Category: Book Reviews

Clark the Shark Too Many Treats

Clark the Shark Too Many TreatsClark the Shark: Too Many Treats by Bruce Hale, Guy Francis
Published by HarperCollins on February 5th 2019
ISBN: 0062279173
Pages: 32
Goodreads
four-stars

The only way to be sure that all the brownies are perfect for his class is to eat them – one by one, until they are all gone! Clark realizes too late that he now has no treats to take to school the next day. Forgiving mom helps him make another batch, and he’s able to help his classmates understand that “When you’ve had your snack, just hold back.”

Level 1 for beginning readers in the ‘I Can Read Books’ line provides a valuable lesson in a humorous story.

Great story to teach younger elementary and preschoolers about impulsive behavior and making predictions. Includes a few facts about real sharks at the end.

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

four-stars

Wings of Fire the Graphic Novel: Book Two, The Lost Heir

Wings of Fire the Graphic Novel: Book Two, The Lost HeirThe Lost Heir (Wings of Fire Graphic Novel, #2) by Tui T. Sutherland
Published by Graphix on February 26th 2019
ISBN: 0545942209
Pages: 224
Goodreads
four-stars

The second graphic novel of the wildly popular Wings of Fire series follows the plot of book 2 but in full-color glory. One of the dragonets of destiny is going home to the SeaWing Kingdom to meet her family. Sutherland adapts her own book to hit all of the important plot points (the joyful reunion of Tsunami with her mother Queen Coral and sister Anemone, suspicion by the SeaWings of the other dragonets, machinations happening in the rest of the kingdoms, and the intrigue of an assassin bent on eliminating all of Queen Coral’s heirs) and Mike Holmes creates the art that brings it all together. There is action, danger, and banter. Fans of the series will not be disappointed. Those new to the series will want to read book 1 and perhaps even the novel as the prolific number of dragons can be confusing to those who don’t know any of the characters.

Reviewed by Jill O’Connor, Merrill Memorial Library, Yarmouth

four-stars

Bearnard’s Book

Bearnard’s BookBearnard's Book Published by Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) on February 5th 2019
ISBN: 1627797572
Pages: 32
Goodreads
five-stars

Bearnard, a picture book with text by Deborah Underwood, is the story of a bear who is preparing to audition for his very first book.

One day, Bearnard the bear receives a very special letter from the Queen of Storybook Land.  He,  has been chosen to be in a book!  His mind is racing with  thoughts of children reading a book about him, and he rushes off to tell his best friend, Gertie, the duck. This honor is a dream come true for Bearnard, and he wants to be sure he is up for the challenge. So, he begins studying other bear tales to make sure he is prepared.  Unfortunately, every time that Bearnard attempts to replicate the other bear’s activities, he fails. From floating in a tub, being a messy bear, to having his porridge stolen, Bearnard  just can’t do these things.  There will be no book for him….Fortunately, he has a true friend who has his best interests in mind. Gertie points out that he tried all these things and therefore he is a brave bear, plus he may not have to do these things in his own book!  Gertie calms him down and convinces him to meet the queen and move forward with the book. He does so, and  finds out that the book is about him being a brave bear getting ready to be in his book. And that all he has to do is be himself. The book is ready to go.

The beige pages are colored with shades of green, coral and golden brown conveying a charming and homey feel.  The book abounds with lovely textures in the background from artsy wallpapers to textured shower curtain that create the feeling of security and warmth.  The illustrations are outlined in bold  black  and work work well with and easy to read typeface that looks like handwriting. The text is spot on and flows nicely with the illustrations.

An outstanding cream level picture book with many important themes that include : bravery, the importance of having support from a true friend  and the big message of just being yourself. A recommended purchase for all libraries.

Reviewed by Terri Bauld, Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library, Kennebunkport, ME

 

five-stars

What is Given From the Heart

What is Given From the HeartWhat Is Given from the Heart by Patricia C. McKissack
Published by Schwartz & Wade on January 8, 2019
ISBN: 0375836152
Pages: 32
Goodreads
five-stars

Not only is this a wonderful last book by one of our best storytellers, it is also illustrated by a talented artist. The combination of loving text and beautiful pictures makes this a contender for all sorts of awards. When Mama and James are struggling they learn that another family has lost everything in a fire.   Their minister asked his parish members to each find something to share.   This story is not new nor uncommon but the attitude is one of charitable giving without concern for personal sacrifice.  It is not surprising that McKissack has her character write and illustrate a book, she made this title a real gift to her readers.

The illustrations are wonderful, the blended colors make me think of lovely batik fabric. Even in this poor setting the pictures show shades of courage, love, and spiritual commitment.   Add this book to all public libraries, primary school media centers, church shelves and gift to readers who love and cherish other titles by Patricia McKissack.

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

five-stars

Inside Outside

Inside OutsideInside Outside by Anne-Margot Ramstein, Matthias Arégui
Published by Candlewick Studio on April 9th 2019
ISBN: 1536205974
Pages: 40
Goodreads
five-stars

Published first in France, Inside Outside is an art book for young viewers.  Yes it is a concept book but this title will not be shelved in public libraries with early education concept books.   It will be best appreciated by children between the ages of 4-6 and by art teachers of all ages.   The authors have produced a lovely and creative work that offers concepts to ponder.  The first few pages clearly show the inside and outside of an egg, a tunnel, and a castle. Readers may not be prepared for the illustration of birds on a captivating two page spread.  Equally challenging is the tent and whale illustration which this readers admits is her favorite.

Choice of colors, the depth within the illustrations and drama represented in this wordless book makes it a winner.   Add this to public libraries, primary schools and gift to your favorite art teacher and student.

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

five-stars

Perfect

PerfectPerfect by Max Amato
Published by Scholastic Press on January 29th 2019
ISBN: 0545829313
Pages: 48
Goodreads
four-stars

A lovely entry into the growth-mindset picture book canon. Eraser likes things just so, clean and smudge-free. Along comes Pencil traipsing across Eraser’s clean pages, making marks with wanton abandon. No problem, Eraser will just…erase. But there are so many marks and finally, an entire page scribbled in by pesky Pencil. When Eraser discovers that this dark page presents an opportunity to make intentional marks, a whole new world opens up. In the end, Pencil and Eraser can work together to make something greater than either could accomplish alone. A lovely metaphor for finding flexibility in your thinking and for accepting that everything does not always turn out exactly the way you picture it in your mind. A fun read-aloud with clear, energetic illustrations, this one will be a hit.

Reviewed by Jill O’Connor, Merrill Memorial Library, Yarmouth

four-stars

Born in the Wild; Baby Animals and Their Parents

Born in the Wild; Baby Animals and Their ParentsBorn in the Wild: Baby Animals and Their Parents by Lita Judge
Published by Roaring Brook Press on June 18th 2019
ISBN: 125018990X
Pages: 24
Goodreads
four-stars

This board book is enticing and extremely attractive.  Adult readers and their youngsters will be equally delighted by the adorable illustrations of 16 species of wild animals.  While the text is sparse the appeal is heightened by the phrases of love and caring.  Animals are portrayed in realistic colors and the anatomy has not been altered; these animals looks much as they do in the wild.

Add this edition to public libraries where board books are collected.   Born in the Wild is an excellent choice as a gift for baby showers and first birthdays. Delightful addition to any home toddler collection.

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

four-stars

Comics Will Break Your Heart

Comics Will Break Your HeartComics Will Break Your Heart by Faith Erin Hicks
Published by Roaring Brook Press on February 12th 2019
ISBN: 1626723648
Pages: 340
Goodreads
three-stars

Best known for her graphic novels, this YA novel is Hicks’s first foray into prose and though it is a bit uneven, it is an engaging read. The story is a modern-day Romeo and Juliet retelling  set in rural Canada and steeped in comic-book lore and lingo, which will appeal to readers who geek out at the thought of the newest superhero movie. The warring parties were the two grandfathers of the Kendrick and the Warrick families, co-creators of the Tomorrow Men comics. After a long legal battle, the Warricks now control the franchise, which has brought them fame and fortune and is about to launch a new movie. The Kendricks live in sleepy Sandford and scrape by.  High school junior Mir Kendrick wants out of Sandford and wishes that her grandfather had not lost his legal battle and that her mother had not taken a paltry monetary settlement after the death of her father to walk away from the Tomorrow Men. Handsome bad boy Weldon Warrick has been sent from Los Angeles to Sandford to live with his aunt and uncle while his father pours all of his attention and energy into the upcoming movie. The teens meet in a comic book shop, of course, and Mir saves Weldon from a beating at the hands of some local bullies.  The two feel an attraction and, in awkward teen fashion, wend their way toward one another. The romance is palpable, but only ever manifests in hand-holding and a flirtatious swimming scene thereby making this book suitable for an older middle school audience that enjoys some romance in their realistic fiction. The parents in the book are supportive and sage and unlike the Montagues and Capulets do not forbid the romance, only Weldon’s aunt warns him to stay away from the Kendricks for fear that they will hold him accountable for his grandfather’s actions. This worry is never keenly felt by the reader. In fact, the ending bends all rules of realism to give the reader a sweet, heartwarming ending. Not a must-buy but with some possible name recognition of a favorite graphic novel author, a catchy cover, and a known literary tie-in, this book is sure to circulate.

Reviewed by Jill O’Connor, Merrill Memorial Library, Yarmouth

three-stars

My Forest is Green

My Forest is GreenMy Forest Is Green by Darren Lebeuf, Ashley Barron
Published by Kids Can Press on April 2nd 2019
ISBN: 1771389303
Pages: 32
Goodreads
four-stars

There is a combination of environmental studies and art exploration in this very good first work by a new author.  A young boy finds his environment enchanting, he appreciates nature and is inspired to create art based on his green forest.  Not only is he an observant young scientist but he introduces journaling as a form of nature study. Obviously this author appreciates the out of doors and wants to share his joy with other children and families.

The illustrations are charming, colorful and specific. The collage pages make me think of work done by Cathryn Farwell, a loved local author/illustrator in Maine. There are rich colors, playful designs and a feeling of depth on each page.  My Forest is Green must be added to early grade classrooms, put on library shelves and gifted to youngsters for birthday and holiday occasions.

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

four-stars

Dolphins! Strange and Wonderful

Dolphins! Strange and WonderfulDolphins! (Strange and Wonderful) by Laurence Pringle, Meryl Henderson
Published by Boyds Mill Press on February 5th 2019
ISBN: 1629796808
Pages: 32
Goodreads
four-stars

Pringle has provided many good non-fiction science picture books to readers.   His many series titles are seen in public libraries, school media centers, in classrooms, and book stores.   This new entry in the Strange and Wonderful series does not disappoint.  Young readers who love marine animals and budding scientist will be drawn to the attractive cover and illustrations by Henderson.   There are places however when the content of the text and the illustrations seem somewhat out of whack. This reader is disappointed that no position is taking concerning dolphin captivity or swimming with dolphin activities.

All in all the intended audience is sure to appreciate this new title and there is enough content to facilitate early grade report writing.  The Glossary is excellent but some of the resources listed are  nearly 20 years old.  Add to seacoast  and land locked community libraries as well as  school shelves where marine animals are appreciated.

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

four-stars