They All Saw a Cat, written and illustrated by Brendan Wenzel. Chronicle, Raincoast. 2016. $23.99 ages 5 and up

"The cat walked through
the world, with its
whiskers, ears and
paws ...

and the fish saw
A CAT,
and the mouse
saw A CAT."

This absolutely unique and gorgeous book is ALL about perception. Each of the featured creatures saw a cat; they did not all see the same thing. It depends on the eye of the beholder, it seems.

The child sees a loving, friendly pet. The dog sees a sneaky, slinky, bony apparition with huge yellow eyes and an oversized bell around its neck. Too noisy for the dog? I wonder. The fox sees lunch, while the cat is focused on the terror of the chase. And so it goes ...

After a number of sightings, the reader is reminded that:

"The cat walked through the world,
with its whiskers, ears and paws ... "

looking just as we suspect everyone sees that cat. But, no! It is not true.

The text is rhythmically repetitive, and certainly easy to read and to follow. Set alongside Brendan Wenzel's attention-grabbing images, we see exactly how perception alters our view. The description for the art that graces the book's pages reads:

"The illustrations in the book were rendered in almost everything imaginable, including colored pencil, oil pastels, acrylic paint, watercolor, charcoal, Magic Marker, good old number 2 pencils, and even an iBook."

How lucky are we that he is so adept with each?

Everyone sees the cat differently. How that cat is perceived affects reaction and feelings toward it. They all did see a cat, we are reminded. The artistic style changes with each new observer. This is a book about science and art, about readers and empathy, and about imagination and wonder. It is a personal and beautiful thing!
                                                                        

Sleep Tight Farm: A Farm Prepares for Winter, written by Eugenie Doyle and illustrated by Becca Stadtlander. Chronicle, Raincoast. 2016. $23.99 ages 5 and up

"We shake straw over berry plants to blanket them from winter's frosty bite. Next April and May they'll leaf out green and blossom white. In June they'll give fruit so red and juicy we'll make jam and freeze berries to eat till summer comes again."

Is there ever rest for farmers? After producing crops of 'strawberries, raspberries, vegetables, honey, and hay' over a long growing season, the family is now working hard to put the farm to bed for a long winter's sleep. There is much to do, and everyone lends a helping hand.

As they blanket the strawberries with hay's protective cover, they look toward next year's harvest. The gardens are cleared, the vegetables stored and awaiting winter consumption. The fields are planted and covered to feed the soil. The raspberries are pruned to prevent wind damage, and the brush burned. There is so much to do.

Wood must be cut and stored for winter warmth, and for fueling the fires to boil sap into syrup come spring. The chicken coop is repaired, and then rigged with lighting and heat to ensure eggs for hardy winter breakfasts. There is so much to do.

Beehives are protected from winter winds, and to shelter the bees. The farm stand offers plentiful delights for the upcoming holidays. Farm equipment is stored, warm candles are lit and happy holiday lights are hung, meant to warm the hearts of all who live there. The family says goodnight.

"The farm is ready
for down quilts of snow,
the shh-shh of the wind.
Dad tucks us in.

Good night, farmers,
sleep tight."

The painted images of the farm work being lovingly shared are as calm as the quiet, lovely words.
They leaves readers (and listeners) with a feeling of peace, while also learning much about the farm itself and all that it produces to sustain this family. Take time to have a careful look at the many wonderful details included on every single page. It is worth your while.

An author's note is the perfect ending!

Ugly, written by Robert Hoge and illustrated by Keith Robinson. Penguin, 2016. $21.99 ages 10 and up

"Plus, my eyes still sat more than twice as far apart as they should have been. There were so far apart I couldn't use both of them to focus on one thing at the same time. If I wanted to look closely at something like a toy or a book, I either had to pick it up and move it around to the side of my head or turn my head to bring one eye in line with it."

When Robert was born with horrendous physical abnormalities that affected his face and his legs, the doctor suggested that he be left at the hospital. His mother refused to see him. His four older siblings chose his future, wanting to take him home where he was fully supported to have as normal a life as possible.

Who he is today is the result of that upbringing, and his own unique and wonderful personality. Countless surgeries, including amputations on both legs, did not stop him while it did slow him down. Robert praises the doctors for the many attempts they made to give him a face that was as close to normal as was possible. He talks about the bullying, the taunts, the many bumps in the road he travelled.

A move to a new school in fifth grade was not easy:

"Four weeks in I was being called half a dozen names that weren't Robert - cripple, spastic, legless, and the dreaded Toe Nose. Even though some of my friends had come to the new school as well, sometimes it felt like the loneliest place in the world. I'd pick up a new nickname every six months or so. Some would go out of fashion, to be forgotten for a year or two, and then come back in vogue. Some would slowly lose their power to hurt me and would fall into disuse."

He goes on to describe his top ten favorites, including for each the origin, the originality, the hurt factor, the laugh factor, and how he got over it. Seeing the world through a window into Robert's reality is painful and personal. He challenged himself to remain active and upbeat. He got lots of support along the way. His family defended and encouraged him to try anything he wanted to try. He longed to be part of any sports team, despite his disabilities.  In sixth grade, he helped 'coach' the rugby team. By eighth grade he had given up his dream to participate in competitive team sports, and that is when he discovered lawn bowls. Amazing! Finally, at 14, he is encouraged to make his own decision about any further surgery.

Humorous, honest and enlightening about his life's challenges, Robert Hoge has written a book that is sure to encourage discussion and inspire empathy, especially if you are to share it alongside R. J. Palacio's Wonder (2012).

Nanette's Baguette, words and pictures by Mo Willems. Hyperion Books for Children, Hachette. 2016. $18.99 ages 3 and up

"But on the way ...

Nanette sees
Georgette!

And Suzette!

And Bret
(with his clarinet)!"

Who among us would ever doubt Mo Willems' unique ability to get to the heart and soul of a child's struggle for independence? Nanette is sure that she can run a very important errand for her mother. Today's the day that Nanette is tasked with getting the baguette. It is her biggest job yet.

You can bet she is ready for the task at hand. But, there are some distractions along the way. After meeting some dear friends, she also encounters Mr. Barnett and his pet, Antoinette. Oops! Not to be deterred from the task at hand, Nanette is soon on her way. She buys her baguette from Baker Juliette.

There is just one big problem - have you ever handled a warm, aromatic, fresh from the oven baguette? It is just too tempting. Soon, the baguette is eaten and Nanette must return home to tell her mother. What other option does she have? " A jet to Tibet?" Mom knows the allure of a fresh baked baguette, and offers to 'reset' the errand, with a little parental help. Will Mom be as tempted by its deliciousness as Nanette was? I wonder .

The cast of green frogs is sure to set tongues wagging as the story does its level best to make readers laugh out loud. The art created for this terrific book is described as 'composed of photographed handcrafted cardboard-and-paper constructions digitally integrated with photographed illustrations and additions". Now, you can really pore over them to see what you see, and there is a lot there. The endpapers help us see exactly what happened to that first baguette.

You'll need to read this out loud to yourself a few times before you are ready to share it. But, share it you will, and then again and again. Too much fun to read only one time ... your listeners won't allow for that!

Yaks Yak: Animal Word Pairs. Written by Linda Sue Park and illustrated by Jennifer Black Reinhardt. Clarion Books, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Raincoast, 2016. $23.99 ages 3 and up

"Yaks yak.
to yak = to talk.

Dogs dog dogs.
to dog = to track or
to follow.

Badgers badger.
to badger = to bother
repeatedly."

For today, these are my three favorite spreads of the eighteen presented. The yaks, cross-legged and carefully holding their tea cups, are having an animated conversation about who knows what? One listens intently to the other. Three dogs, noses to the ground and following in close formation, have tails wagging as they explore the ground beneath them. Two badgers, one with an apple, while the other harangues with its need for that very same apple and all the reasons it should be shared or given away.

How clever is this book when you are wanting to build vocabulary and grow a child's understanding of the world? The collaboration of text and image is just right! The definitions are set in strategic places on each double page spread to help with understanding. Back matter offers two pages of notes about the derivation of the animal's name and the meaning for the action word that matches it.

The watercolor and ink images are funny and full of expression, adding context for the seemingly simple writing. If you ask me tomorrow about this clever book, I am sure I will have some new favorites ... think Bats bat, Ducks duck and Steers steer. Enjoy!
                                                                               

Benny and Penny in HOW TO SAY GOODBYE, by Geoffrey Hayes. A Toon Book. Publihsers Group Canada, 2016. $18.95 ages 4 and up

"What are you going to do
with him?
Put him in a safe place.
Hey! That's my pail!
I need it!
Let's ignore him.
Inside the little cave?
Too creepy!
In the sandbox?
Benny would find him.
Come on."

It's always lovely to welcome Benny and Penny, the tiny mice who like to argue as much as they like to show understanding of the other and unconditional love. In their new book, they are dealing with death. Penny is upset to see that Little Red, a salamander, has died. Benny shows no concern, even voicing the opinion that he's 'not sorry'. It seems Benny has been scared by Little Red's quick moves on more than one occasion.

Melina is there to help Penny. Penny wants to find a safe place for the body. They come up with a plan, and leave Benny out. Benny follows them as they make their childlike arrangements for a burial, and he listens to the memories that the two share. As he listens, Benny has a revelation. It causes great sorrow. Penny, as she so often does, includes Benny, asking him to help them find things to keep Red company in the spot where they have buried him.

Geoffrey Hayes' colored pencil images provide a feeling of warmth and understanding, and even a bit of humor. The death of the salamander is treated matter-of-factly, while also allowing young readers to see that the emotions surrounding death can be very different. Sensitive and forthright, it assures young children an opportunity to consider death and will allow for discussion for those in need of it.

Pair it with Margaret Wise Brown's The Dead Bird (Harper, 2016).

First Snow, written and illustrated by Bomi Park. Chronicle, Raincoast. 2016. $23.99 ages 2 and up

"Pit, pit, pit
against the window.
Glistening, floating
in the night.
Quick!
Bots,
coat,
scarf,
hat."

Here we are in the middle of the prairies, still waiting for snow. It is all around us, and has been on the ground for a few days in Winnipeg. We have none of it. I'm sure there are many young children waiting impatiently to watch it fall softly down and turn the ground around them white and sparkly. Maybe Monday, the weatherman says today. Before that, we are meant to have three sunny, above zero days! It's very unusual.

The little one in this book is experiencing snow for the very first time, and what joy it brings. A white snowsuit, a bright red scarf, mittens, hat and boots ... fully prepared to go exploring in the dark of night. A puppy is her tiny, enthusiastic companion.

Through the yard, down the street, across a field, and into the woods, she pushes a snowball that grows larger and larger with each step. Dark gives way to sparkling light; the child enters a winter wonderland. There, she is joined by other children. Each one stands beside a huge snowball, not unlike the one she has been pushing.

Turn the page to a splendid sight! The snowballs become snowmen, then a sky filled with floating children and snowmen. Another page turn and we return to a tiny girl catching snowflakes on her tongue, before the final turn that shows a red-scarfed snowman perched in the backyard and watched over by a tiny white dog.

What a welcome to the first snow of the season! Quietly magical it is.
                                                                           

Book Uncle and Me, written by Uma Krishnaswami. Groundwood, 2016. $14.95 ages 8 and up

"But why was it so perfect for me?"

I don't mean to sound ungrateful, but I can't help myself. I am puzzled and it just comes bursting out that way. "Ah," he says. "That is a very good question." "Thank you, " I say. "But what is the answer?" "Sometimes you have to let the perfect book sit in your mind for a while before fit begins to mean something."

Yasmin has set a goal for herself. Every day she visits Book Uncle, the owner of a free library on her street corner. He is why she has made a pledge to read a new book every day ... until forever.

Book Uncle has one goal ... to find "the right book for the right person for the right day." He has an uncanny ability to do so, and Yasmin is the happy reader to prove it. When his lending library is shut down because of a zoning bylaw, Yasmin makes it her mission to get him back in business. He has no money to pay for the permit being required by local legislators. He loans his own books free of charge to anyone who wants to read them.

Yasmin's determination has her finding help within her community, and with her friends who also borrow from Book Uncle. The mayoral election being held, and the candidates in the running, provide a perfect scenario for getting municipal leaders to look at the issue itself, and to listen to what Yasmin has to say.

Yasmin is a worthy adversary for those wanting to win the election. She has a strong voice, fierce determination, and a powerful sense for what is fair and reasonable. She shows her potential for leadership at every turn, and soon has the support needed to make a real difference.

Book Uncle also gets what he needs to open his library again, and to begin doing what he loves to do.

"Karate Samuel is carrying on. "I understand that Mr. Book Uncle makes it possible for children to get good books. Can you think of a better thing to do? The TV person says no, he can't. "He is a symbol of our city's pride in elderly people, children and literacy."

The Lines on Nana's Face, written and illustrated by Simona Ciraolo. Flying Eye Books, Publishers Group Canada. 2016. $25.95 ages 5 and up

"And how about this?"

"This is the best picnic
I have ever had by the
seaside."

"And those?"

"Oh, those are from
the night I met your
grandpa."

It's Nana's birthday! Her granddaughter wants to be there because she knows how much Nana loves having everyone together. The wee one thinks Nana is  happy.

"But sometimes it looks like she might also
be a little sad, and a little surprised,
and slightly worried, all at the same time."

Having to look at my aging face in the mirror every day, I know exactly what the little girl means.

And so, the talk begins about those lines. Luckily, Nana doesn't mind having all them, as they mark important times in her life. Those lines store all of her wonderful lifetime memories. They talk about each one. As Nana recalls the special events that are so memorable for her, she lets her granddaughter know about a mystery solved, a picnic at the sea, a roller coaster ride, a special present, a sad goodbye, and great joy.

Each memory shared is then depicted on a lovely two page spread that brings meaning to them. Emotional and personal, this book certainly evokes memories of my own grandmother. I didn't see her often and she has been gone for many years. I know we never talked about her 'wrinkles', but I have warm memories of the rare times we did visit each year and some of the stories she shared.

Beautifully conceived and heartwarming, this book ups my admiration for Simona Ciraolo's talent. I will certainly anticipate sharing her lovely book with my granddaughters when they are old enough to consider all the lines on my face! And, I will look forward to any new book.

I will pair this with a book that has been on my favorites shelf since 1992, when it was first published. It's called Grandma, According to Me (Beil, Doubleday). I hope you can find a copy.  

Animals By The Numbers: A Book of Animal Infographics, by Steve Jenkins. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Raincoast. 2016. $24.99 all ages

"... so the figures given for their biomass are based on what scientists have learned about an animal's population and average weight. Most people have never seen a bristlemouth, a small deep-sea fish. But some scientists think that bristlemouths and termites might outweigh every other kind of animal ... "

Get this one for the kids who love facts, and figures! I don't know a child who doesn't love Steve Jenkins' books. They are filled with the most amazing information and splendid images of animals, always with  further learning in mind.

In this new book he presents an incredible array of animals, all while trying to help his readers understand them in terms of number. He suggests that numbers help with much of our learning about the world. He then uses visuals to bring an ever clearer understanding about some of the many things they can do.

"Many animals survive by being swift fliers,
runners, or swimmers. Animals use their speed
to catch prey or to avoid becoming prey
themselves."

On the graphic chart that accompanies that bit of information, Mr. Jenkins shows that the peregrine falcon's maximum speed for an animal in the air, on land, and in water is 200 mph (322 kph)! Are you kidding? The slowest is the humpback whale at 16 mph (26 kph). Who isn't fascinated at such a comparison? The realistic cut-paper collage images of a peregrine and an Australian tiger beetle are accompanied by a factual caption that is relevant to the pages presented.

Steve Jenkins knows his audience (including adults) and constantly pens books that entertain and educate. What he presents is a sure bet with kids and what they want to know. The design makes the text to accessible and easy for readers to grasp the concepts. Human feats are always part of the presentation, allowing readers to see themselves within its pages.

Helping children understand the power of nonfiction is evident throughout this very useful book. Kids get to see graphs and charts, a timeline, a flow chart, symbols, keys, a table of contents, bibliography, websites, and an author's note concerning the compilation of the data he has included.
Perfect for practicing how reading nonfiction is so very different from reading fiction, and as compelling as every other book by the articulate and prolific Steve Jenkins!  It is another one of those books for browsing to tempt all readers and encourage learning.

A Year of Borrowed Men, written by Michelle Barker and illustrated by Renne Benoit. Pajama Press, 2015. $21.95 ages 7 and up

"Every day the borrowed men went out to the fields to help run the horse plow or milk the cows. It was my job to bring them lunch. Mummy would pack up one of our horses, and I would lead her out toward the fields. The horse always knew where the men were."

This is a book that has been on my shelf for far too long. Today, I will remedy that by telling you about it. It is a story of Germany at the end of World War II. Based on her mother's memories of that time in her life, Michelle Barker chooses to tell it in clear, understated prose.

Gerda and her family 'borrow' three French prisoners to help them with keeping their farm productive. They will only stay until the war ends. They are there because the German army has 'borrowed' her Papi to help fight the war.

"We had cows, pigs, 150 chickens, and six horses to pull carriages and help with the work in the field. We were lucky compared to others in our German village. We had milk and butter, meat, eggs, and produce to sell to people in the nearby city. But it was a lot to take care of."

They are tasked to treat the three men as the enemy. The family cannot do that. Rather, they treat them with respect and kindness, thankful for their help. They sleep in the pig kitchen where they are warm and well-fed. The one time they are invited inside the farm home, someone reports them. Mummy is taken to the village and warned by local police that another such invitation will lead to her own imprisonment. They are scary times. At war's end, the men return to their homeland, free at last. They leave knowing they have made some very special friends.

A young narrator's voice lessens the horror that surrounds the family in wartime. This story of kindness, friendship, and a loving family is illustrated realistically with watercolor, colored pencils, and pastel to evoke the warmth of the situation at a time when there was little hope for many. The addition of family photos and an author's note add clarity.

This is a story to be shared at any time of year. It would also work well at a Remembrance Day Service (sorry I missed telling you about it a bit earlier) or at Christmas, a time of giving and for being kind and thankful.

LEAVE ME ALONE! By Vera Brosgol. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast. 2016. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"So she made her bed
as neatly as she could.
She swept the floorboards
until they more or less
shone.
She drank tea from her
samovar.
She packed up her
things in a big sack,
and as she left she
shouted back ... "

The poor grandmother! She looks so happy to be in her rocking chair, knitting needles in hand and a huge pile of yarn at her side. We all know what she is interested in doing! Turn the page ... and we quickly understand why she is yelling so loudly on the front cover. Her house is bursting at the seams with children, children, children  ... her very own grandchildren.

She has a job to do before winter sets in, and being with all those kids allows no time for getting it done. The children are full of wonder at the many balls of yarn, not knowing what to do with them..

"Were you supposed to hit
the ball with a stick?

Could you eat it?

Could you make your
brother eat it?

Why did the ball get smaller
and smaller as you chased it?"

What a mess! After thoroughly cleaning her house, she wants to be left to her own devices. The bears in the forest are an annoyance. The goats on the mountain find the woolly snacks too delicious to ignore. Frustrated and determined, she climbs onto the moon. She is quite the attraction for the moon men. So, she makes her way through a wormhole - peace at last!

Perfectly paced and just right for reading to a group of preschoolers, this is a book that requires a bit of acting. Your listeners will be keen to help with their loudest voices whenever they see that repeated phrase - LEAVE ME ALONE!

As we move rapidly toward Christmas, we all have days when we feel just exactly what the grandmother is feeling. Look for a wormhole!

Motor Miles, written and illustrated by John Burningham. Candlewick Press, Random House. 2016. $23.00 ages 3 and up

"So Mr. Huddy started to make the car for Miles. And every day after school, Miles and Norman would go to see the car being made. Finally, Mr. Huddy finished the car and it was ready for Miles. "We will have to give you driving lessons," said Mr. Huddy to Miles. Miles practiced going right, going left, and going backward. Quick STOP! After many lessons, Miles had learned to drive."

Miles is new to the Trudge family. It wasn't until Norman and his mother adopted him that they learned he could be unyielding. He had some dislikes:

"Miles did not come when he was called,
did not like going for walks,
and did not like his food ...
or the rain.
He barked too much ...
and he didn't like other dogs."

He did, however, love car rides. So, Mr. Huddy who lived next door, decided to build a car just for Miles. Once finished, Miles needed driving lessons. He took to his new skill with joyous abandon. Norman was pretty keen, too. He liked being driven to school by Miles, going on trips to the sea, and all manner of more adventure. Satisfied with his life, Miles began to change ... he was much easier to manage. Soon, Norman was too big to accompany Miles. The car was put away.

And now that the car is no longer viable, what does Mr. Huddy has up his sleeve?

John Burningham is a storytelling genius. His sober narration of the story's facts makes Miles a completely believable character and his motoring skills most enjoyable. As he has done so often, Mr. Burningham uses watercolor, ink and pastel to give his story life and character. Miles is a formidable and lovable friend to Norman and his mother.

Based in part on a family dog much like Miles, Mr. Burningham has penned a story sure to delight those who love dogs and want what is best for them. I am such a fan. I know you will be, too.

                                                                     

I Hear a Pickle (and Smell, See, Touch, and Taste It, Too!) Written and illustrated by Rachel Isadora. Nancy Paulsen Books, Penguin. 2016. $21.99 ages 2 and up

"I smell bread.
I'm hungry!

I smell toast.
It's burnt!

I smell the pizza.
Yum!

I smell the cheese.
Stinky!"

What a fine celebration of the senses this is! There are five parts to it - one for each of the senses. They are coded by color, which only makes it even more appealing for little ones. The children who describe those things they are hearing, smelling, seeing, touching and tasting add personality and connection for the children who will take great enjoyment from listening to them.

It is a day in the life of many young children as they experience the old and the new. Onomatopoeic words will be most appreciated and echoed as the book is sure to be read often. Discussion will certainly result as they pore over the many spot pictures reflecting that daily life, and think about other things that they have smelled, touched, seen, heard and tasted.

I love that there are do and don't images that will surely encourage explanation, caution and understanding.

"I smell the rain.

I smell the grass!
It's so fresh!

I don't like to smell cow poop."

Simple, yet revealing. Expressive at every turn. Often humorous. These vignettes are engaging and very entertaining.

Why a pickle? you ask.

"I taste the pickle.
It's sour.
I smell the pickle.
It's spicy.
I see the pickle.
It's green.
I touch the pickle.
It's slippery.
I hear the pickle ...

CRUNCH!"

Ta da! A jar of dills might be the perfect follow-up.

the Water Princess, written by Susan Verde and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds. G. P. Putnam's Sons, Penguin. 2016. $23.99 ages 4 and up

"Water, come!
Do not make me wake
before even the sun is
out of bed!" I demand.
"Come, please," I say.
But the water
won't listen,
and I know
we will have to
walk so far
to the well"

In a book based on the childhood experiences of model Georgie Badiel, we learn about Princess Gie Gie who lives with her parents in a small village in Burkina Faso, West Africa. Every day the women of the village place cloth rings on their heads before hoisting the pots that will carry the precious well water back to their families. The walk for miles ...

Princess Gie Gie loves her home; she is happy and content to sing and dance when she is not worried about water.

"But I cannot make the water come closer.
I cannot make the water run clearer.
No matter what I command."

As they walk, mother and daughter sing and dance, share a lunch to give them the energy to move forward and finally, arrive at the well where they talk with friends, collect the water and begin the long trek back to their village. Only now can they cook their food, wash their clothes and quench a neverending thirst. Tomorrow, they will do it all over again.

The story is told with warmth and compassion for the plight of so many around the world. Peter Reynolds has created appealing characters and a spectacular West African backdrop. He uses browns, oranges and golds to invite readers into the warm brilliance of the African days, and blues and violets for the stunning expanse of the night sky. While sharing a sense of the beauty, they also evoke feelings about dust and heat and the need for clean water to sustain each of us.

In an endnote, we are asked to think on this:

"Imagine if you couldn't go to school because you had to spend each day walking for miles just to get water and not even know if the water you reach will be clean. This is true for nearly one billion people around the world. That's one of every six who doesn't have access to clean water."

Inspiring in its scope, we can only hope that sharing this book will move our children and others to look beyond themselves to problems being faced around the world, and in our own backyard. If you want to know more about how you can help, here are two websites.

www.ryanswell.ca

www.georgiebadielfoundation.org
                                                                   

 

Little Penguins, words by Cynthia Rylant and pictures by Christian Robinson. Scwartz & Wade, Random House. 2016. $23.99 ages 2 and up

"Mittens?

Many mittens.

And matching scarves.

Socks?
One for each foot."

The weather report for Manitoba released today says we should expect much cooler temperatures by the weekend, and perhaps some flurries. That is good news for many, as we have often had Halloween visitors arrive in snow boots and parkas. No snow until past the middle of November - lots of people will be celebrating that news! Happy times ahead for little ones who can't wait to see the first flakes fall, and for winter to bring its brilliant beauty to streets and yards.

The small penguins in this spirited book that celebrates winter's first snow cannot contain their excitement. Their first glimpse of the wintry wonderland has them scrambling for mittens, scarves, socks and boots, all perfectly matched for easy access. Once outside, they head off with enthusiasm, towing a sleigh and making a path for those who follow. The snow is deep, always deeper. Mama follows with the fifth, and reticent, little one in tow.

As night falls, the troop heads inside for warmth and treats following a long day of activity. Mama must be relieved when all five are tucked in for a long winter's sleep.

 What a delight to have Christian Robinson interpret Cynthia Rylant's spare and telling text! His spreads are filled with northern scenes and the bright white of falling snow. Done in acrylic paint and cut paper collage, he interprets the joy felt in every scene. He outfits his tiny tots in matching duds and gives readers a sense of their individual personalities as we follow them into the wide, white world.

Sure to be a bedtime favorite as we move from fall toward the many joys of winter!

Real Cowboys, written by Kate Hoefler and illustrated by Jonathan Bean. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Raincoast. 2016. $23.99 ages 4 and up

"They're on cattle drives
for hours, or days, or
weeks, but they don't
mind. Real cowboys
are patient. Even on a
fast horse, they have to
move with the slow
rhythm of the herd, and
it can take a long time ... "

Kate Hoefler uses poetic language for this homage to the modern cowboy. She shares a realistic picture of the daily work that keeps a real cowboy busy. She does so with a quiet grace that shows cowboys to be quiet, thoughtful of others, gentle in their handling of the animals in their charge, and peaceful while singing songs to keep the howling of coyotes at bay when settling their herds.

They are tireless travelers, keen listeners, and they stay safe in the face of hot sun, and the other dangers in their environment. They are patient, strong and willing to ask for and give help whenever it is needed. Their dogs are integral to their work:

"Real cowboys are good to their dogs.
They have a special way of talking to them.
Cowboys say "Go by" and "Look back,"
and their dogs listen, driving in a lost heifer."

In the event of a real disaster, cowboys are known to show they care. They work together protecting their herds, eating their food, and catching some shut-eye. They are many colors, and both genders. They are wanderers and wonderers, deserving of our admiration. The reader comes away from the book with a greater appreciation of the hard work these men and women undertake on a daily basis.
It is a wondrous book, quietly read.

I always eagerly anticipate new artwork done by Jonathan Bean. I am a huge admirer of his work! His artwork is described for this book: "The illustrations are hand-stenciled shapes and textures layered with the computer and printed in four Pantone colors." Blending that palette, he creates a remarkable world of cowboys in profile, and focused on the work at hand. Shadows and light play a vibrant role in making the reader aware of all aspects of that work. Moods change as his stunning backgrounds move from frightening to sad to cheerful to contemplative.

This book is very special.

Panda Pants, written by Jacqueline Davies and illustrated by Sidney Hanson. Alfred A. Knopf, Random House. 2016. $23.99 ages 3 and up

"You have FUR. You
don't need pants to keep
warm."
"Pants would be warmer."
"Are you cold?"
"No, but I could be.
At any moment."
"You will not be cold.
At ANY moment ... "

Have you ever had a word war with your kids, or your students? Somehow you know that no matter what you say, there is going to be a rebuttal to your statement. I am sure most of you have been there at one time or another. It is a conversation that papa and his little one are having as they travel through the bamboo forest. Wait - is someone following them?

Little panda has decided that 'pants' will make him happy, and he is determined to sweep aside any objection that his father has. He has all the right arguments. They are warm, soft, impressive, and needed. Papa is not convinced. No amount of dialogue seems to change either mind.

As they pass a scarecrow he borrows its pants. Rushing to catch up with his father, he arrives just in time to face an intimidating snow leopard who has been furtively following them. Little panda's quick response to the inherent danger, a watermelon and the support of his animal friends - and his pants -  make quick work of that threat. He then takes the pants and gives them to a rabbit friend. Papa wonders why, and Little Panda has the perfect response.

Familiar, funny and having huge appeal for little ones who know how to be oppositional, this is a story that you will be asked to share many times. The gorgeous mixed media images are full of charm and perfectly placed page after page to bring the two main characters to expressive life.

Dory Fantasmagory: Dory Dory Black Sheep, written and illustrated by Abby Hanlon. Dial Books for Young Readers, Penguin. 2016. $19.99 ages 5 and up

"Rosabelle comes running over. "Rascal! Why are you eating your lunch before school again?" "I'm not eating it all. I'm sharing it with ... " I start to say but then stop. I don't want to tell Rosabelle that a lamb escaped from my embarrassing babyish farm book. "Oh, never mind," I say. "Oh," she says, and looks disappointed."

If you have not yet met Dory Fantasmagory, you need to do that! If you have, you won't need me to tell you much about her third adventure. You are likely to be anticipating its publication, especially if your children are fans as so many are. I share this post because I, too, am a fan.

I don't want anyone to miss the chance to meet Dory. So, here I go. Dory is an independent, outspoken and struggling first grader. Reading is not her strong suit. She doesn't like the 'baby' books she must read to help her improve her skills. Her reading partner is George, an 'old' friend.

"George and I have a basket of Easy
Reader books. I take them out of the bin one by
one. "This one is about farm animals ... this one
is about farm animals ... farm animals ... farm
animals ... Every single one of these books is
about farm animals! These books are terrible!"
I say."

Their teacher thinks they are perfect for them. Dory would much rather be reading with her 'new' friend, Rosabelle. She can read 'thick chapter books' in her head. That is not going to happen. So, Dory (as she so often does) turns to her imagination to make her life better. She imagines a black sheep named Goblin right out of the pages of one of their farm books ... and the fun begins again!

Dory enlists help from her fairy godmother, Mr. Nuggy. He concocts a potion to help Dory with her reading. Dory's enemy Mrs. Gobble Cracker intercepts, drinking it down in one gulp. Oops, one wrong ingredient and the magic has disturbing results.

"I figured it out! Gigi is Mrs. Gobble
Cracker! As a kid!" I try to look scared,
but I can't help smiling because I love this
game."

The adventure continues when Dory visits Rosabelle in her castle, becomes Superhero Captain Puff, saves Rosabelle's spying little brother, and returns Goblin to his family. It's fast-paced, filled with lively drawings that are just right for the storyline and for its early readers.

You don't want to miss it. You will love Dory, her imaginary world and her transformation from being a hesitant reader to one who is determined to get better at it.

When Friendship Followed Me Home, by Paul Griffin. Dial, Penguin. 2016. $22.99 ages 8 and up

""Four years, Flip. Less than four. Three years, nine months and twenty days until I turn sixteen. We can hang in that long, right?" He cocked his head and licked my lips. He was the best study partner. He really did love when you read to him. Monday morning I dropped him off at the Mold house. He looked a little sad as I left. "Come on now, Flip bud. You know I'll be back soon. I promise."

Foster care has not been good for Ben. When he is finally adopted by a mother who loves him, the 10 year old is content. Living in Coney Island only adds to his satisfaction with life in general. He loves everything about his life there.

He finds comfort in time spent at the library with Mrs. Lorentz, a caring librarian who allows him a safe place, an occasional Chips Ahoy! cookie, and meaningful books to read. This time it's Feathers by Jacqueline Woodson, a favorite of her daughter. He's okay with most of it.

"But I had to stop when I read the next thing Frannie's teacher said about these so-called special moments. 'Some of them might be perfect, filled with light and hope and laughter. Moments that stay with us forever and ever.' This was a lie. Nothing lasts forever. It's scientific fact. Things happen and they're over and you can't get them back."

After one of his visits to the library, Ben befriends Flip, a 'shivering mess' of a dog who follows him home and whose main claim to fame is kissing on the lips any person who gets close enough. It is thanks to Flip that Ben meets Halley, Mrs. Lorentz's daughter. Flip is enrolled to become a therapy dog which will allow him help with the Reading to Rufus program at the library. Ben and Halley  become fast friends, spending their time together and working on a collaborative story. Through their relationship and the time spent writing The Magic Box we learn about the trauma in both lives, and their dreams for the future.

When Ben's mom dies suddenly, he goes to live with his aunt ... it is not a happy place. He's 12, and already quite sure that nothing that is good lasts. You can appreciate that this book could be so depressing; it is not. Reading the rest of Ben's story left with me with hope for a world where people  face unimaginable heartbreak, and come out of their experiences stronger. Everyone Ben meets impacts his life in ways that help him become who he will be. As misguided as some of them are, each helps him to understand that love and friendship trump the hardships. He can then learn to trust again, and to know that he deserves a place of belonging.

Honest, heartbreaking and hopeful, I am so happy to have read it and to share it with you.