Mao Mao, a panda, is like many of us, striving for perfection. While there's absolutely nothing wrong with making sure things are done right, Mao Mao Mao Mao, a panda, is like many of us, striving for perfection. While there's absolutely nothing wrong with making sure things are done right, Mao Mao takes it to extremes. But his world view is challenged with the arrival of Olivia, a rather free-spirited, messy new classmate. She's energetic, loud, and loves stickers rather than precision, which is Mao Mao's preference. When Mao Mao blows his top, though, she finds beauty in his messiness. And Mao Mao? He realizes that there's something to be said about being messy, noisy, and even clumsy. As the last double-page of the book proclaims with one letter [the R] turned backward, perfect is in the eye of the beholder. Colorful Procreate artwork featuring a diverse group of classmates, including humans and animals, and with an octopus teacher named Mr. 8, as seen in the front endpapers, add to the enjoyment and humor of this one even as it delivers an important message. ...more
Small Knight may have conquered many of their anxieties in the previous picture book, but that doesn't mean that they're gone for good. Many readers wSmall Knight may have conquered many of their anxieties in the previous picture book, but that doesn't mean that they're gone for good. Many readers will recognize themselves and their emotions as Small Knight sets off on a journey to find Tiny Bear, their beloved stuffy. The journey is long and hard, and that pesky old Anxiety Monster is right by Small Knight's side every step of the way. But knowing that Tiny Bear is probably lonely, scared, and depending on its friend for rescue keeps Small Knight going. The artwork, created with watercolor and ink, complements the story perfectly as it shows just how large Anxiety is and how it can be tamed, decreasing in size over the course of the last pages, even if it never quite disappears. This picture book has promise for opening up channels of communication between youngsters and caregivers about fears and anxiety....more
While this story of immigration would be significant simply on its own merits due to its sometimes stark ["People climbed over each other to reach theWhile this story of immigration would be significant simply on its own merits due to its sometimes stark ["People climbed over each other to reach the highest point" (unpaged)] and sometimes exquisite language [the narrator's village, "a tiger's whisker away from the jungle" (unpaged) and once the family is safe and her school is "a cat's whisker away from my new home" (unpaged)], it takes on even more significance and emotional resonance when read against the backdrop of the current Presidential administration's policies about its borders and immigration. As with many of these sorts of stories, it's clear that the narrator's family needed to leave their homeland in South Vietnam in order to survive and that they risked everything to do so, but they had few other options. After slipping away at night, the family boards an overcrowded boat whose pump stops working after five days. Although the narrator's family survives, many others do not, and even though she considers herself lucky, she's haunted afterward by the fate of those who lost their lives in that swirling, endless sea. And yes, this story has a happy ending, but as the author points out in the Author's Note, much happened after their rescue and now, hopefully a tale that will be continued in a future publication. Also, she relates that between 200,000 and 400,000 Vietnamese who died during those voyages--sobering numbers, for sure. She also highlights the enormous number of refugees seeking new places to live today. The moving, personal text is supported with delicate digital artwork, images of green abundance, a secret flight in the darkness of night, the blacks, greens, grays, and whites of fierce, choppy waves that assail the wooden boat they're traveling in, and the blacks of the ocean's depths in which pink-colored corpses swirl. Intense, moving, and necessary, now more than ever, this superb picture book, told from the perspective of a young child, fits within a collection on immigration, refugees, and/or survival stories. How anyone could read it and not be moved is beyond me? ...more
Actor Al Pacino has many admirers, and I am one of them. I've been impressed with his willingness to take risks and to inhabit the characters he playsActor Al Pacino has many admirers, and I am one of them. I've been impressed with his willingness to take risks and to inhabit the characters he plays in films. And of course, who could forget his role as Michael in The Godfather or his violent, perhaps over the top rendition in Scarface? But I knew very little about his background and formative years. Unlike some biographies or memoirs written when the writer is still too young to have achieved much perspective, this one has the fortune of being created when Pacino is in his eighties. The subsequent work is full of heart, humor, and insight into human nature, the craft of acting, fame, and paths not taken. There are so many interesting anecdotes and so much color concerning New York City and LA that readers will feel as though they've traveled back in time and place with Pacino. Interestingly, he avoids dishing dirt on those whose paths crossed with his. I thoroughly enjoyed this voice-filled read. ...more
As is the case with many other readers, I find novels in verse quite appealing since they tend to be deceptively short because of how the lines are prAs is the case with many other readers, I find novels in verse quite appealing since they tend to be deceptively short because of how the lines are presented but they also pack an emotional wallop and often necessitate reading and pondering between the lines. In this one, the author reaches back in time to plumb his memories of his high school graduation in Spring 1999 while he's living in Prince George through Fall 2000 when he transfers from one college to another. The first person in his family to attend college, he deals with racism, homophobia, and economic issues during that period but also during his formative years. He copes with each of these with supportive friends and through his creative expression--poetry. There are actual handwritten copies of the poems he wrote during this period included in the book. Because of his small size and lack of athletic prowess, he's also dealt with bullying. Additionally, he starts feeling as though he's reading from someone else's script or expectations for him, which causes tension in his long-time relationship with Blu, his girlfriend. Part of the problem is that he starts questioning his sexuality and finds a connection in a chatroom. This is one of the most honest memoirs I've read, filled with references to popular music and emerging technology as well as Tony's growing awareness of the inequities around him and how his own dishonesty about his identity may protect him from the judgment of others, but it also mutes his voice. Add this to your to-read pile or move it to the top. ...more
Newly elected sixth grade class president, Bess Stein has several ideas to improve her school. With the help of new friend and vice president June, anNewly elected sixth grade class president, Bess Stein has several ideas to improve her school. With the help of new friend and vice president June, and her best friend Emmy, she knows it will be a great year. The PTO has agreed to pay for a vending machine to be stocked with books, and the panini press is a hit with students. But when several of the books chosen for the machine are removed due to a parent's complaint, Bess realizes that she and June are not on the same page at all when it comes to book banning and censorship. As it turns out, it's June's mother who has filed the complaint. Bess gets involved in a community group called Book Warriors who are looking for ways to push back against those who want to remove books on certain topics, including unflattering or horrific parts of history, from classroom and library shelves. While this particular issue is at the heart of the book, there are several other ones that are addressed, including standing up for oneself and using one's voice, anxiety, insecurities about friendship groups, and possible first crushes. Bess continues to blame herself for her parents' separation even though they have reunited and lavishes affection on her dog, Barnaby, while trying to understand her brother Avi and his anxiety. Arguably, remaining neutral and staying silent when something is clearly wrong are choices, something worth considering while reading the book, and the dangers of indifference are worth considering as well. Ultimately, our choices matter. ...more
As is the case with many readers, I'm particularly fond of those sweeping intergenerational stories. This one [4.5 for me!] is an example of this typeAs is the case with many readers, I'm particularly fond of those sweeping intergenerational stories. This one [4.5 for me!] is an example of this type of storytelling at its best. Focused on four generations of Filipino American men, the novel describes generational trauma, wounds that persist through adulthood, and the costs of not listening to one another. The book opens in 1929 when sixteen-year-old Francisco Maghabol, full of hopes and dreams, arrives in California from the Philippines. It then shifts forward in time to late 2019 to early 2020 when his great-grandson Enzo first hears about a new virus and the possibility of moving his grandfather Emil into the family's home. While the narrative shifts back and forth between those characters, it also visits Emil's past and that of Chris, Enzo's father. Readers quickly begin caring about each of these four men and understanding the choices they made. While initially it might be tempting to judge them for their actions or inability to communicate, over the course of the book readers understand that they all did the best they could. Each one wanted the best for the next generation despite their differences and despite the fact that they didn't always know how to express their love for their families. For certain generations such as my own father's, love was shown through stability and providing the necessary needs, not necessarily through words or deep conversations. Like Enzo, my heart aches at those missed opportunities to genuinely know one another and understand the impact of the past on the present. Certainly, it isn't necessary to be Filipino American to connect with this well-written story, but as it's presented, it's filled with cultural richness, a history of the farm labor movement, and portions of Filipino and United States history. Some of this was completely unfamiliar to me, and I'm grateful to the author for telling these stories and opening my eyes even further to yet another injustice to others for which our country is responsible. This is a must-read. ...more
As are some individuals, Really Bird, the blue bird at the heart of this story and series, is prone to extremes of emotions. In this, the sixth title As are some individuals, Really Bird, the blue bird at the heart of this story and series, is prone to extremes of emotions. In this, the sixth title in the series, he becomes really scared when the sun doesn't rise when it's supposed to. He gathers his friends to entreat the sun to come up, and the day is saved. The friends head off for a boating expedition, which is interrupted by rain. Still, as the cheerful artwork and text reveal, Really Bird, who lives in the city park, has had a really fine day despite its scary start. This accessible, reassuring book has great appeal for youngsters because of its relatable plot, adorable animal characters, and kid-friendly illustrations. Don't hesitate to buy or check it out. You'll be REALLY glad that you did. ...more
Once again, author Kathleen Glasgow has written quite a page-turner, tackling the tough topics of grief, loss, family dynamics, self-esteem, and alcohOnce again, author Kathleen Glasgow has written quite a page-turner, tackling the tough topics of grief, loss, family dynamics, self-esteem, and alcoholism. Just as she did in Girl in Pieces and You'd Be Home Now, she creates a likeable female protagonist in Bella Leahey, who will remind readers of themselves or someone they know. Bella, 15, drinks for many reasons. She does it to feel good, to become more outgoing, and to numb the pain. Still reeling from the loss of her beloved grandmother, Laurel, who lived nearby, and her breakup with her first boyfriend, Dylan, her social drinking is now out of control, and even at school she craves some liquid relief. Glasgow describes her downward descent, even as she lets down classmates and friends, while continuing to bear responsibility for her little sister, Ricci, and acting as a go-between for her parents. Much of the book focuses on her time in rehab after her mother finds her passed out on the front steps on Thanksgiving, having been left there by friends. Bella's journey to recovery isn't easy or assured, and she is so in denial about her addiction that it takes time before she realizes just how much harm she's done to her body and mind as well as those who love her. And even some of the others who are in rehab can't necessarily be trusted. Since the book is told from Bella's point of view, readers are able to see into her heart and mind while being fully immersed in her journey. Because drinking is so socially acceptable these days and her family often seemed so preoccupied by other matters, it's easy to see how and why Bella turned to drink to self-medicate. Readers who enjoyed this one might also want to read Thirsty by Jas Hammonds to compare the protagonists' journeys as well as how their family members and significant others react. There isn't a false note in this entire book, and it's clear that Glasgow knows the terrain quite well. ...more
What an engaging debut dystopian novel [3.5 for me!] this was! Since I knew there would be a sequel, I didn't worry about Seb, the protagonist, survivWhat an engaging debut dystopian novel [3.5 for me!] this was! Since I knew there would be a sequel, I didn't worry about Seb, the protagonist, surviving, but I was fascinated by the lengths this experimental program went to in order to make sure its participants emerged feeling happy. Of course, what happiness means is surely up to debate nowadays, and there are many individuals who might argue that it's absurd to think that humans can be happy all the time. Or that this state of mind is even desirable. While the plot covers some familiar territory, it also contains some surprises and will have readers on the edge of their seats as they ruminate on happiness, mental health, mental health providers, and eugenics. It's hard not to wonder if a place like HappyHead is already in the works as well as what prices we might pay in the pursuit of happiness. Certainly, individuality and thinking for oneself seem to have no place here. I'll be among the many eager readers who can't wait to read Dead Happy, the follow-up title....more
This one is a 3.5 for me. As is the case for many individuals, I have long been fascinated by serial killers and what makes them tick. I'm not particuThis one is a 3.5 for me. As is the case for many individuals, I have long been fascinated by serial killers and what makes them tick. I'm not particularly interested in the gory details of their crimes but more intrigued by how they manage to pull off those crimes and how they get caught. Since the moniker "serial killer" itself is fairly new, I often find myself wondering if this is a modern phenomenon or if there have always been serial killers out there. Plenty of books about these criminals abound, but rare, indeed, are those titles that tell the stories of those innocents who were unaware just how close they themselves may have come to death, brushing arms with these killers. Moving back and forth from memoir to a true-crime narrative, this book tells the story of Liza Rodman, whose mother left her in the care of charismatic Tony Costa among others while she partied and enjoyed herself on Cape Cod. Young Liza was lonely, confused, and felt unloved by her mother, who worked at and then eventually owned a motel in Provincetown. Tony, who drifted from job to job, seems to have been something of a Pied Piper, attracting a cadre of young teens to whom he supplied drugs and a place to hang out. While Liza was too young for that sort of activity, she rode with him all over the place, even to the Truro woods in Massachusetts, the girl was certainly vulnerable, and anything could have happened to her, especially when one considers that Tony's victims were women who were known to him, not strangers. Liza's story is haunting as is the description of Tony's actions and personality and how so many locals refused to believe that he was culpable, even lying to police to protect him. Both sections of the story ["Liza" and "Tony"] are well-written, immersive, and troubling as one considers what might have happened, especially when considering that Liza's mother left her with Tony without a second thought. This one will make readers' skin crawl and keep them awake at night, thinking about the dangers faced by young women then [late 1960s] and now. ...more
The child-friendly details in this middle-grade novel make it a must-read for most fifth and sixth graders. Many will recognize themselves in the charThe child-friendly details in this middle-grade novel make it a must-read for most fifth and sixth graders. Many will recognize themselves in the characters, especially the narrator, Lou Bennett. The eleven-year-old is suffering through a sixth-grade year that has been spoiled when she makes a big mistake concerning her best friend, Francie. Shunned, lonely, and anxious, Lou is determined not to reveal the secrets the new girl, Cece Clark-Duncan, reveals to her. But could Cece's father really have kidnapped her? With a plot that will have readers guessing and sitting on the edge of their seats, this book explores the danger of family secrets and the lies we sometimes tell ourselves and how easy it is to fool ourselves. ...more
After almost drowning while trying to save his mother, James Henry no longer leaves the house or speaks to anyone other than his twin sister, Hattie. After almost drowning while trying to save his mother, James Henry no longer leaves the house or speaks to anyone other than his twin sister, Hattie. Hattie spends a lot of energy protecting her brother from the bullies who like to harass him, even when he finally finds the courage to venture outdoors again and set on an important journey. As always with anything by Sharon Flake, the characters are nuanced, and the dilemmas they face realistic. The novel in verse format works well for this particular story of survival and hope, one that is relatable because of its focus and the aftermath of surviving the worst possible thing imaginable. What then? There are parts of this story that will make readers' hearts ache, and some parts that are confusing, but overall, the importance of family and believing in oneself shines through. And oh, those loyal, trained birds of Hattie's--especially Nutcracker! I had a lump in my throat in one particularly shocking scene....more
What an unusual, relatable story this biography of James Earl Jones is! With striking artwork, created with watercolor and collage, that zooms in on iWhat an unusual, relatable story this biography of James Earl Jones is! With striking artwork, created with watercolor and collage, that zooms in on its young subject's face and hands at times, moving outward to highlight the faces of his classmates, some ready to mock him, it's a striking story of resilience and determination. The fear someone who stutters might feel when called on to read aloud or perform is palpable in the text and illustrations. It's also not surprising that when James is alone, working with his farm animals, he has no trouble speaking. What is shocking is that he didn't speak to others until he was in high school--eight years of silence. But during that period, he was taking in words, reading and listening, even eventually writing his own poems, one in particular about grapefruit. When his teacher insisted that he recite it in front of the class, James did, unlocking his voice and triumphing over his fears. The text makes it clear that this was a slow process, and the illustrations--oh, those illustrations--lovingly depict his struggles and triumph. The double-page spread in which he slowly, carefully peels the rind from a grapefruit, bit by bit, revealing the fruit's sections and its distinct scent, mirrors exactly what happens with James Earl Jones and his own resonant tones. Educators, parents, and caregivers will want to urge youngsters to read the Author's Note and the Illustrator's Note to expand on the story and enhance their appreciation for this inspiring story. Notably, the book jacket differs from the actual book cover since the actual cover shows James eating pieces of grapefruit while several unpeeled fruits rest in the background behind him. ...more
I'm betting readers who loved Jennifer Niven's All the Bright Places will find this debut novel just as emotionally riveting while also seeing some paI'm betting readers who loved Jennifer Niven's All the Bright Places will find this debut novel just as emotionally riveting while also seeing some parallels between characters in both books. For instance, Rocky Wong, the protagonist's love interest, and Theodore Finch in Niven's book. I won't say why here for fear of spoiling others' reading of the book, but suffice it to say that I kept thinking of that book while reading this one. There are differences, of course. This one takes place in a Southern performing arts boarding school that focuses on the arts and doesn't even have a football team. The main character, junior Claire Wu, longs to be admitted to an exclusive club for Asian students, and while she's a talented pianist, she's nowhere near as talented as Rocky or some of her other classmates. A demanding piano teacher, Dr. Li, guides Claire and her other students in rather unorthodox fashion, and Claire becomes almost a disciple of the fascinating, talented woman. But how much stress can high schoolers handle in pursuit of being the best or at the top of their game? And who is behind those strange notes that first Claire and then others begin to receive? Although there are some plot points that remain puzzling, the characters are interesting, complex, and the passages describing music and playing the piano are lush and clearly drawn from experience. The Notes will strike just the right chords for many teen readers, who will see themselves in Claire and her journey. As for me, I wish there had been a bit more focus on why Claire so desperately needed the Asian Student Society. ...more
While I still don't understand exactly how cryptocurrency works--something that's quite important in this book--and the main character, Crissy DowlingWhile I still don't understand exactly how cryptocurrency works--something that's quite important in this book--and the main character, Crissy Dowling, seems incredibly naive for someone who has lived and performed in Las Vegas for several years, I still enjoyed the book, which is filled with some of the least trustworthy men to ever grace the pages of a mystery. Readers are plunged into the performances of Crissy, who channels Princess Diana on stage, complete with images, words, clothing, and her own eating disorder. Like Diana, Crissy has demons of her own, which are revealed over the course of the book, something she avoids through her performances. Estranged from her sister, Betsy, who moves to Vegas with her new boyfriend and adopted daughter, who is a prodigy, Crissy seems to have the worst possible luck someone could have, and her sister just might rival her for naiveness as both women become pawns in a deadly game. Frankie Limback, Betsy's boyfriend, is about as inept and limp as his name might indicate, and really lets her down when the chips and the bodies start falling. The glimpses of insider Las Vegas were tantalizing but only served to remind me why this glitzy city carved out of the Nevada desert isn't my cup of tea. Still, the author has a way with words and employs unique turns of phrases throughout the narrative that were surprisingly pleasant to read. ...more
This amazing, touching, and profound debut novel held me mesmerized through its entirety. I don't know much about the former Soviet Republic of GeorgiThis amazing, touching, and profound debut novel held me mesmerized through its entirety. I don't know much about the former Soviet Republic of Georgia, but after reading this book I certainly want to learn more. I don't think I want to visit the area, though, despite its beauty because of some of the challenges faced by its citizens and its infrastructure. The narrator, Saba, returns to Georgia several years after he, his father Irakli, and older brother Sandro fled the violence in the region. The plan was for their father to work hard and save enough money to bring their mother, Eka, to London where they are living. But there's never money to spare, and Eka never comes. When first Irakli and then Sandro travel to their homeland to tie up loose ends but then disappear, Saba goes in search of answers, following the breadcrumbs his brother has left him in places with which he will be familiar. Along the way, Saba encounters friends, enemies, betrayal, sacrifice, and a broken system ill-equipped to deal with anything out of the ordinary. The poor handling of the escaped zoo animals by authorities is one example that highlights what a mess the place has become and how challenging it will be to find his relatives. The taxi driver Saba meets at the airport--Nodar--almost steals the entire story with his huge personality and complicated emotions and appetites, not to mention his own past and motivations for helping Saba. The book's title comes from the classic fairy tale Saba's mother read to him and his brother, and there are many references to fairy tales as well as voices from the past that haunt Saba. While there are tender moments and descriptions of magnificent vistas, there are also passages that are stark and even shocking, revealing as they do the heartlessness of war and conflict over land, territory, and borders. My heart almost stopped beating as I read the last few pages of this skillfully told tale. ...more
Lauren Castillo's loving tribute to dogs and how they can help us find our way is tenderly written and illustrated. So accessible is the text that eveLauren Castillo's loving tribute to dogs and how they can help us find our way is tenderly written and illustrated. So accessible is the text that even young readers will be able to understand the book's message. Some of them will see themselves in the narrator, a young girl, and feel similarly to her about her family's move to an apartment in the city. The place seems overwhelming to someone unfamiliar with so many people and so much newness. Thus, the girl, who seems rather shy, is reluctant to go on play dates, make new friends or even join the audience at storytime. Mom is patient, but she decides that she might have a solution to the situation. It's love at first sight for the girl and Millie, a friendly white dog with brown patches. Millie's friendliness and eagerness to make friends wherever they go inspires the girl to take a risk and reach out a hand of friendship to another girl in the dog park. After all, if Millie can make friends and feel safe in a new place, so can she. Created with ink, watercolor, and soft pastels, the warm artwork depicts the characters' personalities effectively while also showing the bond that forms between the girl and sweet Millie. The endpapers are especially appealing too since the front ones show Mom and her daughter in the process of moving in to their new place while the back ones show the same exterior of the apartment building but on the street, readers can see Mom and her new friend as well as her daughter and the friend's daughter with their two dogs walking along the street. Encouraging and hopeful, this picture book will make many of us wish we were able to be "just like Millie." And maybe we can be with a little effort. ...more
In this follow-up to the previous picture book, KINDergarten, teacher Ms. Perry is proud of all the progress each of her students has made. But sometiIn this follow-up to the previous picture book, KINDergarten, teacher Ms. Perry is proud of all the progress each of her students has made. But sometimes it's hard for those youngsters to notice their growth and changes. When she realizes that one student, Mason, is disheartened and seems to be struggling, she posts a Growth Chart for the class on which they can post the areas they want to work on or change during the rest of the school year. As Mason sees what her classmates identify as areas of growth, she slowly feels reassured and can master skills such as tying her shoes and learning more of her ABCs. The digital artwork is filled with colors and images that are kid-friendly although not as appealing to adult tastes while the text reminds youngsters that some tasks are harder than others, individuals are different and learn at different paces, and sometimes it's necessary to ask for help. Probably all of us would love to have Ms. Perry as our teacher so that we could be a part of this positive, empowering community. ...more
Part of Operation Peter Pan, which brought 14,000 youngsters from Cuba to the United States from 1960 to 1962, Marisol Alabarce struggles to fit in atPart of Operation Peter Pan, which brought 14,000 youngsters from Cuba to the United States from 1960 to 1962, Marisol Alabarce struggles to fit in at her school and even in her new home. Despite the kindness and patience of her temporary family, Marisol can't help but feel homesick for Cuba, her parents, and everything that was familiar, including the food, the language, the plants and flowers. Brooklyn, New York is cold, and her classmates are less than welcoming. Eventually she finds solace in books, cooking, and introducing her foster parents to Cuban dishes. Since this graphic novel contains almost no words, readers experience the same sort of confusion that Marisol did during several scenes. The decision to tell her story in this way mimics the silence in which the once-exuberant girl initially lived in her new surroundings. This starkness and her depression are even more noticeable when contrasted with life back in Cuba. Double-page spreads mark the passage of time clearly, and there are touching scenes such as when her host mother attempts to comb her hair or when she experiences her first menstrual cycle or her sheer delight when finally, finally, finally, she receives a letter from her parents who are still in Cuba. My heart filled with happiness when she returned to school after a break and introduced herself to some of her classmates. Although this story captures some of the tropes found in immigration stories, it does so in a unique way while covering events with which most youngsters won't be familiar. ...more