Moni Ritchie Hadley's Blog: Highly Recommended!, page 10

Doña Gracia Saved Worlds

Dona Gracia Saved Worlds by Bonni Goldberg

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A beautiful tribute to Doña Gracia, who led secret Jews to safe countries at a time in history when practicing in secrecy seemed the only option. The historic content keeps the pages turning, and Alida Massari's tapestry-filled illustrations keep you lingering. Storytelling at its finest!



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Copy That, Copy Cat!: Inventions Inspired by Animals

Copy That, Copy Cat!: Inventions Inspired by Animals by Katrina Tangen

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


An excellent book about how we study plants and animals and borrow from nature to inspire our own inventions. Katrina Tangen engages readers with lively rhyme, and Giulia Orecchia's colorful collage and patterns sing along with every line! Interactive flip tabs provide additional information. Perfect for curious kids and classroom STEM discussions.



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Wishes of the World

Wishes of the World by Khoa Le

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Language and illustrations entwine perfectly in this beautiful representation of wishes around the world. Melissa Stiveson's words are lyrical and visual, and Khoa le's illustrations take you on a journey through countries such as Guatemala, Japan, and France, to name a few. Backmatter offers additional information. This picture book would make a lovely gift or addition to classroom libraries.



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Heroes Don't Have to Fly

Scooter the Word Bird by Shannon Anderson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Words can hurt. Words can lead to new ideas, and words can heal. The message of this book reveals as we follow Scooter, an aspiring word-slinging bird, on a mission to fly and spread the message that words are powerful. But what's a word bird to do if he can't fly? Educational and fun, this story is a perfect discussion starter. The illustrations are vibrant and colorful, sure to engage young readers!



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The Glow Show

The Glow Show by Susi Schaefer

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Glow, a bioluminescent squid loves to twirl and take the spotlight for his fans in the deep. He heads to more shallow waters to shine even brighter, leaving his friends behind. His journey back leads him to discover what is truly important and how to really put on a show! Friendship themes take center stage in this adorable story. The illustrations are fun and inviting. The end includes squid facts, perfect for science integrations in the classroom.



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Bing Bang Pling

Bing Bang Pling by Deb Adamson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


There's so much to love about this board book about a young girl building with her family. Deb Adamson does a great job using rhythm, rhyme, and onomatopoeias to deliver the messages of family togetherness, gender neutrality, and child empowerment. Candace Hartsough's illustrations are colorful and engaging. Check out this book to see what the family has made!



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Night Market Rescue

Night Market Rescue by Charlotte Cheng

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A story about belonging, Charlotte Cheng cleverly introduces the experience of a Taiwanese night market with the story of GoGo, a stray dog who follows scents and sounds to friendship. Illustrator Amber Ren brings this story alive with glossy pavements and a sparkling atmosphere highlighting the evening's magic. This book transcends the multicultural aspect offering themes that all kids can relate to. Highly recommended!



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Deep, Deep Down

Deep, Deep Down: The Secret Underwater Poetry of the Mariana Trench by Lydia Lukidis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Are you ready for an adventure? Hop on the submersible and explore underwater creatures of the dark where food is scarce, and the ocean water pressure is crushing. Lukidis offers an engaging lyrical read along with educational information about sea animals dwelling in the Mariana Trench. At every turn of the page, Calle's illustrations of the cool blue deep are engagingly beautiful. Highly recommended. Perfect for classrooms and all kids intrigued by the ocean's mysteries.



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Our Roof is Blue

Our Roof Is Blue by Sara E. Echenique

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A touching story about a family who lives through a hurricane: a young girl narrates the loss of the home's blue roof, her feeling of safety, and her brother's voice. Determined to help him regain it, she puts on her "bravery" and doesn't give up. Based on Puerto Rico's Hurricane Hugo, this story explores the themes of family, community, and climate change. Great for the classroom!



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Daddy & Me, Side by Side

Daddy & Me, Side by Side by Pierce Freelon

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A boy and his daddy share camping experiences while retracing memories of Pop-Pop. Soft blue and green tones set a soothing mood for a poignant and loving story. Great for children who have lost a grandparent or love stories with strong father-son relationships.



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