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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Just Ask!: Be Different, Be Brave, Be You

Bibliography: Sotomayor, S. (2019). Just Ask!: Be Different, Be Brave, Be You. (R. Lopez, Illus.). Philomel Books.

Response:  This book with vibrant illustrations likens children to the flowers of a garden, each growing in their own unique way. Through this simple concept, author and Supreme Court Justice, Sonia Sotomayor continues to introduce varying types of children and their, at times unseen, differences in a very clear, relatable, and matter-of-fact format. The reader will be introduced to unique life situations such as asthma, deafness, diabetes, autism, and many more through the pages. This beautiful read concludes by encouraging individuals to recognize and celebrate their differences because each of us has a "unique power to share with the world making it more interesting and richer. What will you do with your powers?". This is a beautiful book to introduce not only new friends in a school year but new information about life.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHJu7jx45tQ

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Your Name is a Song

Bibliography: Thompkins-Bigelow, J. (2020). Your Name is a Song (L. Uribe, Illus.). The Innovation Press.

Response: This inspiring read not only normalizes the uniqueness of varying cultures and names, that may not be the typical fare, but exemplifies how to encourage and ignite pride gracefully even from a frustrating position. Thompkins-Bigelow exemplifies this lead by teaching the power of a positive spin even when met with adversity. The soft and dreamy colors that illustrate the pages complement this celebration of individuality. Being recognized by name and for who we are is important to us all. A glossary with the correct pronunciation of names is a smart touch.

Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow pronouncing names within My Name is a Song:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmXqJGherE8&t=75s

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: My Name is Elizabeth!

Bibliography: Dunklee, A. (2021). My Name is Elizabeth! (M. Forsythe, Illus.). Kids Can Press.

Response: A different type of 'name story' that deals with the frustrations of not being heard and understood from a child's level. This book of retro spunky illustrations could companion nicely with 'Your name is a Song' to compare and contrast the name concept on a different note. While unfamiliarity and lack of awareness can cause bother and upset when we are not recognized by name, so can pet names, shortening, and silly making. In Dunklee's book, My Name is Elizabeth, this name changing is the nature of the main character's struggle. Being recognized by name and for who we are is important to us all.

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What Do People Do All Day?

Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: What Do People Do All Day?

Bibliography: Scarry, R. (2020). What Do People Do All Day? (R. Scarry, Illus.). Golden Books.

Response: A visual feast! Scarry's busy details, bright colors, and label making across the pages allow for excitement in the ordinary. The simple wording follows the illustrations which capture the real spirit of Scarry's books and allow for great reader/caregiver conversation. These books are excellent opportunities for questions and side by side learning.

Richard Scarry Fun: https://www.richardscarry.com/

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Thank You, Omu!

Bibliography: Mora, O. (2018). Your Name is a Song (O. Mora, Illus.). Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

Response: This lovely book intertwines the gift of sharing and community all in one. The bright graphic pictures and collage-style art are visually striking as the tale of Omu and her 'thick red stew' unfolds. Many visitors throughout the community are enticed to visit and try this amazing stew leaving Omu sadly short. The power of community shines through as they all come together with thanks at the conclusion. This book won the Caldecott Award, Coretta Scott King award, and the John Steptoe New Talent Illustrator Award along with an array of other accolades and bestseller lists. The simplistic lesson and storyline is timeless.

Oge Mora award reaction video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wuux0i0SfA

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Mouse Seasons

Bibliography: Lionni, L. (2022). Mouse Seasons (L. Lionni, Illus.). Knopf Books for Young Readers.

Response: A simple rhyming classic with the vivid illustrations of four-time Caldecott honor winner, Lionni. This early childhood book walks through the seasons with repetition to introduce an annual concept. The bright colors and cheery mice are perfect in exemplifying the standards of each season from sunny showers in spring to the snowy cold toes of winter. These mice can be seen throughout other works of Lionni as well to include Frederick. Cute.

Love of Lionni: https://www.leolionni.com/videos

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Tree

Bibliography: Teckentrup, B. (2016). Tree (B. Teckentrup, Illus.). Doubleday Books for Young Readers.

Response: The seasons of a year as seen through a tree with peek through pages. The bright and simple illustrations pair nicely with the rhythmic story line. Different animal friends can be seen inhabiting the color changing tree as the seasons pass. This is a great book to further explain and ignite interest in the annual cycle of seasons.

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The Hike

Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: The Hike.

Bibliography: Farrel, A. (2019). The Hike. (A. Farrel, Illus.). Random House Books for Young Readers.

Response: A fun and exciting book that will pull little explorers into the outdoors. This book storylines the process of little friends exploring into the woods on a grand day hike. The crafting, sketching, and adventure all documented will inspire curiosity. Foreign language snippets, compass, constellations, and gloriously detailed nature sketch books will encourage budding outdoor enthusiasts.

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Genre: Picturebook - Non Fiction: Nature Anatomy - The Curious Parts & Pieces of the Natural World

Bibliography: Rothman, J. (2015). Nature Anatomy - The Curious Parts & Pieces of the Natural World. (J. Rothman, Illus.). Storey Publishing, LL.

Response: A beautifully illustrated guide to the natural world. Rothman's artwork adds visual interest to plants, animals, weather, and many other works in nature. This book would be a nice companion to The Hike to showcase the talent of an artist, the knowledge of science and the great outdoors together. Rothman has an extensive collection of illustrated nonfiction books from birding and farms to oceans and sexuality (the later not intended for children).

Julia Rothman: https://www.juliarothman.com/

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: How Big is the World?

Bibliography: Teckentrup, B. (2008). How Big is the World? (B. Teckentrup, Illus.). Boxer Books.

Response: How Big is the World? Teckentrup's graphic illustrations introduce young readers to the great big world beyond their home through an adorable mole seeking to find the answer. He discovers the size of the world might be very different depending on whom he is asking. He also discovers that the world is indeed a very big place. Great questions can be taken from this sweet tale, as well as introductions to different types of places in the world such as cities, deserts, jungles, and mountains. This is a favorite.

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Animalia

Bibliography: Base, G. (1993). Animalia (G. Base, Illus.). Abrams Books for Young Readers.

Response: Animalia is exquisite in illustrations featuring the alphabet on each page through smart alliteration. Pictures can be seen within pictures and readers can spend a great deal of time finding new surprises even after the first reading. This puzzle of pictures encourages not only younger children with alphabet recognition but, broadens vocabulary with it's many hidden gems. This book is great for conversation and side by side reading.

The Waterhole is another Graeme Base stand out.

Graeme Base: http://graemebase.com.au/

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Dr. Seuss's ABC An Amazing Alphabet Book!

Bibliography: Seuss (1991). Dr. Seuss's ABC An Amazing Alphabet Book! (Seuss, Illus.). Random House Books for Young Readers.

Response: "Big A, little a... What begins with A?". The celebration of nonsense and wackiness is alive and well with Dr. Seuss and this Alphabet book. Through zany characters each letter is repeated, with alliteration, and rhyming goodness. Both upper and lower case letters are identified throughout the book. This is a simple, fun and effective way to reinforce the alphabet with little ones.

Seuss Learning Apps: http://www.oceanhousemedia.com/apps/drseuss/

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Alphabeasties and other Amazing Typography.

Bibliography: Werner, S. (2009). Alphabeasties and other Amazing Typography. (S. Werner, Illus.). Blue Apple Books.

Response: This brilliant ABC book takes not only pop out folds to showcase each letter of the alphabet but, introduces children to the world of typography. Letters can be confusing when much of the world utilizes different digital types. This book, through the creation of illustrations showcases how one letter can look many different ways. The room for conversation and appreciation for letters styles, how letters sound, and the word for which they stand for are all wrapped into this amazing book. Good stuff!

World of Werner: http://wdw.com/projects/alphabeasties-and-other-amazing-types/

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Yellow Time.

Bibliography: Stringer, L. (2016). Yellow Time. (L. Stringer, Illus.). Beach Lane Books.

Response: This book showcases the color changes of fall through whimsical illustrations and lyrical text. Squirrels scampering, crowns of leaves, and the chorus of crows usher in the season amongst the children. Yellow Time is a simple straight forward celebration of fall. This book would pair well with color studies, creative works, and outdoor exploration.

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Hello, Harvest Moon.

Bibliography: Fletcher, R. (2017). Hello, Harvest Moon. (K. Kiesler, Illus.). Clarion Books.

Response: A poetic walk through the Harvest Moon over the world from farmlands to seasides. Detailed illustrations accompany this account of varying landscapes under the same moon. Comparing and contrasting silos to sea turtles makes this a helpful book to relate a larger world to young children. Hello, Harvest Moon also contains exceptional vocabulary that will enrich early readers.

Ralph Fletcher is a great resource and advocate for young writers. http://ralphfletcher.com/tips-young-readers/

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: The Spider and the Fly.

Bibliography: Howitt, M. (2002). The Spider and the Fly. (T. DiTerlizzi, Illus.). Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.

Response: A Caldecott Award winning tale of a cunning spider whom invites a fly to visit. The illustrations are elaborate and the slightly spooky tale lends just enough scare for the season. Pointing out the visuals and guessing what will happen next from page to page makes this a fun and engaging book for early readers. The lesson at the conclusion of this 'cautionary tale' adds an extra learning point without being too dark for young readers.

Author Read Aloud: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DygyYDeb-HA

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Dem Bones.

Bibliography: Barner, B. (2016). Dem Bones. (B. Barner, Illus.). Chronicle Books.

Response: The bright collage paper art and joyful skeletons match the fun of the catchy rhymes in Dem Bones. Barner creates a fun way to introduce the bones of the human body with James Weldon Johnson's song, paired with informational snippets too. This book would work well during Halloween, as well as, to spark fun into a study on anatomy. One could further introduce the idea of songs made to books and elaborate on this book in a multitude of ways.

Bob Barner: https://www.bobbarner.com/movies/

James Weldon Johnson: https://makingmulticulturalmusic.wordpress.com/2015/10/25/the-story-behind-the-dry-bones-song/

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Genre: Picturebook - Non-Fiction: Look inside Your Body

Bibliography: Stowell, L. (2014). Look inside Your Body (L. Stowell, Illus.). USBORNE.

Response: This non-fiction book takes a brief look at the multitude of ways the human body works. From digestion to the senses and lung function to a very brief synopsis on pregnancy. The colorful and easily understood information is broken down through over 100 lift the flaps that make this text fun and engaging. This is a great reference book for small children in any home and would be helpful to accompany a classroom study as well.

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Caps for Sale.

Bibliography: Slobodkina, E. (1987). Caps for Sale. (E. Slobodkina, Illus.). HarperCollins.

Response: A classic children's story. The hat peddler sells his caps stacked high atop his head. In an unfortunate sequence of events, he loses all of his caps to a tree of monkeys who taunt him tirelessly. This comical story is a 'monkey see, monkey do' of naughty behavior and tantrums on a silly level children will enjoy. The retro bold illustrations are a great change of pace. This book would be fun on it's own or to spark conversations on how best to behave.

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: This is Not My Hat.

Bibliography: Klassen, J. (2012). This is Not My Hat. (J. Klassen, Illus.). Candlewick.

Response: This is Not My Hat is a hilariously different children's story. It follows a tiny fish who steals a hat and attempts to explain away why it is ok. In the end... it turns out is perhaps not so ok! The surprising ending will leave wide eyes and laughs alike. The illustrations are very bold and expressive. This would be a fun book to read on it's own or to spark conversations on boundaries and how we treat others.

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: A Hat for Mrs. Goldman.

Bibliography: Edwards, M. (2016). A Hat for Mrs. Goldman. (G.B. Karas, Illus.). Schwartz & Wade.

Response: A Hat for Mrs. Goldman is an adorable story of a beautiful relationship centered on giving. This book has Yiddish, Hebrew, and Spanish nods in wording that make for great opportunities to share diversity positively. The relationship that spans generations is encouraging as is the determined quality of the little girl. This would be a fun book to read on it's own or to spark conversations on grit, diversity, and thoughtfulness. The heart of this book is beautiful.

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: My Heart is Like a Zoo.

Bibliography: Hall, M. (2009). My Heart is Like a Zoo. (M. Hall, Illus.). Greenwillow Books.

Response: My Heart is Like a Zoo is the quintessential first book on feelings for children. The bright bold colorful pages pull children in with fun rhyming text. Each page's illustrations are uniquely made of over 300 hearts allowing for a diversion and search within side-by-side or group reading. The comparison of feelings and moods with each animal perfectly conveys to an early age level what feelings are. Asking, how do you feel today? How are you feeling right now? Is a wonderful and approachable way to begin emotional learning in early childhood.

Author Reading

Author Website

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Grumpy Monkey.

Bibliography: Lang, S. (2018). Grumpy Monkey. (M. Lang). Random House Books for Young Readers.

Response: Grumpy Monkey is a creative jump into children's literature and emotional awareness combined. Jim Panzee walks through his day without any of the best feelings at all. Although the world around him notices and tries to help him out of his mood the biggest gift is the acceptance of grumpiness. This book serves as an important message to children and a reminder to adults that sometimes life does not need 'to be ok' to be ok. Many companion books to this series can now be found in a Grumpy Monkey series.

Series expansion

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Wolf in the Snow.

Bibliography: Cordell, M. (2017). Wolf in the Snow. (M. Cordell, Illus.). Feiwel & Friends.

Response: Wolf in the Snow is a Caldecott Award winner and a unique treasure in children's picture books. Cardell created a wordless picture book that tells a heartwarming story that brings out so many feelings from page to page. Dispair, adventure, trust, and courage can be seen in this brilliant story of a young girl and wolf pup who discover themselves both lost. The adventure to safety for both bring is the heart of this 'read aloud'. Discussions on how books 'read' even when wordless is a testament to the importance illustrations can play in literature.

Matthew Cordell

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: The Mitten.

Bibliography: Brett, J. (2009). The Mitten. (J. Brett, Illus.). G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers.

Response: The Mitten is a Ukranian folk tale that is beautifully illustrated by well-known illustrator Jan Brett. It follows a young boy who requests white mittens from his Baba. Upon losing one mitten the adventure stretches with visits by several winter animal friends before the mitten is found safely back with the little boy. This book features the idea of foreshadowing in the side panel of each page and is a great conversation read allowing for many class/reader questions.

Jan Brett

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Genre: Early Chapter Book - Non Fiction: Balto and the Great Race.

Bibliography: Kimmel, E.C. (1999). Balto and the Great Race.  Random House Books for Young Readers.

Response: Balto and the Great Race is a wonderful and adventurous beginner read-aloud or early chapter book for newly independent readers. It tells the story of an Alaskan sled dog that rises to the occasion and covers long and difficult conditions to save a village in medical need. The canine hero seen in this non-fiction book is certain to captivate. This wintery tale would be exciting to cover and relate to the Alaskan lifestyle, especially in February and March, when the Iditarod race occurs, recalling Balto amongst other mushing legacies.

Iditarod

Current Iditarod Champion

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Genre: Children's Non-Fiction Literature: Atlas of Adventures.

Bibliography: Williams, R. (2015). Atlas of Adventures. (L. Letherland, Illus.). Wide Eyed Editions.

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Genre: Childrens Non-Fiction Literature: National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of the World.

Bibliography: Carney, E. (2015). National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of the World. National Geographic Kids.

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Genre: Picturebook - Non-Fiction: Most of the Better Natural Things in the World.

Bibliography: Eggers, D. (2019). Most of the Better Natural Things in the World. (A. Chang, Illus.). Chronicle Books.

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Lon Po Po: A Red-Riding Hood Story from China

Bibliography: Young, E. (1996). Lon Po Po: A Red-Riding Hood Story from China (E. Young, Illus.). Puffin Books.

Response: This is the Chinese version of a Red-Riding Hood story. Three girls whom are left as their mother journeys afar are visited at home by an evil wolf. They are tricked by this wolf whom claims to be their grandmother, Po Po as he slyly enters their home. The oldest daughter out tricks the wolf by escaping to the gingko tree. The perilous ending allows for contrasting to other versions. This Caldecott Medal Winner is full of gorgeous illustrations saturating the pages with whimsical beauty. This story is a great opportunity to admire diversity and compare the traditional fairy tales we grow up hearing.

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Pretty Salma: A Little Red Riding Hood Story from Africa

Bibliography: Daly, N. (2007). Pretty Salma: A Little Red Riding Hood Story from Africa (N. Daly, Illus.). Clarion Books.

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Little Roja Riding Hood

Bibliography: Elya, S.M. (2014). Little Roja Riding Hood (S. Guevara, Illus.). G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers.

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Petite Rouge, A Cajun Red Riding Hood

Bibliography: Artell, M. (2003). Petite Rouge, A Cajun Red Riding Hood (J. Harris, Illus.). Puffin Books.

Response: This is a hilarious retelling of the fairy tale, Little Red Riding Hood, told from the bayou of Louisiana with a change of characters... most especially, the alligator replacing the wolf. Thick rhyming cajun dialect is used throughout the book which can be a struggle, however, immediately engaging when accomplished. The use of a swamp setting, traditional cajun cuisine, and a saucy and spirited ending make this a fun addition to Fairy Tale studies, as well as regional ones.

Companion reads to expand diversity:

Beignets for Breakfast by Jeanette Weiland and Allison Lemon

P is for Pelican: A Louisiana Alphabet by Anita C. Prieto and Laura Knorr

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Go, Dog. Go!

Bibliography: Eastman, P.D. (1961). Go, Dog. Go! (P.D. Eastman, Illus.). Random House Books for Young Readers.

Response: This is a bright and happy early reader favorite that utilizes simple words and reinforces colors, numbers, and positional text. Many different forms of transportation from bikes, to blimps, and boats are shown. Go. Dog. Go!'s simplicity and fun spirit make this a perfect book for early readers while not being too boring at all. The retro graphic illustrations make this a perfect addition to all early childhood libraries.

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Last Stop on Market Street.

Bibliography: Matt De La Pena (2015). Last Stop on Market Street. (C. Robinson, Illus.). G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers.

Response: A transportation book that takes a bigger look at what transportation looks like in daily life for others. This book eloquently introduces the early connections children make between not only different forms of transportation but, all of the other nuances of day-to-day life. The larger messages of respect, diversity, appreciation, and compassion are beautifully expressed in the poetic text of this book making it a stand-out choice. This is a wonderful book to start conversations and learn beyond the assumed topic at hand.

Author Read Aloud

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Freight Train.

Bibliography: Crews, D. (2003). Freight Train. (D. Crews, Illus.). Greenwillow Books.

Response: Freight Train is a simple but brilliant book with bold graphic illustrations and easy text. Colors are reinforced with the introduction of each train car along the track. The pages magically show movement going from an empty track to the blurred images of colors 'moving' across the pages. This Caldecott Honor winning book is a staple early reader for children.

Bilingual edition

Donald Crews-Influences

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Genre: Children's Novel - Fiction: The Movable Goose.

Bibliography: Sabuda, R. (1999). The Movable Mother Goose. (R. Sabuda, Illus.). Little Simon.

Response: Sabuda's pop-up books are the most elaborate and detailed masterpieces within the genre. This book showcases classic Mother Goose Nursery Rhymes with 3-dimensional wonder. This is a great bright and whimsical introduction to Mother Goose. The pop-ups can be fragile so this book works better with supervised reading.

Inspiration for Sabuda's Career

Pop-Up Process with Sabuda

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Genre: Children's Novel - Fiction: My Father's Dragon.

Bibliography: Gannett, R.S. (2014). My Father's Dragon. (R.C. Gannett, Illus.). Dover Publications.

Response: My Father's Dragon is the first of three early chapter books for children and also a Newbery Honor Book. The storyline follows a young boy's adventure to an island in order to save a dragon that can fly. Along the way, he encounters adventures with all manners of enchanted animals. I love that the book includes a map to track the journey of the young boy as you read. This book is engaging enough to graduate early readers from full picture books to a read-aloud or independent reader genre.

Digital My Father's Dragon

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Genre: Picturebook - Non-fiction Biography: Lady Bird Johnson, That's Who!.

Bibliography: Maurer, T.N. (2021). Lady Bird Johnson, That's Who!. (G. Hsu, Illus.). Henry Holt and Co.

Response: A Bright nonfiction read-aloud that recounts the life of First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson who not only grew up in Texas but became a powerful advocate for the environment. This book provides basic information allowing it to not be so overwhelming to the younger set. This makes a great introduction biography for any student, especially Texans, while also being environmentally minded and female empowered. The wildflowers that scatter the roadsides of Texas make this a wonderful study in the springtime.

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Armadillo Rodeo.

Bibliography: Brett, J. (2004). Armadillo Rodeo (J. Brett, Illus.). Puffin Books.

Response: A quintessential western rodeo tale with an armadillo that befriends a pair of red cowboy boots... since he can't see too well. His adorable journey is full of silliness and fun. Jan Brett does not disappoint with her detailed illustrations. This is a great story to celebrate Texas and introduce fascinating facts on the states official small mammal.

Authors Page

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Genre: Children's Autobiography: The Boy Who Touched the Stars ~ El nino que alcanzo las estrellas.

Bibliography: Hernandez, J.M. (2019). The Boy Who Touched the Stars ~ El nino que alcanzo las estrellas (S.J. Petruccio, Illus.). Arte Público Press.

Response: The Boy Who Touched the Stars is an  autobiographical story of a young boy who dreamed of being among the stars as a child and follows this dream all of the way to space. This is a relatable story for children dealing with adversity and determination in reaching a goal. The young boy, Jose, grew up in Texas with migrant parents and through years of grit eventually makes it as a NASA astronaut. This is a wonderful read to encourage and motivate youth. The nuances of this book make it a win for Texas, Space, Hispanic and Latino diversity as well as, of course, autobiographies. This edition is also paralleled with Spanish text making it a brilliant example for any classroom.

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Genre: Picture Book - Fiction: Mousetronaut.

Bibliography: Kelly, M. (2012). Mousetronaut. (C.F. Payne, Illus.). Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books.

Response: Such amazing illustrations bringing to life this Space Shuttle adventure featuring six mice, including Meteor... the tiniest. He loves the thrill of flight and adapts right away. This book gives an engaging and realistic look at space flight. It also reminds us all that sometimes the smallest can also be the best! This book was written by Astronaut, Mark Kelly.

Author Reading

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Genre: Picture Book - Fiction: A Big Mooncake for Little Star.

Bibliography: Lin, G. (2018). A Big Mooncake for Little Star. (G. Lin, Illus.). Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

Response: A sweet read based on mooncakes from the Chinese Moon Festival. This book cleverly blends the adorable midnight snacks of a little girl with the phases of the moon all through a cultural lens. The mischievous and whimsical images will delight all ages. Lin's books from board books to young adult literature are all amazing. This is definitely an author worth checking out.

Author Reading

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Genre: Picture Book - Fiction: My Heart Fills With Happiness.

Bibliography: Smith, M.G. (2016). My Heart Fills With Happiness. (J. Flett, Illus.). Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books.

Response: Touching looks at daily life and family moments from an indigenous child's view. The simple words and beautifully saturated pictures are stunning. Dancing, drumming, and listening to family stories help connect any reader to this universal message. This book can also be used to focus on reflection and introduce mindfulness at an early age.

Monique Gray Smith

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Genre: Picture Book - Fiction: What Do You Do With An Idea?.

Bibliography: Yamada, K. (2014). What Do You Do With An Idea?. (M. Besom, Illus.). Compendium Inc.

Response: The amazing journey of discovering, growing, and allowing an idea to take flight. This book celebrates imagination, perseverance, and the courage through the walk of a young boy with his own "idea". The realization, struggle, and acceptance of their journey encourage others to follow their heart. The selectively colored illustrations are whimsical and engaging. This is a beautiful book to build confidence in any reader. What Do You Do with An Idea? is also a part of a series definitely worth exploring.

Kobi Yamada

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Genre: Picture Book - Fiction: Julian is a Mermaid.

Bibliography: Love, J. (2018). Julian is a Mermaid. (J. Love, Illus.). Candlewick.

Response: This picture book holds the most exquisite and expressive illustrations of a young boy and his Abuela as he realizes his fascination with mermaids. This book explores the youthful joys of dressing up, discovering new worlds, and the thoughtful love of someone who accepts you, for you. Julian is a Mermaid is adorable, touching, and whimsical in all of the right ways. This book would be appropriate to encourage imagination, family relationships, and positive diversity promotion.

Jessica Love

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Genre: Picturebook - Non-Fiction: Planting a Rainbow

Bibliography: Ehlert, L. (2003). Planting a Rainbow (L. Ehlert, Illus.). HMH Books for Young Readers.

Response: This graphic beauty is a staple for Spring, colors, and an introduction to growing seeds. The simple text is great for emerging readers, as well as a read-aloud for early education students. Not only are the stages of the seed to plant cycle simply covered, but each color is also showcased page by page. Ehlert has an amazing collection of other picture books also making this a great choice to showcase one particular author in the classroom.

Words from Ehlert: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkdjSSmskcw

ASL Reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CX6DrmnzUgc

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Goodnight, Veggies

Bibliography: Murray, D. (2021). Goodnight, Veggies (Z. Ohora, Illus.). Clarion Books.

Response: An end-of-the-day story that features gardening in an urban setting. This unique gardening story introduces many types of produce along with a fair share of rhyming and alliteration too. The fun worm allows for added conversations about gardening life, composting, and the work of worms. The rooftop setting allows for conversations about all of the diverse settings where we can grow up.

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Genre: Picturebook - Non-Fiction: Wiggling Worms at Work.

Bibliography: Pfeffer, W. (2003). Wiggling Worms at Work (S. Jenkins, Illus.). HarperCollins.

Response: Wiggling Worms at Work is a very in-depth non-fiction book to introduce a weightier level of information to a younger set. The artistic mixed-media illustrations are realistic yet appropriately artistic for the age to encourage engagement. The level of this book could range from non-fiction read-aloud pointing out features and intriguing moments within the text to a stepping stone reader for nature enthusiasts showing advancing reader independence.

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Genre: Picturebook - Non-Fiction: Fire Flies!.

Bibliography: Brinckloe, J. (1986). Fire Flies! (J. Brinckloe, Illus.). Aladdin Books.

Response: Fire Flies! is a slice of summer day story about the simple past time of catching the tiny light bugs. Its limited color illustrations are well done and stand as a simple contrast to the detailed personal narrative storyline of the little boy's summer day. Finding new things to do and then becoming absorbed in the thrill of nature are themes within this storyline. The growing up awareness of making choices about keeping something beautiful or letting it go conclude this story. Much like a summer day, this simple and straightforward summer tale might stretch the patience of readers accustomed to more action-packed reading... not always a bad thing.

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Tar Beach

Bibliography: Ringgold, F. (1996). Tar Beach (F. Ringgold, Illus.). Dragonfly Books.

Response: Simply beautiful urban fairytale-like read charting a young girl's summer life and memories of growing up in Harlem. The poetic words are gorgeous and the illustrations are bright and captivating as she flies above the city and shares her world. This book exposes normal life experiences, racial inequalities, and also, the simple childhood pleasures of summer living. This Coretta Scott King winner, Caldecott Honor, and New York Times Best Illustrated work is a must-have in any collection.

Author reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9RKJleFdBU

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Genre: Picturebook - Fiction: Hum and Swish

Bibliography: Myers, M. (2019). Hum and Swish (M. Myers, Illus.). Neal Porter Books.

Response: A richly illustrated summer seaside picture book that beautifully conveys an introverted and artistic spirit. A young girl's day spent creating and finding flow is disrupted by the 'noise' of onlookers. The understanding This book brings a gentle relatability to any child who gets lost in their own world and works. The comparison bridged between the young girl and the elder woman by the ocean is clever and encouraging.

The Making of Hum and Swish: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I50jWwMHFDg