Lulu and the Others

August 7, 2026August 7, 2026

Lulu and the Others: A True Story―A Charming Picture Book about a Bonobo Monkey for Kids (Ages 4-8) by A.G. Ford, Eliot Schrefer
ISBN: 0063205378
Genres: Animals, Emotions & Feelings, Realistic Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction, Picture Book Nonfiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
three-stars

We are introduced to Lulu, a bonobo who lives very similarly to her human family members. Lulu can look at comic books, play with her “sister,” get food out of the refrigerator, and use the bathroom just like her family. But after some time, Lulu seems sad and uninterested in life. The parents realize it’s time for Lulu to meet the apes on the island where she came from.

Based on a true story of bonobo rehabilitation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the apes are raised in safe places until they’re ready to go to the island Lola ya Bonobo (Paradise for Bonobos). When the apes are reintroduced back into the wild, there is always a unique transitioning period to where the bonobos learn who they actually are. Lulu’s story is one of those stories and shows readers how bonobo rehabilitation can be done.

A sweet and educational story about our close relatives, the bonobos.

Recommended for ages 2-6.

Reviewed by Gia Charles, Patten Free Library, Bath

Emilia Wishing

August 6, 2026August 6, 2026

Emilia Wishing by Belen Medina, Magdalena Mora
Published by Random House Studio on June 9, 2026
ISBN: 0593905229
Genres: Cultural / Latin America, Family, Family Life
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads
three-stars

Emilia wishes that a lot of things were different. Different food at home, a nicer neighborhood to live in, a fancier place to shop. Her wanting for more intrudes on her everyday life, with wishful images taking over illustrations in the first half of the book until they form a full two-page spread: Emilia stands in bright colors, clutching shopping bags and surrounded by the items she wishes “could all be hers.” But these wishes are not to be – the implied gap between real life and Emilia’s wishes is a lack of money. The clothes she wants are to be purchased on layaway, and will stay at the store today. In the second half of the story, our focus shifts from Emilia to her mama, who works “day and night” to provide for her family. Instead of Emilia’s wishes, we see her mama’s hard work, fatigue, diligence, and finally, pride. The joyous image on the book’s final spread isn’t Emilia’s wish, it’s mama in her beautiful new dress, finally fully paid for, “glittering like the warm sun.” And that is all that Emilia wants.

Belen Medina (author of Daughter of the Light-Footed People) and Magdalena Mora (illustrator of Barrio Rising and Tomatoes in My Lunchbox) have created a gentle, loving tribute to parents who make wishes come true with limited resources. Lyrical language (a “sprawling, manicured lawn,” “sizzling pavement”) and the message underscoring the humanity of parents gear this story to school-age readers. Mora’s illustrations in pencil, charcoal, watercolor, and ink soften the edges of this big lesson, and use color to effortlessly communicate the differences between wishes and reality. Emilia and her family are cued Latine.

Reviewed by Carolyn Gallmeyer, Youth Services Librarian, Lithgow Public Library, Augusta

Dinosaur Day

July 31, 2026

Dinosaur Day (Beginner Books) by Edward Miller
Published by Random House on 6/2/26
ISBN: 0593377281
Genres: dinosaurs
Format: Early Reader
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
three-stars

Dinosaur Day is an early reader book that introduces young readers to different types of dinosaurs and what they do during the day. The text is made up of simple sentences that rhyme. There are a variety of punctuation marks, so children can practice reading with expression. The illustrations are vibrant and colorful, sure to engage dinosaur lovers. There are also labels by the different dinosaur species with pronunciation keys, which the kids will no doubt find interesting, but require adult support. This book will be a popular addition to early reader collections.

Reviewed by Lindsay Varnum, Orono Public Library

I Am Kylian: The True Story of an International Soccer Champion

July 31, 2026

I Am Kylian: The True Story of an International Soccer Champion by Faro, Kylian Mbappé
Published by Rodale Kids on 6/9/26
ISBN: 9798217445844
Genres: Sports
Format: Graphic Novel, Nonfiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
four-stars

In this graphic memoir, readers will learn how Kylian Mbappé became one of the world’s greatest soccer players. This memoir starts with Mbappé as a young child obsessed with soccer, dreaming of becoming a great soccer star. Although gifted, Mbappé struggled in school and his parents had to work hard to help him become successful. Mbappé also had to learn some hard lessons in soccer as he rose through the ranks, but he could always rely on his amazing speed and intelligence. His humor, drive, and strong family relationships run throughout this graphic novel, both in the text and the graphics.

This graphic novel is best suited for upper elementary or middle school readers. Most of the layouts contain a lot of text and illustrations, so readers will need to be able to process large amounts of information. Readers who love soccer, or sports in general, will enjoy this graphic novel, because it really captures Mbappé’s full journey to becoming a soccer superstar. Libraries looking to capitalize on the recent World Cup frenzy or want a quality nonfiction sports option should consider adding this book to the collection.

Reviewed by Lindsay Varnum, Orono Public Library

The Great Gathering Place

July 29, 2026

The Great Gathering Place by Naomi McIlwraith, Onedove
ISBN: 1525310100
Genres: Cultural / First Nations, Cultural / Indigenous, Cultural / Native American
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads
three-stars

Picture book The Great Gathering Place by Naomi McIlwraith invites readers to travel along with an Indigenous family in their big red canoe. Where are they headed? To the Great Gathering Place, where they will thank ancestors and affirm their values. Animals, fire, and water are given thanks for their part in sustaining life. Readers are reminded of the value of gentleness, generosity, kindness, and love.

The book’s greatest strength is its reminder that the resources we enjoy, and the people we share them with, are something greater than ourselves. An individual is of immense value, but our bond with each other and our surroundings make us more than the sum of our parts. Incorporating Cree language (with a pronunciation guide) enhances the book.

The text is direct and adequate, if not very poetic. Some of the digitally rendered illustrations are rich and fantastical, but others are a confusing mix of styles. Overall, a decent pick for elementary-age collections looking to include diverse voices.

Reviewed by Beth Almquist, Lewiston Public Library

The Skeleton and the Cat

July 27, 2026

The Skeleton and the Cat by Brandon James Scott
Published by Harper on July 7, 2026
ISBN: 0063455889
Genres: Humor, Magical Realism
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars
A solitary skeleton who loves gardening and tea is surprised one day when a cat knocks on the door and manages to secure an invitation in despite Skeleton’s initial reluctance to entertain a guest. In a series of short Frog and Toad-style vignettes, the Cat wins the Skeleton over with its charm and joie de vivre and the two become fast friends.

Delightful, good-natured, and funny, with bright, happy illustrations, this will be a popular pick. The Skeleton makes it a great choice for a Halloween display while the Cat ensures it will circulate year round.

Reviewed by Sarah Maciejewski, Patten Free Library, Bath

Can I Do It?

July 24, 2026

Little Critter: Can I Do It? (I Can Read Phonics): A Heartwarming Phonics Story about Friendship and Teamwork for Beginning Readers by Mercer Mayer
Published by HarperCollins on 6/2/26
ISBN: 0063473143
Genres: Juvenile Fiction / Readers / Beginner
Format: Early Reader
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
four-stars
Can I Do It? By Mercer Mayer is a Level 1 Phonics early reader featuring Little Critter, Frog, and Dog. The story starts with the main character falling off his bike and being sad that he can’t ride his bike. Dog is sad that he can’t play with his toy like he would like too, but then Dog is able to and is happy! Similarly, Frog has a hard time hopping up the stairs and his sadness turns to happiness when he is successful. At the end, Dog and Frog encourage Little Critter to try again and Little Critter is successful, too!

This is a great yet simple story of friendship and perseverance that new readers will be able to relate to. Additionally, the illustrations are fun and colorful and will be appealing to that age group. Caregivers will also appreciate this book because at the beginning, before the text even starts, there is a list of short vowel words, consonant blends, and high frequency words found in the story, with explanations of what those terms mean. Adults can review these words with children before reading, building on skills they are working on or introducing them to new words. This will help young readers build confidence and fluency while reading this story. This would be an excellent addition to any library serving young children or new readers.

Reviewed by Lindsay Varnum, Orono Public Library

Styx and Stones

July 23, 2026

Styx and Stones by Gary D. Schmidt, Ron Koertge
Published by Clarion Books on 5/5/26
ISBN: 0063380978
Genres: Fantasy, Juvenile Fiction / Social Themes / Friendship
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

Simon has been in the Underworld for thousands of years, despite frequent attempts to escape. When he finally does escape, he finds himself naked in a middle school bathroom in St. Paul, MN. Luckily for Simon, Zeke discovers him and helps him become acclimated. Zeke is bullied often and Simon becomes his first real friend. Zeke and the other kids (and a teacher) at school quickly realize that Simon is different- kinder and wiser than other kids his age.

Meanwhile, Hades is furious that Simon escaped and his wife, Persephone, is trying to figure out how he escaped. Hades sends someone to capture Simon, wreaking havoc on the weather and putting Simon’s friendship with Zeke to the test. There is a battle and Simon does end up leaving St. Paul, saving Zeke and Zeke’s biggest bully in the process. After Simon returns to the Underworld, Cerberus, the dog he was able to tame, ate the evil Hades. Suddenly the landscape was restored, and a new world was ready to be created. In St. Paul, Zeke grieved Simon’s absence, but he grieved with his new friends who also missed Simon. Zeke and Simon were forever changed by their brief friendship.

Readers who enjoy fantasy and mythology will enjoy this middle grade novel. There is a touch of humor and plenty of action to keep readers hooked, especially when demons from the Underworld arrive in Minnesota. Readers will relate to the drama and bullying in this story and will appreciate the growth and friendship between the main characters. This story of grief, friendship, courage, and kindness will stick with readers long after they turn the last page.

Reviewed by Lindsay Varnum, Orono Public Library

Cats in Conductor Hats

July 23, 2026

Cats in Conductor Hats: A Train Adventure (Cats in Hats) by Leeza Hernandez, Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen
ISBN: 0593706870
Genres: Adventure, Animals, Juvenile Fiction / Action & Adventure / General
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads
four-stars
Cats in Conductor Hats

Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen & Leeza Hernandez

This picture book for ages 3-7 is the second installment in the Cats in Hats series.

Colorful cats go on a train journey until they spot something on the tracks. The cats need to work together to herd a young cow out of the way and stay on schedule. Simple rhyming text will help teach colors while the onomatopoeia will keep young listeners engaged. The rats in the illustrations provide whimsy. Reminiscent of the Llama Llama series, it would have lots of re-readability in a preschool classroom.

4 stars

Reviewed by Lindsey Hopkins, Jay-Niles Memorial Library, Jay

Pete the Cat and the Family Tree

July 22, 2026

Pete the Cat and the Family Tree (I Can Read Phonics): Learn to Read with Pete the Cat in a Phonics-Based Story for Beginning Readers (Ages 4-8) by James Dean, Kimberly Dean
Published by Harper ISBN: 0063350491
Format: Early Reader
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
four-stars
Designated by the publisher as a Level 2 early reader focusing on long vowels and consonant digraphs, this decodable Pete the Cat title prioritizes phonetic pattern practice over complex plot.

The straightforward storyline follows Pete as he builds a family tree, learning about his relatives’ hobbies and connecting them to his own through his imagination. While the narrative serves strictly as a vehicle for decoding practice, emerging readers will benefit from the highly controlled vocabulary, short sentence structures, and predictable text patterns.

Dean’s signature bright, cheerful art style remains highly appealing and provides visual scaffolding for decoding unfamiliar words. Because the confidence boost of independent reading successfully offsets the minimal narrative action, this title is an excellent tool for families seeking high-interest, familiar characters to extend at-home practice. A valuable addition to school and public libraries building out structured literacy and decodable text collections.

Deanna Contrino, SLMS/MLIS
K-2 Resource Librarian, Scarborough School District