A Tulip in Winter: A Story About Folk Artist Maud Lewis, written by Kathy Stinson and illustrated by Lauren Soloy. Greystone Kids, 2023. $22.95 ages 6 and up

                           

               

"Other children teased her
for how she looked, 
her crooked walk, 
and how small she was. 

Her doctor could not 
explain her condition."

I have always had great admiration for Kathy Stinson's books. This picture book biography about folk artist Maud Lewis does not change that, except perhaps to make it stronger. What a fascinating and inspiring story she shares! It is such a compelling and uplifting look at a life that was not easy; yet, it was filled with beauty and determination. Paying clear attention to the details and wonder of the artist and the life she lived, Ms. Stinson impresses with her love for this tiny woman with a big heart. Lauren Soloy creates superb accompanying artwork to bring those words and Maud's love for the natural world to life for young readers. 

Born in 1903 into a world of hardship adds a certain sadness to the telling: there was no knowledge or treatment available to help Maud deal with the pain of her rheumatoid arthritis; following her parents' deaths, her brother sold the family home and left to find his own path; Maud, with nowhere to live was forced to make her home with an aunt. Life with her aunt was unsatisfactory, and Maud needed to set out on her own. 

She found a position as housekeeper to Everett Lewis, a crusty and miserly fish seller. She quickly made his house a home with her love of color and her need to paint what she saw outside the window. Whenever she could get some paint, she used it to create her wonderful art. Maud and Everett married, and spent many days traveling around the countryside selling his fish and her paintings. There was no lack of subject matter. 

"A window. A whole of life already framed.
Right there. A bird whizzing by, a bumblebee.
Always different. 

- Maud Lewis"

When she could no longer walk or paint, Everett wheeled her around in his wheelbarrow. She was always able to see all that was beautiful and good in the world. Her art, which now hangs in galleries and homes throughout the world did not make her much money when she was alive. As so often happens, it is coveted by many today and sells for more than Maud and Everett could have dreamed. 

Back matter includes more about Maud, an author's note and a note from the illustrator.  What a treasure this is! 

https://youtu.be/cBvROqcbDuM

Sometimes I Feel Like a River, written by Danielle Daniel and illustrated by Josee Bisaillon. Groundwood Books, 2023. $18.99 ages 4 and up

"Sometimes I feel like the rain, 
cool and most refreshing. 
I sprinkle, I drizzle, I drop, 
helping everything grow."

In a collection of poems written for younger readers, Ms. Daniel encourages them to think in wonder about the natural world that surrounds us. Too many are connected to devices and their learning reflects that. Instead, they could be outside basking in sunshine, walking near trees and water, and acquiring a healthy glow in the peace of the outdoors. It can prove quite magical and healing. 

By sharing her love of nature, she emphasizes what is so important about the sun, rivers, mountains, the sky and its clouds, thunder and rain, and on it goes ... 

"Sometimes I feel like a rainbow, 
 cheerful and full of surprise, 
I paint the sky in a spectacular arc, 
making everyone smile." 

Ms. Bisaillon created the accompanying artwork using 'soft and wax pastels, cut paper, colored pencils, gouache, charcoal and digital art'. Her characters are diverse, and appreciative of the world they live in. There are many occasions when those sharing the poems can stop and consider the beauty in the art. Because Ms. Daniel is an indigenous writer, is her world view more connected to a love for the land and its many invitations? How can we all make it a point to spend more time outdoors in awe of what it has to offer each and every one of us? How do you feel when you spend time in nature? Are you calmer and more peaceful when you shut down technology and focus on other important things? 

This is a lovely companion to Sometimes I Feel Like a Fox (2015). These poems awaken the senses and encourage readers to think beyond themselves as they spend time outside their comfort zone. Their awareness is increased, their feelings enhanced, and their connections strengthened. 

It ends with "A Mindful Walk or Roll" to help children see what there is to be seen, and felt, and heard. It helps every reader feel part of something bigger and more important. An author's note follows to remind readers we are connected to the natural world and to each other. It is a worthy pursuit. 

"We are made of rainbows and rivers, 
and they are made of us."                                                                                      

Like a Hurricane, written by Jonathan Becotte. Translated by Jonathan Kaplansky. Orca Book Publishers, 2023. $12.95 ages 9 and up

"Sometimes I tell myself that life 
is a game of basketball. 
You're handed a number at birth, 
as if the doctor were choosing your place,
the team on which you'll play. 

I'm afraid he got it wrong, 
that the team he assigned me to 
is making me lose the game."

I read this book last evening like a hurricane. I read it again this morning, and I know that I will read it more than once more before I pass it on to a friend who needs to read it. It is so beautifully penned in poetic verse that captures the narrator's struggles with coming out as gay, and with his own sense of self. 

Written in first-person, it is heartbreaking, full of heart, and hopeful. He has no idea how he will come out to his parents, yet knows he must. When he tells his best friend he has feelings for him, it leads to a break in their relationship and the loss of the closeness they once had. In fact, they rarely speak to each other anymore. 

"I wasn’t born to be a hurricane.
But I can no longer
hold back the winds inside."

Will his family and friends reject him? He has no way of knowing; he only knows that he has to reveal his secret. Concise, emotional language reveals his world and the courage it takes to own his true self. A friend becomes his confidante: 

"And in the middle of this whirlwind,
 there is YOU.
 A special friend,
my forever sidekick."

Making his voice both loud and clear, he finds support with family as well. Now, he can breathe. 

The more time you spend with this book, the better it becomes. 

What If I'm Not a Cat? Written by Kari-Lynn Winters and illustrated by Kelly Collier. Kids Can Press, 2023. $21.99 ages 4 and up

 

"One day, while Donkey was settling 
down for a nap, 

Farmer said something puzzling. 

Donkey, you're acting 
like a cat! 

YEAH. Obviously. 
I AM a cat! 
A spiffy, strong cat!"

What a rude awakening it is for Donkey when Farmer tells him he is acting like a cat. Isn't that what cats do? Donkey knows that his name does not describe who he is. Donkey knows he's a cat! When Farmer talks to the animals in the barn, she calls them all kitty cats. Donkey is one of those animals. 

Donkey does what cats do. Tree climbing is his only failing when copying their behaviors. Or is it? He is scared of mice, cannot land on four feet, doesn't fancy eating cat food. and makes the funniest sound when he tries to meow. Farmer's comment about his acting like a cat make him do a lot of soul searching. The cats are quick to suggest what animal he might really be, and to even wonder about their own identities. 

No longer fitting in, Donkey decides to leave the barn. He is miserable, cold, and lonely. When Fox arrives with an eye on a tiny kitten, Donkey musters up his best self and sends Fox off in a rush. The kitten is returned to its mother. The cats accept him for friendship and protection. Donkey discovers who he really is, and settles in. 

Amusing and detailed digital illustrations vary in perspective and form which impacts the action of the story. Expressive faces speak to personality, and are humorous. Young readers will enjoy this story about friendship and being who one is meant to be. 

You Are A Star, Jane Goodall, written by Dean Robbins and illustrated by Hatem Aly. Scholastic, 2023. $11.99 ages 5 and up

 

"In my fifties, I set off on my 
biggest adventure: to protect
people, wildlife, and the earth. 

I traveled from country to 
country with a message of love. 

We must be kind to 
one another and to the 
planet we live on. 

Do you know why?"

This is the second book in a new series from Scholastic that began with a book about Ruth Bader Ginsburg a year ago. It is meant for young readers to introduce them to Jane Goodall, her life and her accomplishments as a world-renowned scientist. Jane was the first person to live with chimpanzees in Gombe National Park in Tanzania. Her lifelong love of animals inspired the visit that became her life's work. 

Dean Robbins tells her story in a clear, first-person voice that gives readers a friendly, warm look at a lifetime of love for animals. That love began with a gift from her father on her first birthday: a stuffed chimp named Jubilee. Animals consumed her through her childhood, and into her later life. When she received a letter from a friend in Kenya asking her to visit, she saved every penny she made to finally make the trip. 

While there, she arranged a meeting with Louis Leakey who offered her a job when he realized that she was as interested in animals as he was, especially chimpanzees. He needed someone brave enough to live with the chimps and study their behavior. As luck would have it, Jane was ready and willing. 

"I had no scientific training, so it 
 was risky to choose me for this 
experiment. But Dr. Leakey was 
excited to find a curious explorer who 
had never researched chimpanzees. 
He knew I might try things no 
one had ever thought of before."

That is exactly what happened. Jane became the world's leading scientist on chimp life and behaviors by living with them and reporting on all that she was learning from them. Today, she continues to teach world citizens about protecting nature, people and the earth itself. 

Back matter is valuable and includes an author's note, the discoveries Jane made, encouragement for readers to be more like her, a list of her beloved chimpanzee friends, a timeline of her career, a selected list of books written by Jane, her good works, and a list of chosen books that have been written about her.

Hatem Aly creates quiet, effective scenes that show Jane from very young child to serene world traveler as she takes the love she has for animals, and continues to have for all, out into the greater world. 

https://janegoodall.org/

Maybe An Artist, written and illustrated by Liz Montague. Random House Studio, Penguin Random House. 2022. $33.99 ages 12 and up

 

"My older sisters had Myspace, but I'd never
had any interest in that. As soon as I got home,
though, I checked out Facebook. It was an 
entirely new frontier. 
It was nice being able to meet people 
without actually having to meet them
and know things about them without 
actually having to talk to them."

This graphic memoir begins when Liz Montague, as a working adult, finds herself faced with a blank page and wondering "why do I do this?" Putting herself through day after day of having to come up with something new, interesting, and inspiring can be very hard work. When the same question is put to her by her partner, she must take stock of her journey from 9-year-old girl to full-time artist. 

How did that happen? Her early years at school saw her diagnosed as dyslexic and struggling with academics. Middle school saw her grapple with academics, fitting in, and finding a path. She thought she wanted to be a writer. But other issues weighed heavy on her mind. Her artwork was praised, as was her ability at track. High school was not better. Now, she felt invisible in much bigger school, and came to know some of the pressures that arise when part of a racial minority. What was she to do to make her parents proud, and worthy of their sacrifices for her? A track scholarship to university and classes available there offered an opportunity to take an art class. She had found her calling. At 22, she became on the first Black female cartoonists to be published in the New Yorker. What an accomplishment! 

Told in chapters that focus on each part of her life's journey, this graphic novel is sure to find fans quickly and be passed along to others who will want to read it. Middle and high school readers will identify with some of the descriptions and struggles faced by a young woman of color in a small community. She is both serious and funny when describing so carefully her experiences and emotions. Her artwork holds great appeal for her audience. It is expressive, and placed on a white background, assuring attention is paid fully to the story being told. Hers was a long and winding path to finding success and fulfillment in her life. She tells her story with joy and careful thought that will leave readers pleased to know more about her. 

I Love My City, written by France Desmarais and illustrated by Yves Dumont. Translation by Richard Adam. Pajama Press, 2023. $16.95 ages 9 and up

"In the Middle Ages, night watchmen made 
rounds of city districts to make sure the 
citizens were safe. Each one would call out 
his own clever cry to remind locals to keep 
a close watch on their candles and fireplaces
so that their homes wouldn't catch fire. Those
watchmen were the very first of what we call 
"first responders" today."

The design is inviting, the information reliable and relevant, the organization top-notch, and the timeline for the life of cities quite a remarkable history. The cities chosen to present are found worldwide, and offer a timeline from the oldest known city to an idea for what the future might hold in terms of urbanization. There are five sections: population, there are all kinds of cities out there, how a city is organized, services, and architecture and culture. The table of contents allows readers to find what intrigues them most and to go straight to that part of the section of interest. 

Some terms will be unfamiliar. To that end, some are marked for explanation in the glossary that is part of the back matter. Others are presented while reading the text. Artwork adds context and further detail. The digital illustrations attract attention, and are placed on double-page spreads throughout. Observant readers will take note of the gray cat that pops up often. There is a lot of information for middle grade readers here, and it is written in such a way as to make it accessible to those who want to know more about urban development. 

It's very interesting to note that research shows more than 70% of the human population will live in an urban area by the year 2050. This will be very useful in classrooms studying urban planning and how cities work, and in all nonfiction collections. 

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

 

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

Paperback books are 
floppier than a soggy beret. 

Bubbles make very fine hats, 
if temporary. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do you know what a haberdashery is? 

Invisible, written by Christina Diaz Gonzalez and and illustrated by Gabriela Epstein, with color by Lark Pien. Scholastic, 2022. $16.99

"It's true, though. 
Isn't it? 
Maybe we can help. 

You can't tell anyone. And
it's only temporary ... until 
I can get back on my feet.
I have things under control ...
I've been looking for a job. 

We won't say anything. 
Promise." 

Their story begins in the principal's office at Conrad Middle School. Five Latinx students have been called in to talk about the events of April 18. They don't know why they are there, and assume they are in some kind of trouble. Their story is told from five distinct perspectives. The first assumptions made is that they are all Mexican, and that they don't speak English. 

Neither is true. George (the brain) is of Puerto Rican descent; Sara (the loner) is Mexican; Dayara (the tough kid) is Cuban; Miguel (the athlete) is Dominican; and Nico (the rich kid) is Venezuelan. As they tell their stories, readers learn about the challenges they are facing in their own lives outside of school. George is placed with 'students like you' when he is assigned community service hours helping Mrs. Grouser in the school's cafeteria. Though George does not speak Spanish fluently, he is assigned to be the translator for the group. They work together but don't know much about the others.  

While on the playground together, they meet a young woman and her daughter near the fence. They discover that the two are homeless and set out to help in any way they can. Of course that means breaking some of Mrs. Grouser's ridiculous rules. They must decide for themselves if helping is worth becoming more visible in a setting that makes ungrounded assumptions about them because of how they look. 

In her first graphic novel, Ms. Gonzalez creates complex and exceptional characters who are much more that who everyone assumes they are. The text is written in Spanish and English; the format is accessible and inspiring. Readers will relate to some of the issues they face. The focus of Ms. Epstein's expressive artwork is on the five and their personal stories, as well as the interactions between them. Together they find community far beyond what others expect of them and realize that they can make an important difference.  

The twist at the end makes it an even more satisfying read. 

https://youtu.be/CdIZ5gb0jCg

Burt the Beetle Lives Here! Written and illustrated by Ashley Spires. Kids Can Press, 2023. $16.99 ages 5 and up

"BEES BUILD MATHEMATICALLY 
PERFECT WAX HIVES. 

Wow! Did you go to school for that? 

We chew the honey we make 
from plant nectar until it turns 
into wax. 

Ooh, I LOVE honey! 
Can I try?" 

Fans of Ashley Spires and her wonderful books are always very happy to know that a new one has been published. They manage to charm readers with characters to love, to laugh with, and to learn from. Burt, the friendly and much admired june beetle, is back to help readers learn about the many places that are home to insects. There are many different types. What is best for a june beetle, do you think? 

Burt is here to give readers the scoop on where beetles live and what might be best for him. Beetles can be found everywhere on Earth: hot, cold, above ground or below, in water or on other creatures. They have preferences and needs that must be fulfilled. The type of insect they are determines what works best for their protection and safety. 

Burt's search for his own perfect place takes some time, and continues to provide information for readers concerning the kind of home many insects prefer. 

"Yellow meadow ants build underground tunnels
large enough to house thousands of insects."

Those tunnels are much too small for Burt, as you can imagine. As he continues his own search for shelter, Burt is very pleased to add to our education concerning the variety of places that house the many bugs that inhabit spaces in the natural world. The search is long and complicated; ultimately, it ends with his perfect 'home'. 

Witty and informative, this is the best kind of nonfiction for the target audience. The graphic novel style is engaging and much appreciated by so many. There are laughs, lots of kindness, and an inspiring invitation to further learning.

Afikomen, written by Tziporah Cohen and illustrated by Yaara Eshet. Groundwood Books, 2023. $19.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Passover is for remembering, but 
a visit to ancient Egypt makes this 
seder truly unforgettable."

It will soon be Passover. This new book from Ms. Cohen explains what afikomen is and why it is part of the Passover seder: 'a piece is broken off from a matzah during the early part of the meal', and put aside to be eaten later. That piece is placed in a bag beside the seder leader. 

A child takes it from the table and the dog snatches it away. The dog disappears under the table with it; the children give chase and find themselves traveling through a portal into ancient Egypt. They are transformed to become a part of the setting, and carry the afikomen bag with them. Across the river from where they stand, they see a woman holding a baby alongside a younger woman holding a basket. The basket and baby are placed in the river. 

The children see the basket floating downriver; they follow it and help to keep it safe. Surprised to find it contains a baby, they release it to be saved by the pharaoh's daughter. Satisfied that the baby is safe, the children return to the seder table, with a surprise in the afikomen bag for their parents. What magic is this? 

There are no words to tell this story, and yet its message is clear. Ink and watercolor artwork bring the story to life and provide context for the action taken. In an author's note, the story of Passover is described. 

The Care and Keeping of Grandmas, written by Jennifer Mook-Sang and illustrated by Yong Ling Kang. tundra, Penguin Random House. 2023. $23.99 ages 4 and up

 

"I showed her around and introduced her 
to our pets and neighbors and other family 
members. 

I helped her create a personal space that was
all hers, and we decorated it with her 
favorite things." 

The child narrator of this book is quick to let readers know that she knows quite a lot about grandmas. Should a grandma move from her home to live with her granddaughter and family (as this one does), things change for everyone. The first thing to be done is helping the grandma to get to know and enjoy her new space. It may take some time. There are new people to meet in the neighborhood, and even in the house if you count pets and stuffies. 

Making her room her own takes careful thought, and lots of help. She needs familiar belongings and quiet spaces. Having a granddaughter as constant companion can be a bit of a challenge for a woman looking for peace and quiet, and a chance to enjoy her favorite pastimes without company. The little girl is endlessly anxious to make sure Grandma has the best of all things. 

Grandma loves green growing plants and time spent gardening. Our narrator recognizes that Grandma needs all the same things plants need: water, food, and light. She occasionally needs some 'tidying' as well. Help is provided whenever it is needed. Allowing time to settle in results in a loving, happy space for all. 

Watercolor and pencil illustrations perfectly suit the tone and action provided in the text. There are plenty of amusing and telling details, giving context to the time it takes to help Grandma make the necessary transition. Color choice is reflected in mood changes, but mostly in the joy of light and vegetation. I love the way this household and Grandma respond to the changes, and the joy of adding a new member to it. 

"My grandma was discombobulated
by changes to her routine. But I was
patient. Eventually, we found plans
that worked for everyone." 

Brava! 

We Are Lions, words by Jens Mattsson and pictures by Jenny Lucander. Translation by B.J. Woodstein. Groundwood Books, 2023. $19.99 ages 4 and up

"One day, my brother doesn't want to run 
around the savanna. His stomach hurts. 

I call him a poopy gazelle, but he doesn't 
even growl. He just whines. It's boring. 

My brother has to go to the doctor."

Here are two boys whose imaginations allow them adventure as lions out on the savanna. They are hungry, noisy, and very brave. Gazelles and wildebeest should be very worried. They are silent as they pursue their prey. Then the scene quickly changes from an imagined plain to their own backyard, but the envisioning continues. 

Things change even more quickly when the big brother gets sick. A trip to the doctor is quickly arranged; the little one stays home with his mom. The trips to the doctor become more frequent and medicine is plentiful, finally followed by time in the hospital. The endless time spent there is hard on the young boy; he is told to be calm and still. He cannot control his wildness. While he turns the bathroom into a wet and slippery place, his brother roars weakly from his bed. The lions are having trouble adapting. 

When the opportunity presents itself, the two make a break for it with the wheelchair; off to the savanna where they cause chaos for some of the older patients. It isn't long until they are captured, chastised for being naughty, and returned to the sick room. Their days spent together in the hospital become a sharing time for the two. Tales from preschool, long hours spent lying together in the hospital bed, and the wam comfort of family. 

They may not be lions for now; they will be again. They will hunt once more. 

This book is a wonderful example of what happens when a story beautifully told is matched by equally strong and wonderful artwork. Using line drawings, watercolor, and digital collage, Ms. Lucander helps readers understand the story to be serious and heartbreaking. Filled with tenderness, it provides opportunity for discussion for all who share it. 

A Llama Is Not An Alpaca and Other Mistaken Animal Identities, written by Karen Jameson and illustrated by Lorna Scobie. RP Kids, Hachette. 2023. $22.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Turtle or tortoise? Got you beat? 
Guess who paddles with webbed feet. 

IT'S A TURTLE!

Turtle vs. Tortoise

Slow and steady! Most turtles have 
webbed feet for swimming, although 
sea turtles have flippers. Tortoises 
are land dwellers with short, stubby 
feet."

I was talking with my granddaughter about this book this morning. Sicily has embarked on researching some animals and preparing information sheets for what she is discovering during spring break. The first two animals she has chosen are the Siberian tiger and the sun bear. She was diligent in her research and had lots to share. I wondered if she knew the difference between a llama and an alpaca. She explained that the main difference is that llamas have a tendency to be 'spitters' while alpacas are much friendlier and 'cuddly'. 

I explained I had read only one thing about each. I also mentioned that people often mistake one for the other. 

"Alpaca? Llama? Big surprise.
One of them comes SUPERSIZE!

IT'S A LLAMA!

Alpaca vs Llama: 
Lickety-spit! Llamas are almost twice the size and have 
longer, curved ears. Alpacas have shorter ears and chubby, 
furry faces. Both like to spit!"

And now we know! Ten pairs of animals are mentioned as ones that are often mistaken for the other. This book sets young readers straight. The answers are often humorous, while answering the question correctly. Poetic text is accompanied by colorful, enjoyable artwork sure to attract the reader's attention. There is always a page turn before the answer is given, to allow children a chance to guess the answer. Illustrations corroborate what the text offers. 

Gold, written and illustrated by Jed Alexander. Creston Books, Thomas Allen and Son, 2022. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Who belongs and who doesn't? 

Do members of the same family 
all look the same?"

So much is shared in this wonderful wordless book! The endpapers present a city street, and an invitation to step inside. Three bears who live in a gold-colored house are preparing for an outing on their bicycles. Observant readers will note that there are four bikes, and only three bears. They don helmets, and warm scarves for protection from a rather windy day. 

The title page shows them embarking on their ride. Turn the page to see a small girl, dressed in golden-hued clothing step from a school bus of the same color. It spins away, leaving her to walk up the hill. She arrives at the only golden house on the street. (Remember those bears!) Letting herself in, she drops her outdoor clothes and shoes as she heads toward the kitchen. She gets right to work preparing a big pit of food. 

Obviously, she has done such a thing before now. She takes a steaming bowl to the table as attention is drawn outside to the bears making their return, A welcome smell awakens their taste buds as they enter the house. Papa returns the bikes to their place. Little hangs scarves at the door, and Mama retrieves the dropped clothing from the floor as they head toward the delicious odor emanating from the kitchen. 

What delight awaits? Steaming bowls of food, a little girl sound asleep on the sofa, and a warm welcome as she awakens. Dinner is served, dishes are done, and sleep comes to a very tired bunch. 

Much is presumed in the first reading of this book. That only encourages readers to go back and read it all over again. Is this a Goldilocks and the Three Bears story? Well, no! But it will certainly have readers who know that story make some predictions about what is sure to happen here. Does it? You will have to check for yourselves. You won't be sorry you did. 

Not one word ... none needed. 

The Baker by the Sea, written and illustrated by Paula White. Templar books, Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2022. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 

"My father is not a fisherman. 

He is the baker. Every day before the sun rises
and the boats come in, he is safe and warm inside, 
busily baking. The comforting aroma of fresh bread
welcomes a new day."

In this story of community, a young boy describes the place he loves and the people who live there. It is his home, and he is proud to be part of it. The people who live there work hard; the sea provides a living for many; and everyone works hard to provide for all.

"The sea is the beating heart of all we do." 

Tired when their day is done, the workers go home to rest and get ready for their next day of work. The fishermen are fishing. Despite the hard work and harsh weather, the boy dreams of being a fisherman like so many others. He tells readers that his father does not fish. He spends his time inside where he is warm, and busy with his baking. He feeds many in the seaside village. 

The son wants to know if his father has ever been to sea. Yes, but it wasn't for him he tells him. Instead, he found his calling in baking. What would happen without the bread, buns, and biscuits he makes to sustain the workers and other folks in their village? That is surely food for thought, and perhaps a new view for the importance of his father's work. 

Using pencil and ink, Paula White creates cozy scenes of people working hard in their village to provide what is needed to sustain it. Grays, blues, and yellows offer a clear look at a way of life from the past, while also sharing the pride of all villagers.  An author's note adds context and one of her grandfather's recipes ends the book.                                                                                        

Scaredy Squirrel Visits the Doctor, written and illustrated by Melanie Watt. tundra, Penguin Random House. 2022. $23.99 ages 4 and up

"Dr. Vet begins Scaredy 
Squirrel's health exam. 

She weighs and 
measures him ... 

takes his temperature
and pulse ... 

checks his ears, 
fur and teeth ... 

looks at his X-ray ... "

Scaredy Squirrel fans will have been anticipating this new book. Kids who worry about making a visit to the doctor are sure to be calmed as they learn about Scaredy's first ever visit. To say Scaredy is scared is hardly a surprise. In other books, readers have learned about the many worries that plague him, and how he deals with them in the funniest ways. 

Scaredy remains anxious, and quite ingenious in his attempts to avoid anything that ups his stress level. He does everything he can to keep himself healthy, and stay away from the clinic. When a brochure arrives that announces every animal should pay a visit to get a health certificate, it takes him aback. He begins to think more seriously about seeing the doctor. 

Preparation is extensive. Once ready, he heads to the clinic, stealthily and incognito ... until the doctor lifts the crate causing Scaredy to go into full panic mode. Hilarity ensues for fans. Finally, Scaredy is put through the paces. 

"Scaredy sees it doesn't hurt at all 
to get a checkup. In fact, he feels 
good knowing everything is A-OK." 

Dr. Vet ends the visit with suggestions for keeping Scaredy's anxiety at bay. Scaredy thanks the doctor and takes his health certificate home with him.  

As with other books in this fine series, children discover they are not the only ones with worries. Sharing this book will allow for questions and discussion to help alleviate fears they might have as well, and will encourage them to try some of the exercises the vet has suggested to keep Scaredy from worrying all the time. 

The Invitation, written by Stacey May Fowles and illustrated by Marie Lafrance. Groundwood, 2023. $19.99 ages 4 and up

 

"Fern worried so hard and wondered so long 
that she didn't even notice her friend Fawn 
appear on the front lawn. 
"Beautiful fall day!" Fawn called. "What's 
that you have there?" 
"I don't really know," Fern replied sadly. 

"Then you should OPEN IT! OPEN IT! 
OPEN IT!" called Fawn, swatting away 
the storm. "Whatever it is, we'll face it 
together."

When Fern finds a yellow envelope in her mailbox, she expresses concern. She pays no attention to anything going on around her as her head fills with worries about what she might find in that envelope. Her worries keep her from checking that mail. Her mind fills with what if? questions. Fawn's arrival goes unnoticed until a question about the envelope is asked. Fern knows nothing about it. Fawn encourages Fern to open it, and promises to stand right beside her as she does. 

It is an invitation to a surprise at the museum. Fern is averse to surprises; Fawn promises to accompany her. As they walk along, Fern expresses more worries about timing, accidents, a bear's hunger, a bear's toothache, the guests they will see at the museum. Each worry voiced gets a positive and reasonable response from Fern's good friend. As they arrive, they agree that perhaps the two can introduce all the creatures they have met along the way to those in attendance. Once there, Fern sees that all guests have the same yellow envelope. They have all been invited. What a party awaits! 

It seems all's well that ends well, when you have a confident friend by your side. Similar future experiences such as this one are likely to help Fern deal with her anxiety one small step at a time. 

The Van Buren Sisters vs. The Pants Police, written by J.F. Fox and illustrated by Anna Kwan. Kids Can Press, 2023. $19.99 ages 6 and up

"By 1913, a new century had come roaring in, 
and for Addie and Gussie a new favorite sport
reigned supreme - MOTORBIKING!

Zooming around town, the sisters had little 
time for stuffy opinions and frilly fashions."

Addie and Gussie Van Buren were not raised as most young girls who were born in the late 1800s. Their mother died when they were young; their father raised his children to be 'confident, competitive, and capable'. Like him, they all loved sports. The girls were skilled at numerous ones. In 1913, their favorite was riding their motorbikes everywhere. 

When the war broke out in 1914, young women were not able to enlist as soldiers. Because of their prowess on their bikes, they felt they would be useful as couriers on the battlefield. To prove they could do it, they set out to ride from New York to California to prove their mettle and convince others they could do it. Little did they know the challenges that would face them as they made their way from one side of the country to the other - 6500 kilometers. 

They packed all they would need, and spoke with crowds before setting off.  Some bystanders were not impressed to see young women dressed in pants and attempting such a thing on their own. Not only that, they were not welcome in many towns along the way because of a code that said only men could were pants there. Two months later, they arrived as their destination, proud and happy with the accomplishment made on their own terms. Their lives following that journey were also quite triumphant. 

The second book in the Head-to-Head history series, it is told with humor, and inspiration. Today, descendants of the Van Buren sisters continue to make the same ride in their honor with other women bikers. Anna Kwan does a commendable job of placing the story in a clear historical setting with detailed artwork and hints of humor. Back matter adds notes for context, a glossary, and a list of print and digital sources. 

The Tryout, written by Christina Soontornvat and illustrated by Joanna Cacao. Scholastic, 2022. $16.99 ages 8 and up

 

"You're doing great with projecting your voice, 
Christina, but can I tell you something?

Oh, sure. What? 

It's your face. You're wearing 
this stinky look. You need to smile. 

It's hard to fake a smile when I'm so 
nervous about messing up. 

Don't think of it as faking. 
It's your GAME FACE."

Anyone who has been there knows how hard middle school can be. Christina is concerned with feeling as if she belongs. To that end, she decides to try out for the cheerleading team. Her story encourages readers to be sympathetic and cognizant of Christina's need for acceptance. There are humorous moments, as well as many experiences that force her to grow and prosper on her own, apart from her best friend Megan. 

Turns out it isn't just being popular with other students that keeps Christina going; she comes to admire how confident the older cheerleaders are and to recognize their commitment to being better as members of the team. She allows readers to see that she is impressed with what being a cheerleader means in their school. She also manages to deal with the problems that come her way. There is the work, and there is the worry about her changing relationship with Megan. 

When the two discover that the tryout is a popularity contest, they are disillusioned. Rightfully so. Fitting in in their small town isn't easy when your parents are biracial. Both experience disappointment firsthand. Being an outsider is a tough lesson to learn. 

This is an outstanding graphic memoir by a very talented author.  Illustrations are bright, expressive, and relatable for middle grade readers. It's hard to find your identity as a middle grader; harder still when you don't fit the expected mold. 

An author's note is enlightening.