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Laure is the Kids Department Coordinator and runs our Gift of Reading program. Laure has many years of experience in the book store setting, as before joining us she worked at the Curious George Bookstore in Cambridge, MA. Laure was born in New York but grew up in France. She came back to the U.S to attend Skidmore College where she majored in art. As an artist, Laure often looks at picture book illustrations for research and inspiration. Before having her two children, Laure also had a small craft business making cross-stitch gifts for babies and toddlers.
A delightful story about family heritage and what makes us unique. From the hair on their head to the shape of their toes, a young child recognizes the similarities they have with various members of their family, not only affirming a sense of belonging but also acknowledging their individuality. This book will inspire any little one to look into how they relate to their loved ones and embrace who they are.
Set in Nigeria, this story follows two very different sisters who's relationship with their mother has torn them apart. Each will do whatever it takes to leave their abusive home, and as a result, their lives take very different paths. Zam, the quiet beloved sister who stays out of trouble but who consequently has lost her voice, is given the opportunity to live with her rich aunt and uncle. Cheta, the outspoken sister who suffers most of the abuse, leaves her childhood home on her own but to a much harsher reality, forcing her to make some difficult choices in order to survive.
Rich and masterfully written, this character-driven story is honest and compelling all the way through. Despite their flaws, you cannot help but root for each sister's success in separating themselves from their past and finding peace in their future, whether it be together or apart.
You might also like: Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
Aria's perfect pre-college summer plans are turned upside down after an incident at a graduation party. Instead of going away with her best-friends, she finds herself spending her summer in California with her grandmother. Feeling disappointed and angry, Aria believes her summer is ruined until she meets Steph, her grandmother's gardener with whom she seems to have an instant connection. As Steph invites Aria into her social world and the LGBTQ community, their friendship grows as do Aria's feelings for Steph which put her whole identity into question.
A Scatter of Light is a wonderful coming of age story filled with self-discovery and first true love that should not be missed.
You might also like: We Deserve Monuments by Jas Hammonds and Nothing Burns As Bright As You by Ashley Woodfolk
Both breathtaking in its strength and powerful in its message, Carole Boston Weatherford and Frank Morrison have truly created a masterpiece with this book. Together, they have taken the classic spiritual,"Standing in the Need of Prayer" and have transformed it into an emotional ode to African American history. From 1619 to the Black Lives Matter movement, Morrison's spectacular illustrations paired with Weatherford's words, highlight all the struggles and victories of the African American community throughout time.
Ever since he rescued two young girls from the floodwaters that ripped through their small town, Danny has idolized his best friend Jack. But it's 1943 and after receiving his draft letter, Jack mysteriously disappears. Danny is determined to find his friend, but as his investigation only leads to dead ends, he gets a glimpse into how his own community treats each other and he is faced with more questions than he could have ever anticipated.
In a world burdened by war, racism, and inequalities, Yonder is a powerful multilayered historical tale that probes the question, "What does it really mean to be a hero?"
The message is timeless and essential. A conversation between three dogs, two pure bred poodles and a puggle (pug/beagle mix), shows us how limiting preconceived notions can be, and how getting to know someone for who they are and what they can do is a lot more meaningful and fun. Written in an early graphic novel format with simple text and playful illustrations, "What Are You?" provides an invaluable lesson about identity, race, and stereotypes told with mindfulness and humor. With suggested conversation starters about this topic at the end of the book, this is the perfect book for the family to share.
The profoundness and beauty of this book may bring you to tears, but the message itself is unforgettable: stories transcend all time. With minimal text, but illustrations that tell stories of their own, the past, present, and future combine in this astounding exploration of love, time and building memories together.
Who would have thought that math could be so poetic? With wit and a whole lot of humor, Betsy Franco, along with her "Numbots", brings math to its most approachable level. In 29 creative poems, she will make even the most math-phobic reader smile. From addition to fractions, every mathematical concept is made relatable in a way that takes the fear out of math, makes it easier to understand, and, most importantly, makes it fun!
Once again, Katherine Applegate has written another heartwarming story about an animal based on true events. This time, she tells the story of Odder, a fun and adventurous otter who ventures out a little too far one day with her friend, and her consequent rescue off the California coast. Told in verse and filled with beautiful illustrations by Charles Santoso, Odder is a perfect family or classroom read-aloud as it interweaves Applegate's signature storytelling with interesting facts about otters that is sure to peak any young animal lover's interest. If you are a fan of The One and Only Ivan, you won't want to miss this one.
As a way to distract his children from fighting in the backseat of the car, a father decides to take them on an interstellar adventure through space and time. As he tracks their route and calculates their distance travelled (using the average speed of 37 miles per hour), back on earth, the same journey takes them back in time, with each milestone landing in the middle of a significant conflict that has shaped our planet.
At the core of Oliver Jeffers' wit and charming illustrations is a unique introduction to history and astronomy that will both amuse even the youngest of readers and give them a historical context for how long space has been at the root of conflict.
This book is about the power of words. More than just a set of letters put together, words have the power to hurt or bring joy. This book challenges its reader to think about the words they use and how they might impact other people or even how we think about ourselves. A wonderful conversation starter for children with their adults, this is an important and meaningful book about something simple that we easily take for granted every day.
When an unlucky fly accidentally confuses a frog and a toad for two frogs, a heated debate ensues. As the two amphibians argue about which species is better, an encounter with another often mis-identified creature stops them in their tracks, and causes them both to put aside their differences and become friends.
With hilarious banter, this story not only provides some interesting facts about frogs and toads, but also a lesson in tolerance and acceptance.
With every new book, Jasmine Warga manages to create unforgettable stories that capture your heart from the very first page. In A Rover's Story she outdid herself with characters, both human and robot, who are learning to navigate and understand the world of human emotions. Told through dual perspectives and over the course of decades, this story is about Resilience or "Res", a rover based on Nasa's Perseverance, and Sophie, the daughter of one of the scientists who designed him. As they each embark on their own journey trying to understand their feelings of love, fear, hope, and sadness, they also show the effect that Res' mission has on their own lives as well as on the lives of those who surround them. Full of emotion and love, this story and all its characters will stay with you long after the last page.
This charming animal world will lure you deep into the woods to the Broken Arms where you will be enchanted by a cast of fun and quirky humanlike creatures. At the heart of it all is Cress Watercress, an outspoken preteen bunny whose life has just been turned upside down. As she adjusts to her new home and neighbors, she is also trying to figure out who she is and where she fits in this world.Reminiscent of Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH and The Wind in the Willows or more recently, Skunk and Badger, Cress Watercress is sure to become a classic of its own.
Oh no! Grandma is coming to visit, and the house is a mess! Quick, mop the floor, vacuum the rug, scrub the fishes, mop the baby... wait, what?What happens when the cat takes the chores list into his own hands to avoid a bath? Complete chaos and hilarity. With fun rhyming word play, bright neon colors, and a diverse group of characters that make up a beautiful blended family rarely seen in picture books, "Bathe the Cat" is a silly story that will appeal to the whole household, including the cat.
As the only Black child among her classmates, the young narrator feels singled out when the class starts learning about slavery and the Civil Rights Movement. Family stories remind her of how lucky she is to be in school, but that does not answer her question: "Is that all you see when you look at me?"
This powerfully written and beautifully illustrated book is absolutely amazing. It is not only an outstanding ode to the courage and strength of generations of Black people who fought for their freedom and equal rights, but also a permission to new and future generations of Black children, who feel like they are only seen as a reflection of the past, to be proud of who they are now and who they want to be.
In this beautifully illustrated book, Misty Copeland shares with us the 27 ballerinas of color who have inspired her throughout her career. As she recounts her relationship with each of these women, Misty also highlights the strength and bravery that each of them called upon to succeed in a world where colorism is still very predominant.
This deeply personal biography invites us to celebrate these ballerinas and their remarkable achievements, and will hopefully encourage any aspiring ballerina, regardless of the color of their skin, to continue to work hard for their dreams.
Fluffy McWhiskers has a problem. All she wants is a friend, but she is so cute that anyone who looks at her, explodes! As all her attempts to "uncute" herself just seem to make her even cuter, Fluffy gives up and moves to what she thinks is a deserted island. But what happens when cute meets cute? Kaboom!
This book is an explosion of cuteness and color that might not actually make you combust, but the adorableness will certainly make you smile.
Inspired by the author's great grand-mother's story, Barefoot Dreams of Petra Luna, is about twelve-year old Petra's harrowing journey with her two younger siblings and grandmother across the Mexican desert to flee the Federales. As she leads her family through danger and uncertainty, she finds her strength from the promise she made to her father to always protect her family and her dream to one day learn how to read. Despite starvation, exhaustion, and heartbreak, she never loses sight of her goal to take her family across the border to America where they can finally be safe.
This story is beautiful and captivating. Petra is a character who you will root for all along the way. Her courage is truly astonishing and I hope that by reading this book, we are all inspired to find our inner Petra and realize all our dreams.
At first sight, People Shapes looks like a book about shapes. In actuality, it is a celebration of family and individuality. Using fun text and bright colors, Heidi Stemple's message of acceptance is what makes this sweet and unique book so special.
Paired with Loren Long's stunning illustrations, Amanda Gorman's inspirational poem reminds us that change affects everyone, and that when we work together, anything is possible. Her lyrical words emphasize that no act is too small, and encourage us to help one another, to share with each other, and to work together to make this world a better place.
This book is hys-te-ri-cal. Period.`
I am a big fan of picture books that break the fourth wall and Max Greenfield's crack into this genre has instantly become one of my favorites. Nested in a little grammar lesson, this is an excellent read aloud that will have the whole family laughing. It might even get the most reluctant reader to say, "I want to read this book."
If you were to ask me if Varian Johnson's new book Playing the Cards That You're Dealt is worth the read, I would answer you with a line directly from the book: "Is water wet?" Absolutely.
The Joplin men have been champions of the yearly Spades tournament for generations, and now it is time for Anthony "Ant" Joplin to prove himself. He and his best friend Jamal practice relentlessly until Jamal gets into trouble and won't be allowed to play. Ant needs to find a new partner and decides to ask the last person that Jamal would want to take his place, Shirley. When she accepts, Ant doesn't know how to tell Jamal, and as the tournament approaches, the secret weighs more and more on their friendship. But, Ant is not the only Joplin who has been hiding something, and when Ant discovers an old secret that threatens to tear his parents apart, Ant is determined to do all that he can to keep his family together, starting with the Spades tournament.
As Ant learns more and more about what happened within his family, he realizes the importance of speaking up and confronting uncomfortable situations instead of hiding from them. Ant is a relatable middle grader who's story is told with humor and perhaps more importantly, a lot of heart.
Wednesday Wilson is a young girl who wants to become the next great entrepreneur. Every day has the potential to be her big break, so Wednesday, along with her best friend Charlie, is always ready. This determination does get her into some trouble, but Wednesday only sees these little mishaps as great learning opportunities for her next big idea.
Wednesday is a role model who's perseverance is admirable, intentions are pure, and who's heart is so full of hope that you can't help but cheer her on. With a cast of equally lovable and diverse characters, Wednesday Wilson Gets Down to Business is the first book in a new early reader series that is sure to inspire and be enjoyed by anyone with a dream to make it big one day.
Geraldine always loved the food that her Amah (grandmother) packed for her school lunch in her favorite biandang (lunchbox) until a boy at her table started making fun of it. Suddenly, Geraldine is stuck between not wanting to be singled out at school and disappointing her Amah by not eating her delicious food. Then one day, when the same boy starts bullying another child at the lunch table, Geraldine takes the opportunity to show her classmates how to embrace new things, instead of immediately disregarding them because they are different.
Narrated by Geraldine's biandang, this charming early graphic novel not only introduces new readers to a different culture and its food (Taiwanese), but also to the importance of celebrating the things that make you unique. The author also includes a quick tutorial on how to read a graphic novel, a short list of Taiwanese vocabulary words (with the correct pronunciation), and even one of Geraldine's Amah's recipes.
I know what you are thinking: A book about a dishwasher for babies? No thanks. But if you pick up this book, you will discover that it is well worth the read. Adorable and funny, this homage to the home appliance that many adults cannot live without will appeal to the most curious of toddlers, and show them what really happens when the dishwasher door is closed!
Don't miss the other books in this series: Fridge and Oven's Big Jobs and Washer and Dryer's Big Jobs.
Let your curiosity lead the way in this Encyclopedia Britannica meets Choose Your Own Adventure book full of amazing facts! Start following the dotted line through the pages and pretty soon you will discover a huge web of interconnected facts that may take you from fireflies and light bulbs to termites and energy-efficient buildings. But wait, if you would rather learn more about lightbulbs, take a sharp left and follow a new dotted line to another page full of new information. With each read you will embark on a new adventure filled with countless new things to discover.
I'm Sorry is the latest installment in Michael Ian Black's fun and always on point "I'm" series. In I'm Sad, Flamingo learns that it is ok to wake up feeling sad from time to time and that it does not mean that you will feel that way forever. In I'm Worried, Potato and Flamingo learn to stay in the present instead of worrying about all the bad things that may happen in the future. Finally, in I'm Sorry, Potato learns the importance of apologizing after he hurts Flamingo's feelings, even if it is really, really hard to do.
In each of these books, Michael Ian Black uses relatable humor and charming characters to explain these difficult feelings that we all experience from time to time. His characters provide companionship and normalizes these moments that can sometimes be overwhelming. In today's world where it is easy to wake up feeling sad, to be worried about what may happen, or to have a hard time apologizing for something we did or said, these books provide a little comfort knowing that we are not alone.
I will fully admit that I have a soft spot for anything written by Kate DiCamillo. Although the setting for this book is very different from any of her previous middle grade novels, The Beatryce Prophecy certainly does not lose the charm and quirkiness of DiCamillo's signature style. This is a medieval tale about friendship, love, truth, and bravery with at the center a mysterious girl, a monk, a fallen king, an orphan boy, a mermaid, and an ornery goat. Enjoy it alone or as a read-aloud. You will not be disappointed.
After results of a behavioral assessment found fifty-four things wrong with her, Gwendolyn Rogers is convinced that this list must be true. Tired of getting in trouble and making her mother sad, Gwendolyn becomes determined to find a way to control her anger so that everyone, including herself, will stop thinking that she is a “bad” kid. But as her efforts go unnoticed and her frustration grows, she thinks that the only possible “cure” for her issues is medication. That is until she meets Dr. Nessa, who helps Gwendolyn and her mom look at things a little differently.
Told from Gwendolyn's perspective, Caela Carter has written an invaluable story that gives a genuine voice to a neurodivergent child who is constantly being told that there is something wrong with her. This book highlights the importance of empathy and inclusiveness, and encourages us to be more accepting, not only with others, but also with ourselves.
If you are looking for a book that will expose the fallacy of race in a way that anyone from age 1 to 101 can understand, look no further than this book.
In The Colors We Share, Angélica Dass takes the insignificance of race down to its most basic and powerful truth: How can we judge someone based on the color of their skin when each skin tone is created using the same three primary colors? By using photographed portraits of people from around the world, Dass shows that each and every one of us is unique, and that together, our uniqueness creates a beauty that should be celebrated instead of overlooked.
In The Shape of Thunder, former best-friends, Cora and Quinn, find themselves on opposite sides of a school shooting: Quinn's brother was the shooter, Cora's sister was killed. Both are dealing with the grief of losing a sibling and the consequences it has had on their families. Together, they believe that they can find a wormhole to go back in time and change the course of that fatal day. Jasmine Warga approaches the topic of school shootings with heart and sincerity without disregarding the severity of the horrific act or its aftermath.
This is a story about loss, courage, and hope. It is about two young girls who want more than anything to get their brother and sister back and erase the single moment that changed their lives forever.
If you want to read a story that is heartfelt and genuine and has a character who you will love and root for from the very first page, pick up Fat Chance, Charlie Vega! Charlie's insecurities are very relatable and she speaks to anyone who lives with self-doubt and is looking to find their voice.
Charlie struggles to love herself and her body, and this, coupled with her jealousy towards her best friend, her difficult relationship with her mother, and her venture into her first relationship, are all balanced by her incredible sense of humor and kindness. Maldonado wrote this book with the kind of sensitivity and truthfulness that captures your heart.
Paired with her signature, beautifully crafted collages, Micha Archer takes us on an inquisitive nature journey through the imaginative observations of two children. Each page poses a question that will open your eyes and your imagination to the wondrous world that we live in.
This may be the first book written for middle grade about a gay Black boy, but this story is also about so much more. It is about loss, friendship, identity, both within yourself and in the eyes of others, and most importantly, forgiveness.
Everything in this book, from King's emotional journey to the unbearable Louisiana heat, is written with such raw delicacy that you are enveloped by every word. This book deserves every accolade and award it has received so far, and should be read by those struggling with self-acceptance, as well as those who know someone who is.
I wish I had had this book as a kid! Not only is it a great story about a reconstructed family and the impact that it can have on an anxiety-prone young 12-year-old, but I also loved how Rebecca Stead did not shy away from addressing mental health issues, homophobia, divorce, and therapy.
This story is wholesome, while also being honest and refreshing. A wonderful read that I cannot recommend enough!
Efrén Divided is a very timely book in which Efrén, an American-born teenage boy, is suddenly thrown into adulthood after his undocumented mother is deported back to Mexico. As his father, who is also undocumented, works overtime to make the money he needs to get his wife back, Efrén becomes the primary caretaker of his two younger siblings while trying to maintain a facade of normalcy in front of his best friend and teachers at school. As his struggle to live this double life intensifies, Efrén also realizes that he is the only one who can truly save his mother and bring her back home.
This is such a powerful and important story with a protagonist who you cannot help but admire for his courage and strength. This is a wonderful middle-grade book that is sure to inspire thought and discussion.
Why does everybody LOVE unicorns and why don’t we have Goblin-themed birthday parties?
In this very funny (and very sparkly) book, a studious Goblin is tired of his unicorn neighbors who spend their days frolicking, dancing, and having tea parties. He believes that there is serious work that needs to be done, and he is ready to argue all the reasons why unicorns really aren't that special. In fact, they are the worst. But a terrifying encounter makes him realize that maybe unicorns aren't so bad after all.
This is a cute picture book about the importance of getting to know someone before casting judgment and embracing each other's differences.
William, a.k.a Scoobe, drops everything when his G-ma asks him to come on a cross-country trip with her. But very soon, Scoobe realizes that this trip is a lot more than just a fun adventure. As the pair drive farther and farther South, Scoobe begins to learn more about his G-ma and G-Pop's story, and that what he thought he knew about his family history might not be the whole truth.
Part family road trip, part look into our social history, and part coming-of-age, Clean Getaway seamlessly weaves these things into a story that evokes thought, but is also fun.
By the time you finish reading the first sentence of this book, you will have been transported into the complicated world of Genesis Anderson, a 13-year-old black girl whose alcoholic father cannot hold a job, whose family gets evicted from their home on a regular basis, and who has an ongoing list of things that she does not like about herself, most notably, the darkness of her skin. Society, including her own family, has made her believe that if her skin were lighter, like her mother's, her life would be perfect. Genesis is ready to go to any extreme to make that happen.
This was an honest and, at times, difficult story to read, but I could not put it down. Genesis is a beautiful and complex middle grader who has not been dealt an easy card. This book is eye-opening for those who have never experienced colorism, and gives a voice to those who live with it every day. Genesis Anderson is a character that everyone should meet.
Cookie and Broccoli are best friends and complete opposites. Cookie is very loud and outgoing, Broccoli is shy and nervous. They meet in the hallway on their first day of school and not only discover that they are able to learn from each other's differences, but they also learn that they have more in common than they thought.
This sweet early reader graphic novel is full of charm and wit, but most importantly it portrays an essential life lesson: you should always be yourself and embrace those around you for who they are too.
This is a story about friendship, overcoming your fears, the power of sports as an outlet, all in the context of bullying. Paul, Big and Small become an unlikely trio when they are grouped together for a school project. Paul has spent his life trying to hide in order to avoid being picked on by the bullies at school. He is paired with Lily Small, who is anything but small, and who Paul has been terrified of since their childhood, and Big, the always happy new kid from Polynesia. As they work together on their project, they discover that they have a lot more in common than they thought. This includes rock climbing, which has always helped Paul clear his mind after school. As Paul comes into his own over the course of the book, he realizes that even the most unexpected people can be victim of bullying, and this motivates him even more to overcome his own fears.
This is the first book that I have read that has truly delved into the truth and the sometimes heartbreaking ramifications of bullying. It has parts that are sweet and funny and others that are shocking and sad. It is a book whose story and characters are not easily forgotten.
Winnie Friedman is a 10th grader who knows that she is funny. What she wants is for everyone else to know it too. She has grown up telling jokes with her father, a former stand-up comedian, and she aspires to follow in his footsteps. Unfortunately, her first opportunity to show her talent did not go well, and now she is too embarrassed to ever try again. That is until the funniest and cutest boy in her grade laughs at one of her jokes and invites her to join the school Improv Troupe. Winnie knows that improv and stand-up are very different, but she ultimately decides to give it a try. As Winnie finds herself navigating her friendships, her first boyfriend, and the this new form of comedy, her dad reveals that he has ALS and it is progressing quickly. All of a sudden Winnie’s life begins to crumble, as she tries to figure out how to deal with her father’s disease, and still keep making people laugh. In the process she learns a lot about herself, her parents, her friends, and what it takes to succeed in comedy and it is only through these that she is able to grow and learn how to keep on laughing, even when she is crying. It seems risky to write a book about comedy and improv, but this story is anything but cheesy.
Tucked away in a small town on the southern coast of England, Petra and her family’s quiet life manning a lighthouse is suddenly shaken with the start of World War II. Secrets and rumors of treason start to surround her German-born mother, but Petra refuses to believe that they are true. As the members of her family get more involved in the war, Petra is forced to take care of herself and the beloved lighthouse while trying to uncover the truth and get her family back together.
Family, mythology, treason, mystery, and even young love come together seamlessly in this book that was hard to put down. If you are a fan of historical fiction such as The War That Saved My Life, this is a book you will enjoy.
This is the touching story about Nova, an autistic and non-verbal 12-year old girl in 1987. Nova has just been placed into a new foster family, a helpful one for a change, but for the first time she is without her older sister Bridget. Bridget always stood up for Nova and had always promised that they would watch the launch of the Challenger Space Shuttle together. As Nova counts down the days until the launch, she is hopeful that she will see her sister soon, even as she starts to create her own life in this new home without Bridget. Through her own letters, we are given a glimpse into Nova’s mind full of space facts, sadness over how people treat her, and questions about the future.
The launch of the Challenger not only provides a time frame to the story, but also helps build suspense. Will Bridget keep her promise? How will Nova react to the Challenger’s ultimate fate? These questions and so much more are answered in this hopeful story that pulls at your heartstrings. Nova is a wonderful character that you want to protect. Thanks to Libro.fm, I can highly recommend the audio version of this book which does a great job bringing Nova’s internal thoughts and story to life.
Ava is so excited. It is finally Saturday! Not only does she get to spend the whole day with her mom, but they also have tickets for a special one-night puppet show! Together they set out for a full day of fun, but as the day goes on, nothing seems to be going quite right. Ava is getting more and more frustrated, but her mom keeps reassuring her that the day is not ruined and reminds her that they still have the puppet show in the evening. But when it is finally time to go to the show, Ava’s mom realizes that she forgot the tickets at home! How will Ava and her mom manage to salvage their special day?
Every parent and child can relate to the frustration and sadness of anticipating something special and not having it go as planned. But if we remember that the important thing is spending time together, then nothing is ever ruined. Author Oge Mora who also wrote and beautifully illustrated , Thank You, Omu! has written another wonderful story about the importance of family and how special it is.
Kitty's mom has superpowers and every night she goes out dressed in her black catsuit to save those in need. Kitty would love to do the same thing one day, but first she must overcome her fear of the shadows that lie outside in the dark.
But one night, after her mom has already left, a black and white cat named Figaro taps at her window. He needs help and there is no time to lose. With no one else to turn to, Kitty must forget about her fears and follow Figaro into the night.
This is the first book in a series that is great for early readers who like adventure, super heroes, and of course, cats. If you have read and enjoyed the Princess in Black series or Mia Mayhem, this is a good pick for you.
After breaking up with her long-term boyfriend, Queenie Jenkins, a 26-year old Jamaican British woman, begins to make questionable choices that effect her friendships, her job and her self-worth. After finally hitting rock bottom, Queenie, with the help of her friends, family and therapy, decides to change her way of life.
Easily comparable to Bridget Jones, Queenie examines more complex issues such as mental illness, racism, and relationships in a raw and honest way. Queenie, as a character, is certainly flawed, but she is also a strong woman and it is her journey finding that strength that makes her relatable and real.
As an audiobook, there is no question that Shvorne Marks’ voice was meant to be Queenie Jenkins’. She was also able to make the other characters’ voices distinct and unique which gave depth to the listening experience.
What would you do if you were face-to-face with the Big Bad Wolf? You would probably scream and run for your life, right? Well, the Big Bad Wolf is tired of that and he is on a mission to change his and his friends’, Mr. Shark, Mr. Snake and Mr. Piranha’s reputations as the “Bad Guys.” From now on he wants them to be known as the “Good Guys,” but in order to do that he must convince them that they must perform good deeds. First up: freeing 200 dogs from the Maximum Security City Dog Pound.
Written with hilarity and wit that will have even adults laughing, this is a great introduction to chapter books for beginner readers.
30 allegorical stories, each about a different unnamed woman who, at the heart of every story, reveals experiences women struggle with every day. Issues such as guilt, aging, discrimination, and motherhood are brought to light in the most literal way. While some of the stories were more abstract and it wasn't until the end that I could figure out what they were alluding to, I really enjoyed the cleverness of each tale. This is a book that can be read all at once or a few stories at a time. Thanks to Libro.fm, I listened to the audio book version which I also recommend.
Told in a series of essays, Mary Laurap Philpott’s memoir recounts feeling lost and stuck in her “perfect” life after having accomplished all the things, she believed, would make her a well-rounded and happy adult. As she questions everything from her marriage to her parenting, her job to her art, we join her on her journey of identity crisis and re-adjustment. Told with wit, humor, thoughtfulness, and truth, Philpott welcomes us into her life, and makes you feel like you are sitting down with a good friend.
This is the story of a couple and their love story that spans nearly half a century. It is also the story of their four adult daughters, each with their own set of struggles, secrets and complicated interpersonal relationships. Each yearns to have the same perfect love story as their parents, but have mostly fallen short. With the surprising arrival of one teenage boy, many old and new secrets are brought to light and everyone is forced to rethink who they are and their role within the family unit.
Claire Lombardo has written a wonderful portrait of the Sorenson family. Each character is written with complexity and honesty thus creating a relatable family with relatable issues that you want to see succeed. This was a fantastic book.
If you are in a reading slump and need a page turner with an unexpected twist, this is the book for you.
Alicia Berenson is accused of killing her husband, but she has not spoken a word since the murder. Theo Faber is a criminal psychotherapist who is determined to get her to talk again while also dealing with personal problems of his own. Everyone seems guilty in some way, but the truth is truly unexpected. Alex Michaelides keeps you guessing until the very end in his suspenseful debut novel.
Written as fiction but based on facts, this book is the story of Maud Baum, the wife of L. Frank Baum. the author of The Wizard of Oz. The book begins in Hollywood in the late 1930s as the movie is being made. L. Frank Baum died twenty years earlier and Maud asserts herself onto the set as a consultant, determined to make sure that the movie stays true to her husband's words. In the process, she meets Judy Garland for whom she immediately takes on a protective role as she discovers the disconcerting behind the scenes expectations of this young actress. The story alternates between the 1930s and the late 1800s when Maud is a young girl growing up surrounded by her mother, Mathilda Gage’s feminism. As we further learn about her life as a college student, a young newlywed, a mother, a wife, a sister, a daughter, and as a woman juggling all of it at once, you see certain aspects of the Wizard of Oz slowly take shape. It is not surprising that L. Frank Baum dedicated The Wizard of Oz to his wife.This is great book and a fantastic portrayal of someone who played such an important role in an iconic piece of our culture. Whether you have read the book or seen the movie (or both!), this novel will make you want to curl up and enjoy it all over again.
This is a unique story that plays with time, reality, history and love in a way that I have never experienced before. Ben meets Kate at a party one night and they fall in love. Kate confides in Ben that she has had the same continuous dream since childhood where becomes Amelia and is transported into Elizabethan England. As she and Ben’s relationship grows, her dream becomes more and more real and begins to take over her life. She begins to notice that her actions in the past seem to change her present. She starts to believe that she has these dreams because she is meant to change history in some way. As Kate's dream becomes more and more encompassing, Ben and her friends become more and more concerned for her. Ben is torn between staying with the woman he loves or detaching himself to save his well-being and future. Beautifully written, Sandra Newman creates twists and turns that are unpredictable, and she does an incredible job taking the reader on this time and reality-bending journey.
Kids and parents alike will be laughing at this relatable bedtime story. Rodrick is always procrastinating before going to bed (he even goes so far as to ask for a pony!), but when his parents give him Sleepy, a “goodnight buddy” meant to help him fall asleep, Rodrick is given a little taste of his own medicine.
As a daughter and a parent of young children, this book brings tears to my eyes every time I read it. It is a beautifully illustrated story of a mother and her son, whom she nicknames Lamb, through the passage of time. From Lamb's birth to his adulthood, you see how their relationship changes at different milestones in his life, yet no matter where they are in their lives, whether together or apart, they always have each other's loving hands to come home to. This may be a picture book but it could also be a great gift for any parent.
How do you tell the world you aren't who they think you are? George was born in a boy's body and doesn't know how to tell her family and best friend, that she is a girl. When George's 4th grade teacher tells her class that they will be putting on a production of Charlotte's Web, George is determined to get the part of Charlotte because she thinks it is a first step in revealing her true identity to the world and finally having an opportunity to be herself in public. Despite the odds stacked against her, with the help of her best friend Kelly, to whom George finally tells the truth, there is a chance that George's wish still might come true.
This book is a well-written glimpse into the difficult life of someone wanting to be their true self when the rest of the world sees them differently. From page 1 you can't help but root for George and her happiness. (Ages 8-12)
Do you know what your favorite color is? I bet you won't be so sure after reading Aaron Becker's new book "My Favorite Color", in which he uses simple squares, cutouts, and transparent, light-catching material to show all different shades of each color. Hold the book up to the light, and it creates a visual experience that is truly beautiful and unique. This may be a board book, but it is a gift that older children and adults will appreciate too.
Spork's mother is a spoon and his father is a fork making him... a spork! Unfortunately, the rest of the cutlery world snubs him for being different, despite all of Spork's efforts to fit in. Until one day, a new "thing" refuses to use either a spoon or a fork, and the only one who can save the world from this messy disaster is Spork!
This adorable story about finding your place in the world illustrates the importance of loving yourself and others, regardless of any differences. In addition to being a great read, this book is a nice way to start a conversation about diversity and embracing everyone's uniqueness.
Poor Pluto gets a phone call from NASA breaking the news to him that he is no longer a planet. Furious, Pluto sets out on a journey through the solar system to talk to Sun who surely has an explanation for this huge mistake. In true Adam Rex fashion, Pluto's journey is hilarious as you meet the eight other planets and learn a little about each one through their unique personalities. Whether you are interested in the solar system or not, this book is sure to entertain over and over again.
Here is a look into some of the innovative ways animal lovers from around the world have created structures in order to cohabitate with the local wildlife, instead of taking away their homes. From overpass bridges to underground tunnels, these ingenious solutions make you want to travel the world to see them in action. You can check one out right here in North Amherst!
Paired with beautiful illustrations, this book makes you believe that when we put thought and creativity into a problem, anything is possible.
Ignoring all his mother’s warnings, Pea accepts a dare to bring a leaf back from a maple tree just beyond the farm fence. Swept up by rain and wind, Pea gets lost and thus begins his adventure to get back home. Along the way, he meets Bee, a very witty bumblebee, and Jay, an abandoned blue jay who was never taught how to fly. As the three tackle many obstacles together, they also learn the true meaning of friendship.
Full of humor, Pea, Bee, and Jay is a fun read for kids and parents alike. With bright pictures and easy vocabulary, it is also a great introduction to the graphic novel format for early readers.
Bear and Smile are always together, but one day Bear wakes up and Smile is not there. Bear looks all over for him and with the help of his friends, Bear and Smile are finally reunited.
I love books that take a challenging topic such as melancholy and write about it in such a way that children can relate to it, and learn how to deal with it. Both the words and the illustrations in this sweet story do this perfectly.
Think a "U" and an "H" don't have anything in common? Think again!
The Alphabet's Alphabet is a fun and quirky book that looks at each letter and proves that no matter how different we all look, we are all part of one big family. With bright, fun illustrations and a graphic novel-style format, Harris goes letter by letter and shows us how each unique letter actually relates to another.
Aimed for slightly older children, this is also a great way for kids who are learning to write to perhaps see letters in a different way.
Not all the women in this book are household names, but their accomplishments are, nonetheless, worthy of being known. They come from all different parts of the world, and their contributions range from scientific discoveries to artistic pioneering. The illustrations are majestic and beautiful, and the complexity of these women's accomplishments are excellently pared down to one sentence. Whether a gift for a newborn or for an older toddler, this is a fantastic introduction to some inspiring and extraordinary women.
Charming and relatable, this is the first book in the new Phoebe G. Green series that will surely win you over.
In "Lunch Will Never Be the Same," Phoebe becomes fascinated by the new French girl in her class, Camille, who brings the strangest foods to school for lunch. Phoebe desperately wants to be invited over to Camille's house for dinner, but in the process of trying to make that happen, she alienates her best friend, Sage. As Phoebe struggles with trying to juggle her friendships, she learns how to make a new friend without losing her old one.
Phoebe G. Green is a great new character for any fan of Junie B. Jones or Ivy and Bean. She is sweet, vulnerable, and curious, and just like any third grader, she is starting to learn how to navigate those qualities in the real world.
Eye-catching illustrations, interesting facts, and cool interactive features make this a unique and fun first book to learn about dinosaurs. The perfect gift for any budding paleontologist!
Sadiq and his friends want to host an "Iftar," the meal that Muslims eat to break the fast during Ramadan, to earn money for a new school in Somalia. Excited about this project, Sadiq and his friends start planning their event, but for some reason, Zaza is not participating and Sadiq is getting frustrated. What do you do when you start working with one plan in mind, but your friend decides that they want to do something else? Sadiq must learn that it is ok for your friends to want different things, and that plans can sometimes be adapted to make everyone happy.
This short little book is great for beginner readers who are ready for more words on a page, without being overwhelmed. It is a great way to learn about other cultures and traditions with a loveable character who is also learning.
Monster loves Boy. So when Boy’s mom tells him that monsters don’t exist, Monster wants to prove her wrong. But when Monster comes out from under the bed and Boy starts to scream, Monster accidentally eats him. Realizing his mistake, Monster spits Boy out, but Boy has shrunk! How will Monster get Boy back to his normal size before Boy's parents see him?
Thus starts a beautiful new friendship and the first book of a new series sure to promise more heartwarming adventure and fun. This is a great read-aloud or a slightly more challenging beginner chapter book for budding readers.
This heartbreaking story had me hooked by the first page. Val and her family's merciless journey from Vermont to California, the only sanctuary state in the US, is gut-wrenching and sad, but also inspiring. Val's courage, as well as those she travels with and those who help her along the way, is so captivating that I could not put this book down.
This story takes place in 2032, but could easily describe a future world even earlier than that. If you like dystopian stories that are hidden in truth, read this book. If you like stories that will keep your heart racing until the very end, read this book. If you want to be inspired to bring social justice to our world, read this book. Or just take my word for it and read this book.
When Stars Are Scattered is the true story of Omar Mohamed, beautifully told and illustrated by Victoria Jamieson. It is the story of the years Omar and his brother Assad, who suffers from seizures and is non-verbal, spent in a Kenyan refugee camp hoping to one day be reunited with their mother and rehabilitated to America.
That hope is what drives Omar and everyone in the camp every day. Despite the hunger, poverty, and inequalities, there is an optimism and perseverance that drives the community to carry on. Throughout his story, Omar gets more and more frustrated and angry at his situation but never gives up because he must continue to protect his brother and his future, no matter where it takes him.
This is an eye-opening, first-hand account of life in a refugee camp with a wonderful cast of characters who make up Omar's tight-knit community. Omar and Victoria Jamieson's collaboration has created a story that is truly unforgettable and a must-read.
In The Surprising Power of a Good Dumpling, Wai Chim walked a fine line of writing a difficult story about difficult issues without creating one that leaves the reader forlorn. On the contrary, she has written a heartfelt one that stays with you even after you've finsihed it. Although Chim does not sugar coat her descriptions of a person suffering from mental illness, its effects on family, or the immigrant experience, she has also created a loveable character in Anna who is coming into her own and who you can't help but root for.
We have all experienced it at least once in our life: being hangry (feeling hungry AND angry). And poor Wolfboy is getting hangrier and hangrier by the page as he desperately tries to find those rabbits! But why is he looking for them and what will he do once he finds them?!?
Author and illustrator Andy Harkman has worked on many animated movies and uses his gift for claymation to create Wolfboy and his quest for food. This is a relatable story, a fun read aloud, and a visual treat that will appeal to hangry kids of all ages.
Even if you have not read The Hate That U Give, you should still pick up this book. Then, after reading it, you should immediately pick up the former (Trust me, you won't want to read anything else anyway). If you have read The Hate That U Give, I can only imagine how curious you are to know the backstory of one of its influential characters.
Concrete Rose is the powerful prequel to Angie Thomas’ equally powerful first book, The Hate That U Give. It is the story of Maverick who finds himself thrown into fatherhood and is forced to reconsider following the path that is expected of him to become the leader of the King Lords, the gang his father was once in charge of. However, Maverick realizes that he wants to be there for his son and not risk spending his life behind bars like his own father. He is torn between the temptation of the easy money gained by selling drugs, the outside pressures to stay in the gang and doing what he knows is right for his and his family's future.
This book evokes the issues of gangs, drugs, poverty, and gun violence, and force you to think about them with an even more profound urgency.
If after this you want more powerful, thought-provoking stories about young Black men trying to branch out of the life that they were born into, I highly recommend reading Dear Martin and Dear Justyce by Nic Stone.
Indian Shoes is a collection of six short stories written by Cynthia Leitich Smith who is an author-curator for Heartdrum Books whose goal is to highlight Native American authors and their stories. And although these stories do give subtle insight into Native American culture, they are ultimately about a boy and his grandfather, Ray and Grandpa Halfmoon, who tackle different situations with both humor and love.
These stories are delightful and should be enjoyed by everyone. This book would make a great read-aloud for younger children and a nice wholesome read for older middle graders to curl up with.
