Month: July 2022

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

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 7/25/22

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:

IMG_4298

Fenris & Mott by Greg van Eekhout 

Mott (short for Martha) just moved to California from Pennsylvania with her mom.  The transition isn’t easy, for she is missing her best friend and disappointed in her dad who doesn’t keep his promises.  One night, behind her apartment, she hears a “mweep” coming from a recycling bin.  Thinking it is a rat, Mott is delighted to discover the sound was coming from a puppy.  Angered that someone would dump a defenseless pup, Mott promises to take care of it.  This vow is tricky since her apartment building isn’t pet friendly.  But Mott is a quick thinker and takes the dog to an animal shelter where she finds out the animal is actually a wolf pup.   

The wolf pup doesn’t appreciate being leashed and escapes. When Mott catches up with him, the wolf pup is being held by a large man dressed in a costume who introduces himself as Gorm the Vicious., a bondsman to a Norse god. He informs Mott that the wolf pup is Fenris and according to Norse mythology, he will destroy the world by eating the moon. Mott might not have control over a lot of things in her life, but she is determined to keep her vow to Fenris.  After meeting Fenris’ sword bearing guard, Thrudi and refusing to surrender him, Mott convinces her to team up to attempt to stop the prophecy in hopes of saving both Fenris and the world.

Told from Mott’s point of view, Fenris & Mott is a fast-paced, riveting story that is hard to put down.  To be honest, I don’t read a lot of novels with mythological elements.  Initially, the wolf pup drew me in but what made me keep reading was Mott.   She is strong for Fenris willing to protect him at all costs yet vulnerable when it comes to relationships with Amanda and her dad.  What I also enjoyed the humor especially between Mott and Thrudi and their unlikely friendship.  While some plot events are tied up, there are still questions left unanswered which leaves me hopeful that the trio’s adventures will continue. Thanks to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing a copy.  Fenris & Mott releases next week on August 2, 2022. 

IMG_4205

The End by John Bray

In his debut picture book, Bray humorously explores the concept of endings.  On the first page spread, a child is running excitedly out of a school building where a hanging banner states “Have a great summer.”  The child finishes lunch but dinner and dessert will be beginning.  Later she builds a very long fort which allows her to stay in the middle until she gets bored ending her construction. As I read The End, I was reminded of the Lucius Anneaus Seneca quote popularized in Semisonic’s song Closing Time, “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”   

Bray’s playful text and Cleland’s energetic artwork make you want to read the story to the end!      After reading, a good discussion can take place about beginnings, middles, and endings and how some conclusions are tougher than others such as the end of summer vacation (yup, that is a BIG ending).  Thanks to Starry Forest Books for sending an ARC to my #bookexcursion group. The End releases on August 30, 2022. 

IMG_4204

Cadence and Kittenfish: A Mermaid Tale by Judith Roth Illustrated by Jaclyn Sinquett

Cadence, a young mermaid, is lonely.  When she peers up on land and sees a whole bunch of kittens, she thinks one would be a great companion.  Her dad disagrees suggesting a catfish. But Cadence still wants a kitten. The next day, Cadence returns above water in a boat and is able to entice a kitten to join her. But finding a place they can both play is problematic since cats live on land and mermaids in the water. After many unsuccessful tries, Cadence sadly says goodbye to the kitten returning it to shore. Will Cadence ever find a pet that fits her and her habitat?

With a lively text and expressive illustrations, kids will enjoy Cadence and the Kittenfish.  They will also easily be able to relate to Cadence and her desire for a pet of her own.  And don’t worry.  Astute observers will see that Cadence’s perfect pet is right under her nose (I mean tail),  for the most adorable little otter seems to be following her longing for a friend too.  Thanks to Starry Forest Books for sending an ARC to my #bookexcursion group. Cadence and Kittenfish releases on August 30, 2022. 

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 character.

IMG_4200

Noodle and the No Bones Day by Jonathan Graziano Illustrated by Dan Tavis

Full disclosure: I did not know about Noodles because I am not on TikTok.  But I just discovered he is on Instagram so he and his human each gained a new follower.

Noodles, a senior rescue pug, enjoys walking and sitting outside with his human Jonathan, And snacks. Noodles loves eating snacks. But one morning, Noodles didn’t want to leave his comfy bed.  A worried Jonathan tried to get Noodles upright, but he just fell back in his bed as if he did not have any bones.  After checking to make sure Noodles was not sick, he decided to let Noodles relax at home with belly rubs, snuggles, and snacks. Always snacks. It was Noodles first of many no bones days! 

Being a senior rescue dog mom, Jonathan Graziano and Noodles touched my heart.  My husband and I adopted both Bella and Etta (who passed in February 2020) when they were each about six years old.  Dan Tavis’ illustrations capture Noodles’ adorable personality and I appreciate how the author’s note encourages readers to look to shelters and rescues to find a pet. I also love the message in the story that bones or no bones are both good days. Why?  Because any day you can spend with someone you love is a fantastic day!  Some of my favorite days are chilling with Bella on a snow day or during summer vacation.  In a world where schedules can get busy, Noodles and the No Bones Day is a great reminder to practice self-care.  Thanks to Simon Kids for sharing a copy.  Noodle and the No Bones Day published on June 7, 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, Early Chapter Books, Graphic Novel, It's Monday! What Are You Reading?, Middle Grade Literature, Picture Books

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 7/18/22

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:

IMG_4115

Invisible by Christina Diaz Gonzalez and Gabriella Epstein

Five students who have been completing community service hours in the cafeteria are called to Principal Powell’s office at Conrad Middle School.  Why?  To share their recollections of what happened on April 18th.  On the surface, they all appear to be similar in that they speak Spanish, but they are completely different.  As the synopsis states, George is the brain, Sara, the loner, Dayara, the tough kid, Nico, the rich kid, and Miguel, the athlete.  Wait a minute…wasn’t there a 1980’s movie with the same cast of characters?  These kids are usually invisible to everyone around them, but once they meet someone in need, they need to decide whether to extend a helping hand knowing they could get in trouble. 

As I read Invisible, I was a rollercoaster of emotions.  Angry at first that an adult thinks they are all Mexican.  Worry for George because his family has moved, but doesn’t want it to jeopardize his chance to get into the magnet school.  Sadness for Miguel who is talented artist but his father wants him to concentrate fully on baseball.  Heartache for Dayara who needs support in learning English as well as Sara who has a huge heart but is shy.  Annoyance for Nico who seemed to think he was better than everyone else.  But as I read on, I got to know the characters better and witnessed the kids gradually becoming a team which warmed my heart and on the final pages, I cried happy tears.  Written in both English and Spanish, Diaz Gonzalez’ text is authentic and moving.  Epstein’s detailed comic panels are full of energy and expression making the the story come alive.  Can’t wait to see the finished color artwork!  Highly recommend pre-ordering Invisible.  It is a middle grade must read!  Thanks to Scholastic for sharing a copy with my #bookexcusion group.  Invisible releases on August 2, 2022. 

IMG_4119 (2)

Llama Rocks the Cradle of Chaos by Jonathan Stutzman Illustrated by Heather Fox 

“I AM LLAMA” is back for a third adventure in the series.  Llama just celebrated his birthday with his friends and a doughnut with extra sprinkles.  The yummy dessert consumes his mind and as a result, he gets a deliciously dangerous idea to go back in time to savor the donut again.  Unlike his dancing pants, time travel pants come with directions. But Llama is too rushed to read them. so when he goes back in time, he goes back way farther than a day.  Based on the clothing and music, Llama traveled back to the 1980’s to his birthday when he was a wee, little llama.  After eating the donut, Llama travels back to the present bringing his younger self with him.  Not one for sharing, Llama sends Baby Llama back to the past but is unsuccessful and with each attempt. Baby Llama bring more “friends” with him.  Worried about his house but mostly about his secret cake cellar, Llama wonders how can he end the chaos?

Llama is one of my favorite picture book characters because his penchant for food especially sweets always gets him in trouble.  I love how Llama is just reckless and doesn’t worry about any ramifications from his risky decision thinking once he has satisfied his stomach, life can just go back to normal.  His lone action sets off a chain reaction that seems impossible to solve but somehow, Llama wins!  Stutzman’s lively and witty text and Fox’s adorable and whimsical illustrations perfectly complement each other.  Thanks to Macmillan Kids for sharing an eARC.  Llama Rocks the Cradle of Chaos recently released on July 5, 2022. 

IMG_4117

K is for Kindness by Rina Horiuchi  Illustrated by Risa Horiuchi

Looking for an alphabet book with a positive message?  This ABC book teaches young children the 26 letters with animals showing kindness to each other.  As a reading specialist, I love so many aspects of K is for Kindness!  On each page, a sentence concisely captures one animal’s goodwill to another.  The targeted letter is blue and begins each sentence. Not only does the text have some alliteration, but it also rhymes with the subsequent sentence.  For example, “Cow covers Cat with a coat ’cause he’s cold. Donkey gives Dog her dear dolly to hold.”  Accompanying the text is a charming, uncluttered illustration that shows the animal’s altruism.  All the benevolent acts are simple yet powerful such as saying thank you, reading a book or signing XOX in a letter showing kids that good deeds are free.  At the end of the book, kids are asked to think about something considerate they could do which will promote a rich conversation and inspiration. Thanks to the author for sharing a copy.  K is for Kindness published in April 2022. 

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 character.

IMG_4103

Millie, Daisy, and the Scary Storm (Life in the Doghouse #3) written by Danny Robertson, Ron Danta & Crystal Velasquez Illustrated by Laura Catrinella

In the third book in the Life in the Doghouse series, Millie and Daisy are bonded pups rescued during Hurricane Katrina.  Although they are best friends, they are completely different.  Daisy is scared of storms and Millie watches them from the front door. Millie is excited about getting adopted in contrast to the worried Daisy.  What if the two get separated?  Millie hatches a plan to ensure they are adopted together, but Daisy isn’t certain that is what she wants.  She likes living at Danny and Ron’s Rescue.  Will both Daisy’s and Millie’s dreams come true? 

At only 108 pages with short chapters and black and white illustrations, Millie, Daisy, and the Scary Storm (along with the other books in the series), is a great chapter book for children transitioning to middle grade.  Kids will also enjoy learning about the true story of Daisy and Millie which comes after the fictionalized story.  Of course, being a rescue dog mom, I love that this series features a rescue dedicating to finding furever homes for dogs and the text shows how the dogs like Daisy can be scared or anxious given the trauma they experienced. Thanks to Simon Kids for sharing for a copy. Millie, Daisy, and the Scary Storm recently released on July 12, 2022.   To learn more about this engaging and informative 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.
#Bookexcursion, Debut Author, It's Monday! What Are You Reading?, Middle Grade Literature, Picture Books

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 7/11/22

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:

IMG_3870

Play Like Girl by Misty Wilson Illustrated by David Wilson

Rising seventh grader Misty loves football because it has strategy. teamwork and most of all, players can tackle. When the boys won’t her play during a practice, go getter Misty refuses to stay on the sidelines. She signs up for the town’s football league determined to prove that she has the skills and stamina to be on the team. Training is grueling and while her best friend Bree decides football is not for her, Misty remains steadfast. Her decision to keep playing puts a strain on their friendship which is tough at the beginning, but Misty learns there are others who understand and accept her desire to play football.

Once I began reading Misty Wilson’s graphic memoir, I couldn’t put it down. While I never played a team sport, I could still relate to Misty’s competitive nature and cheered her on along the way. Readers will also connect to her struggles navigating middle school friendships and how old relationships can change and new friendships can blossom. I especially loved how her football coaches and her stepdad were her biggest supporters.  Misty Wilson’s honest and humorous text and David Wilson’s engaging and expressive artwork showed Misty at her best and worst allowing the reader to see an authentic main character. Misty also learns valuable lessons in friendship, teamwork, family, forgiveness, and acceptance. Thanks to the author for sharing a copy with my #bookexcursion group. Play Like a Girl publishes on September 27, 2022. 

IMG_4047

Bright by Brigit Young

Marianne has always been able to get by in school, but this year her grades in Mr. Garcia’s math class may cause her to repeat the eight grade. She reluctantly joins the Quiz Quest team thinking her presence will earn her extra credit but Mr. Garcia is firm; Marianne must prove she is putting forth effort, not just sitting on the sidelines. It doesn’t take long before Marianne discovers the Quiz Quest members are not a true team. While Marianne may not be able to quickly recall facts, she does possess a natural ability to help her teammates each discover their strengths making Quiz Quest a more cohesive unit.  

Young’s upper middle grade novel touched me as a teacher. What struck me is Marianne has a good support system of family and friends,, but was still able to slip through the cracks until Mr. Garcia’s class.  Readers do learn the cause of her lack of effort which I appreciated.  Because of an innocent mistake that occurred in her sixth grade social studies oral presentation, an embarrassed Marianne chose to stop trying convincing herself she couldn’t learn.  I have personally worked with kids who have shared Marianne’s attitude; Bright reminds me that my job is to help kids identify their strengths and understand there are all kinds of ways to be smart. Of course, no one is successful without effort and Marianne must take some responsibility.  Being on Quiz Quest teaches Marianne that everyone has feelings of inadequacy including the smartest people she knows and her greatest competitor has always been herself.  I loved witnessing Marianne learn and grow and I know middle grade readers will too! Thanks to the author for sharing a copy with my #bookexcursion group.  Bright recently released on July 5, 2022. 

IMG_4043

Hurry, Little Tortoise, Time for School! by Carrie Finson Illustrated by Erin Kraan

On the first day of school, Little Tortoise is prepared to not only be on time, but perhaps, the first one to arrive.  Surely, the extra lettuce for breakfast will help his momentum.  As she walks, Cheetah, Llama and other animals including Snail riding a scooter pass her.  Little Tortoise remains undeterred plonk-a plunking along.  When she finally makes it to the schoolhouse, she hears noises inside.  Thinking she is late, she hides in her shell until the teacher Mr. Sloth picks her up admitting he is indeed tardy.  He calms Little Tortoise saying while he is working on being on time, it’s more important to be present.  The smile on Little Tortoise’s face shows she has an ally, and they both keep up their pace to get to the classroom before the clock turns to 8:30 a.m. 

As a teacher, I constantly hear kids announcing being first which I always answer with “It’s not a race” I love Mr. Sloth’s attitude that faster isn’t better; perseverance and presence is paramount.  Finison’s steadfast shelled protagonist reminds us of the moral “Slow and steady wins the race,” Kraan’s charming and lively woodcut illustrations perfectly complement Finison’s witty text and makes Hurry Little Tortoise, Time for School a perfect real aloud for the beginning of the school year.  Thanks to the author and Random House Studio for sending a copy to my #bookexcursion group.  Hurry, Little Tortoise, Time for School! releases next week on July 19, 2022. 

IMG_4029

Pink is Not a Color by Lindsay Ward

When Pink discovers that the Primaries and the Secondaries are planning for the Rainbow Extravaganza, she wants to lend a hand.  But she wonders why hasn’t she ever heard of this event before?  The Rainbow Extravaganza celebrates all the colors in the rainbow and sadly, Pink is not one of them. The colors still invite Pink to come, but she feels awkward and begins to question her identity.  Is she still a color if she is not in the rainbow? I love Ward’s format for Pink speaks directly to the reader sharing her inner thoughts in speech bubbles and the illustrations show Pink’s range of emotions as she grapples with this question.  

Fortunately, her friend Gray sets her straight by taking Pink on a stroll around town to show her how all things pink such as ice cream, art, and toys bring joy.  And best of all, pink is a color in the sunrise and sunset.  Can’t get any better than that!  The message of Pink is Not a Color is sometimes it takes a friend to help you see your true self-worth. To read my full review, click here. 

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 canine characters.

IMG_4041

Lou by Breanna Carzoo

Dogs are typically the main event in this feature, but Lou, a fire hydrant, is pretty deserving given his contribution to the canine crew.  He knows he is useful as a toilet for the neighborhood dogs yet he yearns to serve a higher purpose.  As Lou narrates the story from the sidewalk, readers see a fire starting in an apartment in the background.  Unbeknownst to Lou, a fire truck parks close by him and when a dalmatian pays a visit, he thinks it’s business as usual until the firefighter attaches a hose to him. Suddenly, Lou knows his true gift.

I absolutely adore everything about Lou. In her author/illustrator debut, Carzoo has created an utterly endearing character who possesses both a sense of humor and incredible depth.  I love seeing the story within the story involving a cat, a pot cooking on a stove, and a dad and his child leaving the kitchen which ultimately leads to Lou realizing his superhero powers.  With potty puns and a passionate main character,  Lou is a story that make you chuckle and tug at your heart.  And while my local fire hydrant is orange, I am so tempted to paint it red and give it eyes and a mouth.  And don’t worry Lou; Bella only sees you for the hero you are! Thanks to the author and Harper Collins for sharing an eARC. Lou celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on July 12, 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.
Blog Tour, Giveaway, Picture Books

Blog Tour & Giveaway for Pink is Not a Color by Lindsay Ward

lauramossa
                   
                                              

IMG_4029

About the Book:
Title: Pink is Not a Color
Author/Illustrator: Lindsay Ward
Pub. Date: July 1, 2022

Beagles and Books is thrilled to be part of the blog tour for Pink is Not a Color published by Two Lions/Amazon Publishing. 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:

When Pink discovers that the Primaries and the Secondaries are planning for the Rainbow Extravaganza, she wants to lend a hand.  But she wonders why hasn’t she ever heard of this event before?  

Ward-PinkIsNotAColor-29316-HC-EBOOK-PB-IN-v9.indd

 

The Rainbow Extravaganza celebrates all the colors in the rainbow and sadly, Pink is not one of them. The colors still invite Pink to come, but she feels awkward and begins to question her identity.  Is she still a color if she is not in the rainbow? I love Ward’s format for Pink speaks directly to the reader sharing her inner thoughts in speech bubbles and the illustrations show Pink’s range of emotions as she grapples with this question.  

Ward-PinkIsNotAColor-29316-HC-EBOOK-PB-IN-v9.indd

A confused Pink meets up with other colors and learns that colors mixed with white are called Tints.  So is she a color or a tint?  Fortunately, Gray sets her straight by taking Pink on a stroll around town to show her how all things pink such as ice cream, art, and toys bring joy.  And best of all, pink is a color in the sunrise and sunset.  Can’t get any better than that! 

Ward-PinkIsNotAColor-29316-HC-EBOOK-PB-IN-v9.indd

The message of Pink is Not a Color is sometimes it takes a friend to help you see your true self-worth.  Pink forgot that others don’t decide who she is; she is bubble gum, cotton candy, tutus, bunny slippers, cupcakes, and sprinkles which all bring happiness. 

As in Ward, This Book is Gray, Ward’s artwork and page layout is visually appealing to young readers.  The colors are adorably drawn adorned with hats, headbands, and rosy cheeks.  The witty dialogue is written in speech bubbles.  Be sure to visit the front endpapers again, for Ward has included a color glossary defining types of colors and the author’s note explaining the inspiration for the story. 

Praise for Pink is Not a Color!

Ward’s cast of colors, pink-cheeked and wearing accessories, speak in color-coded speech bubbles; appropriately, pink hues dominate the exuberant art. A rosy take on selfhood.” 
―Kirkus Reviews

About the Author/Illustrator: 

Lindsay Ward is the creator of the Dexter T. Rexter series as well as Between the Lines, Scooper and Dumper, Rosie: Stronger than Steel, This Book Is Gray, Brobarians, Rosco vs. the Baby, and The Importance of Being 3. Her book Please Bring Balloons was also made into a play. Lindsay lives with her family in Peninsula, Ohio with her husband, three boys, one dog, and eight ducks. When she’s not drawing, Lindsay loves to bake. Pink-frosted cupcakes are her favorite. Learn more about her online at www.lindsaymward.com.

Twitter: @lindsaymward
Instagram: lindsaymward

Check out activities and more here on Lindsay Ward’s website!