1
Farmhouse

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4.52 avg rating — 2,612 ratings
"Farmhouse by Sophia Blackall will take readers on a journey into the late 1880s - early 1990s to join in the daily activities of a normal family living on a farm, a family of twelve children, that is! What a great way to learn about the family structure on our American farms in the 19th century and early 20th century.

This story is based on the writer’s purchase of an old farm in New York that also provided her a falling-down house hidden in the brambles. Inside the farm, Blackall gathered materials to help her recreate a journal or storybook, of such, for the family that lived there. As she recreates her story, she tells of the vibrant life within the family for a mom and dad and the twelve children. As they age, she progresses to tell the story of a withering house and new inhabitants! So fascinating! Blackall wishes, in writing this story, to honor the history of farm families and farmhouse across America. She researched this family living on this farm and the land itself for generations that preceded, and so, this story is very authentic to this family and others alike.

The story is poetic and has rhyming words throughout. The words evoke a happy memory of this time in history where the American family shared work duties, played hard, cared for each other, and dreamed their dreams – no TV / Internet / cell phones!!!

To illustrate the book, she used the back of wallpaper as her background and added layers of items from the house and family, collage style. The detail is incredible; readers can spend hours looking at the pictures in this book – imaging and then perhaps wanting to research this time in history. Blackall encourages readers to look into their own history and tell stories to keep, cherish, and pass along to family generations to come.
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Carol rated it 5 stars
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2
Berry Song

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4.42 avg rating — 2,159 ratings
"Michaela Goade has authored and illustrated another incredible picture book for all ages! The artwork in this book is stunning! The tones set the stage for a comfortable, peaceful read. The watercolor images support the text so well. This is a real dedication to the wonders of our world.

The author writes this story as a dedication to her heritage and an appeal to protect our surroundings. She tells a story that has been carried down from ages to ages and to future ages. Her message is to care for the earth, give thanks to the earth, and understand how we are a part of the earth.

Berry Song expertly tells the story of the Tlingit culture as they gather berries each year. The author has a two-page section in the back of the book with additional information to support this story. Caldecott medalist? For sure!"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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3
Hot Dog

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4.28 avg rating — 3,536 ratings
"Congratulations to Hot Dog for winning the Caldecott Gold Medal 2023. How do you think Mr. Salati feels about winning this award? This will make a nice gift for my granddaughter. Here is what I prepared for her, as a study guide:

Background information: The author - illustrator is Doug Salati. He has illustrated many books for other writers, but Hot Dog is his FIRST book all by himself! Once upon a time, Mr. Salati saw a dachshund playing on the beach, for real! The dog’s name was Charlie! Would you believe this was ten years ago! How do you think the dog felt playing? On the way back to his home in the city, Mr. Salati drew sketches of Charlie in a notebook. Ten years later, he wrote and illustrated this story about a dog just like Charlie.

*Can you tell the three parts to this book?
*In the city what are the colors? Why are they hot? Are these pictures framed? Why?
*At the beach what are the colors? Why are they cool? Are these pictures framed? Why?
*In the city, why do the pictures reaching upwards? How do these pictures make you feel?
*At the beach, why do the pictures stretch lenghtwise? How do these pictures make you feel?
*In the city, the dog STOPS in the middle of the street! Is the lady kind or mean to the dog when this happens. What does she do?
*There are very few words in the book at the beach. Can you tell the beach story?
*When it is time to leave the beach what does the dog take with him? What does the lady put in her bag?
*In part three of the story, when the lady and dog are back in the kitchen, what book is this like? (Hint: Good Night is in the title.)
*When the dog goes to bed, how many rocks / seashells are on this page? What do you think that number means to Mr. Salati?
*Why does the text move around on pages throughout the book? Are there words that seem to bring on wind?
*How did this trip to the beach make the lady and her dog feel? Do you like to take trips?"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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4
Gibberish

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4.39 avg rating — 1,491 ratings
"The title is perfect...Gibberish. Readers will quickly figure out what that means. Young Vo has written and illustrated a book that is perfect for all ages. A little boy is new to America Anywhere, and he is off to his new school. He does not understand any English and no one understands him. They all speak Gibberish! Until all of a sudden, Julie jumps out of a tree. She becomes a good friend to the him. She turns his world around from one of loneliness and sadness to great joy and happiness. They reciprocate teaching each other their own language. Priceless story! The pictures are essential to the telling of this story."
Carol rated it 5 stars
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5
The Three Billy Goats Gruff

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4.34 avg rating — 2,717 ratings
"Hasn't everyone heard or read the story The Three Billy Goats Gruff. Here is a new version, written and illustrated, respectively, by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen! Oh what a fabulous literary team!

Just look at that monstruous creature, the troll, lurking under the bridge. He is rather disgusting but ever so funny! Kids will be laughing right away. The story generally follows the original version, the one told over 300 years ago, or more, with a few surprises along the way! And the final page will surprise YOU!

The pictures are in fine Klassen style. The colors of the sky, waterway, bridge and land pop out in gradient tones of blue, green, brown, and tan. Readers are introduced to hilarious delicacies such as Goat Flambe and Goat Clambake. There's plenty of voice interactions between the troll and the goats - great for reader's theater! I'd say the book would appeal to readers 3 - 103!"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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6
Knight Owl (The Knight Owl,...

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4.35 avg rating — 10,791 ratings
"Nothing better than late night pizza parties. That's what Christopher Denise was thinking when he wrote and illustrated the book Knight Owl! Little owl wants so badly to be a Knight Owl. When he finally makes it, he must patrol and protect the kingdom by night, as one by one the other knights begin to disappear. Knight Owl is a problem solver - a real thinker on the spot!

One night, he is faced with peril. How does he handle this dangerous situation. The illustrations and use of lighting are delightful. A real sweet and chuckle-worthy story! "
Carol rated it 5 stars
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7
Nigel and the Moon

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4.31 avg rating — 1,227 ratings
"Nigel and the Moon should be put in the hands of every child as they begin to think and talk about what they want to be when they grow up. A real character building story. And isn't it great that we can all talk to the moon-telling our secrets and sharing our dreams!

The illustrations are hand painted to perfection. Heart warming! Brought a tear of joy to my eyes when I read this book! I will share with the moon that this could be Caldecott Gold! "
Carol rated it 5 stars
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8
Blue: A History of the Colo...

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4.42 avg rating — 1,479 ratings
"Blue is a fascinating, well researched book. The illustrations are fabulous! The final double-spread picture is amazing - children flying into the clouds with open hands and open minds! This year's crop of books continuously show and talk about children spreading their wings to learn and reach higher ground and achievements! Perhaps, it is "clear as the sky is blue" that this book might be a Caldecott candidate!"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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9
Endlessly Ever After: Pick ...

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4.37 avg rating — 1,451 ratings
"Skip as the author suggests to readers throughout the book to create your own chain of events. Little Red Riding Hood is sent to see Grandma, who is ill. Along the way, she meets many characters, some being Snow White and the Dwarfs, a Wicked Queen, Jack, the Woodman, and his Goose, a Pig, Hansel and Gretel, a Witch, and of course, a Big Bad Wolf. The action throughout the story takes place on the path to Grandmas and off the path! That is, depending on where the reader thinks Little Red Riding Hood should go!

This is a poetry book with a collection of fairy tales rolled into one fairy tale! A 5 to 8-year-old (and anyone else) will have a great time telling, retelling, and changing endings to this book. There are many classic fairy tales for the reader to recreate. For the first read, it is good to read this book with a child. Some of the endings are bright and cheerful; some are not so much! Of course, a reader can retrack and change the dark ending to safer ones. A lot of What ifs, Red Riding Hood went this way instead of that way. A great book for discussions of safe and unsafe!

This book opens the discussion of “What is the moral of this story?” The pictures are large and very engaging…. large eyes, teeth, and dark woods, with bright paths to this way and that."
Carol rated it 5 stars
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10
Nana, Nenek & Nina

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4.27 avg rating — 420 ratings
"In the 1800s families lived in the same communities. Today, a child might have grandparents scattered across the country. Or even on the opposite sides of the world. Here is a great book where Nina has grandmothers living across the opposite oceans. She packs to go see them, which takes great concentration - one lives where it is cold and the other lives in a hot climate. She visits each grandmother on adjacent pages of the book. The pictures, story, and labels relate to the same idea on two page spread, such as what to wear for the day or what to eat for dinner. Readers can compare cultures, foods, climates, and activities. Liza Ferneyhough grew up with multiple passports and so this is somewhat her own personal story, perhaps!"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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11
Love in the Library

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4.47 avg rating — 3,774 ratings
"Right away the end pages shout danger. The illustrations are hazy but beautiful – like looking back through the very faded scrapbook of an unbelievable experience.
This is a historical piece of fiction in the form of a children’s book about a WWII prison camp, housing Japanese Americans, under uncomfortable and unjust conditions.

On page one, Tama finds comfort in this unjust environment, walking to the library, past the barb wire boundary of the onlooking internment guards. Three cheers for the library! Tama worked in the library. In a frightful prison camp, the books were a source of comfort, as Tama described, “their pages bursting with color and light, love and fairness.”

Through this true story, the author gives tribute to her grandparents who met at the Minidoka Camp in Idaho in the 1940s. They shared feelings of being scared, sad, confused, frustrated, lonely and hopeful. She writes about the miracle of love that pulled her grandparents through this difficult time.
The author’s note at the back of the book is a statement that the miracle of love can defy hatred in a world of racism.
"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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12
Big and Small and In-Between

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4.18 avg rating — 477 ratings
"Big and Small and In-Between is a fantastic concept book for young children. The book examines the world of everyday, ordinary things, as well as thoughts and feelings, from the perspective of children. This book offers the reader and listener opportunity to discuss what is happening on each page or about to happen. Each part, chapter, or different concept begins with a unique paper-folding.

Part one takes a good look at big things. In part two, in-between things and concepts are examined. Part three takes a micro look at the world. And part four combines the big, small, and in-between into everything with the reader in the middle!

The story and pictures suggest action and at other times, stillness. This book offers a good discussion of day and night. Pictures and words focus on sensory play for sounds, sights, touching, tasting, and smells. Language development is outstanding – words like rise, pattern, chip, rags, bravery, floaty, talent, fuzziness, promise, wiggles and waggles, losing, oomph, droopy, swell, smushed, gooey, plip, sip, sparkler, fizzing, bittiest. An all-around wonderful book!"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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13
The World Belonged to Us

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4.47 avg rating — 1,164 ratings
"A story of friendship, community, sharing, and life in the neighborhood. School is out for the summer and what is there to do? A great concept book for playtime ideas. Illustrations do a wonderful job of showing that the kids on this block are happy, resourceful, and resilient. "
Carol rated it 5 stars
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14
People Are Wild

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4.13 avg rating — 354 ratings
"Outstanding! Sending a copy to a 2-year-old granddaughter! That is a testimony of a great book! How fun for a reader and little listener or a room full of listeners to share this book together! The reader will find such humor in the story - illustrations, and the listener(s) will find the book a great laugh-aloud!

How might wild animals think about people, when they see them? This book gives a delightful "pretend" explanation. In the back of the book, the author includes very interesting facts about each of the animals pictured in the story and includes a world map as to where these animals can be found."
Carol rated it 5 stars
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15
Out of a Jar

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4.42 avg rating — 1,515 ratings
"Kudos to Deborah Marcero, writer and illustrator of Out of a Jar.
Llewellyn is a little bunny in this story, but he has feelings just like little boys and girls have. He loves scary books, jokes, and cartoons. Anything “scary” hooks little readers, right away!

This story progresses day by day showing powerful emotions and big feelings a little bunny (little boy or girl) could possibly experience. The little bunny just cannot handle these emotions, so he locks them one by one in a jar – a separate jar, that is, and stacks them in a closet! Marcero’s artwork portrays each feeling quite delightfully, and of course through the eyes of a bunny!

Llewellyn is about to learn some valuable lessons in this book. And, hopefully little boys and girls can learn them, too.

The world is a colorful palette and so is Deborah Marcero’s! "
Carol rated it 5 stars
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16
I Love You Because I Love Y...

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4.19 avg rating — 535 ratings
"This book shows parental love, grandparent love, caretaker love, and the love of friends and sweethearts. The people in the story are happy and radiate love. I believe even a baby would love to look at the pages of this book and hear the beautiful, poetic words.

The last two-page spread shows all kinds of love for all kinds of ages. It seems the illustrator shows a circle of love yet it is heart-shaped, especially on the book cover."
Carol rated it 5 stars
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17
Where Butterflies Fill the Sky

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3.86 avg rating — 495 ratings
"Where Butterflies Fill the Sky is a remarkable story about immigration, family bonds, and hope for a better life.

Zahra tells her story of having to leaving Kuwait and coming to America. She explains immigration very nicely, so that young readers can begin to understand how immigration works. Her illustrations are simplistic line drawings and are filled with an array of colors. Readers will begin to see unusual images throughout the pages of this book. Several pages of back matter explain the symbolisms used throughout the story. My well wishes for this story to reach top awards in children's literature -- perhaps even the Gold Caldecott Medal. "
Carol rated it 5 stars
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18
To the Front!: Clara Barton...

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4.03 avg rating — 239 ratings
"The illustrator has surely studied real photos of life during the Civil War and on the war fields. Christopher Cyr’s illustrations resemble real-time photographs in the war fields. Colors, tone, and light or the lack of light reveal a war played out at night, nightfall, or in the early hours of day. Candles lit the way for surgeons. Clara Barton’s face, body, and hands are often lit to show her as the angel of the battle-field. And that she was.

A book well created – one to be read by ages 7 to 107. "
Carol rated it 5 stars
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19
Because Claudette

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4.21 avg rating — 415 ratings
"A success story about the early life of Claudette Colvin, American pioneer of the 1950s civil rights movement. She refused to sit in the back of the bus and was arrested. She fought for change. And change did happen, thanks to the unified action of her and many others.

The portraitures in this book are so realistic. Faces and hands are genuinely depicted – realistically representing heroes in the civil rights activism.

A good biography for a children’s library on key people in American History. Claudette Colvin was a good student. She studied history in the classroom, but she also found her very own key-role chapter in the history books.
"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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20
The Treasure Box

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4.47 avg rating — 265 ratings
"How common is it for children to have treasure boxes and keep found things just to share with their grandparents? The thoughts of this warms my soul! My children had treasure boxes, and I knew not go tidying up and cleaning out things, that seemed like another piece of junk! Even a stick can be a treasure as is seen and told in this story, The Treasure Box.

To read this book, I needed a paper tissue. To go a step further and talk about this book, I need more tissues. This is a tender story about the special loving bond between grandparents and their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. I hope this story rings true in many families.

The illustrations pay great homage to a story well worded. Some illustrations are full page, and some are a full-double spread. The rich colors, texture, and details from the lacey doilies to the lacey branches of the tree limbs are wonderful. The text and pictures weave together a tale of rich family connections.
"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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21
I Am Golden

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4.26 avg rating — 1,209 ratings
"The theme of this story is immigration. Coming to America, gaining citizenship, and raising a family offers bright golden moments but trying experiences, too. At home, children learn and cherish their roots and heritage, culture, and customs. But, as the author says, “ In this upside-down world, clever child, you have become our teacher and translator.” What an excellent concept. There are so many outside-the-home experiences that can offer challenges. Success depends on how a child is raised to handle these day-to-day trying moments. Teach the child, “I am golden.”

Though this message is directed to immigrant families and children, it rings true to everyone and every child. We are all different. We must never feel belittled or alone. People are stronger when they join hands and work together. We carry a golden flame inside of us, and it is always with us. Find that flame.

What a poetic inspirational story. I hope all readers will sense the golden flame and power in their own selves.

The story, in text and illustrations, does a beautiful job of showcasing the customs and culture of the Chinese American family. A note from the author and illustrator gives a real insight into the joys and perils of the Chinese American immigration process.
"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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22
Only One

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4.10 avg rating — 197 ratings
"Only One is a perfect book to teach young children about our planet and how it fits into a larger universe. What is the basic meaning of only one? It references our Earth. We have only one planet to take care of. Author, Debora Hopinson, kindly describes our planet as home to many creatures. She defines the human inhabitants on Earth as unique and different – even our feelings, brains, and fingerprints are different. But we are all a part of one diverse, human family. Hopinson challenges us to work together to care for, love and preserve our planet. This is an excellent Earth Day celebration book.

The illustrations support Hopinson’s story about our world, galaxy, and planet. The pictures are rich in color and detail. This book belongs in the science section of every library. Children will enjoy talking about our role in caring for our planet.

The end page has an excellent set of weblinks to study more about caring for, loving, and preserving our planet.
"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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23
Ain't Burned All the Bright

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4.40 avg rating — 17,659 ratings
"What is your oxygen mask from the past, present, and for the future? Jason Reynolds and Jason Griffin encourage readers to consider this."
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24
Loujain Dreams of Sunflowers

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4.29 avg rating — 360 ratings
"Here is the true story of Loujain Alhathloul – a young girl with dreams and goals to do things that males can do in their families, schools, careers, and social places. In the book, Loujain is symbolically displayed as a young girl wanting to wear wings, like her baba does, and fly. Her parents finally agree that she should and that they will help her do this. Though she has a wonderful experience, she gets in trouble for challenging existing laws prohibiting girls to fly, achieve, and excel. The symbolism of flying is representative of her freedom of rights as a human being.

The vivid and bright illustrations are delightful, especially as Loujain flies over “the carpet of a million sunflowers.” The colors within the book portray feelings of success for Loujain.

In truth, this is a story about the global women’s right movement. For real, Loujain is under house arrest for her fight for freedom. This is the story of Loujain as a campaign to #FreeLoujain in Saudia Arabia.

A beautifully illustrated plea for women’s rights and freedom, the book is truly inspirational and a great read for ages 7 to 107!"
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25
The Great Zapfino

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4.01 avg rating — 617 ratings
"BEHOLD!!! This comical story begins with a bubble announcement by the ringmaster at the circus, setting the stage for the amazing dare devil, Zapfino. But Zapfino is too scared to complete the task at hand! Cartoon-style penciled sketches tell a story that kids will want to view, over and over again! Circus goers and readers will ponder where did Zapfino go! He was to offer the crowd an amazing view of him falling to a tiny trampoline ten terrifying stories below. How did he retreat so quickly and why did he not complete the challenge?

He, no doubt, thinks to himself he must find another job!

Readers will be proud of Zapfino as he learns to face his fears and overcome his acrophobia. When his life truly is in danger, three cheers for Zapfino’s gigantic accomplishment. Due to a heroic act, he was awarded the big Z to wear on his uniform. See how Zapfino finds purpose and learns to overcome his fears!

What becomes of Zapfino? Success, satisfaction, and strength in character! And just possibly, this book can be a guide for readers to stay strong and committed to confronting their fears! Strength of character and success is just around the corner! "
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26
A History of Me

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4.61 avg rating — 411 ratings
"Consider the end sheets of a book as a glimpse of what’s to come and how the story will resonate forward in time. The end sheets of A History of Me are purple, perhaps indicating a Grand Prize Purple Ribbon for a story of courage, freedom, and personal strength.

As I read this story, I think of the struggles of black male in society. Now, a fabulous look at what the black female might experience. Here is a great story based on the author's life as well as her daughter.

A quote that resonates in this book, “Sit up straight and fly high into the sky. Because…” And because…. is the reason why this book should be read, discussed, and ingested by everyone at an early age of understanding - possibly second or third grade.

A History of Me values education and everyone’s right to receive a good education. On the final pages of the book, the drawing of a girl in the mirror alongside four generations of women in her family is a powerful statement of strength and courage – for the past, present, and future!"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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27
Snow Angel, Sand Angel

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3.83 avg rating — 316 ratings
"A teacher assignment is to make season dioramas. From a hat, Claire hoped NOT to pick WINTER. And lo and behold, she picked WINTER. But she cannot create winter as she has in her dreams. So, dad takes the family to the mountains to see Hawaiian snow. This crusty, hard snow did not meet her expectations. Someday, someday, she wishes to live in a world of snow as she imagines in her dreams.
Someday, the little girl thinks she will grow up, move away, and enjoy real snow.
On the following day after the trip to the mountains, the family goes to the beach to play in the sand. Claire begins to pretend the sand is snow. The family builds a sandy snowman, throw sand balls, and makes sand angels. But soon, it is time to hit the waves and warm waters. The family begins to look at what is special about their homeland and think about how their ancestors, likewise, valued this home. The little girl begins to understand the thought, “Bloom Where You Are Planted!” She realizes her importance in keeping her home special for the generations to come.
As night falls, she is no longer sad. She has learned to see and appreciate her homeland for its countless natural treasures.
The illustrations and storyline work well together, bursting with the rich colors of the natural, sundrenched world of Hawaii. The illustrator has done a beautiful job depicting a wealth of culture in the Hawaiian Islands.
"
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28
Color the Sky

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3.72 avg rating — 253 ratings
"The illustrations and story encourage readers to spread their wings and soar, as well.

This is such a positive, happy story for early readers. The colors of the birds in the sky are rich and vivid, using pastels and charcoal. The double-spread pages offer readers the imaginative play of flying with the birds. A tribute to nature.
"
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29
Not Enough Lollipops

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3.72 avg rating — 443 ratings
"Not Enough Lollipops is a fun read (a great classroom read aloud) by Megan Maynor and Micah Player. The cover of the book sets the stage for a great attention grabber. Alice has a basket full of lollipops. This is a dream come true. Right? Well, maybe not! When everyone in the school finds out she has just won the school raffle for a basket of lollipops, Alice is faced with a few problems! It seems everyone has a say on how Alice should share these lollipops. She should share, right?

This is a humorous story. It can teach children the value of sharing and problem-solving. What a great book to start the new school year off! And maybe a lollipop for each student might be nice! The colors used in the book are mouthwatering! The lollipops are bright and look delicious. Use of grammar syntax and semantics as Alice and the other children speak is a great way for students to learn correct grammar style!

The story is open-ended. If there are enough lollipops for each student to have ONE. What if there are EXTRAS? Great discussion point with children!"
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30
I Am Thinking My Life

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4.14 avg rating — 221 ratings
"The illustrations of this book are incredible. The illustrator spends part of each year travelling in her van across the country. Obviously, she packs so much of what she sees into her illustrations. And the rest, she pours pure imagination into her drawings - a delight to young readers, or all readers, for that matter!

The author of I Am Thinking My Life packs a punch of these six powerful words in the book, "I Think, I See, I Am." This book is an ode to the power of positive thinking....Every day! But sometimes, the little girl in this story thinks, sees, and is stormy inside. And when this happens, she searches deeper inside self for the force of positivity. When she finds this force, her sunny thoughts, peace, and positive being comes right back.

A great read for every one - every age! Very inspirational and imaginative. "
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31
Powwow Day

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4.29 avg rating — 1,307 ratings
"Today is tribal Powwow Day. Everyone wants to see little River dance in her pretty jingle dress. However, River is sick. She goes to the celebration but sits with her family.

Many different dances are performed during Powwow Day. A Jingle dance in the arena can be performed as a healing dance. River wants to dance badly, but she is too ill this year. The jingle dancers dance - wishing for her healing. And, though River does not feel like dancing, she stands and realizes she will be able to dance again at the next powwow.

As the drums beat throughout the story, the illustrations seem to flow in rhythm. The illustrations are muted but detailed. The colors are gorgeous.

At the end of the book is a great discussion of the powwow celebrations. This is a great book about indigenous cultures. "
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32
The Blur

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4.32 avg rating — 1,202 ratings
"Bigger than life illustrations! The Blur is all about parenthood, showing how quickly it takes to raise a child. Adults of grown children should sense where this story is going...yes, looking back, it is all a blur. Really, when raising a child or family, times seems to fly. Yet as young parents are working hard and living the dream of parenthood, sometimes the days seem to go by ever so slowly!

This is another great story combination by Minh Le and Dan Santat. It is a wonderful book to use for guests to sign at a son or daughter's high school graduation! or other similar party."
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33
The Legend of Gravity: A Ta...

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4.13 avg rating — 419 ratings
"This story explains basketball on the playground court in simple-to-understand language. What a great book supporting a popular sport, pickup basketball.

The illustrations flow and move all around the court with ease. The colors are bright and positive. Palmer's illustrations work well together to make for a winning book!

Palmer hopes this timeless 'tall tale' not only will change readers understanding about the game of pickup basketball, but perhaps, it might change people’s lives."
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34
Cornbread & Poppy

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4.19 avg rating — 1,068 ratings
"Cornbread is a very organized mouse, but his best friend Poppy just lives for the moment! Suddenly winter has arrived, and Poppy has no food in storage. He didn’t listen to Cornbread's warnings. Now, what to do? Poppy looks up to Holler Mountain for answers.

Traveling up a scary mountain in the wintertime can double seal a friendship for the two little mice. Corbread will not let Poppy travel it alone. But, once upon a time, Ms. Ruthie, their lady mouse friend, went up the mountain and never returned. What adventures might they find as they journey up the mountain in search of food. What surprises await?

The pen and ink sketched illustrations are very engaging and humorous. The expressions on the creatures in this book are quite comical and dramatic!

This is a great first reader book. The conversations and chapters show wonderful grammar style and meaning! Could it win the 2023 Theodor Seuss Geisel Award, the most distinguished beginning reader book? Yes!"
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35
The Faith of Elijah Cumming...

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4.11 avg rating — 199 ratings
"A great biography for readers 7 to 107. Wonderful addition to a collection on justice and Black history.

Elijah understood social equity when he was only 11, as a protestor to integrate the city pool in Baltimore. He lived in Baltimore all his life and continued to fight social injustice all the way to his key role position in the United States House of Representatives. Born to sharecroppers, he learned from loving parents to be honest, hardworking, and focused on education.

The pictures in this book show character and strength. The colors are vivid. Together the text and illustrations tell the story of an American hero.

Elijah Cummings challenges readers to work for tomorrow and for youth.
"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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36
No Nibbling!

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3.71 avg rating — 397 ratings
"This is a conversational book between Mister Derwood, the goat farmer, and a little bunny, Tabitha. The conversations between the two play on words that either are or sound like vegetable words. Throughout much of the story, the farmer distrusts the rabbit as he keeps coming around his garden. "No Nibbling!"

Weeds, of course, are a problem, and the farmer accepts the offer of the bunny to weed. When the little rabbit finds a dandelion, he's ready to blow it and make a wish! Mister Derwood has a priceless face when he yells, “NO”! The farmer already knows what the rabbit would wish for; readers will be pleased with the conclusion.

The end sheets have wonderful illustrations of vegetables from the garden. What a great book to share with young readers when it is times to plant the garden, take a trip to a farmer’s market, or cook a pot of vegetable soup. This could be a wonderful book for preschoolers matching colors and pictures of garden vegetables and words."
Carol rated it 5 stars
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37
Sir Ladybug (Sir Ladybug, #1)

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4.24 avg rating — 875 ratings
"The book begins with a funny joke and ends with an even funnier joke! After reading the story, the jokes make a lot of sense!
This is a delightful chapter book for boys and girls, beginning to read. Readers will learn about a Table of Contents, Prologue, Chapters, Epilogue, and Interludes.
The main characters are Sir Ladybug, a knight, Pell, his roly poly herald, and Sterling, the squire snail. These three friends go in search of a quest. Actually, the quest finds them and that is, something is trying to eat the little bugs in the forest. It’s a monster; it’s a chick-a-dee. With a little Snail Magic TM, they hide from the bird. A whole chapter is dedicated to them planning to stop the bird from eating the creatures. It involves cake!
The illustrations are cartoon style. Nearing the end of the story, snail concludes, “I think being a monster is more about what you do than what you are.” Perfect quote!!!
Corey R. Tabor has done it again! He is the author and illustrator of Mel Fell and Snail Crossing. So, of course, he has created another incredible book! Sir Ladybug has more adventuresome books in the making!
"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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38
Somewhere

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3.70 avg rating — 168 ratings
"A big process of growing up is letting children think for themselves and work out problems, venture out with our trust, and build confidence. Somewhere addresses these things!

The colors are gorgeous -such a beautiful tribute to the nature. The reservations I have with the story is why dad would allow the child to go on her own at the park entrance and why she would pick a flower in this public area. How could the story be retold, just a bit? Maybe dad could be watching just around the corner or behind a branch, without her seeing him. Maybe the little girl could smell the flower but not pick it up. She might reach into her backpack for a camera or sketch pad.

Somewhere is a beautiful story showcasing love between a father and a child!"
Carol rated it 4 stars
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39
Amah Faraway

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4.29 avg rating — 418 ratings
"Great for Study of World Culture -
The end sheets of this book caught my attention from the start. Ordinary things, foods, and places for a little girl in America on front sheets are labeled in English. On the back pages, the same items are labeled in Taiwanese, as that is where the little girl’s grandmother lives and is where the little girl visits in this book. This is like a glossary and dictionary for this book.

The pictures are priceless showing how Amah, a grandmother from Taiwan, and Kylie, her granddaughter from America, interact and love one another. They share their love by both visits and video chats!"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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40
Kat Hats: A Picture Book

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3.29 avg rating — 295 ratings
"A really creative story for cat lovers. Kats can save the day!

The illustrations are lively to match a lively story!"
Carol rated it 5 stars
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41
The Year We Learned to Fly

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4.39 avg rating — 2,158 ratings
"This story pays tribute to those who came before, oppressed into slavery, who still managed to be happy! The book gives thanks to the storytellers, oppressed by slavery, for passing down brilliant stories to the younger generations – tales of survival and hope. Storytellers of the past have passed along insight and inspiration, giving today’s writers and illustrators “storytelling wings.”

In this story, what are children to do when the weather outside is horrid – rain, thunder, and lightning? The book accounts for a year in the life of two siblings, when they learn to fly. Use your brilliant minds and arms, grandmother always would tell them, to lift and fly! With imaginative thoughts and colors, this book, too, comes to life with ideas of success, positivity, and freedom for its readers.

This book is illustrated in muted, dreamy tones with highlights of every color of the spectrum! The words and illustrations encourage readers to be positive and free! "
Carol rated it 5 stars
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