Cloud Cuckoo Land is a complex, sometimes convoluted story that weaves in and out of five (or six...) points of view, seven timelines, across centuries, in multiple locations, in alternating narratives.
The storyline hinges on an ancient text, the quest of Aethon, a shepherd who longs to be turned into a bird so that he can fly to a utopian paradise in the sky.
13-year-old Anna, experiencing the siege of Constantinople in 1453, discovers the codex by Diogenes in a monastery. She flees the encroaching terror, meeting another 13-year-old, Omeir, and they escape into the hills preserving the manuscript.
Centuries later Zeno, who learned Greek as a prisoner of war, has written a play based on his translation of the fable. Now 86, he is rehearsing a group of fifth-graders in a small library in Lakeport, Idaho in 2020. A troubled teenaged ecoterrorist, Seymour, believing the library to be empty, has planted a bomb in an attempt to damage the adjoining real estate office.
In an apocalyptic future storyline, 14-year-old Konstance is alone on the spaceship Argos, headed to a distant habitable planet. The computer Sybil controls everything on the ship and is the keeper of all of human knowledge and history. As a mysterious illness spreads through the ship, Sybil seals Konstance in a safe room. Konstance is attempting to piece together the story of Atheon, told to her by her father. She is also in search of the truth of her situation, which does not become clear until the very end, show more which ties all of the storylines together.
This audacious, imaginative epic moves rapidly between protagonists and weaves in and out of several time periods. Doerr’s writing is stunning and evocative, but the length of the book and the rapid shifts sometimes feel as though one is piecing together a puzzle with no picture for reference. The reading is ultimately rewarding if at times a challenge.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review show less
The storyline hinges on an ancient text, the quest of Aethon, a shepherd who longs to be turned into a bird so that he can fly to a utopian paradise in the sky.
13-year-old Anna, experiencing the siege of Constantinople in 1453, discovers the codex by Diogenes in a monastery. She flees the encroaching terror, meeting another 13-year-old, Omeir, and they escape into the hills preserving the manuscript.
Centuries later Zeno, who learned Greek as a prisoner of war, has written a play based on his translation of the fable. Now 86, he is rehearsing a group of fifth-graders in a small library in Lakeport, Idaho in 2020. A troubled teenaged ecoterrorist, Seymour, believing the library to be empty, has planted a bomb in an attempt to damage the adjoining real estate office.
In an apocalyptic future storyline, 14-year-old Konstance is alone on the spaceship Argos, headed to a distant habitable planet. The computer Sybil controls everything on the ship and is the keeper of all of human knowledge and history. As a mysterious illness spreads through the ship, Sybil seals Konstance in a safe room. Konstance is attempting to piece together the story of Atheon, told to her by her father. She is also in search of the truth of her situation, which does not become clear until the very end, show more which ties all of the storylines together.
This audacious, imaginative epic moves rapidly between protagonists and weaves in and out of several time periods. Doerr’s writing is stunning and evocative, but the length of the book and the rapid shifts sometimes feel as though one is piecing together a puzzle with no picture for reference. The reading is ultimately rewarding if at times a challenge.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review show less
My Own Lightning
Lauren Wolk
This is not a gentle book. But it is eloquent in its portrayal of the harsh sides of life and our responses, the evolution of understanding and emotions, and the moral dilemmas we can face.
This book is a sequel to Wolf Hollow, and Annabelle is struggling with traumatic memories and grief from the tragic death of Toby, a veteran who had become her friend.
Returning home from helping her teacher clean the school, a sudden storm catches Annabelle out in the open and she is struck by lightning. She has a foggy memory of rough hands restarting her heart; she is confused but knows she is lucky to have survived. Although physically healthy, her sensory world is magnified, and she intuitively understands the feelings and body language of animals in her rural home.
Annabelle is searching for her brother’s lost dog, and learns that other dogs have gone missing.
Andy Woodberry, a bully who persecuted Annabelle in the past, is also looking for his dog, and she realizes they share a compassion for animals. Slowly they come to see each other differently.
Wolk’s characters are complex : Annabelle is introspective and suspicious; Andy is cruel in response to the harshness and cruelty he experiences at home.
Annabelle is distrustful of her reclusive new neighbor and intrigued by a stranger claiming to be looking for his dog. She comes to view Andy in a new light as they learn the brutal truth about the stranger and the charitable truth about their secluded show more neighbor and his daughter.
This is a beautifully written book; while it is not necessary to read Wolf Hollow first, the reader will get much more from My Own Lightning if they are familiar with Annabelle and Andy’s backstory.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review show less
Lauren Wolk
This is not a gentle book. But it is eloquent in its portrayal of the harsh sides of life and our responses, the evolution of understanding and emotions, and the moral dilemmas we can face.
This book is a sequel to Wolf Hollow, and Annabelle is struggling with traumatic memories and grief from the tragic death of Toby, a veteran who had become her friend.
Returning home from helping her teacher clean the school, a sudden storm catches Annabelle out in the open and she is struck by lightning. She has a foggy memory of rough hands restarting her heart; she is confused but knows she is lucky to have survived. Although physically healthy, her sensory world is magnified, and she intuitively understands the feelings and body language of animals in her rural home.
Annabelle is searching for her brother’s lost dog, and learns that other dogs have gone missing.
Andy Woodberry, a bully who persecuted Annabelle in the past, is also looking for his dog, and she realizes they share a compassion for animals. Slowly they come to see each other differently.
Wolk’s characters are complex : Annabelle is introspective and suspicious; Andy is cruel in response to the harshness and cruelty he experiences at home.
Annabelle is distrustful of her reclusive new neighbor and intrigued by a stranger claiming to be looking for his dog. She comes to view Andy in a new light as they learn the brutal truth about the stranger and the charitable truth about their secluded show more neighbor and his daughter.
This is a beautifully written book; while it is not necessary to read Wolf Hollow first, the reader will get much more from My Own Lightning if they are familiar with Annabelle and Andy’s backstory.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review show less
Apple and Magnolia
Britta’s 2 favorite trees, an apple and a magnolia, are best friends, and Britta visits and watches them every day, sometimes dancing under the stars with the swaying trees. Her father, nicely, does not believe her, and sister Bronwyn, not so nicely, concurs. But Nana is quietly encouraging, saying ”Unusual friendships can be the most powerful of all”. When Magnolia is ailing, her father says it will not survive the winter, but Nana asks if Britta has a plan. Britta creates a string-and-cup telephone and knits a long scarf so the trees can feel each other’s warmth, and hangs a string of lights so the trees can see each other even on moonless nights.
In a fanciful turn, Britta notices the tees touching each other, and then moving closer. She begins to hope, and although Magnolia’s flowers are late, she does indeed bloom, and “Britta’s hope blossomed too.”
Softly colored illustrations are full of whimsy and touchingly evocative, with faith, friendship, and hope shining through.
The author notes before the title page that trees can indeed help each other and communicate,
and plant science discoveries are the inspiration for the story. Interested adults can learn more from the work of Suzanne Simard.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
Britta’s 2 favorite trees, an apple and a magnolia, are best friends, and Britta visits and watches them every day, sometimes dancing under the stars with the swaying trees. Her father, nicely, does not believe her, and sister Bronwyn, not so nicely, concurs. But Nana is quietly encouraging, saying ”Unusual friendships can be the most powerful of all”. When Magnolia is ailing, her father says it will not survive the winter, but Nana asks if Britta has a plan. Britta creates a string-and-cup telephone and knits a long scarf so the trees can feel each other’s warmth, and hangs a string of lights so the trees can see each other even on moonless nights.
In a fanciful turn, Britta notices the tees touching each other, and then moving closer. She begins to hope, and although Magnolia’s flowers are late, she does indeed bloom, and “Britta’s hope blossomed too.”
Softly colored illustrations are full of whimsy and touchingly evocative, with faith, friendship, and hope shining through.
The author notes before the title page that trees can indeed help each other and communicate,
and plant science discoveries are the inspiration for the story. Interested adults can learn more from the work of Suzanne Simard.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
This review is for the audiobook, which is captivating and incorporates beautifully chosen music, but it is difficult to review a picturebook one hasn’t seen. The language is as melodic as the music and the message of Asian American love, affirmation, family, and culture comes through exquisitely. The text of family celebrations, “delectable deliciousness” is an apt description of the mood of the book.
The cover illustration is gorgeous and I look forward to seeing the art that accompanies the text. The audiobook is read by the author and includes an autobiographical note at the end about the author's childhood and the inspiration for the story.
I received an Audio Advance Reader Copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The cover illustration is gorgeous and I look forward to seeing the art that accompanies the text. The audiobook is read by the author and includes an autobiographical note at the end about the author's childhood and the inspiration for the story.
I received an Audio Advance Reader Copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Too Many Pigs and One Big Bad Wolf: A Counting Story
The storyteller’s audience is not happy! Would you be?
“Once upon a time, there were three little pigs.
Then the wolf ate them.
THE END.”
“This story is too short! I want a longer one!”
The narrator tries (not very hard) to make the story longer, first adding more pigs, then random details - One was a skateboarder. He was eaten first! There were 10, no 11! They were a soccer team!
He tries 26 pigs in alphabetical order, then 29 for the days in a month (Feb.; Leap Year)
101 pigs wanted to make a movie, but - surprise! - the wolf ate them.
When he gets to 300, the listener wants to know if it will make the story longer, but the pigs were tiny and the wolf ate them like cereal.
The illustrations are clever and colorful, sometimes laugh-out-loud funny, and the silliness will be a hit with kids. For the adult reading, it is at once repetitive and disjointed, and the transitions can be abrupt, but touching on addition, the colors of a rainbow, alphabetical order, and other devices offers extension ideas for the classroom or storytime.
This twisted take on The Three Little Pigs is sure to be popular with children.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
The storyteller’s audience is not happy! Would you be?
“Once upon a time, there were three little pigs.
Then the wolf ate them.
THE END.”
“This story is too short! I want a longer one!”
The narrator tries (not very hard) to make the story longer, first adding more pigs, then random details - One was a skateboarder. He was eaten first! There were 10, no 11! They were a soccer team!
He tries 26 pigs in alphabetical order, then 29 for the days in a month (Feb.; Leap Year)
101 pigs wanted to make a movie, but - surprise! - the wolf ate them.
When he gets to 300, the listener wants to know if it will make the story longer, but the pigs were tiny and the wolf ate them like cereal.
The illustrations are clever and colorful, sometimes laugh-out-loud funny, and the silliness will be a hit with kids. For the adult reading, it is at once repetitive and disjointed, and the transitions can be abrupt, but touching on addition, the colors of a rainbow, alphabetical order, and other devices offers extension ideas for the classroom or storytime.
This twisted take on The Three Little Pigs is sure to be popular with children.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
I Love You, Blue
Sometimes help comes out of the blue.
This is a poignant story about a little boy caught in a storm; when “the ocean roars and rages” he cries for help and is rescued by a whale named Blue. One day when Blue does not come, the child dives into the ocean to find him. When Blue opens his mouth to say “AAAH”, the boy discovers a “belly full of bags”, which the child works to haul away, rescuing the whale in return.
“Save our oceans. Save our whales.” is the final message, and the author concludes with a page that offers suggestions on minimizing the use of plastic and a list of websites to extend learning and action.
The charming illustrations are simple and sweet; the text is spare and authentic as it gently conveys the importance of caring for the earth and all living things, particularly ocean creatures threatened by plastic pollution. The blues of the whale, the ocean, and the earth subtly reinforce the interconnectedness of all things.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
Sometimes help comes out of the blue.
This is a poignant story about a little boy caught in a storm; when “the ocean roars and rages” he cries for help and is rescued by a whale named Blue. One day when Blue does not come, the child dives into the ocean to find him. When Blue opens his mouth to say “AAAH”, the boy discovers a “belly full of bags”, which the child works to haul away, rescuing the whale in return.
“Save our oceans. Save our whales.” is the final message, and the author concludes with a page that offers suggestions on minimizing the use of plastic and a list of websites to extend learning and action.
The charming illustrations are simple and sweet; the text is spare and authentic as it gently conveys the importance of caring for the earth and all living things, particularly ocean creatures threatened by plastic pollution. The blues of the whale, the ocean, and the earth subtly reinforce the interconnectedness of all things.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
THE SCHOOL FOR WHATNOTS
Margaret Peterson Haddix
Bouncy Josie meets Max on the first day of school, and their friendship grows strong. They work and play together and are constantly texting when they are apart. After a pool party on the last day of school Max finds a note Josie has written telling him “No matter what anyone tells you, I'm real”. Worried, Max tries to text her but she doesn’t respond; he eventually tries to find her.
Unknown to him, his expensive school is a school for Whatnots - androids so well-made that they pass for real children. Max’s rich parents want him to be surrounded by kind, well-behaved children; they’ve sent him to a school where they believe his environment will be completely controlled.
Josie, however, is in fact a real girl - and a poor one. Her father has agreed to an elaborate scheme, sending her to the school for all but 3 weeks of vacation. He believes this is the only way she will receive a good education and a chance at a scholarship. She believes she and Max are the only real children, and she too is trying to find Max - and unravel the unusual circumstances behind their school.
Margaret Peterson Haddix has once again crafted a stupendous book. This thought-provoking story draws the reader in; an unknown narrator occasionally clarifies or informs the bemused reader of background or details, but now and again the narrator too is nonplussed. Plot twists abound in this engrossing and intricate tale. Highly recommended.
I show more received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review show less
Margaret Peterson Haddix
Bouncy Josie meets Max on the first day of school, and their friendship grows strong. They work and play together and are constantly texting when they are apart. After a pool party on the last day of school Max finds a note Josie has written telling him “No matter what anyone tells you, I'm real”. Worried, Max tries to text her but she doesn’t respond; he eventually tries to find her.
Unknown to him, his expensive school is a school for Whatnots - androids so well-made that they pass for real children. Max’s rich parents want him to be surrounded by kind, well-behaved children; they’ve sent him to a school where they believe his environment will be completely controlled.
Josie, however, is in fact a real girl - and a poor one. Her father has agreed to an elaborate scheme, sending her to the school for all but 3 weeks of vacation. He believes this is the only way she will receive a good education and a chance at a scholarship. She believes she and Max are the only real children, and she too is trying to find Max - and unravel the unusual circumstances behind their school.
Margaret Peterson Haddix has once again crafted a stupendous book. This thought-provoking story draws the reader in; an unknown narrator occasionally clarifies or informs the bemused reader of background or details, but now and again the narrator too is nonplussed. Plot twists abound in this engrossing and intricate tale. Highly recommended.
I show more received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review show less
You See a Zoo Mike Downs
The reader/listener is led by a child who contrasts what visitors see with a view of families and the way they care for their young.
“You see rowdy elephants… I see Healthy Kids at Play”
Scary crocodiles are protective mothers, silly chimpanzees are little ones at school, the angry lion is a dad on the lookout.
The rhyming text is coupled with softly colored inclusive pictures of families at the zoo. This book does a lovely job of accurately portraying animal behavior and then giving simple explanations. The ending is charming - “you see a zookeeper, I see my mom. You see a zoo; I see families like our own.”
This is a welcome addition to books about animals and zoos.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
The reader/listener is led by a child who contrasts what visitors see with a view of families and the way they care for their young.
“You see rowdy elephants… I see Healthy Kids at Play”
Scary crocodiles are protective mothers, silly chimpanzees are little ones at school, the angry lion is a dad on the lookout.
The rhyming text is coupled with softly colored inclusive pictures of families at the zoo. This book does a lovely job of accurately portraying animal behavior and then giving simple explanations. The ending is charming - “you see a zookeeper, I see my mom. You see a zoo; I see families like our own.”
This is a welcome addition to books about animals and zoos.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
The Struggle Bus
by Julie Koon
“Grumble, rumble, bump, and roar - the Struggle Bus is at your door”
This is a delightful and impactful book that validates children’s feelings and helps them understand and deal with them in constructive ways while reassuring them that struggle is part of life and persistence will pay off, but perhaps not right away.
The child who is struggling and “..losing hope. You’ll never get it. No way. Nope.” climbs aboard the bus, and the story follows both the interior experience of the child and the journey of the Struggle Bus. The evocative illustrations reflect the rhyming text and evolution of the story, through the struggles (“all of us have been there too”) of the child to persevere and the bus traveling through storms, breaking down, getting support, and moving on.
The “Keep rolling on” and “When your bus breaks down” sections at the end relate to the child’s experience, including strategies for dealing with difficult feelings and situations. The explanation of perseverance is helpful as is the idea that every time you try, you are building stronger “roads” in your brain.
Highly recommended, especially for parents and teachers of sensitive children who are easily discouraged, and those with special needs.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
by Julie Koon
“Grumble, rumble, bump, and roar - the Struggle Bus is at your door”
This is a delightful and impactful book that validates children’s feelings and helps them understand and deal with them in constructive ways while reassuring them that struggle is part of life and persistence will pay off, but perhaps not right away.
The child who is struggling and “..losing hope. You’ll never get it. No way. Nope.” climbs aboard the bus, and the story follows both the interior experience of the child and the journey of the Struggle Bus. The evocative illustrations reflect the rhyming text and evolution of the story, through the struggles (“all of us have been there too”) of the child to persevere and the bus traveling through storms, breaking down, getting support, and moving on.
The “Keep rolling on” and “When your bus breaks down” sections at the end relate to the child’s experience, including strategies for dealing with difficult feelings and situations. The explanation of perseverance is helpful as is the idea that every time you try, you are building stronger “roads” in your brain.
Highly recommended, especially for parents and teachers of sensitive children who are easily discouraged, and those with special needs.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
The Math Kids
An Incorrect Solution
David Cole
The Math Kids love math and solving math problems, but they are split up in 5th grade. Jordan & Justin’s teacher Mr. Miller hates math and is angered when the boys use their math understanding to help their classmates. But their explanations help the others understand, and open the door to a relationship with Robbie, a bully who himself is bullied by his father. Justin hatches a plan to help Mr. Miller see math as interactive and useful, creating a spreadsheet for grades that is more efficient and cleverly stepping up to explain percentages while crediting his teacher with the “shortcut”. The math explanations will also be helpful for students learning multiplication of 2 and 3 digit numbers and percentages. Math is incorporated smoothly into the story, with examples from both school and problems the kids bring to math club. Readers can stop to try for solutions on their own and there is an appendix with explanations. A teaching guide is available on the publisher's website, with suggestions for math and language arts activities related to the book and further resources.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
An Incorrect Solution
David Cole
The Math Kids love math and solving math problems, but they are split up in 5th grade. Jordan & Justin’s teacher Mr. Miller hates math and is angered when the boys use their math understanding to help their classmates. But their explanations help the others understand, and open the door to a relationship with Robbie, a bully who himself is bullied by his father. Justin hatches a plan to help Mr. Miller see math as interactive and useful, creating a spreadsheet for grades that is more efficient and cleverly stepping up to explain percentages while crediting his teacher with the “shortcut”. The math explanations will also be helpful for students learning multiplication of 2 and 3 digit numbers and percentages. Math is incorporated smoothly into the story, with examples from both school and problems the kids bring to math club. Readers can stop to try for solutions on their own and there is an appendix with explanations. A teaching guide is available on the publisher's website, with suggestions for math and language arts activities related to the book and further resources.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
This absolutely beautiful book, inspired by a civil rights pilgrimage, follows Liberty and her friend Abdullah on an interfaith bus trip through landmarks of the civil rights movement
in the South. Scenes on the bus show the children’s friendship, play, and growing relationships with their diverse fellow passengers.
Tadgell's richly colored illustrations of each stop show us the solemnity of the group and the children taking comfort from their parents and fellow passengers. These are well balanced with paintings of Liberty and Abdullah’s playfulness and energy. The soft watercolors contrast with black and white inserts of the historical figures of each site.
The endnotes, More about places and people from Liberty’s travels, feature thumbnails of the illustrations and more detailed information about each stop, and website information for the Civil Rights Trail.
The author’s note provides background on the Southern Methodist University’s Civil Rights Pilgrimage he founded and the trip he led recently, which included his daughter Liberty and her friend Abdullah, the youngest of the group.
This is a stunning book with a unique approach to introducing the civil rights events that began our ongoing story of the struggle. While recommended for ages 3-7, I believe its appeal and usefulness extend far beyond that range. It is a powerful book for home libraries and gifts and ideal for an introduction to civil rights history; highly recommended for classroom and school show more libraries.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review show less
in the South. Scenes on the bus show the children’s friendship, play, and growing relationships with their diverse fellow passengers.
Tadgell's richly colored illustrations of each stop show us the solemnity of the group and the children taking comfort from their parents and fellow passengers. These are well balanced with paintings of Liberty and Abdullah’s playfulness and energy. The soft watercolors contrast with black and white inserts of the historical figures of each site.
The endnotes, More about places and people from Liberty’s travels, feature thumbnails of the illustrations and more detailed information about each stop, and website information for the Civil Rights Trail.
The author’s note provides background on the Southern Methodist University’s Civil Rights Pilgrimage he founded and the trip he led recently, which included his daughter Liberty and her friend Abdullah, the youngest of the group.
This is a stunning book with a unique approach to introducing the civil rights events that began our ongoing story of the struggle. While recommended for ages 3-7, I believe its appeal and usefulness extend far beyond that range. It is a powerful book for home libraries and gifts and ideal for an introduction to civil rights history; highly recommended for classroom and school show more libraries.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review show less
Reminiscing over a letter, Corina recalls the hopeful, chaotic, intense time she spent in Paris with friends Martita and Paola. This novel in epistolary form, containing both English and Spanish versions, is brief and almost dreamlike. The letters are tender and sweet, almost poetic in their poignancy and simplicity. The book feels reflective of the sense of youth, adventure, and longing of early adulthood, and the wistfulness it evokes is appealing to me. However, I felt the characters lacked depth, and there was a sense of despondency throughout much of the story.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
Harlem Shuffle
Colson Whitehead
This book is a radical departure from Coulson’s other work; an engrossing story set in Kennedy-era Harlem. Vivid descriptions of people, places, and relationships result in a multilayered story
woven together through 3 different time periods.
Ray Carney, a Black entrepreneur with his own furniture store, is making a decent life for himself and his family. He has tried to distance himself from his criminal father, but he is still “slightly bent”, thanks in no small part to his unruly cousin Freddie, a troublemaker since they were kids. “I didn’t mean to get you in trouble” is Freddie’s frequent refrain. He brings a few “used” things for Ray to sell, but serving as a fence becomes a slippery slope when Freddie gets drawn into a questionable plan to rob Harlem’s Hotel Theresa (the “Waldorf of Harlem”) and offers Ray as receiver of the stolen goods.
Both Ray and Freddie find themselves in dangerous situations, attempting to resolve them at a tumultuous time of civil rights protests and riots threatening Ray’s store.
Equal parts family drama, historical fiction, and commentary on morality, crime, race, and power, this ingenious work evokes delight, dread, humor, and an attachment to its characters, engrossing the reader.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
Colson Whitehead
This book is a radical departure from Coulson’s other work; an engrossing story set in Kennedy-era Harlem. Vivid descriptions of people, places, and relationships result in a multilayered story
woven together through 3 different time periods.
Ray Carney, a Black entrepreneur with his own furniture store, is making a decent life for himself and his family. He has tried to distance himself from his criminal father, but he is still “slightly bent”, thanks in no small part to his unruly cousin Freddie, a troublemaker since they were kids. “I didn’t mean to get you in trouble” is Freddie’s frequent refrain. He brings a few “used” things for Ray to sell, but serving as a fence becomes a slippery slope when Freddie gets drawn into a questionable plan to rob Harlem’s Hotel Theresa (the “Waldorf of Harlem”) and offers Ray as receiver of the stolen goods.
Both Ray and Freddie find themselves in dangerous situations, attempting to resolve them at a tumultuous time of civil rights protests and riots threatening Ray’s store.
Equal parts family drama, historical fiction, and commentary on morality, crime, race, and power, this ingenious work evokes delight, dread, humor, and an attachment to its characters, engrossing the reader.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
Three menacing armed men on horseback arrive in the middle of the night at the home of 12 year old Silas Bird and kidnap his father, a creative, brilliant Scottish bootmaker and self-taught photographer.
When the kidnappers' mysterious Arabian pony appears a few hours later, Silas is sure it will lead him to his father and sets out to rescue him, accompanied by the protective ghost Mittenwool, seen only by Silas. Although Silas is frightened, he is determined, and sets out into the frightening Woods, “like a fortress made of giant logs looming behind a hedge of tall spiky shrubs”. Silas’ one previous experience in the woods, when he went with his father to hunt, had left him terrified, passed out cold, eyes rolled up. Silas can see ghosts, and the Woods are full of them. He hears a hum, a buzz, “A rumbling. Whispers and moans, everywhere around me.” Pony bolts into the woods, and they find themselves in the company of a gruff U.S. marshal, Enoch Farmer, who is tracking outlaws holed up in a cave. Marshall Farmer reluctantly agrees to Silas’ company, and after a night camping out they enter the Bog, a place full of the ghosts of murdered men, women, and children. ”Shapes in the shadows. Walking. Talking to themselves. Some whimpered… They moved around us, like water around a rock.” Slias’ gasp again causes Pony to bolt, infuriating the marshal. The paranormal blends smoothly with the mystery, weaving the pieces together to propel the engrossing story. show more Eventually, they track down the criminal gang, but the suspenseful end will keep readers engaged until the unexpected twist at the end. The story concludes with Simon returning to the place his mother grew up, tying together many pieces of history, and a final newspaper article about Simon.
Don’t miss the author's extensive and fascinating note, with information about her research, the daguerreotypes beginning each chapter, and the processes of early photography, plus its history and that of events in the book.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review show less
When the kidnappers' mysterious Arabian pony appears a few hours later, Silas is sure it will lead him to his father and sets out to rescue him, accompanied by the protective ghost Mittenwool, seen only by Silas. Although Silas is frightened, he is determined, and sets out into the frightening Woods, “like a fortress made of giant logs looming behind a hedge of tall spiky shrubs”. Silas’ one previous experience in the woods, when he went with his father to hunt, had left him terrified, passed out cold, eyes rolled up. Silas can see ghosts, and the Woods are full of them. He hears a hum, a buzz, “A rumbling. Whispers and moans, everywhere around me.” Pony bolts into the woods, and they find themselves in the company of a gruff U.S. marshal, Enoch Farmer, who is tracking outlaws holed up in a cave. Marshall Farmer reluctantly agrees to Silas’ company, and after a night camping out they enter the Bog, a place full of the ghosts of murdered men, women, and children. ”Shapes in the shadows. Walking. Talking to themselves. Some whimpered… They moved around us, like water around a rock.” Slias’ gasp again causes Pony to bolt, infuriating the marshal. The paranormal blends smoothly with the mystery, weaving the pieces together to propel the engrossing story. show more Eventually, they track down the criminal gang, but the suspenseful end will keep readers engaged until the unexpected twist at the end. The story concludes with Simon returning to the place his mother grew up, tying together many pieces of history, and a final newspaper article about Simon.
Don’t miss the author's extensive and fascinating note, with information about her research, the daguerreotypes beginning each chapter, and the processes of early photography, plus its history and that of events in the book.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review show less
I adore this book - this is the first time I have put a book down and immediately gone to Goodreads to write a review. It is THAT good. Librarian and bookseller friends, if you don't know this book, get it NOW!
The narrator is Quinn, explaining what a visitor would need to know about the earth - the physical earth, the people, families and homes in all their variety, the birds and animals, the weather, and much more. The pictures are absolutely gorgeous - Caldecott medal-worthy. The story inspires us to take care of each other and the earth, and while not glossing over painful things - wars, refugees, illness - it is hopeful and helpful; compassionate and caring. As a librarian I am partial to the library scene showing multiple acts of kindness, but the entire book has pages you want to linger on and explore in detail. This is a perfect gift book for any family (it just made the top of my to-give list!) and will be savored by children and adults alike.
The narrator is Quinn, explaining what a visitor would need to know about the earth - the physical earth, the people, families and homes in all their variety, the birds and animals, the weather, and much more. The pictures are absolutely gorgeous - Caldecott medal-worthy. The story inspires us to take care of each other and the earth, and while not glossing over painful things - wars, refugees, illness - it is hopeful and helpful; compassionate and caring. As a librarian I am partial to the library scene showing multiple acts of kindness, but the entire book has pages you want to linger on and explore in detail. This is a perfect gift book for any family (it just made the top of my to-give list!) and will be savored by children and adults alike.
Pax: Journey Home, told in alternating chapters, shares Peter’s continuing adjustment following the war. He is living with Vola, painstakingly building a cabin using the skills learned from her. His attempts to avoid heartbreak by not letting anyone close lead to an abrupt departure for his former home, carrying his father's ashes and intending to settle there alone.
Pax now has a family and has settled into an abandoned farm, but when people encroach he sets off to check on his old home. His spunky vixen kit follows him when he leaves, but is poisoned by contaminated water, leading Pax to search out Peter for help.
A beautifully told, poignant story that certainly lives up to Pax.
Pax now has a family and has settled into an abandoned farm, but when people encroach he sets off to check on his old home. His spunky vixen kit follows him when he leaves, but is poisoned by contaminated water, leading Pax to search out Peter for help.
A beautifully told, poignant story that certainly lives up to Pax.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
This beautifully illustrated book is a comprehensive look at the oceans, covering tides, shorelines, and successively deeper biomes. The enormous variety of life in the oceans, and the interdependence of some sea creatures and plants, make this an excellent choice for learning about our oceans. The format can also be enjoyed in several sittings as a picture book for younger readers. Each illustration is gorgeously detailed and helps to illuminate the text. The “Plastic Ocean” and “Melting Sea Ice” spreads deal sensitively with the effects of pollution and global warming, and a map of the oceans with a note about protecting them is followed by an excellent index. An exceptional resource and a wonderful book to browse - highly recommended.
This beautifully illustrated book is a comprehensive look at the oceans, covering tides, shorelines, and successively deeper biomes. The enormous variety of life in the oceans, and the interdependence of some sea creatures and plants, make this an excellent choice for learning about our oceans. The format can also be enjoyed in several sittings as a picture book for younger readers. Each illustration is gorgeously detailed and helps to illuminate the text. The “Plastic Ocean” and “Melting Sea Ice” spreads deal sensitively with the effects of pollution and global warming, and a map of the oceans with a note about protecting them is followed by an excellent index. An exceptional resource and a wonderful book to browse - highly recommended.
What is Daddy Going to Do?
by Carly Madden
This charming book features diverse dads wearing or holding different articles of clothing or objects. The repeating text states what Daddy has and asks “What is Daddy Going to Do?”, encouraging children to make predictions. Bold full-color illustrations of father and child answer the question in charming, playful, and sometimes delightfully surprising ways - daddy uses his saucepan to "play in a band and make some noise!" The humorous and loving pictures will enchant small children.
I received a digital ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
by Carly Madden
This charming book features diverse dads wearing or holding different articles of clothing or objects. The repeating text states what Daddy has and asks “What is Daddy Going to Do?”, encouraging children to make predictions. Bold full-color illustrations of father and child answer the question in charming, playful, and sometimes delightfully surprising ways - daddy uses his saucepan to "play in a band and make some noise!" The humorous and loving pictures will enchant small children.
I received a digital ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
Fanciful illustrations in muted oils accompany this touching story of an old man who has watched the city grow up around him and is nostalgic for a simpler time with warm family and community celebrations; with stories told and songs sung around the stove.
He recalls creating golden paper stars that children hung in their windows to welcome visitors, and begins to cut out stars. In order to escape the bright lights and enable his stars to reflect the moonlight, he travels out to the countryside. But a storm knocks out the power, the city goes dark, and children see the old man and his basket of softly glowing stars silhouetted against the moon. Grateful to see the light, parents and children travel to the star tree. As a child begins singing, the old man gives stars to all of the children as everyone sings. When the families return home their stars fill the city windows with softly glowing, magical light.
This is a sweet, quiet addition to Christmas picture books, perfect for snuggles by the fire.
He recalls creating golden paper stars that children hung in their windows to welcome visitors, and begins to cut out stars. In order to escape the bright lights and enable his stars to reflect the moonlight, he travels out to the countryside. But a storm knocks out the power, the city goes dark, and children see the old man and his basket of softly glowing stars silhouetted against the moon. Grateful to see the light, parents and children travel to the star tree. As a child begins singing, the old man gives stars to all of the children as everyone sings. When the families return home their stars fill the city windows with softly glowing, magical light.
This is a sweet, quiet addition to Christmas picture books, perfect for snuggles by the fire.
Sybil Ludington was a real hero of the American Revolution. She chafed at the restrictions keeping her from the freedoms and possibilities boys enjoyed, but when her father is charged by General Washington with establishing a spy ring, she and her sister learn to code and decipher secret messages.
At the age of sixteen, she embarks on a nighttime ride to muster her father’s troops, traveling 3 times the distance as Paul Revere and completing her ride alone. Riding through the night, she arrives home at dawn, exhausted, to find her ride was successful and her father’s regiment is surrounding her home. The author weaves magical fireflies into this historical fiction account; fireflies who guide and sustain Sybil at different points in the story.
This is an engaging story for middle grade readers and would make an excellent addition to a Revolutionary War curriculum.
At the age of sixteen, she embarks on a nighttime ride to muster her father’s troops, traveling 3 times the distance as Paul Revere and completing her ride alone. Riding through the night, she arrives home at dawn, exhausted, to find her ride was successful and her father’s regiment is surrounding her home. The author weaves magical fireflies into this historical fiction account; fireflies who guide and sustain Sybil at different points in the story.
This is an engaging story for middle grade readers and would make an excellent addition to a Revolutionary War curriculum.
This is a delightfully entertaining graphic picture book that combines facts about numerous insects with a very entertaining storyline narrated by Burt. My kindergarteners adore it - and it has the advantage of using humor that adults will enjoy as well. Parents have enjoyed it, increasing the children’s interest in insects. “Awesome insect super facts” are included at the end. A wonderful addition to any library!
When I Feel: Easy Yoga for Big Feelings
by Kathy Beliveau
Rhyming text coupling specific feelings with yoga poses delightfully introduces children to yoga and mindfulness. I find this book to be most beneficial when read as a story and then allowing children to choose a feeling and a pose (or several!). The poses are well illustrated at the end of the book, along with explanations appropriate for children to deepen their practice and understanding.
The body of the book features photographs of diverse children doing each pose against a bright illustrated backdrop. It felt a bit too busy; there are too many visual elements for some children with sensory issues, for whom I have found the book to be especially helpful. The rhyming text flows well and the rhythm makes it simpler to memorize, becoming a tool to deal with feelings even without the physical presence of the book.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
by Kathy Beliveau
Rhyming text coupling specific feelings with yoga poses delightfully introduces children to yoga and mindfulness. I find this book to be most beneficial when read as a story and then allowing children to choose a feeling and a pose (or several!). The poses are well illustrated at the end of the book, along with explanations appropriate for children to deepen their practice and understanding.
The body of the book features photographs of diverse children doing each pose against a bright illustrated backdrop. It felt a bit too busy; there are too many visual elements for some children with sensory issues, for whom I have found the book to be especially helpful. The rhyming text flows well and the rhythm makes it simpler to memorize, becoming a tool to deal with feelings even without the physical presence of the book.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
The Librarian of Saint-Malo
Mario Escobar
Librarian Jocelyn's letters from her small library in Saint-Malo, France recount the story of German occupation
and her individual, marital, and professional ordeals during WWII. Writing to a famous writer whom she admires, her heartbreaking personal account communicates the horrors of the war and the destruction of St. Malo, reflecting on the importance of literature to culture and the times throughout history when libraries, such as the great library of Alexandria, have been destroyed. The deeply tragic story is a unique addition to WWII novels.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Mario Escobar
Librarian Jocelyn's letters from her small library in Saint-Malo, France recount the story of German occupation
and her individual, marital, and professional ordeals during WWII. Writing to a famous writer whom she admires, her heartbreaking personal account communicates the horrors of the war and the destruction of St. Malo, reflecting on the importance of literature to culture and the times throughout history when libraries, such as the great library of Alexandria, have been destroyed. The deeply tragic story is a unique addition to WWII novels.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Hurricane Lizards and Plastic Squid: The Fraught and Fascinating Biology of Climate Change by Thor Hanson
Conservation biologist Thor Hanson’s eminently readable exposition on climate change is informative and satisfying, ranging around the world and through time. This well-researched book elucidates biological and paleontological research in addition to recent studies of climate change.
Highly enjoyable, and very highly recommended.
Highly enjoyable, and very highly recommended.
Unicorn Night
Diana Murray
Glitter and shine, twinkle and rhyme, this exuberantly illustrated follow-up to Unicorn Day will delight unicorn lovers and others. Its sweet depictions of the end of a draining but delightful day are full of joyous preparations for snuggling into bedtime stories by fairy light while sipping moonbeam milk on cloud pillows. But eyes open wide as the unicorns realize they forgot to sing their song - “Moonlight, starlight, fireflies, fairies humming lullabies…” Woodland creatures’ dreams, pictured in thought bubbles, accompany the song before the unicorns once again snuggle to sleep. This is a charming book children will enjoy again and again.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
Diana Murray
Glitter and shine, twinkle and rhyme, this exuberantly illustrated follow-up to Unicorn Day will delight unicorn lovers and others. Its sweet depictions of the end of a draining but delightful day are full of joyous preparations for snuggling into bedtime stories by fairy light while sipping moonbeam milk on cloud pillows. But eyes open wide as the unicorns realize they forgot to sing their song - “Moonlight, starlight, fireflies, fairies humming lullabies…” Woodland creatures’ dreams, pictured in thought bubbles, accompany the song before the unicorns once again snuggle to sleep. This is a charming book children will enjoy again and again.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
Vibrant illustrations accompany the text of Maya’s letter to a woman president. These are messages that girls need to hear, and I applaud the book for so compellingly portraying a woman president. Some parts of the text succeed more than others; it sometimes feels contrived or didactic rather than a friendly letter. Overall, an excellent and welcome book.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
A beautifully illustrated, whimsical tale of the ever-impressive Julia, whose “House for Lost Creatures'', after moving on in the middle book of this trilogy, tires of roaming the high hills. Julia sees The Perfect Spot in the distance, but the house rolls down the craggy mountain - without Julia! Down she falls, into a Deep, Dark Place. She follows a tunnel and begins her trek, collecting creatures along the way - some familiar, and some charming additions. “We’ll make room!" is Julia’s refrain, but as her parade of fantastical friends grows ever longer, she begins to worry. The Perfect Spot turns out to be… not perfect. But when she apologizes for letting the curious creatures down, they assure her they have all they need. Together, they create not just a new home, but Julia’s Town - with room for everyone. There is much to love in this story, and the detailed illustrations will inspire children to notice new details with the turn of each page.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for this honest review
Perfect for home and school, Give Thanks is full of wonderful invitations encouraging gratitude. There are 50 ideas, including crafts, games, family activities, and mindfulness prompts. The illustrations are cheerful, colorful, simple, and engaging. Most of the suggestions are easy to implement, with little to no preparation, making them perfect for daily or weekly school and home use.
This would make a lovely teacher or family gift. My grandchildren loved the book; we read it in several sittings and chose things to do. We particularly liked the “I Spy Gratitude” game, Build a Happiness Wall, and Thank You Hopscotch. I believe this book will become a family favorite when I give it to my grandchildren in hardcover.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for the ARC of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. The opinions expressed here are my own, with input from 5-year-old twins.
This would make a lovely teacher or family gift. My grandchildren loved the book; we read it in several sittings and chose things to do. We particularly liked the “I Spy Gratitude” game, Build a Happiness Wall, and Thank You Hopscotch. I believe this book will become a family favorite when I give it to my grandchildren in hardcover.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Storey Publishing for the ARC of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. The opinions expressed here are my own, with input from 5-year-old twins.
I am really enjoying these audiobooks - great pandemic fare to listen to while doing chores, sewing, etc.