Everything in Its Place: A Story of Books and Belonging by Pauline David-Sax, Charnelle Pinkney Barlow
Published by Doubleday Books for Young Readers on July 19, 2022
ISBN: 0593378822
Pages: 40
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads

Nicky finds it much easier to stay in the library with her beloved librarian, Ms. Gillam, than to go outside at recess and associate with her classmates. Ms. Gillam is supportive and accommodating but encourages Nicky to try playing outside during an upcoming week-long conference she’ll be attending. Nicky is crushed and finds solace in her mother’s restaurant where she catches up with her favorite regulars, particularly Maggie, a motorcycle-riding reader who passes books along to her young friend. When Maggie shows up one day with a huge group of motorcyclists, Nicky is awed by the diversity in the group and the way they all get along so well. She is encouraged to try her luck at the playground and even meets a new friend. Some kids stress about recess and this book would be helpful in starting a discussion about why that might be. The story is straightforward and the illustrations are nice, if a little chaotic. The book is kind and empathetic and would be a good read aloud for younger grades.

Reviewed by Sarah Maciejewski, Patten Free Library