With its bright orange cover and black and white warning flag, this humorous but informative book gives readers the lowdown on lice, those pesky littlWith its bright orange cover and black and white warning flag, this humorous but informative book gives readers the lowdown on lice, those pesky little creatures that seem to plague schoolchildren at the start of a new school year. The book's tone is respectful, not focusing on eradicating lice but appreciating them as they are. And since the book is intended for lice, it functions as a survival manual more than anything. Youngsters will be tickled by some of the facts presented here; for instance, how much weight a louse can lift, what it eats and how it poops, its lifespan, and some of the dangers to its wellbeing. Originally published in Spanish, this handy handbook will give readers with open minds a whole new perspective on the subject. (They'll probably still be scratching their itchy heads in sympathy as they read, though.)...more
Featuring colorful digital illustrations and abundant food, this unique take on Ramadan allows readers to have a glimpse of how various families livinFeaturing colorful digital illustrations and abundant food, this unique take on Ramadan allows readers to have a glimpse of how various families living on one winding road celebrate iftar. Of course, as is the case with holidays, even familiar ones such as Halloween or Thanksgiving, not every family does something special for that month. The book explains Ramadan and provides 25 delicious dishes and recipes from different countries, including carrot salad, rose milkshake, lamb stir-fry, and lentil and chickpea soup. The recipes are gathered together as part of the back matter, lip-smacking, tastebud tingling dishes that will tempt even the pickiest eater. YUM! YUM! YUM!...more
I continue to be impressed with this publishing house's efforts to keep certain cultural traditions alive while honoring the Irish Travellers. TranscrI continue to be impressed with this publishing house's efforts to keep certain cultural traditions alive while honoring the Irish Travellers. Transcribed from a recording of an oral storyteller, this tale shows the cunning nature of the king of the Travellers who escapes into the woods with his grandchildren when soldiers threaten to arrest those who refuse to pay the taxes the royal family demands. He finds a friend in a fairy queen, who transforms them into leprechauns. What he does next with the special powers she gives to him may surprise some readers while delighting others. The illustrations that accompany this engaging tale are just as enchanting as the story itself and how it is told, retaining the magic and speech patterns of the teller. The lines about how the queen felt about this new land are humorous, of course, as she gets exactly what she deserves, and those Travellers have the last laugh. ...more
Poetic lines in English and Spanish complement sparce natural elements of the facing pages in this interesting but somewhat baffling book [2.5 for me!Poetic lines in English and Spanish complement sparce natural elements of the facing pages in this interesting but somewhat baffling book [2.5 for me!]. The first image, a blue leaf with veins running through it, may prompt reflections about journeys and their commonalities. The following images consist of bushes, trees, branches, and leaves, perhaps all intended to encourage readers to stop for a moment, think, and appreciate what lies before them. I'm not completely sure. I liked the artwork, which resembles stamped colors or some version of woodcuts, but I'm not sure who the intended audience for this one is. ...more
Originally published in Spain, this thoughtful examination of death and the afterlife [3.5 for me!] features a granddaughter whose grandmother teachesOriginally published in Spain, this thoughtful examination of death and the afterlife [3.5 for me!] features a granddaughter whose grandmother teaches her about the beauty of nature and the importance of observing the world around her. As she learns from the elderly woman, the girl, who is the book's narrator, comes to learn some of its secrets, including the distinct songs of birds as well as the different colors worn by the males and females of various species. She also makes note of the colorful butterflies and flowers in the nearby meadows, and the girl becomes increasingly skilled in distinguishing bird sounds, even hearing the call of an owl one evening. It's clear that her grandmother has very little time left as she's described as "very old by now, and could hardly hear, hardly see, and hardly move at all" (unpaged). Knowing her time is dwindling, she tells the girl that she will fly around her when she dies. When the time comes, she's preoccupied and at first thinks little about a swallow passing by. But then she realizes its significances, recalls all that her grandmother has taught her, and considers how she too will someday "fly with a butterfly's wings" (unpaged). This is a lovely homage to the connections between generations as well as the learning that is passed down from an elder to a child. The artwork consists of thin, misty outlines of shapes and faces as well as bountiful reds, pinks, and blues for the birds, flowers, and butterflies. There's also a red thread that links between the grandmother's sewing project and some of those birds. This picture book could offer comfort to someone grieving a loss since it contains lovely memories of time spent together and also offers hope or some expectation that life goes on, although it might take a different form. ...more
Originally published in Portuguese, this picture book features a narrator who wishes to change or fix how stories end. The text proceeds to list all tOriginally published in Portuguese, this picture book features a narrator who wishes to change or fix how stories end. The text proceeds to list all the problems with certain endings such as that they are too sad, too complicated, or maybe even too silly. After celebrating the joy of stories, the narrator then proceeds to stories don't really have to end even when they're over. I suppose, like many of us, the stories can continue in a reader's imagination. As I pondered the premise in this book, I reminded myself that when some of my students express dislike for how a story ends or wonder what happens next, I often tell them that I have no problem with an unresolved ending since I continue the story in my own imagination as I would like it to be. This book has unique artwork with some absurd drawings and some panels that are the size of thumbnail sketches. It won't be for everyone, but it does encourage creativity and thinking for oneself as well as celebrating the joy and possibilities of storytelling. ...more
Although this book by a well-known Hungarian author had flown under my radar, I requested it from the library and began reading it. Although the beginAlthough this book by a well-known Hungarian author had flown under my radar, I requested it from the library and began reading it. Although the beginning was a bit slow, the cover initially off-putting, and some of the characters irritating, I was quickly drawn into the story. As more of the background and secrets of Emerence Szerebas, an elderly peasant woman who becomes the housekeeper for the narrator, presumably the author. Hardworking, illiterate, stubborn, and quite secretive, Emerence assumes an important part of her life, lecturing her, making things easier by performing mundane tasks. Slowly, a relationship between the two women forms although it's never as close as that between Emerence and the family dog, Viola. Emerence shares some of the stories from her past, even the importance of Viola's name. With each revelation, it seems as though yet another layer of this intriguing woman has been peeled back, and finally, the narrator is granted a glimpse--only one--into Emerence's flat, a place that no one has been allowed to enter, and a haven for nine cats that she's befriended. Promises are made, but when health issues force Emerence to be housebound and the narrator has other obligations, including publicity and public recognition for her writing, those promises are not kept, leading to betrayal and revelations. This book has touched me deeply, making me consider how I live my own life and whether it's ever possible to depend completely on others to carry out one's wishes. The gradual unveiling of various parts of Emerence's life kept me reading avidly, and of course, I put myself in the shoes of both the narrator and the housekeeper as I wondered what actions I might have taken and what mistakes I might have made. There's much to think about after finishing this story....more
It can be hard to get a handle on emotions, but Rajiv has a savvy father who knows just what to do when his son starts acting out, even frightening thIt can be hard to get a handle on emotions, but Rajiv has a savvy father who knows just what to do when his son starts acting out, even frightening the family dog. The boy isn't sure what has caused him to feel so angry, but eventually he is able to identify the source of his feelings. The boy and his father climb a tree, look at the stars, and his father points out constellations and other pictures that fill the night sky. When an image appears that lets him pinpoint the origin of that anger, Rajiv flinches, not wanting to see it or feel it again, but his father reminds him that emotions guide actions. Even on a cloudy day, understanding and awareness will come if he remains patient. This unusual approach to self-regulation and feelings could be quite helpful for many youngsters. The artwork, created with ink, watercolor, and crayon, and digitally finished, is colorful, intense, and expressive, capturing the heavens and the stars effectively. ...more
A diverse collection of animals gather together for a picnic featuring cake. But an eagle swoops down and makes off with the picnic blanket and everytA diverse collection of animals gather together for a picnic featuring cake. But an eagle swoops down and makes off with the picnic blanket and everything that's been laid out on it. Off the animals go, determined to find their stolen property. This wordless picture book, originally published in Dutch, takes young readers on a journey, up and down a mountain where they meet various other animals who have spotted their missing stuff, including that cake and the cake cover. Youngsters will enjoy trying to find the objects and noticing the change in the guest list for this outdoor celebration. I loved looking closer at the artwork and following that mouse family. The mother mouse looks so tired and so relieved, and yes, there seems to be plenty of cake, freshly baked, for everyone. ...more
Originally published in German, this relatable picture book follows a friendly dragon who really, really, really needs to use the bathroom. It's a ratOriginally published in German, this relatable picture book follows a friendly dragon who really, really, really needs to use the bathroom. It's a rather dreary rainy day, and the narrator's solitude is interrupted by the arrival of Fred, who has dropped by for sausages, coffee, and a bit of reading. When the narrator can be heard peeing in the bathroom, Fred realizes that he, too, needs to go. But the space is too small, and the two friends head outside, looking for a place where Fred can do what he needs to do. Nothing seems right--not the outdoor fountain or a tree where the narrator's dog lifts its leg. The illustrations, filled with soft yellows, greens, and grays, all rather misty, show Fred's increasing desperation as he clutches his crotch in an effort to hold on until he finds just the right spot. Since there's nowhere private or nowhere that suits his needs, he flies far away to his own private toilet. Despite the absurdity of it all, many young readers will be able to relate to Fred's plight and the matter-of-fact way the narrator reacts to all this. Hearing others tinkle, a toilet flush or the rain fall often have the effect of making urinating seem urgent. Giggles may result when youngsters notice the peeing statue in the town courtyard. ...more
Inspired by an adventure story he's reading, Raccoon decides to set off on one of his own--a trip around the world. As part of his preparation, he visInspired by an adventure story he's reading, Raccoon decides to set off on one of his own--a trip around the world. As part of his preparation, he visits four animal friends who suggest that he take along with him various provisions as well as each of them with their special skills. They load a boat borrowed from Badger and set off. They don't get very far, what with needing to stop to eat and play, and as night draws near, they decide to head back home since they miss parts of their comfortable routine. Content and thrilled with their adventure and "trip around the world," they vow to do it all again sometime. This gentle story reminds readers that they need not go far in order to have an adventure of their own and that sometimes adventures are best when they're shared with others. The soft colors and details in the artwork complement the story well, allowing readers to see the unique qualities of each animal friend. ...more
Originally published in German, this revisionist version of the classic Nativity story [3.5 for me!] might seem sacrilegious to some, but I found it pOriginally published in German, this revisionist version of the classic Nativity story [3.5 for me!] might seem sacrilegious to some, but I found it positively delightful and humorous since it offers the perspective of the sheep who are grazing in their fields at night when something strange happens. With the shepherds all missing and a bright light filling the field, the sheep decide to venture forth to see what's going on. After all, a goat has informed them of a special birth. The sheep themselves are all different: one wears a funny hat, one has a retainer, one has a stuffed-up nose, one has a cast, and one has an eye patch, for instance. They have all sorts of adventures and face plenty of danger on the way to Bethlehem. Although they don't see the baby they have traveled so far to see, they learn a valuable lesson from some camels and realize their flock is a lot smaller than they thought it was. The sly humor, the description of each sheep's personality, and the spot artwork all make this one work well. While a send-up of that traditional Christmas story, this book just might become a modern classic. I was quite entertained and chuckled along as I read various parts. ...more
I read the English version of this amusing picture book, and as someone who can barely see anything without her glasses, I can relate to Bear. The onlI read the English version of this amusing picture book, and as someone who can barely see anything without her glasses, I can relate to Bear. The only difference in Bear and me is that I never put my glasses down except when I'm sleeping. Bear misplaces this important accessory, which readers can easily see atop his head, and as he makes his way to Giraffe's place, where he thinks he left them, he sees some strange sights, including a crocodile. The illustrations of these "animals" are pitchperfect as readers can see how someone whose sight is limited might mistake common features such as trees or flowers for something else entirely. Once he meets up with Giraffe, Bear insists on showing him these strange sights, but now that he's wearing his glasses, the animals have disappeared. Once he takes them off again, he spots yet another group of animals. Originally published in the Netherlands, this picture book's use of plentiful white space and a page or two for each of the things he spots makes the story work well. After all, seeing clearly is everything. ...more
Originally published in French, this board book [2.5 for me!] would need little translation since the artwork and scenarios they depict are so relatabOriginally published in French, this board book [2.5 for me!] would need little translation since the artwork and scenarios they depict are so relatable for children. Most adults can recall mimicking a parent when they were young, and that's exactly what Lionel, a young lion cub, does. For every action his father takes on the left-hand page, Lionel tries to copy him on the facing right-hand page. This ranges from combing hair to playing hide-and-seek and then appearing again to run into each other's arms. The text is minimal, but warmth is present on every page. ...more
This inspiring story of resilience and determination is a 3.5 for me, offering a great example to those who claim that one person can't make a differeThis inspiring story of resilience and determination is a 3.5 for me, offering a great example to those who claim that one person can't make a difference and that some tasks are just too large to even begin to undertake. When a young girl sees pictures of how green and vibrant the mountain near where she lives once was, she becomes determined to transform the now-bleak landscape into what it once was. Starting small, she plants a pip or small fruit seed from her breakfast, and then when it fails to grow, following the advice of her grandfather, collects more pips from neighbors, and waters the soil. While not all of them survive, several do, giving her hope that green will soon cover the mountain. But a fierce storm destroys all her hard work. Does she give up? Nope. She starts again, growing the trees in a sheltered place until they are strong. Then, she and her grandfather haul them up the mountain, where they plant and stake them. The girl is proud of her work, but even someone as tireless as she can have a moment or two of doubt. But that doubt ends when she sees several villagers joining her, having been inspired by her example. This story is a great example of how good deeds and positive energy somehow encourage others to be and do better. The only aspect of the story that jarred me was the last line, which somehow didn't work as effectively as the rest of the text. The digital artwork consists of various shapes and sizes of plants and plentiful green, which is appropriate for the story's message and content. The gentleness of her grandfather and her own firm belief that she can make a difference are depicted perfectly here with soft shapes, bright eyes, and a proud stance. Add this picture book to a collection featuring real-life ecowarrior, Wangari Maathai. ...more
As is the case for many of us, the Prickletrims love nature but on their own terms. They like everything neatly trimmed and orderly. Nothing is out ofAs is the case for many of us, the Prickletrims love nature but on their own terms. They like everything neatly trimmed and orderly. Nothing is out of place, and plants and flowers are kept quite tamed. But when their gardener resigns in a huff, tired of being forced to tame what he considers to be unnecessary, the family must deal with the consequences. Suddenly, everything flourishes, and as the illustrations show, their world becomes green and lush. The artwork, created with graphite pencil and finished digitally, is quite eye-catching, especially as the once-tame garden overtakes the yard and even the interior of the house. There are distinct differences between the Prickletrims before the advance of their foliage and after, which leads to amusement on the part of readers, who are sure to be tickled by the size and perspective of certain images and the very notion of having to wade through all that greenery just to run errands. Interestingly, as their yard is allowed to grow, so do they--not in stature but in how they enjoy life more fully. The book title itself is clever with its multiple meanings and what it may hint at. ...more
Originally published in Sweden, this oddly appealing picture book follows two young birds through one of their typical days. Since it's narrated by LeOriginally published in Sweden, this oddly appealing picture book follows two young birds through one of their typical days. Since it's narrated by Lena, readers are treated to her unique perspective as she and her little brother Bo play dangerous games such as car chicken, climb trees and sing, enjoy worm pie [minus the worms, in Bo's case], imagine if their bodies were different, and pretend to be invisible. It's a very busy, albeit typical, day. The bird family and their daily experiences seem rather relatable, and the soft colors of the artwork are effective in capturing the birds' personalities. Youngsters might enjoy writing their own version of what a bird day might look like or even writing a story about how another animal or living thing such as a plant spends its day. ...more
This picture book, originally published in France, is a 2.5 for me. As is the case for many of us, Squirrel is on the look for a best friend. While ouThis picture book, originally published in France, is a 2.5 for me. As is the case for many of us, Squirrel is on the look for a best friend. While out walking one day, he meets Pock, a mushroom, and decides that they have a lot in common, even looking alike. Readers may be mystified by this contention since the two clearly do NOT look alike. Perhaps Squirrel is deceiving himself or perhaps he just really, really, really wants a best friend. Nevertheless, he proceeds to describe how their friendship grows over time as spend moments together. This idyllic existence is interrupted by the arrival of Moo, an insect-like creature, which prompts Squirrel to wonder if he might be a better best friend since they have even more in common. AGH! And then, to further complicate things, another possible best friend candidate arrives on the scene. Youngsters may enjoy discussing what happens next. Will Squirrel be able to have three best friends or choose one? The wry observations and lack of self-awareness make this one an interesting read, but the overall result didn't satisfy me. That might not be the case for its intended young audience, though, who may relate completely to having to choose a best friend, the significance of such a choice, and the necessity to think that best friends share everything and have many things in common....more
Originally published in Italy, this graphic novel will have great appeal for youngsters who love to dance, especially those who are drawn to ballet. MOriginally published in Italy, this graphic novel will have great appeal for youngsters who love to dance, especially those who are drawn to ballet. Many of them will relate to Ellie [Electra], the book's protagonist, and the deep desire she has to dance even though her interests clash with her mother's. After Ellie's family moves to a new town, her mother nudges her to try various sports in order to make friends. But not a single sport appeals to Ellie, and to make matters worse, she sucks at all of them. When she sees a ballet for the very first time and a new classmate, Nicholas, introduces her to his friends, Ellie realizes she's found her niche and a way forward. But persuading her mother will take all her skills. As is typical with these sorts of stories, Ellie must deal with a bully, figure out what she wants, and then fight for what she wants. But if she could possibly dance on stage, why, that would be worth all the trouble. The book features some interesting secondary characters, including Ellie's supportive cousin, Chloe, and a relatable plot. Fans of children's ballet will appreciate the story and the artwork as well as the depictions of all the practice sessions although Ellie's success comes a little faster than might be believable. ...more
Ah, there's such poignancy and such a great message about resilience and uniqueness in this picture book originally published in 1963 and now reissuedAh, there's such poignancy and such a great message about resilience and uniqueness in this picture book originally published in 1963 and now reissued. This one, which deservedly won the Kate Greenaway Medal, was the first picture book by its creator, John Burningham, and the colors, large shapes, and thick outlines make it noticeable and filled with appeal for young readers. The plot concerns a pair of geese called the Plumpsters, who are raising a brood of goslings in the marsh. As the six eggs hatch and the babies grow, it quickly becomes apparent that one gosling, Borka, has no feathers. A doctor suggests that her mother knit her some in order to keep warm, which is what the mother does. All is fine until the temperatures drop, and the geese fly away, leaving Borka behind. She wanders about, lost and confused, until she meets up with a dog and a boat captain who befriend her, allowing her to come aboard and travel with them to London. There, she finds a new home in the Kew Gardens. Youngsters will be amused by the images of Borka in her handknitted sweater but also be touched by the kindness and serendipity that help her survive. As refreshing, heartfelt and entertaining as when it was first published, this picture book is a tonic for those who are convinced that the world is full of cruel, hostile individuals. ...more