"Diode, babies have 

gotten a lot more

complicated since

we built Cathode. 

Oh, Lugnut, how 

hard can it be?"

Cathode's new baby brother comes in a box, with instructions and updates for assembly. His name is Flange, and Cathode is at the ready to help assemble him with her own tools. Her mother, Mother Lugnut, takes it upon herself to do the building. When Flange is completed, there is a major problem. The family needs help, and calls for it. 

Uncle Manifold is quick to arrive. Once again, Cathy is left on the sidelines with her tools. Manny assumes the role of 'expert'. Hmm - it seems Cathy is the only robot observing that there are directions to be followed. Maybe the others should have listened. Not installing updates leads to bedlam when Flange becomes uncontrollable. 

"He needs a complete overhaul." 

It's Sprocket, the family dog, to the rescue. Sprocket catches up with Flange and brings him back. Finally, Cathy is able to prove to the family what she has known all along. Flange is settled thanks to her ministrations. Love, love, love the surprise ending! 

As he constantly does, David Wiesner wows with his visual storytelling. He packs every spread with fascinating detail, visual puzzles, a winning cast of characters, polished speech bubbles, clean lines, and a most engaging story. All the llight in the artwork comes from the floor, and provides a wonderful warm feeling throughout the telling. Goofy, yet perfect. 

                                                                         

                                                                           

Dragon Hoops, written and illustrated by Gene Luen Yang. First Second, Macmillan. Raincoast. 2020. $26.99 ages 14 and up

"The player-coach relationship is really 

special. I'm not sure there's an equivalent

for comic book nerds.

When I was a kid, most of my heroes

were fictional. But I guess that has its 

advantages, too. You can count on 

Superman to always be Superman, 

you know." 

I knew Gene Luen Yang's graphic work from the exceptional Boxers and Saints (2006). Because of my interest in sports and admiration for his work, I was pretty sure that I was going to enjoy this new book about his high school's varsity men's basketball team. Not a team he played for; he was a teacher at the school when he decided to share the team's story. More recognized for his aversion to sports, he decided he wanted to learn more about basketball and the team, that in 2015, had long been recognized for 'just missing' a win at the state championship. This was to be their year: they were on the brink of finally making it a winning season. While he had a lot on his plate - writing, teaching, raising a family - Mr. Yang decided it was time to follow the team and see what they could do. 

It's a great story to tell, and the graphic format is perfect for telling it. The team was struggling in their ninth bid to win a championship, and the artwork adds to the drama of every game that season, He effectively uses this nonfiction format to show the players in action, and at rest. Play-by-play accounts of their games, the lives of the players, and basketball itself play an important role. The very close look at the recognition of their players in world communities are both informative and engaging.   

He clearly chronicles the entire 2015 season, as well as providing a history of the game itself. While doing so, he shows his audience how his own life changed, taking him from reluctant journalist to avid fan. Interspersed through the telling, he adds family notes and we come to understand how the writing is affecting his own life as he pens this brilliant and personal story. Sports fans will be delighted! 

Back matter has Mr. Yang explaining his art and some of the choices he made for the book chapter-by-chapter. It makes for an even more appealing read, as readers can go back and have a closer look. He includes a useful bibliography as well. 

Blue Daisy, written by Helen Frost and illustrated by Rob Shepperson. Holiday House, Penguin Random House. 2020. $21.99 ages 8 and up

 

"It's raining hard and I can't get to sleep. 

Blue Daisy should be my dog! Or maybe Katie's. 

We're the ones who like her best. I keep 

thinking how she wouldn't have 

a name if we hadn't painted a daisy on her back. 

I made her a dog bed, and Mom let me save

a whole hamburger for her. Now 

she won't even get one little bite. 

The Tracy twins! I don't see how

she could choose them instead of us." 

Neighbors Sam and Katie are surprised, and curious, when an stray dog shows up in their neighborhood one summer's day. They are also worried as it skinny, collarless, and very dirty. The two follow it, watching when it is chased from a neighborhood flower garden. Next, they worry as they see the mean Tracy twins follow the dog on their bikes, while throwing rocks at it.

The dog is soon nowhere to be found, even though the four are doing their best to discover where it has gone. When they find it in Sam's back yard, Sam and Katie play a mean trick on it. They paint a blue daisy on the poor dog's back. Suddenly, everyone notices the dog because of the marking, and that is how she gets her name. 

In alternating first person voices - Katie's in prose and Sam's in verse - we are privy to all the action and to the feelings aroused by the dog's arrival in their neighborhood. When Blue Daisy shows    preference for being with the Tracy twins, they are both astonished and upset. In the end, Blue Daisy finds a new home and the four young people who love her find new friendship. Everyone wins! 

This is an accessible new novel for those longing to read early chapter books. Its focus is community, friendship, emotions, perspective and thoughtfulness. Back matter includes two very special cookie recipes from Mr. Jenkins, and an author's note explaining the writing styles. 

Go With The Flow, by Lily Williams and Karen Schneemann. First Second, Roaring Brook,. Macmillan. Raincoast. 2020. $20.50 ages 12 and up

"Fifty cents? Who even carries around quarters? Who's going to have that on hand if it's an emergency? The more I think about it, the more I think this is a real health issue. The school can buy brand-new uniforms for the football team, but they're charging us fifty cents for tampons that they can't even bother restocking? How are we supposed to focus on school if we're worried about leaking through our pants?"

If you have never been a girl in middle or high school, you have no understanding of the angst felt by Sasha Chen on her first day at Hazelton High. Being new is tough enough: trying to navigate hallways, notice all the posted invitations to join teams, and keep a low profile makes her day trying. 

On her second day, she notices that the response to her by other students is amped up. They are laughing, and looking at her with revulsion. Luckily three girls who are already friends (Abby, Brit and Christine) notice, and take her under their protection to the washroom where they tell her period has leaked through her white pants. To add to the embarrassment already felt by Sasha, there are no period protection products available for purchase in the washroom. The machines are empty. 

Abby is furious and makes it her mission to find out why, and to make a case for free feminine products for the half of the student body that experiences monthly periods. The principal puts no stock in her complaint, suggesting that she deal with her own 'little problem'. The girls decide they will do something more about the problem. Abby carries their protest a bit too far, and causes a rift with the group. 

Using a red-hued tone for the graphic artwork is empowering for those who will read this very accomplished novel. Perhaps it will give them impetus to have a say when they know that things need to change. Together they can try to change what is happening where they are, and for others experiencing the same injustice. The four girls are unique in height, color, race and body type. They share opinions, difficulties, expectations, and a clear goal. Their friendship remains strong; although each is dealing with issues of her own.

Frank, emotional and exploring a subject rarely discussed in young adult literature, their story has power and should be read by many. Awkward for many, but necessary for all. 

                                                                                    

Our Friend Hedgehog: The Story of Us, by Lauren Castillo.Alfred A. Knopf, Penguin Random House. 2020. $22.99 ages 7 and up

"Mole put her arm around Hedgehog

and told Owl all about what had 

happened to Mutty. 

"What does your friend look like?"

asked Owl. He pulled out a pen 

and a notebook, ready to take notes. 

"I can draw him," said Hedgehog. 

Hedgehog borrowed Owl's pen 

and notebook." 

I know many young readers who will love Lauren Castillo's early years novel as it reveals a lasting love for others, and the joys of friendship. I hope this initial adventure for the "Us" this tale introduces will not be their last. They are an endearing group. 

Hedgehog and her friend Mutty are inseparable. They live together on Hedgehog's Island and spend every waking minute together. In the chaos of a Terrible Storm, Mutty is blown off the island and out of Hedgehog's sight. Hedgehog has never felt so alone. Determined to find her friend, and knowing she can swim from her island to the mainland, she sets off. Unfortunately, finding Mutty is easier said than done. Fortunately, the mainland is awash with kind and gentle beings who are just what Hedgehog needs. 

She first meets Mole; whose offer of friendship and love takes her through underground tunnels to Owl. Owl's keen eyesight does not result in discovery. However, Owl thinks if they make their way to Beaver's dam, Beaver may know something. Beaver does have Mutty's red scarf; he found it. It was near Hen's house. Enduring a few mishaps as they raft downriver, they finally arrive at the Marsh, home to Hen and her Chicks. So, it goes until the lost is found, and a new group of friends know their lives are forever changed. 

Honest, endearing and accessible for young readers, this book is sure to become a family favorite. The endpapers provide a map of the community, and the author has adorned many pages with winning illustrations that hold attention and assure that readers will not forget the memorable characters who become 'us'.  A gentle book that honors friendship, tells a find story, and heralds hope for more adventure in the future.  

Sometimes People March, written and illustrated by Tessa Allen. Harper, 2020. $21.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Sometimes people carry signs to share 

their stories of resistance. 

People resist in many ways. 

Sometimes people resist with their voices. 

They resist with words

or with songs

or art." 

Helping kids understand what is happening in their world is often helped by reading books that are relevant and accessible. The political protests that are a major part of our news feeds these days are often hard to digest, even for adults. 

In her debut book as both author and illustrator, Tessa Allen allows her readers to see the necessity for getting together to make a difference in the world. She speaks simply about the need to have a say when injustices require a response. Many historical events are presented in simple text and with delicate, thoughtful artwork as a reminder to those sharing the book. 

There are a multitude of ways in which we can make the change we want to see in the world. She shows the many who have gone before us to serve as mentors to take action. Whether it's done through art, song, individual actions, or walking with others to show support and allegiance, she lets us know that taking a stand is a very important response. 

Ink and watercolor images portray people of all ethnicities, religions, historical times, ages, sizes, communities, sexual orientations, and more. Although those actions may start small, they are all meant to show ourselves and the world that together we can make an impact. There is much to see here, and many clever signs that beg attention. 

Back matter briefly describes 'movements, marches and key figures' in the illustrations created. This is an excellent addition to the growing group of books written to encourage young people to make their voices heard, and to take their place among those who want to make changes in the world. Just as ants, and bands march, so do people. We can be a part of those marches. It is not easy, but it is worth it! 

 “People march for the freedom to love and live and learn.” 

                                                                              

A New Green Day, by Antoinette Portis. Neil Porter, Holiday House. Penguin Random House. 2020. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"I'm a map of my own
green home.
Follow my roads
and climb,"

says leaf. 

"When I move,
I measure.
I'll count our tickles
across your hand,"

How lovely it is to have a new book by Antoinette Portis arrive at my front door! She proves every time she puts pen to paper, and creates mixed media images to accompany her inviting words, that she knows the hearts and minds of young children. 

In this new book, she celebrates summer with tempting words that encourage her readers to listen carefully, and make guesses to solve the riddles she poses. With each turn of the page, the riddle unfolds into a clever solution. What an invitation she provides for critical thinking! 

A little girl is enticed from bed by sunlight, and then invited to take note of clues provided to really look at her surroundings. Filled with the goodness of the natural world, she moves from space to space within her own back yard, and then her neighborhood. She is invited to use her senses at every turn. Hearing the call of a cricket, feeling the wispy movement of an inchworn on her finger, seeing the flash of lightning, feeling the splash of rain and ooze of mud, she ends her day in awesome starlight. What an amazing journey through a summer's day! 

The mixed media artwork honors the colors of the natural world, and offers textures that encourage young readers to reach out to touch the beauty of the images. The interactive nature of the riddles themselves will encourage talk concerning more than one answer with older children while little ones will be in awe of the beauty found right where they live. 

"I'm the rumble 

in the stomach of the storm. 

(Pardon me - 

must be something I ate), "