Month: November 2021

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?, Picture Books

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 11/29/21

lauramossa

Bella and I are excited to share our latest reads in It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? #IMWAYR is a community of bloggers who link up to share what they are reading.  Kellee Moye of Unleashing Readers and Jen Vincent of Teach Mentor Texts decided to give it a #kidlit focus and encourage everyone who participates to visit at least 3 of the other #kidlit book bloggers that link up and leave comments for them.

Our Recent Reads:

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Something Good by Marcy Campbell Illustrated by Corinna Luyken

When the custodian discovers something bad written on the girls’ bathroom wall,  Principal Martinez questions all the girls to investigate.  Since they do not know what was written, a few girls sneak into the bathroom to see it for themselves.  While readers never find out “the bad-something,” the page spread of the girls’ faces is compelling; eyes wide, eyes closed, hands over mouth and mouth open all shocked by what they see.  The “bad-something” makes everyone suspicious of each other and feeling a range of emotions from worry, confusion, anger, sadness.  These emotions somehow fuel a meanness.  How are they ever going to heal?  With the help of Principal Martinez and their teachers, the kids are reminded they were special and kind.  They work together to make something good and paint a mural over the something bad.  Poems were also composed that focused on the positive.  

Inspired by real life events at her children’s school, Campbell’s story is an authentic account of how a community can not only mend but also grow stronger.  As I read, I felt as if I was one of the students which demonstrates the amazing union of Campbell’s powerful words and Luyken’s moving artwork.  Something Good will encourage a healthy conversation for kids about hate speech, a tough but important topic to discuss with elementary students. Thanks to Wunderkind PR for sharing a copy.  Something Good released on October 19, 2021.  

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It Fell From the Sky by The Fan Brothers 

When a yellow green marble falls from the sky, all the animals agree it is the most amazing thing they have ever seen but they differ on what the object is.  Is a gumdrop, a fallen star or a magic chrysalis?  Spider claims it as his, for it fell in his web. Astute readers will know from the illustrations, the arachnid is being deceptive but no one challenges him.  In fact, they help him build Wonderville to display the mysterious treasure.  But Spider gets greedy.  When demand to view the “Wonder from the Sky” is high, he increases the admission price more and more as well as rushes visitors through the exhibit.  Animals leave and customers dwindle but then the worse happens.  A hand reaches down and steals Spider’s Wonder!  Now Spider is alone.  How will he redeem himself? 

As in their other books, The Fan Brothers’ artwork is stunning.  With the exception of the marble, leaves that represent money, and the last two page spreads, the majority of illustrations are black and white.  This decision shows how incredible the marble was to the animals.  The page spread where Spider has piles of green leaves in front of him reveals his selfishness.  It Fell From the Sky will promote a great discussion, for readers will observe how Spider changes and makes amends.  Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing a copy.  It Fell From the Sky published on September 28, 2021. 

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Fluffy McWhiskers Cuteness Explosion by Stephen Martin Iliustrated by Dan Tavis

Why would adorable Fluffy McWhiskers be sad and lonely?  The cat is so unbelievably cute that once anyone lay eyes on her, they explode which makes having and keeping friends extremely difficult.  She attempts to solve her problem by making herself less cute, but it seems everything Fluffy does increases her cuteness.  Even traveling to outer space does not help her situation; aliens blow up too! Finally, Fluffy boats to a deserted island to solve her problem once and for all until one day Fluffy discovers she is no longer alone.  Having no place to hide, she comes nose to nose with a pug and miraculously, the dog doesn’t explode. In fact, the pug is shocked Fluffy didn’t; now the puppy and cat can become BFFs.

A note of caution-Martin’s ridiculously hilarious plot and Tavis’ adorable and lively illustrations will cause kids and adults to erupt with laughter.  Amid the giggles, Fluffy teaches persistence because she makes every effort to solve the problem.  Seeing her ideas fail was heartbreaking but my heart truly burst with happiness when she and the pug became friends. Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing a copy. Fluffy McWhiskers Cuteness Explosion released on November 2, 2021. 

Bella’s Dog Pick of the Week

Wanting to spread the dog love, Beagles and Books has a weekly feature of highlighting a literary selection with a canine main character.

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Tag and the Magic Squeaker by Sam Hundley

A pup named Tag loves playing with his squeaker ball.  When it rolls under the couch, the cat is happy but Tag is upset.  A mouse hears Tag’s whimpering, sees a hole in the squeaker, and decides to take advantage of an opportunity.  When the squeaker rolls back out, Tag is surprised and the cat is stunned.  Then the squeaker not only begins talking to Tag but also helps him get a treat from the kitchen.  His toy must be magical!  But the cat is skeptical and attempts to uncover the mystery behind the “magic” squeaker.  Will the mouse get sniffed out?

Kids will be engaged by Hundley’s fun plot and captivated by his amazing artwork.  All the characters were created of scrap art. In the author’s note, Hundley shares that almost all of the objects he used are dug relics dating back to the 1800s.  Readers also find out the his own beagle Theo inspired the story.  Thanks to Capstone and NetGalley for sharing an eARC.  Tag and the Magic Squeaker publishes on February 1, 2022. 

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!

 

“People love dogs. You can never go wrong adding a dog to the story.”
Jim Butcher
#IMWAYR is dedicated to dear Etta, my original book beagle. Blessed that Etta is part of my story.
#Bookexcursion, Debut Author, Middle Grade Literature, Picture Books

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 12/13/21

lauramossa

Bella and I are excited to share our latest reads in It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? #IMWAYR is a community of bloggers who link up to share what they are reading.  Kellee Moye of Unleashing Readers and Jen Vincent of Teach Mentor Texts decided to give it a #kidlit focus and encourage everyone who participates to visit at least 3 of the other #kidlit book bloggers that link up and leave comments for them.

Our Recent Reads:

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The Unforgettable Logan Foster by Shawn Peters

Abandoned as an infant, 12 year old Logan Foster has lived at the El Segundo Transitional Orphanage for the past nine years. While Logan has eidetic or photographic memory of things he has heard, places he’s been, and people he has met, he cannot remember his parents or his younger sibling.  Logan assumes he has a little brother or sister because when he was found at airport, he was wearing a T-shirt with the words “World’s Best Big Brother.”  Since he excels at research. deductive reasoning and problem solving, Logan believes he will meet his sibling someday. Logan is not good at being told what to say or do which can be difficult when meeting prospective parents otherwise known as PPs.  In the past, his frankness hasn’t been received well, but when Gil and Margie, his seventh PP, ask him to be their foster child, Logan says yes.  

Not long after moving into Gil’s and Margie’s home, Logan observes things that do not make sense.  Gil never eats. All the food in the house is brand-new and unopened.  There are no pictures of Margie as a young girl. And when Margie’s arm leans against something hot, her skin turns silvery.  A comic book fan, Logan is pretty amazed to discover his foster parents are actual superheroes working for the Multinational Authority for Superhero Control (MASC).   Not long after this revelation, Logan becomes embroiled in Gil’s and Margie’s battle to fight against the evil, centuries old Necros.

Told from Logan’s point of view, The Unforgettable Logan Foster is a gripping, fast moving story that pulls you in from the very first page.   Debut author Peters nails Logan’s voice.  His decision to have Logan’s speak directly to his sibling helps the main character establish a close relationship with the reader.   Given all the obstacles he has faced in his young life, I admire Logan’s resilience and how his eidetic memory as well as his other skills become integral to helping Gil and Margie.  I also love the friendship between Logan and his next door neighbor Elena.  When Logan spills the beans on his foster parents, Elena doesn’t question him and instead, offers perspective by saying “I’m biracial, bilingual, taller than everyone in my class, faster and the only person who lives in two houses on the same street. Worrying about what’s normal is just a waste of time.”  Well said Elena. 

While some plot events are tied up at the end of the novel,  there are still questions left unanswered which leaves me hopeful that Logan’s adventures have only just begun.  Thanks to the author Shawn Peters for sharing an ARC with my #bookexcursion group.  The Unforgettable Logan Foster publishes soon on January 4, 2021.  

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Carla and the Christmas Cornbread by Carla Hall Illustrated by Cherise Harris

Christmas Eve is one of Carla’s favorite days because she, her sister, and mother celebrate the holidays at Granny’s house.  I love how Carla’s drive to her grandma’s is described as an event sitting in the back seat with all the wrapped presents, looking at all the decorated houses, and singing Christmas songs with her family.  What Carla is most excited about is making cornbread with Granny.  Harris’ illustrations show Carla’s immense enthusiasm with her wide eyes and full grin.  Right before bedtime, Carla sees the most perfect iced sugar cookie sitting on a plate and cannot resist taking a bite.  When she is told it was Santa’s snack, she is devastated.   Fortunately, Granny calms Carla’s fears and together, they made Santa a special Christmas cornbread.  As Carla places the  cornbread on the table, her grandfather lends support saying “Santa gets tired of all those cookies, I bet.”  Will Santa love the cornbread as much as Carla? 

Carla and the Christmas Cornbread is a charming holiday story.  The engaging text and nostalgic illustrations beautifully convey the immense love of family and how honest mistakes can be remedied.  This picture book would also be a great mentor text for a small moment writing unit.  At the end of the story, Hall shares recipes for cornbread and cinnamon butter.  Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing a copy. Carla and the Christmas Cornbread released on November 2, 2021. 

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The Little Owl and the Big Tree: A Christmas Story by Jonah Winter and Jeanette Winter

In 2020, a tree was cut down, put on a flatbed truck, and traveled to New York City to grace Rockefeller Center for Christmas.  No one knew there was a small owl who called the tree home.  She remained in her hole during the entire trip and didn’t poke out until workers unwrapped the tree.  Tired and hungry, the owl allowed one of the workers to hold her in the palm of his hand.  The rest of the book tells of the tiny owl’s journey to a wildlife rescue where she is nursed back to health and then released back into the wild.  

The Little Owl and the Big Tree is a sweet story that warmed my heart.  As I read the text, I felt as if Jonah Winter was speaking directly to me.  His concise text and conversational tone make it a perfect read aloud for young children.  Jeanette Winter’s painted illustrations remind me of folk art and could easily tell the story alone.  I loved searching each illustration for the owl, which was named Rockefeller.  An author’s note provides more specific facts.  The Little Owl and the Big Tree would be a great companion text to Red and Lulu by Matt Tavares.  Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing a copy.  It recently released on October 19, 2021. 

Bella’s Dog Pick of the Week

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Only My Dog Knows I Pick My Nose by Lauren Tarshis Illustrated by Lisa Bronson Mezoff

Wanting to spread the dog love, Beagles and Books has a weekly feature of highlighting a literary selection with a canine main character.

The love and trust between boy and his dog is lauded in this adorable picture book.  The boy shares that his family sees he does everything just right, but his dog knows the truth.  Sometimes, he doesn’t close his eyes and go to sleep, brush his teeth, and follow every rule.  In fact, there are a lot of things to which the pup is the only individual aware. 

As a dog mom, I love how the book celebrates the bond between a dog and its human.  My favorite part of the text is “When everything goes wrong, my dog helps me feel happy again.”  After a rough day, coming home to my Bella is the best therapy.  She is always there to greet me with wags and barks.  Tarhsis’ playful and humorous text and Mezoff’s warm water color illustrations honor a pet and its person’s tender relationship.  Dogs accept us as we are and their unconditional love is truly the greatest gift.  A sweet touch on the front endpages is a place for children to write their name as well as their pet’s name. Thanks to Scholastic for sharing an ARC with my #bookexcursion group.  Only My Dog Knows I Pick My Nose published on October 19, 2021. 

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!

“People love dogs. You can never go wrong adding a dog to the story.”
Jim Butcher
#IMWAYR is dedicated to dear Etta, my original book beagle. Blessed that Etta is part of my story.
Bookexcursion, Early Chapter Books, Middle Grade Literature, Picture Books

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 11/22/21

lauramossa

Bella and I are excited to share our latest reads in It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? #IMWAYR is a community of bloggers who link up to share what they are reading.  Kellee Moye of Unleashing Readers and Jen Vincent of Teach Mentor Texts decided to give it a #kidlit focus and encourage everyone who participates to visit at least 3 of the other #kidlit book bloggers that link up and leave comments for them.

Our Recent Reads:

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Thankful by Elaine Vickers Illustrated by Samantha Cotterill

A young girl and her family have a tradition of making thankful chains to recall all the things for which they are grateful.  The girl is thankful for things such as her warm house, loving parents, playful puppy, kind friend, understanding teacher, and books that take her places.  Vickers’ lyrical text is calm and soothing; I love how as the girl continues listing things, she groups them into categories such as warm, cold, soft, and hard.  Cotterill’s stunning and intricate diorama illustrations draw the reader right into the pages.  As I was reading, I truly felt transported into the story, and every page spread evoked a specific emotion. When she stood with her pup as the school bus approached, I felt nervous. When the girl was reading in the comfy chair in the bookstore, I felt content and joyful.

Vickers’ and Cotterill’s collaboration is like a warm hug because the picture book reminds us to focus on the very many gifts around us.  Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing a copy.  Thankful published on September 7, 2021.

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We Give Thanks by Cynthia Rylant Illustrated by Sergio Ruzzier

As a rabbit and a frog stroll through town, they share all the things they are thankful for.  The duo is grateful for things that keep them warm, gifts of nature, means of transport, and relationships.  Rylant’s playful couplets bounce off your tongue and Ruzzier’s sweet illustrations will warm your heart.  On the last page spread, the rabbit and frog share a table full of desserts with all their friends.

What I love most about the story is the gentle reminder that we can give thanks for everything, no matter the size.  Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing a copy.  We Give Thanks published on September 7, 2021.

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Moonsong by Denise Gallagher

Not only has Fulki’s village lost its moon but also the elders have banned singing for fear it brings wild animals to their town.  Fulki though was not scared of the grunts and growls from the jungle; she became friends with a tiger who teaches her how to sing in hopes of getting the moon to come back.  When a few villagers see Fulki with the tiger, they rescue her by capturing the wild animal.  Fulki tries to appeal with words for his release, but her request falls on deaf ears.  Fulki starts to sing the song she learned with the tiger and villagers recognize the song and join in. Soon after, a moonbeam appears in the sky. The tiger who was labeled a beast with teeth and claws and no manners at all is set free and now known as kind and friendly as are the other wild animals.  Song is welcomed back into the village with the people and animals living in harmony.

With melodic text and warm illustrations, Moonsong is a sweet story about acceptance and finding your voice.  I admire Fulki for her trust in befriending the tiger as well as her resolve in standing up for him.  Thanks to Michele McAvoy of The Little Press/Blue Bronco Books for sharing a copy with my #bookexcursion group.  Moonsong published on October 1, 2021.

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A Christmas Too Big by Colleen Madden 

A Christmas Too Big is full of humor and heart! The very detailed illustrations show how Kerry’s family goes full out for the holiday. I especially love the page spread of the entire house which shows there is not one area not adorned in Christmas decor.  After spending time with Mrs. Flores, Kerry realizes that a small Christmas can still be big because the most important thing about Christmas is to be with those you love and care about. When she gets home, Kerry makes more paper flowers and adds them to her family’s decorations which propels her mom to suggest inviting over Mrs. Flores for Christmas dinner. 

By bringing Mrs. Flores’ small Christmas to her house, Kerry made Christmas big in heart for both her family and Mrs. Flores.  At the end of the story, directions explain how to make Flores de Navidad (Christmas Flowers).  Highly recommend this heartwarming holiday story!  To read my full review, click here. Thanks to Two Lions/Amazon Publishing and Barbara Fisch for sharing a copy.  A Christmas Too Big published on November 2, 2021.

Bella’s Dog Pick of the Week

Wanting to spread the dog love, Beagles and Books has a weekly feature of highlighting a literary selection with a canine main character.

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Horace and Bunwinkle: The Case of the Rascally Raccoon by PJ Gardner Illustrated by David Mottram

In the second book in the series, trash cans as well as homes are being ransacked.  A raccoon named Shoo befriends Horace and Bunwinkle because he believes he is being framed and wants to clear his name.  Pet-tective investigate!  Horace and Bunwinkle soon learn solving this mystery is not the only problem.  Their human, Ellie, is in need of money to keep the Homstead. Her idea of renting space for a community farmer’s market sounds like the solution, but all the vendors begin dropping out. Why?

While the first book centered on the building of Horace and Bunwinkle’s relationship, this adventure focused on Horace helping Bunwinkle regain her confidence after she was petnapped by the Hoglands twins.  I loved how Horace is Bunwinkle’s cheerleader reminding her she is strong and can do hard things.  With lively characters, an intriguing plot, and written in under 200 pages with short chapters and charming illustrations every few pages, the Horace and Bunwinkle series is perfect for readers transitioning to middle grade.  Thanks to Balzar and Bray/Harper Collins and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing an eARC. The Case of the Rascally Raccoon published on October 5, 2021.

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!

Blog Tour, Giveaway, Picture Books

Blog Tour & Giveaway for A Christmas Too Big by Colleen Madden

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About the Book:

Title: A Christmas Too Big
Author/Illustrator: Colleen Madden
Pub. Date: November 2, 2021

Beagles and Books is thrilled to be part of the blog tour for A Christmas Too Big  Special thanks to Two Lions and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Review:

It’s the day after Thanksgiving and Kerry’s family cannot contain their Christmas spirit.  Bring on the decorations, Christmas carols, cookie baking, binge holiday movie watching, and elves on a shelf.  It’s Christmas around the clock!  AChristmasTooBig-9781542028004-large-1

Even when the family chooses a tree, they choose one the size of the Rockefeller Center tree.   Overwhelmed, Kerry needs some space and heads outdoors in hopes for some simplicity.  As Kerry walks down her street, she sees massive holiday decorations in her neighbors’ yards.  Has everyone decided to have a Christmas too big?

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Kerry’s saving grace is Mrs. Flores.  After helping Mrs. Flores get her cart out of the snow, Kerry is invited into her house for un poco de cacao (cocoa).  She notices that Mrs. Flores’ decorations are simple-a small Christmas tree with a picture of her family who live in Mexico.  I love Kerry’s and Mrs. Flores’ interactions because their dialogue is written in English and Spanish.  As Mrs. Flores teaches Kerry how to make paper flowers and they sing a song together, my heart tugged; Mrs. Flores is missing her family and Kerry is a source of comfort. When Kerry helps Mrs. Flores use her Christmas present from her family, my heart melted because the tablet allowed Mrs. Flores to communicate with her family.  

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A Christmas Too Big is full of humor and heart! The very detailed illustrations show how Kerry’s family goes full out for the holiday. I especially love the page spread of the entire house which shows there is not one area not adorned in Christmas decor.  After spending time with Mrs. Flores, Kerry realizes that a small Christmas can still be big because the most important thing about Christmas is to be with those you love and care about. When she gets home, Kerry makes more paper flowers and adds them to her family’s decorations which propels her mom to suggest inviting over Mrs. Flores for Christmas dinner.  By bringing Mrs. Flores’ small Christmas to her house, Kerry made Christmas big in heart for both her family and Mrs. Flores.  At the end of the story, directions explain how to make Flores de Navidad (Christmas Flowers).  Highly recommend this heartwarming holiday story!  

Praise for A Christmas Too Big!

“An intergenerational friendship and a busy holiday made meaningful set this title apart.” 
—Kirkus Reviews

“Madden’s bilingual tale strikes both humorous and poignant notes; the visual blend of
comic-style panels, playful fonts, speech bubbles in both English and Spanish, and
traditional spreads offers readers plenty to celebrate.” 
—Publishers Weekly

About the Author/Illustrator:

Colleen Madden grew up in a crazy Christmas house and, like Kerry, she found a break by spending time with her neighbor who was from another country. She has illustrated many children’s books, including the bestselling What If Everybody? series, written by Ellen Javernick, and the picture-book adaptation of All I Want for Christmas Is You, by Mariah Carey. She recently published Monkey Walk, her debut as both author and illustrator, and is currently working on her first graphic novel. She lives in the Philadelphia area with her husband and two sons.

#Bookexcursion, Early Chapter Books, Graphic Novel, It's Monday! What Are You Reading?, Middle Grade Literature, Picture Books

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 11/8/21

lauramossa

Bella and I are excited to share our latest reads in It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? #IMWAYR is a community of bloggers who link up to share what they are reading.  Kellee Moye of Unleashing Readers and Jen Vincent of Teach Mentor Texts decided to give it a #kidlit focus and encourage everyone who participates to visit at least 3 of the other #kidlit book bloggers that link up and leave comments for them.

Our Recent Reads:

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Batpig: When Pigs Fly by Ron Harrell

It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s….Batpig!

Gary was just an ordinary pig until he plays a prank on his sleepy bat friend Brooklyn and she bites his nose when she awakes.  The next day, Gary feels odd and discovers he has super strength, the ability to float, and move things with his brain. Gary can now identify with his favorite comic book superhero, The Crimson Swine.  Because their fish friend, Carl, cannot keep a secret, Gary and Brooklyn withhold Gary’s new powers and superhero alter ego, Batpig.  As a result of being out of the loop, Carl becomes angry and unintentionally turns his pet lizard into a supervillain with a potty mouth.  Thankfully, the friends collectively put the lizard back in its place, but now Carl has to stay mum about Gary which is tough for the fish.  The quiet doesn’t last long because a butcher who enjoys pig puns and wants to control the world challenges Batpig.  Can Gary, Brooklyn, and Carl save the town again? 

Batpig is pure fun! I laughed from the first page to the last and I know kids will be do the same.   Amid all the giggles, the friendship between the trio was the core of the story. My heart kind of hurt for Carl when he was excluded but I soon understood Gary’s and Brooklyn’s decision.  Carl is a loudmouth but he did redeem himself in the story.  I can’t wait for the adventure to continue with the second book, Too Pig To Fall which publishes in June 2022. Thanks to Penguin Random House for sharing with #bookexcursion.  When Pigs Fly celebrates its book birthday tomorrow. 

 

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A Hundred Thousand Welcomes by Mary Lee Donovan Illustrated by Lian Cho

Written in verse, this beautiful picture book inspires us all to be inclusive.  Donovan’s soulful, rhyming text includes 13 translations for the English word, welcome. Embedded into Cho’s soft and warm artwork is the pronunciation of the word, welcome, to support the reader.  The expressive illustrations convey how the act of accepting others brings joy, for people are smiling or laughing all across the world as they welcome one another.  What I love is at the end of the book there is a fold page where all the people featured in the artwork are gathered together at a very long table (that is the width of of the double page spread) sharing food, conversation, and each other’s company.  

A Hundred Thousand Welcomes celebrates diversity as well as acknowledges our connectedness. Back matter includes notes from the author and illustrator, information about pronunciation, selected sources, and further reading.  Thanks to SparkPoint Studio and Harper Collins Publishers for sharing a copy.  A Hundred Thousand Welcomes recently published October 12, 2021.  

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A Sari for Ammi by Mamta Nainy Illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat

With themes of family, kindness, cooperation, and problem solving, A Sari for Ammi is a touching story that all children can relate to.  What I love most is kids learn more about the culture and traditions of a rural Indian Muslim family and their lifestyle.  Nainy seamlessly weaves Indian words into the text which are defined in a glossary and shares background about the history of making saris in Kaithoon, the Rajasthan town where the story takes place.  The love that the sisters not only for their ammi but also for their whole family was evident in Nainy’s engaging plot and Prabhat’s bright and lively illustrations.  I adored the way they collaborated to earn enough money to buy a sari.  Their good deed will make readers want to pay it forward and show kindness to a loved one.  Highly recommend A Sari for Ammi for home libraries, classroom libraries, school libraries, and public libraries!  

Bella’s Dog Pick of the Week

Wanting to spread the dog love, Beagles and Books has a weekly feature of highlighting a literary selection with a canine main character.

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I Am Tucker, Detection Expert (A Dog Day’s 6) by Catherine Stier Illustrated by Francesca Rosa

A Dog’s Day is an engaging early chapter book series about working dogs.  In the sixth book, a beagle named Tucker describes his job as detector dog at the airport.  Narrated by Tucker, he shares his journey to becoming a member of the Beagle Brigade, for “the tale of his life has a few bumps along the way.”

When Tucker was a puppy, he was adopted by Edward.  First, Edward trained Tucker to compete in dog shows, but his beagle nose made it difficult to concentrate when Tucker smelled food.  Then Tucker became a therapy dog greeting air travelers to ease their stress  When Edward falls ill and can no longer care for Tucker, his niece Melissa gets the idea to apply for Tucker to become a detection dog to keep his mind and body busy.   

AROO! Tucker is accepted into the Beagle Brigade and Stier does an fabulous job of explaining the training and the responsibilities of detection dogs so that kids can understand. Since the story is written from Tucker’s viewpoint, he gets to share his feelings with readers.  Tucker recalls even when he made mistakes, Edward still loved him.  Throughout his detection training, mistakes happen which worry Tucker.  Can he trust his nose stay focused and out of trouble?

As a reading specialist, I appreciate all the supports this series provides young readers transitioning into chapter books. The actual story is written in 85 pages with 10 short chapters and Rosa’s engaging black and white illustrations appear every few pages.  At the end of the book, Stier includes more information about detector dogs which provides even more facts about these incredible working dogs Thanks to the author and Albert Whitman & Company for sharing a copy. For more information about A Dog’s Day series, click here.

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!

“People love dogs. You can never go wrong adding a dog to the story.”
Jim Butcher
#IMWAYR is dedicated to dear Etta, my original book beagle. Blessed that Etta is part of my story.
Blog Tour, Giveaway, Picture Books

Blog Tour & Giveaway for A Sari for Ammi by Mamta Nainy

lauramossa
 
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About the Book:

Title: A Sari for Ammi
Author: Mamta Nainy
Illustrator: Sandhya Prabhat
Pub. Date: November 9, 2021

Beagles and Books is thrilled to be part of the blog tour for A Sari for Ammi published by Amazon Crossing Kids which aims to increase the diversity of children’s books in translation and encourage young reading from a range of cultural perspectives. Special thanks to the publisher and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Review:

Making saris is a family affair for a young girl, her sister, Sadaf, and her mother (Ammi) and father (Abba).  In fact, weaving has been a family trade for generations.  One day, the very observant daughter recognizes that Ammi weaves the most colorful and gorgeous saris but she never keeps any of her beautiful creations for herself.  When she asks why, Ammi responds “If we keep the saris, what will we eat?” Young readers learn that making saris is the the family’s job and the way they earn money for the things they need.  As Ammi looks in the mirror wearing one of her sari, Prabhat captures her feelings that perhaps once, she wishes she could keep a sari as her own. 

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But what if they bought a sari for Ammi?  The girl shares her idea of breaking their gullak (piggybank) with Sadaf.  They decide to forego buying themselves things from the bazaar and use the money for Ammi.  After the money is counted, a new problem arises.  They do not have enough.  The sisters need to work together to get more money.  

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First, they sell old junk like paper, bottles, and metal to Jhammu Kaka, the scrap dealer earning more money, but not quite enough for a sari. As they walk through a wheat field, they get another idea to help Amina Khala color thread. Do they finally have enough?  “Just enough!” screams Sadaf.  

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And the sisters don’t just buy any sari.  They purchase a sari that Ammi has weaved.  What tugged at my heart is the sari they chose was the sari that Ammi was wearing while looking in the mirror.  Prabhat’s vivid artwork shows Ammi’s pure joy in her smile and the single tear streaming down her cheek as she tightly hugs her daughters.  

With themes of family, kindness, cooperation, and problem solving, A Sari for Ammi is a touching story that all children can relate to.  What I love most is kids learn more about the culture and traditions of a rural Indian Muslim family and their lifestyle.  Nainy seamlessly weaves Indian words into the text which are defined in a glossary and shares background about the history of making saris in Kaithoon, the Rajasthan town where the story takes place.  The love that the sisters not only for their ammi but also for their whole family was evident in Nainy’s engaging plot and Prabhat’s bright and lively illustrations.  I adored the way they collaborated to earn enough money to buy a sari.  Their good deed will make readers want to pay it forward and show kindness to a loved one.  Highly recommend A Sari for Ammi for home libraries, classroom libraries, school libraries, and public libraries!  

Praise A Sari for Ammi!

“This delightful picture book shines a spotlight on a rural, underrepresented Indian Muslim community.” 
—Kirkus Reviews

About the Author:
Mamta Nainy is a children’s writer, editor, and translator based in New Delhi, India. She is the author of many children’s books, including A Brush with Indian Art, illustrated by Aniruddha Mukherjee, which won the Hindu Young World-Goodbooks Award in 2019; and Bioscope, illustrated by Shanti Devi, which was named to the IBBY Honor List in 2012. Follow the author on Instagram @mamtanainy.

About the Illustrator:
Sandhya Prabhat is an independent animator and illustrator from Chennai, India, who resides in the United States. She has a master’s degree in animation and digital arts from New York University. She has illustrated nearly a dozen picture books, including her recent book I Am Brown, written by Ashok Banker. She animates for TV and movies and creates content for social media websites such as Facebook, Google, and Snapchat. Follow the artist on Instagram @sandhyaprabhat.

 

 

 

Board Books, Debut Author, Graphic Novel, It's Monday! What Are You Reading?, Middle Grade Literature, Nonfiction, Picture Books

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 11/1/21

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Bella and I are excited to share our latest reads in It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? #IMWAYR is a community of bloggers who link up to share what they are reading.  Kellee Moye of Unleashing Readers and Jen Vincent of Teach Mentor Texts decided to give it a #kidlit focus and encourage everyone who participates to visit at least 3 of the other #kidlit book bloggers that link up and leave comments for them.

Our Recent Reads:

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The Hunger Heroes: Missed Meal Mayhem by Jarrett Lerner

Comprised of Mr. Toots, a bean, Chip Ninja, Tomato Tammy, and Leonard, a nervous chunk of cheese, the Hunger Heroes are a team of food who have one mission-saving kids from a missed meal.  When the quartet gets an alert from a nearby elementary school, they quickly jump in their taco hovercraft in hopes of arriving in time before a student, Jason, takes his math test. The Hunger Heroes must not only gain access to the building but also get past his teacher, Mrs. Sternbladder whose classroom is a no-snack zone. Once inside, the team realizes that time is of the essence because Jason is fading fast. Mr. Toots knows that they need to distract Mrs. Sternbladder but how? Will the Hunger Heroes be successful in achieving their objective?

I am a big fan of anything Jarrett Lerner writes and illustrates because his books not only engage and entertain readers but also educate in a non preachy way.  In Missed Meal Mayhem, Mrs. Sternbladder appears cranky and then readers learn the backstory behind the teacher’s no snack policy. Prior to reading, Lerner even cautions readers that the chapter may cause them to empathize with an adult.  The Hunger Heroes are so adorable and remind me of the Del Monte Country Yumkins; we saved many, many labels to get the whole family (although we did not have the pineapple and plum). 

Del Monte Fruit & Vegetable 7 Piece Plush Toy Set 1983 Vintage Fruits Vegetables Country Yumkins Del Monte : Toys & Games - Amazon.co.jp

Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing a finished copy. Missed Meal Mayhem celebrates its book birthday next week on November 9, 2021. Already eagerly awaiting the Hunger Heroes’ next adventure, Snack Cabinet Sabotage, due out in August 2022!

 
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Barb The Last Berzerker by Dan Abdo and Jason Patterson 
 

In the land of Bailiwick, humans and monsters are at war and the Berzerkers keep the monsters in check.  Spunky Barb is the youngest and smallest Berzerker and is always told to stay back because of her age and size.  But when the Berzerkers are tricked by the evil Witch Head, Barb is only one able to escape and she doesn’t leave empty handed; she takes the legendary Shadow Blade, a magical sword with her.  Befriending a yeti named Porkchop, Barb is on a mission to find the Northern Zerks to help her her Berzerker family.

Character development is on point.  Readers will immediately determine from her words and actions that Barb is no pipsqueak; she is determined to not only help her Berzerker family but also others she meets in her quest to find the Northern Zerks.  Amid the humor, there is a lot of heart, for Barb is always putting others before herself.  Through her relationship with Porkchop, Barb shows that humans and monsters are not that much different and surprisingly, can be friends.  This friendship forever changes her, for even when she defeats the monster Grom, she feels compelled to save him from drowning in mud.   With an intriguing fast paced plot, dynamic characters, and vivid comic panels, kids will love this graphic novel adventure! Thanks to Simon and Schuster’s Children Publishing for sharing a finished copy.  Barb the Last Berzerker recently released on September 28, 2021.  And don’t worry.  Barb will be back in Barb and the Ghost Blade in May 2022!

 

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A Home Again by Colleen Rowan Kosinski Illustrated by Valeria Docampo

A newly built house eagerly awaits its first family to call their home.   As the family grows, their level of activity and noise increases until one day they leave the house with tears in their eyes.    Readers see a For Sale but the house is unaware. When people come to look at it, the distraught house makes it shingles shake and steps creak in hopes the family will return.. As times passes, the house’s despair in evident in its roof sagging and brown, weed filled garden until one day two men and their dog see past the squeaks, cracks, and weeds. Will the house be willing to be a home again?  

Told from the house’s point of view, Kosinki’s lyrical text and Docampo’s use of light and dark in the illustrations beautifully conveys the house’s range of emotions.  A Home Again teaches the important lesson that we can all can heal after a loss and learn to love again.  Thanks to Two Lions Publishing and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing a finished copy.  A Home Again celebrates its book birthday today!

 

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Odd Beasts: Meet Nature’s Weirdest Animals by Laura Gehl Illustrated by Gareth Lucas

Toddlers and preschoolers will be captivated by this nonfiction picture book that introduces them to animals with unique characteristics. On each page spread, children learn a fact about an animal and as the concise text is read aloud, the rhyme scheme is revealed.  Lucas makes use of the whole page spread for his large and appealing illustrations of each animal. Even as an adult, I learned new information like the immense weight of a sunfish and glass frogs have see through skin.  And I especially love that at the end of the book, Gehl has included real photographs of all the animals and an explanation about their unusual trait.  

Thanks to Abrams and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing a finished copy.  Odd Beasts: Meet Nature’s Weirdest Animals celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on November 2, 2021. 

Bella’s Dog Pick of the Week

Wanting to spread the dog love, Beagles and Books has a weekly feature of highlighting a literary selection with a canine main character.

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Awake by Mags DeRoma

A girl and her pup Oscar are all ready for a good night’s sleep but right before she turns off her light, she spies a spider and its web in her window. Now she is wide awake because she can’t go to sleep knowing a spider in her bedroom! As she ponders her options, Oscar holds the book titled Itsy Bitsy Spider in his mouth but she doesn’t give him credit when she thinks of the nursery rhyme.  The girl continues to brainstorm ideas until finally her frustration overtakes her and she captures the spider under a glass.  DeRoma’s illustration of the spider under the glass  tugs at the heart because the arachnid looks small and harmless to not only the reader but also the girl. This revelation changes the girl’s perspective resulting in her releasing the spider and naming it Harry.  

I love DeRoma’s debut picture book because it teaches kids about empathy.   The plot conveys the theme and on the back endpapers, DeRoma cleverly provides kids with illustrated step by step directions for how to kindly and carefully relocate a spider.  Oscar is a loyal companion never leaving his girl’s side.  Thanks to Macmillan Children’s Publishing for sharing a finished copy.  Awake recently released on October 19, 2021. 

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!

“People love dogs. You can never go wrong adding a dog to the story.”
Jim Butcher
#IMWAYR is dedicated to dear Etta, my original book beagle. Blessed that Etta is part of my story.