Susan Hughes (1) (1960–)

Such a sweet book! Love the rhymes, love the personality-infused trucks, and particularly like that the trucks don't want to have a bath! I can imagine lots of young kids totally identifying with these trucks. Bright engaging illustrations with attention to inclusion. I also loved the small details like a particular cat that keeps on popping up. Parents will appreciate the humor and the upbeat tone. This will be super popular with junior truck lovers and all kids who balk at baths. It will also be popular with caregivers trying to convince their young one into having a bath. A winner all around.… (more)

Quick Review:

This is another great animal themed middle grade novel to add to your child's shelf! I remember reading this series way back in my youngling days, but it's been a while and I found a copy - so review time! Piper is a four month old Bernese Mountain Dog (one of my faves!) and the girls Kat, Maya and Grace have to help train her for her first puppy show! But along the way, it won't be easy and there will be distractions!

This is a great, fun, fast read for animals lovers. It's super adorable and everything I expected from a middle grade read.… (more)

This book was both interesting and inspiring! It's divided into three themed "chapters", with each school getting a two-page spread. The first chapter features schools that model and teach sustainability, including boat schools, rainforest schools, and tent schools. The second chapter features schools that break down barriers to provide education to all, regardless of attitudes towards gender, "class", or financial and living situations. Finally, the last chapter features schools that are flexible and "nontraditional", including some really creative examples of ways where the "classroom" comes to the kids! Back matter includes a world map indicating the locations of the various schools, resources for getting involved, and an index.… (more)