Month: March 2022

One Jar of Magic

One Jar of MagicOne Jar of Magic by Corey Ann Haydu
Published by Katherine Tegen Books on February 9, 2021
ISBN: 0062689851
Pages: 352
Genres: Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
five-stars

Coming of age fantasy story of Little Luck who is expected to maintain the family tradition of finding and capturing the most and the best bits of magic in jars. Her father has a collection that takes over the house and he is blind to her struggle. She questions why she is the one who must carry this on, and discovers an uncle and cousins who don’t believe in the magic.

An engaging read for those middle readers who struggle with rules no one has told them and who don’t measure up to family and community expectations – the disappointments, the discouragement, pretending, and the final redemption and recognition of not fitting the mold.

Highly recommended.

Reviewed by Lynn Mayer, Librarian, Old Town Elementary School, Old Town

five-stars

The Infamous Ratsos: Ratty Tattletale

The Infamous Ratsos: Ratty TattletaleRatty Tattletale by Kara LaReau, Matt Myers
Published by Candlewick Press on March 2, 2021
ISBN: 1536207462
Pages: 96
Genres: Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars

 

When do you try to handle it yourself and when do you tell an adult? At school, Ralphie tries to stand up for his friend, Tiny, but gets in trouble himself. Big brother Louie helps, and Dad finally helps Ralphie distinguish between doing what’s right rather than what’s cool. Very satisfying ending as bullies Sid and Kurt get their ‘just reward’ in the end without direct involvement from the Ratsos.

A great beginning chapter book series for transitional readers, or more experienced readers who want a good lesson woven into good entertainment.

Reviewed by Lynn Mayer, Retired Librarian, Old Town Elementary School, Old Town

four-stars

DEE and Apostrofee

DEE and ApostrofeeDee and Apostrofee by Judith Henderson, Ohara Hale
Published by Kids Can Press on October 5, 2021
ISBN: 1525303260
Pages: 32
Genres: Humor
Format: Picture Book Nonfiction
Goodreads
three-stars
Primary school teachers and their students will laugh throughout this silly concept book.   Dee is guilty of eating the letter E and replacing it with what she/he calls Apostrofee.  The graphic comic layout enhances the behavior of anthropomorphic letters who argue among themselves.    The stick figure art is sure to appeal to the primary grade audience.  Colors used for letters and text make the book bright and cheerful.

While the book reinforces rules of punctuation it will not circulate frequently in the public library.   It is a more appropriate purchase for grade K – 3 school media centers and for classroom collections.  Art teachers would appreciate a gifted copy of DEE and Apostrofee.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME.

three-stars

Annie Lumsden: The Girl From the Sea

Annie Lumsden: The Girl From the SeaAnnie Lumsden, the Girl from the Sea by Beatrice Alemagna, David Almond
Published by Candlewick Press on May 18, 2021
ISBN: 1536216747
Pages: 64
Genres: Fantasy, Mystery
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads
five-stars
Perhaps a fantasy a folklore or even a mystery this lyrical story of love is enchanting.  Almond has given readers yet another wonderful story, one that evolves around the ocean and mysteries of life.  A young girl who loves to float in the ocean and has hair like seaweed lives in an oceanside cottage with her artistic mother.   The storyline grows from their quiet lifestyle to mysterious questions that remain unanswered.  The love between mother and child is a strong bond.

Although the story is charming it is the natural tones of the artwork that make this book something very special.  Alemagna has captured the sunlight and shadows on land as well as the dark shades of the ocean environment.  While readers have to let go of their expectations the illustrations add much to the fantasy storyline.   Faces on the human characters are somewhat distorted yet the painted faces in the garden are more defined.

Librarians will want this title in their collections, in public and primary school libraries.   Gift this to grade 2-4 girls who love tales of mermaids and folktales.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME

five-stars

Right Now! Real Kids Speaking Up For Change

Right Now! Real Kids Speaking Up For ChangeRight Now!: Real Kids Speaking Up for Change by Brittany Jackson, Miranda Paul
Published by Clarion Books on September 7, 2021
ISBN: 0358137322
Pages: 40
Genres: Biography/Autobiography
Format: Picture Book Nonfiction
Goodreads
four-stars

A joyful, inspiring picture book that introduces readers to eleven young people from around the world who didn’t wait until they were grown to speak up about things that matter to them and change the world for the better, from an award-winning author and New York Times best-selling illustrator.
From climate activist Greta Thunberg to anti-bullying advocate Jaylen Arnold to peace activist Bana Alabed and more, these short profiles of young people and their causes will inspire readers to think about what matters most to them. An author's note, Actions to Make a Difference, and additional resources are also included, providing a roadmap for any kid who wants to make change and help others too.

Regardless of a person’s age they can and do make an impact on those around them and contribute to major change.  This collection of ten short biographies introduces readers to school age children from around the world who are not afraid to speak up.  The author has selected famous young activist like Greta Thunberg and less known change makers like five-year-old Sophie Cruz.  Each short profile is a snapshot of the compassion, concern and dedication these children have to their causes.  Paul offers a simple text for the younger reader and an informational box for more accomplished readers.   The attractive illustrations were made digitally and offer a view of the change maker in his/her/ their environment.  It is a little disconcerting however that almost all the people are depicted with smiling faces.

There is not enough content for a school assignment within these pages but Right Now! Is an great catapult for those who desire more information about children who speak up.   Add this to public library collections and shelve in primary school media centers.   This book is a wonderful gift as it expresses compassion for people and concern for the world; we need more of both.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME

four-stars

Bake, Make & Learn to Cook: Fun & Healthy Recipes for Young Cooks

by Atherton, David
Published by Candlewick Press Genres: Non-Fiction
Format: Picture Book Nonfiction
five-stars
From the front to the back cover this is an engaging cookbook which realizes it goals to encourage children to cook and to eat new foods. The author is a past winner of the Great British Baking Show who brings his enthusiasm, knowledge and creative ingredients to a cookbook for primary grade children.  The equipment list and cooking terms are placed at the beginning of the book as they should be.   Child chiefs are encouraged to try new ways to prepare old favorites and to experience healthy foods and snacks.

Beyond the encouragement, ingredient list and preparation steps provided by the author; the illustrator adds dimension and frolic to the text.  Her drawings of family members (in all sizes, shades and abilities) are whimsical and appealing.  Even the font is fun.  While the directions are necessary it is the little touches that add to the overall appearance. Color is used sparingly where it adds texture to the pages. Extensive use of white space makes the pages very readable.

This appealing and charming cookbook belongs in public libraries and makes an excellent gift to all families with young children.  Grandmothers are going to learn new healthy recipes while they enjoy cooking with their favorite little ones.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME

five-stars

Hello, Tiger! Full of Flaps and Facts!

Hello, Tiger! Full of Flaps and Facts!Hello, Tiger! by Sam Boughton
Series: Animal facts and flaps
Published by Templar Books, Candlewick Press on August 4, 2021
ISBN: 1536217158
Pages: 16
Genres: Animals
Format: Board Book, Nonfiction
Goodreads
four-stars

Little ones will love greeting a group of friendly jungle animals in this delightful lift-the-flap book. Sam Boughton’s vibrant illustrations bring facts to life with deft humor and memorable comparisons. With big flaps to lift and a fantastic double gatefold on the last spread, this book is sure to please young animal lovers!
Say hello to all your favorite jungle animals in this bright and friendly nonfiction novelty title.

Authentically illustrated animals and caricatures of diverse children interact on the pages of this creative nonfiction board book.  Ten jungle animals are introduced to young toddlers in a colorful and playful way.  Older toddlers and preschool children will enjoy the information provided both under the flaps and within the content of the text.  Simple scientific facts related to eating habits and animal behaviors are covered and explained for the more questioning child.

Illustrations are colorful and the animal expressions are delightful.  The font appears to be the work of a child making the book all the more delightful

As the most recent title of the Lift the Flap series this title will be enjoyed for years.   The series would be well accepted in a public library and equally appreciated in a nursery school.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME.

four-stars

Wiggle, Walk, Wash! Baby’s First Animals

Wiggle, Walk, Wash! Baby’s First AnimalsWiggle, Walk, Wash! Baby's First Animals by Elliot Kruszynski
Published by Candlewick Press on September 14, 2021
ISBN: 1536217794
Pages: 18
Genres: Animals
Format: Board Book
Goodreads
four-stars
Seven adorable parent child animal pairs are displayed on colorful pages.  The simple text, size of the font, animal sounds and bright backgrounds contribute to the overall desirability of this board book.  Toddlers will want to hug each baby animal as they experience the joy of a variety of active farm, domestic and wild animals.  Most youngsters will be familiar with animal sounds but some may wonder what a wriggle sounds like.  The mirror is sure to entertain little ones for at least a minute while their face is surrounded by giggling characters.

Add this to public libraries who collect board books and gift to toddlers you love.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME

four-stars

Lion Lullaby

Lion LullabyLion Lullaby by Kate Banks, Lauren Tobia
Published by Candlewick Press on January 25, 2022
ISBN: 1536209821
Pages: 32
Genres: Animals
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars
Young lion cubs are gently encouraged to make their way home to their mother in this counting book for preschool listeners.  Dusk is coming to the savanna and each full spread page provides the various animals and situations lion cubs may encounter on their way back to their pride.  Wiggly cobras, braying zebras, bees and a herd of wildebeests provides distractions and activities for the cubs as the refrain gentle states, “Oh little lions, run along home.”  Tobia’s illustrations provide a variety of vegetation, animals and cute spunky, lion cubs.  This picture book lends itself to animal enthusiasts, preschool story times about lions or parents who want to impress going to bed in a subtle way.

Reviewed by Sheila Dube, Youth Services Librarian, Springvale Public Library

four-stars

My Words Flew Away Like Birds

My Words Flew Away Like BirdsMy Words Flew Away Like Birds by Debora Pearson, Shrija Jain
Published by Kids Can Press on October 5, 2021
ISBN: 152530318X
Pages: 40
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads
five-stars
This is an excellent book about a family moving to a new country. In preparation, they learn some new words and phrases but those evade the little girl telling the story when she arrives and is overwhelmed by new experiences. The book is engaging and has sweet illustrations but what really won me over was an experience she has in which someone they know tries to introduce them to a man he knows who comes from the same country that they do. What follows is the awkward realization that they don’t actually speak the same language. It’s a gentle reminder that for those who have immigrated the experience is complicated and can be difficult and sometimes people with the best intentions can fall short.  This would be terrific for a classroom getting a new student, anyone preparing for a move, or for anyone learning about immigration.

Reviewed by Sarah Maciejewski, Patten Free Library, Bath

five-stars