Here Comes Teacher Cat, written by Deborah Underwood and illustrated by Claudia Rueda. Dial Books, Penguin. 2017. $22.99 ages 5 and up

"Cat? ... Cat?

That might be too loud
         for the ...
... class next door.

Maybe something else?
Building time?
That sounds fun!"


Cat is back! I am so happy to see this funny feline once again. The kittens' teacher, Ms. Melba, is off to an appointment with her doctor. A substitute is needed, and Cat agrees to take charge of the class. Kitty School is not a familiar concept to this 'emergency' substitute and there is much to learn for all involved.

Rudely awakened by the telephone, Cat has a plan for all-day napping. When that call comes in,  plans change.

"Dog is on vacation.

And I suspect Santa Claus, the
Easter Bunny, and the Tooth Fairy
aren't available either."

It takes a bit of persuasion.

"Oh, Cat. Ms. Melba has always
helped YOU out.

Remember how she made you that
nice catnip pillow?

And brought you soup when you
were sick?" 

Keeping to the amusing bent of the other books, the narrator's voice and the subtle expressions displayed in soft images with ink and colored pencils are perfection. Cat works adeptly to determine the nature of the job and then the responsibilities associated with a day spent in a classroom filled with young charger. This familiar and loved character will make it a perennial request for reading aloud, and it is destined to be a great addition to the classroom baskets in the reading center: an author's work, or a favorite character series, or a funny stories basket. You choose where it best fits. Your students won't mind where they find it, as long as it there.
                                                                     

I Quit Grade One! Written by Nancy Wilcox Richards and illustrated by Tom Goldsmith. Scholastic, 2017. $7.99 ages 5 and up

"I said that we should do art three or four times a week. Ms. Carter only did art once a week, but I'm sure she would want us to have it more often. The new teacher should have boxes of glitter, different sizes of googly eyes and paint - not just boring colours either. We need colours like Ocean Blue, Raspberry Red and Jungle Green."

Stella loves Ms. Carter, and she is not the only one. When she learns that Ms. Carter is going to finish the school year early to welcome a new baby, Stella's worrying begins. No substitute teacher can replace her. No substitute teacher will know the way Ms. Carter did things. What will happen to the first graders without her?

Stella lets her parents know how she is feeling. They seem unconcerned, assuming Stella will like her new teacher as much as she likes Ms. Carter.

"How will the new teacher know that I need
help tying my shoelaces?

Or that I don't sit next to Liam because,
when no one's looking, he tries to pinch me? 

Or that I only like to read books from the
blue bin because they have more pictures?"

Totally familiar concerns for little ones, and legitimate in any brand new situation. I like that Stella decides to take her worries to the top, wanting to see the principal. He is not available. A letter might work! It takes effort and expresses her ideas for training the new teacher. She receives a reassuring reply from her principal, who issues an invitation. Often, the anticipation for change is much worse than the change itself!

The art is traditional brush drawing with watercolor washes, and is a perfect complement to the tone and emotions felt by a young girl with legitimate worries. Keep it in mind when reassurances are needed.

My Amazing Body Machine, by Robert Winston with illustrations by Owen Gildersleeve. DK Canada. 2017. $25.99 ages 10 and up

"When you sleep, your breathing and heart rate slow down. At first you go into a deep sleep, and it is difficult to wake up. Then you pass into dreaming sleep, when your brain is busier and you dream. These stages of sleep happen several times each night ... Your eyelids close, and your eyes do not move much, except during dreaming sleep."

Nonfiction books from DK are always so wonderfully designed for the children meant to be their readers. The format is clear, and makes perfect sense even when the amount of information shared means there is a lot for young readers to grasp.

In Robert Winston's clear description of each of our body parts, he provides a guide that shows how the body machine works.

"It takes trillions and trillions of tiny living parts, called cells, to build just one amazing body machine. Guided by detailed instructions, these cells are organized into bigger parts that work together to make you, a unique human being."

We are invited to visit every part of the body to see how it works on its own, and how one part connects to another part. Included are text boxes filled with facts, captioned photos and illustrations to enhance understanding, thus making it easier for readers to take in all the information provided before turning to a new page. The illustrations are terrific, using cut paper images that give each a dimensional feel.

It is a special journey and will be much appreciated by readers wanting to know more about their own bodies, and how they work. He misses nothing, and we are the lucky recipients of his research and skillful writing. This is just another perfect example of the commitment DK Publishers have to their audience and to learning.

"The most important part of your brain
is the cerebrum, in particular, its thin,
wrinkly outer layer. Here, billions of
nerve cells linked by trillions of
connections make your body work,
and make you, you!"
                                                                       

 

Be sure to check out their thoroughly entertaining and enlightening www..dkfindout.com where you will find more information than you ever thought you needed to know.

The Everywhere Bear, written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Rebecca Cobb. Macmillan Children's Books, Publishers Group Canada, 2017. $22.99 ages 4 and up

"He has bus rides with April
and horse rides with May.
He eats burgers with Billy
and jelly with Jay.

With Lee Wu he's a pirate,
with Kevin a king.
And Callum and Clare
push him high on the swing.
He bounces with Bev
and does handstands with Holly."

Everywhere Bear is a very busy guy! It is his lot to go home every weekend with a child from Class One. While there, he takes part in whatever the family chooses to do in the time they have with him.  He, like bears in other early years classrooms, comes back to school on Monday. His weekend caregiver then regales classmates with pictures and an accounting of the weekend's adventure. Such bears may be the impetus for show-and-tell, or travel with a diary in which the family weekend is described in print, or even be a listening pal while early readers are practicing reading skills using classroom books they have borrowed.

Matt is new to Class One. It's his turn to take Everywhere Bear home. While returning to school with Bear in his backpack, Matt bends to give a wee striped kitten a pat. Bear falls out and into a puddle, leading to the adventure of a lifetime. We are privy to all that is happening to Bear, as Matt is opening his backpack at school and wondering about Bear's whereabouts.

The adventure is unprecedented for the furry boy. He has never seen so many places, smelled so many smells, been handled by so many creatures. Who knew that he would eventually end up in a perfect place, bringing joy to some familiar faces?

This is one of those books that I will be putting on my granddaughters' keepers shelf. I know they will love knowing Everywhere Bear's story and will definitely want to do some talking about all that they see on the beautifully illustrated spreads. Julia Donaldson and Rebecca Cole are a perfect pair to tell this tale that not only focuses on the bear, but also on the children and their interests, the classroom and its welcoming spirit, the people who work to make their community vibrant, and to visit a very special gathering place that has always been a haven for those who love to read and learn.

Back at school after their weekly visit to the town's library, the children are listening to the last story of the day. Bear looks on, thinking about his own personal adventure that led him right back to this place.

"I've been in a puddle, I've been in a drain.
I've been in a boat and I've been in a crane.,
I've been in a shop and I've been on a skip.
I've been on a lorry, I've been on a tip.
I've been in a beak and I've been in the air.
No wonder they call me the Everywhere Bear!"

The Teacher's Pet, written by Anica Mrose Rissi and illustrated by Zachariah Ohora. Disney- Hyperion, Hachette. 2017. $18.99 ages 5 and up

"We held a class meeting at recess.
Everyone agreed: Bruno had to go.
He'd grown and grown into a
bigger and bigger problem.
We just couldn't keep him.
But how would we convince
Mr. Stricter?

We tried to tell him.
"Bruno snores during silent reading."

Mr. Stricter loves science projects and wants to pass on that love of the subject to his students. To that end, one project has to do with hatching tadpoles. The children will be allowed to choose just one of the tadpoles to keep in the classroom. The others will be released back to their habitat. They choose Bruno. Mr. Stricter is giddy at the thought of having a pet; he is so excited, in fact, that he is not able to process just how different Bruno is.

The kids are not so blind to the havoc Bruno is wreaking in their classroom. In fact, any observant child is going to get antsy wanting to explain to Mr. Stricter what he cannot seem to understand. Bruno is a HIPPO! As things continue to deteriorate, the children take matters into their own hands. They vehemently share their concerns..Mr. Stricter remains adamant that Bruno is just doing what pets do. Then, the teacher is gone - eaten by a huge and hungry pet. Will he see the light?

Luckily, the kids have a plan. The teacher is saved, the class pet returned to the wild. When another science project hatches the following day ... and it looks a bit suspect, the kids know just what to do. They choose the new pet for their classroom!

Zachariah Ohara uses acrylic and pencil in warm and appealing colors to give us a close look at a naïve and caring teacher whose ability to identify a tadpole leaves readers wondering. The fact that he has so badly wanted to have a pet allows him some leeway, but not as much as he needs in this circumstance. Have a close look at the life cycles on the front and back endpapers to realize there was some foreshadowing for the arc of the story. So much fun! 

The Storybook Knight, written by Helen Docherty and illustrated by Thomas Docherty. Sourcebooks, Jabberwocky. Raincoast, 2016. $23.99 ages 4 and up

"I dare you to a fight!"

"I'd rather not," said Leo.
"It wouldn't be quite right.

I've got my brand new
sword with me,
so I'd be bound to win it.

But how about a story
with some pictures of you in it?''

Leo is a kind and gentle knight who would rather read than do anything else. He is not a fighter,  as you will see from the very first page. While mayhem rears its ugly head nearby, Leo is comfortable and engrossed in a book on a nearby tree limb. He pays no attention; nor does his horse. His parents would rather that he fight; for that is what knights are trained to do. They are happy that he is a reader. They would like him to expand his horizons!

They send him off to tame a dragon, with a new sword and shield. He adds books and sandwiches to his horse's load. Along their way he meets a griffin begging for a fight. Leo offers a story instead, and then leaves the book with the thankful creature who finds himself in the shared story. Leo and his trusty steed Ned amble on, meeting a troll and convincing him to listen to a new story about tasty goats. The troll is intrigued as well, and is delighted to become its owner.

Finally he meets a fearsome dragon, the one in need of taming. Leo tells him about the book with all the dragons., then states there will be no story until the dragon has cleaned up his mess! You can guess what happens!

This story in rhyme is a pleasure to read, and enjoy. The cartoon like illustrations add to the fun, being filled with bright colors and plenty of action. Kindness and sharing have a place in each of us, and what better way to share that message than in the pages of a book!
                                                                          

                                                                            

The Little Red Cat Who Ran Away and Learned His ABC's (the hard way), written and illustrated by Patrick McDonnell. Little, Brown and Company, Hachette. 2017. $23.49 ages 3 and up

"It starts with an ALLIGATOR
and a BEAR
chasing a CAT.
When a DRAGON
(and a chicken and an egg!)
join in pursuit ,
things start to get
REALLY INTERESTING "

Oh, my! What a wonderful picture book this is! It is definitely one of my favorites so far this year. Is that even possible when we are talking about an alphabet book? It is proof positive that you can never have enough, if brilliant artists continue to think beyond what has been done up until now.

Obviously, Patrick McDonnell has done that with his new book. It will bring laughter and joy to those who share it ... and then 'read' it again and again. The pace is perfect, taking young children from one letter to the next while also making them feel as if they are on the very best kind of adventure. What a way to learn about the letters that will soon form the words they can not yet read!

There are no words; there are only letters (upper and lower case). Sunshine and an open door are all the incentive the little red cat needs to burst into the day and put him on a collision course with a  cast of six characters whose antics are filled with humor and whose adventure is filled with unexpected twists and turns. As an adult, I was not content to look at it once. I kept making new discoveries. All young readers will find what on the page matches the letter displayed.

Lots of white space allows for attention to be fully on the pen, ink, pencil and watercolor artwork that is so captivating.

You would be remiss to 'miss' it!

https://youtu.be/x_t9EC2eqn0

Hector the Collector, written by Emily Beeny and illustrated by Stephanie Graegin. Roaring Brook Press, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2017. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"They're all different,

and they're all the same,

and they're all beautiful."

Everyone was quiet.

"That," said the teacher
"is what makes a great
collection."

It's never too early to start talking with your students about collections, especially if you celebrate the 100th day of school each year. Collections are the perfect way to get them thinking about numbers, big and small. Whether they are collecting sets of five, ten, twenty or one hundred, a collection will give them plenty of opportunities to consider both counting and grouping.

What they collect opens up a conversation about things that are personal and important to them. As you begin the school year, it is very important for kids to share with each other what make them special and unique ... and it allows the classroom teacher to begin to generate a profile for each child in the class. There will be kids that are not collectors, but some may be just like Hector. Lucky he is to have a name that rhymes with a passion for gathering acorns.

He appreciates them all. As his collection grows, he is quick to note those details that make each one special. Of course, he loves them or he wouldn't pay such attention to his growing stash. It does lead to a bit of a problem.

"One day after lunch, his teacher checked
everyone's desk to see if they were all tidy.
Everyone else had pencils and notebooks.
Hector's was the only desk full of acorns.
Everyone laughed."

While the other students find it funny, and a bit strange, his teacher is very understanding and helps Hector explain. It begs the question of other classmates ... who else has a collection? Readers will be delighted to hear all about them, and may even want to talk about their own. Surely it will lead to thinking about other collections; perhaps an art museum. In an author's note, Ms. Beeny includes a few of those.

I really enjoyed the ever-changing perspectives and charming images that show Hector's neighborhood, park, schoolyard, and observant life. Many wonderful details are included to attract the attention of the children listening to his story, and to the adults reading it for them. Be sure to take a careful look.

Add this to your 'collection' and it might inspire the beginning for something new!

Give Me Back My Book! Written by Travis Foster and illustrated by Ethan Long. Chronicle, Raincoast. 2017. $23.99 ages 4 and up

"I cannot part with my green book. It has a hard cover, a nice spine, the pages turn from right to left, and, if you are adventurous, from
left to right. There are letters on each page and they are gathered together to form words ... "

Redd and Bloo can't seem to get along while trying to decide who really owns the green book. One assures the other that each is the owner. The confrontation escalates, until Bookworm decides to handle the situation.

Redd has the green book in his possession when we begin to read. Bloo is angry and wants his book back. Redd sings its praises ... all those elements that make it a book. It has pages; it's green; it has a hard cover, a spine, and pages that turn right to left ... or left to right, if a reader so desires. It has letters to make words, and they mean something. Add to that a table of contents, chapters and occasional illustrations. Wow, it is very special indeed.

Bloo knows all about books, and he is sure that the book belongs to him. It even has a bent page, which is what Bloo did to it. The arguing continues. Hearing the ruckus, Bookworm pops up and retrieves it, quickly returning to her home in possession of said book. Redd and Bloo have no means to get it back. They cannot reach into Bookworm's reading room.

But, they have an idea. They will make a new book, using all that they know about them. They will entice Bookworm with it, and get their own book back. Did I say 'their'? I wonder if there is a solution. What will Bookworm think of the book they trade?

Young listeners will howl at their antics, and in the reading learn a bit more than they may have known when they started. A win for everyone involved!

Look I'm A Scientist, edited by Helene Hilton. DK Canada, 2017. $16.99 ages 4 and up

"Air is all around you.
When air moves from one
place to another, we call it
wind. You can't see air, but
it's strong enough to blow
your hat off.

Hear the wind.
You can make simple
wind chimes with sticks.
Hang them outside ... "

Kids are perfect scientists. They are endlessly curious and full of questions and observations about their world. They use their senses at every turn; at times, in front of horrified adults. If you have a budding scientist in your house, this is a terrific book to have and share.

It is filled with a ton of fun that kids can do at home. Here are some questions you might encourage if they don't think of them on their own:

"What will happen if I do this?
What can I hear, smell, see, taste
and feel?
Why did that happen?
Does the same thing always
happen?
How can I find out more?"

They will set them on course of discovery in the present, and perhaps for the future.

*Make slime and see what you can fashion using it.
*Discover the freezing and melting properties of water,
and how animals that get trapped in the ice can be
rescued.
*Make a wooden chime and a pinwheel to help you
discover the power of the wind.
*Make your own bubbles ... of all shapes and sizes!

Sharing the 14 activities described here will make for a fun-filled day and will up your child's science knowledge! The photos are just right for the age group, showing kids just like them working at the various ideas shared. Needed materials are clearly shown, and the method is easy to follow. Learning about the senses and using them to make scientific discoveries makes for an awesome time spent together.

And don't forget to check out www.dkfindout.com
It's a great learning site for all.

Madeline Finn and the Library Dog, written and illustrated by Lisa Papp. Peachtree, Fitzhenry and Whiteside. 2016. $23.95 ages 3 and up

"And I ESPECIALLY do not like to read out loud. "Keep trying," my teacher says. But sometimes I can't figure out the words. Sometimes the sentences get stuck in my mouth like peanut butter. Sometimes people giggle when I make a mistake. And I never get a star sticker from my teacher. Not even a smiley face."

Poor Madeline! Reading is not her strong point. In fact, it makes her not want to read at all. She wants a star, she gets Keep Trying hearts. She especially doesn't like reading out loud. It makes her nervous and she makes even more mistakes than when she reads to herself.

She is quick to share her dislike. There is really nothing she likes to read ... NOTHING! Luckily, she meets Mrs. Dimple when her mom takes Madeline to the library on the weekend. Mrs. Dimple is completely aware of the little girl's aversion, but she has a surprise!
Peeking through a nearby door, Madeline is shocked to see kids reading to DOGS!

The big white dog without a reader sports a bright scarf, a knowing look, and exudes comfort. Madeline is nervous and it shows. Bonnie doesn't mind at all. She waits patiently while Madeline works things out. With her turn at reading aloud in class on the horizon, Madeline is keen to get back to Bonnie for more practice. Bonnie is not there. Will she be OK when she has to read on her own? Can she pretend she is reading to Bonnie?

The use of therapy dogs is gaining popularity in many places. Children like Madeline often find the right amount of confidence, a whole lot of comfort and happy success in such a program. Lisa Papp tells her story with sensitivity and understanding for Madeline's plight. Her artwork is filled with expressions of disgust, sadness, frustration, anger, embarrassment, and ultimately quiet joy. Help comes from many places; this is one to be celebrated.

"On Saturday, we go to the library again. Mrs. Dimple is back!
"I got my star!" I tell her. "I want to give it to Bonnie."

Bonnie and Madeline each have a surprise to share.

Barnaby Never Forgets, written and illustrated by Pierre Collet-Derby. Candlewick Press, Random House. 2017. $23.00 ages 4 and up

"OK, maybe things do slip my
mind every now and then.

I forget to hang up my wet
bathing suit sometimes.
I guess I don't always remember
to wash my hands.

And I may have a few
overdue library books."

Barnaby is proud of all the things that he remembers! Then, when it's time for school, he is stymied by a number of things that he has forgotten. Where are his glasses? We watch delightedly as he searches EVERYWHERE for them. Little ones will be hollering to let him know they can see them!

He is quick to remind readers of all the things that he never forgets ... to feed his grasshoppers, to get the mail (especially his own) and he is never wrong about ice-cream night. He does remember many very important things. Only when he goes to brush his teeth does he find his glasses - and that doesn't happen until he looks in the mirror.

Reluctantly, he admits that he is not perfect. He does, occasionally, forget something. Looking is half the fun; as he searches for one thing he often finds another. As luck would have it, he even finds a year-old lollipop in his backpack as he makes his way to school.

It isn't until he arrives that he realizes he has forgotten one very important bit of information.

The exuberant and whimsical artwork is perfect for young readers. There is so much to see, and those details are sure to lead to a pause for discussion. You absolutely must pay attention to the final two spreads. Your listeners will find them hilarious!  

Amanda Panda Quits Kindergarten, written by Candice Ransom and illustrated by Christine Grove. Doubleday Books, Penguin. 2017. $t23.99 ages 5 and up

"And she cannot wait to start
kindergarten.

When she gets to school, she
will print her name in big,
important letters on the board so the whole class will know who she is. Next, she will build the tallest block tower. Finally, she will run the fastest of anyone."

Amanda is not necessarily the kind of kindergartener the class is happy to welcome. She knows just exactly who she is and that is who she wants to be. She knows what she likes, and what she can do. She is keen to be starting kindergarten. But, things go slightly awry.

"At the bus stop is a girl in head-to-toe pink.
So much pink gives Amanda a headache.
Amanda claims the seat behind the bus driver
so she can watch him steer.
Something very pink sits beside her."

Amanda is not as adept at friendship as Bitsy. So, she ignores Bitsy at every turn during a trying morning. Amanda knows better, but she lets her negative thoughts envelop her. Soon, she is done with kindergarten and off to spend the day with her brother in second grade. OOPS! Big mistake ... nothing there works for her.

Luckily, someone has come to find Amanda. Someone who is now lost and frightened. Amanda knows just what to do!

"It does not hurt one bit to be kind.
And second grade can wait."

Listeners will love the contrasting characters and the classroom/school atmosphere created in appealing artwork.

Super Saurus Saves Kindergarten, written by Deborah Underwood and illustrated by Ned Young. Disney-Hyperion, Hachette. 2017. $17.99 ages 4 and up

"Super Saurus packed ...

and plotted ...

and packed some more.

The big day arrived. "All
ready?" Mom asked.

"Oh, yes," said Arnold."

Emily is totally prepared for kindergarten, and she is as ready as she will ever be. Arnold, on the other hand, is prepared for escape, unsure of the risks that school might bring. His imagination is out of control when it comes to what is likely to happen once he starts school.

His alter-ego, Super Saurus, has plans and is willing to share them. At every turn, he does his best to thwart the dangers inherent in what appears to be a normal day for every other kid. He imagines that his teacher is Zorgo the Evil Genius (in disguise at Mr. Z). He packs everything he needs to avoid capture. In his superhero cape and mask, he works to the best of his ability to escape the sub (the family car) and dons Sticky Shoes to take him to the top of a nearby building (the school play structure). His dad is prepared for all attempts at escape and soon has Arnold standing in the kindergarten classroom, meeting the real Zorgo, Mr. Z. 

So it goes through his first day at school; the adventures of Super Saurus, always on the lookout to keep the others safe from danger and risking his own safety for the greater good. Mr. Z. is ever patient, and values all that Super Saurus does in the classroom. He makes it pretty easy for 'Arnold' to return the following day. He has been the hero every classroom needs, particularly this kindergarten class. He will be back.

Every detail shared in Ned Young's wild and wonderful illustrations will have readers stopping to reflect on all that is happening here. Clever and full of action and energy, they allow imaginations to soar right along with Super Saurus as he plies his trade and faces the inherent dangers of that first day. Be sure to take careful note yourself as you share this book repeatedly.

The Way to Bea, written by Kat Yeh. Little Brown and Company, Hachette. 2017. $22.49 ages 10 and up

"I sit and eat my lunch and Will keeps on drawing and we don't say another word for the rest of the time, but I think that's okay, because I've said more today to this boy in the striped shirt in a few minutes here in the Zen center of the school than I have in any of my classes all year. And for the first time since this summer, I have this funny feeling. I feel like I might belong somewhere."

Have I got a book for you to share in a middle years classroom as you begin a new school year! It concerns family, friendships, poetry, school, and finding yourself in the midst of the muddle that is middle school.

Writing poetry is Bea's way of bringing calm to her body and mind.  Wanting to be inconspicuous after an embarrassing entrance at a back-to-school pool party, she keeps to herself and says little while at school. Her best friend has abandoned her to be with new friends, who are not 'weird' and who share an interest in boys, makeup and other distractions.

Because Bea can no longer write in free verse, as her former self did, she chooses to write haiku in invisible ink. Only a lighted match will make her poetry visible. Bea loves to write haiku. It seems the perfect way to express thoughts in a reliable and unfailing way.

She is so lonely. At home, her parents are busy with thoughts of the new baby's arrival, and their art. Bea spends little time with them. Now that her friendship with Sammie has changed, she feels alone and often flees school when she cannot express how she is feeling about events there.

Lucky she has Mrs. Rodriguez, a kind and caring librarian, who recognizes her love of words and invites her to join the team at the school newspaper. There, she meets Will, Briggs and Jaime. Each exemplifies a new kind of friend for Bea. Briggs has great respect for her work, and welcomes her as an important member to their team. Jaime is friendly, happy and eager to be work with Bea. Will is obsessed with labyrinths and lists, and learning about people.

Wanting to be a friend to Will, after spending many lunch hours with him, Bea makes a plan to show him how to get into the famous Leland Labyrinth.  Knowing the wealthy owner will not allow visitors, they hatch a plan to visit while no one is there. Best laid plans do not always work as they should. In dealing with unexpected events, Bea learns a great deal about herself and who she wants to 'bea'.

Bea's first person narrative is raw and full of discovery as she negotiates the puzzle that is real friendship and self-discovery. Not fitting in is a painful part of life for many middle schoolers. Reading this book will help them relate to Bea's brilliant and moving character, and perhaps recognize themselves within her story.

Fight To Learn: The Struggle to Go to School, written by Laura Scandiffio. Annick Press, 2016. $16.95 ages 12 and up

"... Police sirens wailed so frequently that he barely noticed them anymore. But the rundown state of his neighborhood wasn't the problem. Like all other students starting at Harper High, Deonte quickly learned not to walk to school alone. Walking in a group was better, and walking in a group down the middle of the road was best. "We felt safer like this," was how one girl put it."

It is inconceivable to think that two hundred and fifty million of the world's children, aged six to fifteen, do not receive the basic education they need to be able to read, write or do math of any kind. There are many barriers; the three considered in this book are poverty, discrimination and violence. So hard to accept or imagine that so many children face these obstacles every day. What does the future hold for them?

There are four sections, and each is filled with stories of children and adults who will do what they have to do to get an education for themselves, and for others. Despite the many stumbling blocks they must face, they remain resilient and determined. They will have a future. They are prepared to do everything they must do to make their dream a reality.

Each of the four segments - Poverty, Discrimination, Violence and Protest Movements - offer remarkable and heartbreaking stories of children in our world. The section on poverty highlights Babar Ali, who began teaching in his backyard and the literacy rates in his community climbed dramatically. After nine years, his school was registered and he became the world's youngest headmaster. Julia Bolton Holloway's story is equally inspiring. Upon retirement from teaching in American universities, she moved to Italy for a job and found herself concerned about the young Roma children she saw living in the streets of Florence. Determined to change their destiny, she set up a school in the cemetery where she worked as custodian. The children who attended learned to read and write; they also learned practical skills that helped them change their futures and the future for their families.

"I have taught university students at Berkeley, Princeton and Boulder," she said. "I prefer teaching illiterate Roma, all ages, and learning from them the richness of their culture, the excellence of their skills, and the strength of their families. We reciprocate, giving each what the other lacks, with dignity, in this pilot project."

Each section is equally moving, allowing readers a chance to meet people they have not likely encountered who are doing work that is uplifting and often difficult. The descriptions are lengthy, giving readers a clear picture concerning the problems and the solutions presented. It is quite a remarkable read. Accessible and inspiring, I think it would be perfect for sharing in middle grade classrooms where there is a concern for the rights of others and the plight of children around the world, including our own backyards. Frightening, but very important, it will provide incentive for much discussion in any classroom.

The inclusion of many pertinent photographs, personal quotes and further information add to its appeal. Ms. Scandiffio also includes an introduction, an afterword, a list of main sources, some suggestions for further reading, and an index.

"I would tell the children not to be afraid ... and follow their dreams.
I would tell them NEVER give up hope.
                                             -Shannen Koostachin "

Buddy and Earl Go To School, written by Maureen Fergus and illustrated by Carey Sookocheff. Groundwood Books, 2017. $16.95 ages 5 and up

"As soon as Buddy and Earl had taken their seats, Earl said hello to the other students. None of the other students said hello to Earl. None of them even looked at him! "What do you think their problem is, Buddy?" whispered Earl. "I think their problem is that they are only toys," whispered Buddy. "That is no excuse for being rude ... "

Oh, I am happy to see these astute and funny characters back for another adventure. Meredith, like me when I was young, loves organizing to 'play' school. Buddy and Earl will be attending, whether they are inclined to be there or not.

Earl thinks it's going to be great! After all, the hedgehog harbors his own aspirations for dentistry. Buddy doesn't see being a dentist in his future but he can see the advantages to being educated, thanks to Earl's encouragement. Their 'power' breakfast will have kids hooting. Now, they must gather what they need for a happy and purposeful school day.

Upon arrival in the classroom, Earl is concerned with the other students' lack of sociability. Reassured that it has nothing to do with him, he soon shows his own disinterest in the schooling itself. When Meredith is called away to attend a 'staff' meeting, Earl is put in charge.

"Then, in a voice filled with emotion, he said,
"You know, I've always dreamed of being a teacher."
"I thought you had always dreamed of being a
dentist, Earl," said Buddy.
"I prefer to be called Professor," said Earl stiffly.
"Okay, Professor," said Buddy."
Earl is an inspiring teacher, motivating Buddy to excel in all aspects of his personal learning - Sniffing Things, Tail Chasing, and Scratching Itches. A hastily called assembly brings a big surprise.

Carey Sookocheff imbues her illustrations with the humor we have come to expect from these very expressive and appealing friends. Fans will be happy to meet up with them again.

A New School Year: Stories in Six Voices. Written by Sally Derby and illustrated by Mika Song. Charlesbridge, Random House. 2017. $19.99 ages 5 and up

"J. W. Riley is a big, big school
but I know the way
to my new room.
I have a map in my head.
I go in the front door
and walk straight down the hall
to the third door.
I know my new teacher's name.
It's Mrs. Wilson.
And I remember what she looks like ... "

It's getting closer for most of us! School begins again for another year in the next few weeks, and I hope that you will be able to use this very special book of poetry as you help your kids adjust to their new reality after what I hope has been a carefree summer.

It concerns six children as you can tell from the cover. They are filled with all the emotions that children feel as they anticipate (or not) the start of a new year at school. There are six voices in each of the four sections - The Night Before, In the Morning, At School, and After School. The children and their lives are as diverse as their feelings shared.

Ethan goes to kindergarten, lives with his mom and has his grandfather living close by.

"Before I wen to bed,
I put Bear's blue jacket
in the pocket
of my new kindergarten pants.
Grandpa's the only one who knows,
and he promised not to tell."

Zach is a touch apprehensive about a brand new year, but soon realizes that kindergarten stood him in good stead for first grade, and he gains confidence as his first day moves forward.

"His name is Adam.
He was in kindergarten with me,
and now his desk is right behind mine.
Sometimes he leans forward
and whispers in my ear.
It's nice to have an already-friend."

Katie's mom and grandmother try to ease her concerns about a return to school. She is reluctant to go that first day.

"I think I have a stomachache.
And it wouldn't be smart to start second grade
on a day when I'm feeling sick.
Maybe tomorrow
would be better than today
for starting back to school.
But Mom says, "Your stomach just has butterflies."

Jackie has to come to school early because of her mom's job. Third grade provides new opportunities for responsibility and Mrs. McKinney seems pleased with her early morning helpers.

"A kid named Logan and I
both got here at seven,
and Mrs. McKinney
said she likes having two early birds
to keep her company.
And guess what I found out?
Third grade has a rabbit!"

Carlos shares his concerns about a brand new school with his positive and empowering father.

"What if no one likes me?"
Papa laughs.
"Not like? Un hombre like you?
So smart, so strong, so handsome"?
No es possible."
"It is possible," I argue. "What if - ?"

Mia wears hearing aids, loves books, and is impressed with her new teacher, Mrs. K.

"Mrs. K is like me - she likes poetry.
So first thing every day,
she's going to read us a poem.
I'm lucky I got shuffled, because
now I'll be able
to hear every word she reads!
Fifth grade may be OK after all.
We'll see."

You have met each one. As you read their four poems, you will get to know them better. You will also know what first days of school look like from various perspectives. I think you might even find your younger self in their poems. I know I did!

Mika Song's emotion-packed artwork is created in watercolor and sumi ink.  Her illustrations offer a glimpse into each child's world and feelings, matching the sensitivity found in Ms. Derby's poetry.

What an awesome way to begin a conversation about feelings, diversity, and poetry itself for your classroom, or for your own reluctant child. Having it on your sharing shelf the first day of school will provide perfect openings for kids to start telling their personal stories - perhaps even trying a poem of their own. Enjoy.

Me and Marvin Gardens, written by Amy Sarig King. Scholastic, 2017. $22.,99 ages 9 and up

How lucky are we to be able to share incredible stories written by equally incredible writers? I have read five such books this week and  they will be posted very quickly so that you might find a copy and share it in your classroom, or with your family.

Empathy is lacking in our lives; sharing books that build on how others are feeling about themselves and the world is just one step in making our world a better place to be. Through understanding and communication, we live a larger and more complete life.

"On the way to school, Annie chatting in my ear the whole way about how I was going to be famous, I thought about loners. Marvin was a loner - even with his family, he was still on his own. I was a loner. My dad was a loner and my mom was too. Even though they were married, they were married loners. Annie was a loner because people called her putrid and because of her backyard play prison. Even Tommy was a loner because he was stuck with a bunch of boys he didn't like but hung out with anyway. We were all loners because we felt like we had to do what someone else told us to do.

I wondered when we would just be able to do what felt right. I wondered when we'd be able to be ourselves and not be called names. I wondered when we could wear old sneakers. Middle school was coming."

I hope that makes you want to meet Obe, and Marvin, and Annie. I know you will like them! Obe is a very honest and capable narrator. He lives in a farmhouse that belonged to his great-great grandfather, who lost most of his land when his drinking problem got in the way. He sold it off bit by bit, until the only thing left was the small piece of land that surrounds the family home. Obe is a conservationist and spends much of his time cleaning up the creek that runs through the family's land.

While cleaning up trash one day, he meets a new animal  never before seen.  Obe names him Marvin Gardens and promptly falls in love with the very unusual creature. Marvin is a kindred spirit for Obe. He is friendly, loyal, and trusting. He eats only plastic. A new solution to an ever-growing ecological disaster? His poop is another issue altogether, and Obe must seek help. Obe realizes that he cannot only confide in Annie. He will have to alert the authorities in an attempt to ensure safety for Marvin and his family. It is the right thing to do!

This is a beautifully written story that is focused beyond the environmental. It also deals with bullying, friendship, failed expectations, anxiety, humor and wonder at the world. 

finding PERFECT, written by Elly Swartz. Farrar Straus Giroux, Macmillan. Raincoast, 2017. $19.50 ages 8 and up

"Fewer yeses. That has to mean something. Right? I read on. It says if I have these thoughts, I likely also do the compulsive stuff. I look at that list. Sure, I do some of those things, but not all of them. I mean who doesn't wash their hands? And, how am I supposed to know how much is too much? And is there some site talking about kids who don't wash their hands enough ... "

It's hard being Molly Nathans. She's only twelve, and she is dealing with a lot, not the least of which is her ever-growing obsession with managing her own life. She has always been neat: cleaning and organizing, liking things in order, having spotless hands, and counting. New developments with her family cause her OCD to become more obvious and compelling.

Her mom has taken a job away from home, and she promises will last only one year. It throws the family into chaos, as Molly sees it. She wants to make sure that her mother comes back and is sure she will if only Molly can just win the poetry slam contest, and be even more perfect in the way she takes care of things. Her father is distracted, her sister is angry, and Molly worries about her little brother's health. Her best friend may have to move, and what will she do then?

Most middle graders are focused on their own lives; that is a natural thing. Molly has supportive friends who want to help, but can only do so much. The more Molly worries, the less she can control her obsessive behaviors. The way she thinks about so many things cannot be controlled, and it is creating problems in those relationships. Her bravery in seeking help as she feels herself spinning out of control is a leap of faith that has hopeful results.

Hearing Molly's voice as she shares what is happening is often painful, but also telling. This is a powerful and valid look at OCD. It helps those middle graders who will share this story become more informed and hopefully more compassionate for their friends who are experiencing some of the same feelings and behaviors. As a class read, it offers many opportunities for discussion and understanding.