Author: lauramossa

I am an elementary reading specialist in Baltimore County. My goal is to build a community of readers at my school with both teachers and students. I am also privileged to be a member of #bookexcursion, a group of 12 educators from all across the country who read, share, review, and promote new #kidlit releases. Beagles and Books was created because in addition to books, I love my sweet beagles. Etta, a rescue from North Carolina joined our family in July 2010 and crossed the Rainbow Bridge in February 2020. Bella, a rescue from South Carolina became part of the family in October 2017.

It’s been almost a month since we had to say goodbye to Bella. Grateful for the love and support from family, friends, and the #kidlit community. Your kind words are a tremendous source of comfort.

With her beagle nose, Bella loved exploring the garden. Over the years, we added a few statues honoring our canine companions. With warm weather and bulbs blooming, the garden hounds will help me share Beagles and Books’ latest reads. Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing these new picture books all released in March 2025.

Meet the Mini-Mammals: A Night at the Natural History Museum by Melissa Stewart Illustrated by Brian Lies

Welcome to the Mini-Mammals exhibit which highlights pint-sized mammals from largest to smallest. The Japanese dwarf flying squirrel is the heaviest weighing the size of an Asian pear. As small as it is, it can travel the length of eight buses with one hop. Author Stewart’s informative text includes fascinating facts about each animal, a text feature called Tiny Tidbits and a question with alliteration which sets the stage for the next mini-mammal. Finally, Kirt’s hog-nosed bat, the teeniest mammal weighing a little less than four mini marshmallows, takes the prize. At the end of the book, not only do kids see a map showing where all the mini-mammals live but also some spectacular statistics.

When it comes to teaching kids about science, look further than Stewart. Her ability to share knowledge that is easily accessible to kids (and adults) is unmatched. With his realistic illustrations depicting each animal’s actual size as well as in its natural habitat, Lies brings the mini-mammals to life. Given Stewart shares their weight in food, readers can also easily compare animals.

Are We There Yet? The First Trip Across the USA by Stacy McAnulty Illustrated by Elizabeth Baddely

Did you know in 1903, Dr. Horatio Nelson Jackson accepted a bet of fifty dollars that he could drive a horseless carriage (now known as a car) from California to New York in three months? To make his dream a reality, Jackson hired bicycle racer Sewell Crocker as his mechanic and travel buddy and bought a used Winton Touring Car.

On May 23rd. their journey began and lots of mishaps befell on the duo. Blown tires, replacement car parts, and lack of food didn’t deter them and adopting a dog named Bud only fueled their enthusiasm. When other teams joined in the race, Jackson remained confident. Even when Bud went missing a couple of times, Jackson stayed composed and the trio always left together. Finally, on July 26, 1903, Jackson, Crocker, and Bud arrived in New York City sixty three days, twelve hours, and thirty minutes after they began. His fifty dollar bet cost him eight thousand dollars but who cares? Jackson, Crocker, and Bud claimed victory as the first to drive across the county.

Author McAnulty’s lively and informative text and illustrator Baddeley’s nostalgic artwork perfectly complement each other. I especially love that Bud was not only part of this historic event but also happily lived the rest of his life with Jackson and his family. Back matter includes a map of their itinerary, a timeline of their trip, a list of lost items, fun facts, and sources.

Stalactite & Stalagmite by Drew Beckmeyer

After many waterdrops seep through a cave and pick up minerals, two nubs emerge. Over millions of years, Stalactite and Stalagmite see life come and go in their cave-a trilobite, an Ichthyostega, a triceratops, a giant ground sloth, a bat, and eventually humans. Gradually Stalactite and Stalagmite grow closer in distance and friendship. When they are within inches of each other, both express their fear. What will they be when they meet? In the end, they both realize there is strength in uniting as one

As someone who has visited caverns as a child and an adult, author/illustrator Beckmeyer successfully taught me the origin of these fascinating rock formations. I love how Beckmeyer chose Stalactite and Stalagmite to tell their story through a conversation. Their exchange includes humor, history, and heart. The artwork is phenomenal with their eyes and mouth charmingly expressing their emotions as they evolved. And don’t skip the endpapers, for the front is integral to the story and the back provides content support and if you look closely, a little chuckle.

Monty and the Mushrooms by Dev Petty Illustrated by Jared Chapman

Let me clear up some misconceptions. Worms live underground, birds have wings, and trees drop pinecones and acorns because mushrooms are LOUD. They gossip, argue, tell stories and jokes, and sing.

Marmots who live in the same habitat are not a fan of noise. So when loud mushrooms attempt to bond with a marmot named Monty, it’s not the beginning of a beautiful friendship. And the mushrooms singing their EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE song does not help. Monty’s most logical solution is to eat the mushrooms but sadly they are poisonous. And since they can’t stay quiet, Monty only has one last option-relocate. New neighbors, banana slugs, move in quickly and surprisingly, they not only can’t hear but also can eat poisonous mushrooms. What are the odds?

Petty’s comical characters and hilarious plot coupled with Chapman’s whimsical illustrations make Monty and the Mushrooms a pure delight. Astute readers will see the banana slugs in the periphery early in the illustrations waiting for their opportunity. Check out the front and back endpapers to see the plot development. I wonder if there is another story for Monty. Only hope he found his place of zen.

So Tortoise Dug by Emmy Kastner

Tortoise and Mouse are best friends and burrowmates. When their burrow is flooded, Tortoise digs them a new home. Upon completion, Tortoise is ready to play with Mouse: however, she is nowhere to be found. Worried Mouse may not come back, Tortoise digs burrows for other animals who pass by and are need of a home. After Tortoise dug his eleventh burrow, all the animals have disappeared and still no Mouse. Readers will happy to know Mouse does return but by that time, Tortoise’s emotions are a mix of sadness and anger. As best friends should, Mouse apologizes and reveals she was fetching Tortoise’s his favorite treat. All is forgiven.

Adorably drawn with a variety of facial expressions, Tortoise really tugged at my heart. Digging is his jam but the fact that he willingly built burrows for every animal who asked shows his genuine kindness. It’s no wonder why he was upset. I love how author/illustrator Kastner shows that while conflict is a part of friendship, both characters modeled appropriate behavior. Tortoise uses his words to share his feelings and Mouse not only acknowledges Tortoise but also apologizes. In the author’s note, Kastner explains the inspiration for the story and how it’s a pourquoi tale. Since our first graders write their own WHY stories in our ELA curriculum, I can’t wait to share So Tortoise Dug with teachers and kids.

“People love dogs. You can never go wrong adding a dog to the story.”-Jim Butcher
Beagles & Books is dedicated to Etta & Bella, my original book beagles. Blessed they are part of my story.

Tribute

A Love Letter to My Bella

March 23, 2025March 23, 2025 lauramossa

In September 2017, my husband Jimmy and I saw this Facebook post and were immediately smitten with the smallest beagle we ever laid eyes on.

Adopted in October 2017, we renamed her Bella not realizing it was the most popular female dog name. Given she responded to it so quickly, we wonder if it was her original name.

We knew Etta and Bella would bond in time and were tickled to capture this sweet photo of them in the car.

At home though, Etta had to be in the bed first. Countless times I had to remove Bella from the bed so Etta could claim her spot. Then Bella was allowed to join. Loved them in matching PJs.

Bella joined Etta in helping me promote kid-lit on my Beagles and Books blog. Surprisingly, Bella’s signature tongue out didn’t appear on camera yet.

When we said goodbye to Etta in February 2020, Bella was my comfort. She graciously took over as full time book model for the blog. And when schools were virtual from March 2020-March 2021, Bella was my companion during online teaching.

Bella loved her daily walks. Unlike Etta, she permitted me to stop and chat with neighbors. She also loved to roll in the grass and rain did not deter her from her exercise.

Bella was a terrific traveler. With her happy demeanor and her tongue, out, she always got attention wherever we went.

Bella’s size made her a puppy in our eyes; however we knew she was a senior dog. When her stamina decreased, we carried her in a bag and she had no complaints.

Bella, my sweet girl. I will miss your adorable tongue, beautiful brown eyes, pet me nudges, sweet barks, warmth on my lap & the power to make every day better. Every second with you was a gift.

Beagles & Books will look at little different for the next few months but the blog will continue in both Bella’s & Etta”s memory. And hopefully this summer, my beagle girls will help me find another precious soul to spread the book love.

Book Birthday, Nonfiction, Picture Books

Happy Book Birthday to Alpacas Here, Alpacas There by Carrie Tillotson Illustrated by Elisa Chavarri

February 11, 2025 lauramossa

Alpacas Here, Alpacas There by Carrie Tillotson Illustrated by Elisa Chavarri

Thanks to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media & Simon & Schuster for sharing a copy. All opinions are my own.

Alpacas Here, Alpacas There is an engaging nonfiction picture book introducing readers to the gentle animal. Since alpacas can live high in the Andes Mountains and on alpaca farms in North America, this nonfiction picture book shares in both words and pictures how alpaca’s lives are similar and different on both continents.

Author Tillotson ingeniously shares details about alpacas on two levels. Her concise, rhyming text provides general information about their birth, rearing, behavior, diet, fleece, and threats, and protectors with illustrators Chavarri’s vibrant and expressive artwork providing visual support. Chavarri’s alpacas always appear to be smiling which makes the animal even more charming.

In the bottom right of almost every page spread, Tillotson expands on an alpaca characteristic with specific facts in a paragraph. I love the versatility of this information-it could be read aloud, used to build the adult reader’s background knowledge to engage in dialogue with young listeners or allow the book to be revisited as children become more proficient readers.

Back matter includes notes from both the author and illustrator, more information about alpacas, a glossary, and other sources.

Book Birthday, Picture Books

Happy Book Birthday to Bitsy Bat, Team Star by Kaz Windness

February 4, 2025 lauramossa

Bitsy Bat, Team Star by Kaz Windness

With her sensory overload protective sunglasses and headphones, Bitsy Bat is flying high at Crittercrawl Elementary. But when a new nonspeaking student, Enzo Owl, joins her class, Bitsy begins to feel vulnerable again. The Critter Games begin tomorrow and now it will include a flying race between her and Enzo. What if she is not the best flier anymore?

When they practice at recess, Enzo wins and Bitsy screams “NOOOO!” Enzo shows his feelings with his tears and hitting the sad symbol on his speech tablet. After her classmate Benjamin tells Bitsy she’s not being nice, she needs time in the sensory room to calm down. Can Bitsy find a way to not only be a fantastic flier but also a star teammate?

In the sequel to Bitsy Bat, School Star, author-illustrator Windness’ adorable character Bitsy Bat teaches children valuable lessons on acceptance, friendship, and teamwork. I love that during the Critter Games Bitsy realizes that helping a friend makes her a winner. Back matter includes “More About Autism” defining key terms and a personal note from Windness sharing her inspiration for the story.

Thanks to Simon & Schuster for sharing a copy.

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

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 1/13/25

January 13, 2025January 13, 2025 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.

Honored to be returning as Cybils Award Round 2 Judge. This year I am on the Fiction Picture Book and Board Book panel. Winners will be announced on February 14, 2025.

Snow Is... by Laura Gehl Illustrated by Sonia Sanchez

It doesn’t matter how old you are. The first snowfall of the year is magical. Author Gehl’s lyrical text wondrously captures how a young boy and his family (which includes his dog yay!) appreciate this gift of nature from watching the flakes fall in the morning, frolicking in the frosty paradise during the day, and snuggling together at night. Repetition of the words, “Snow is” as well as rhyme allow kids to participate in the read aloud. The picture book is a perfect mentor text for kids to write their own thoughts about what snow is to them. I also love that Gehl carefully choose words such as huddled, trudge, and hoard exposing kids to rich vocabulary. Illustrator Sanchez’s artwork is energetic showing both the family’s activity and their emotions.

Thanks to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing a copy.

Stopping By Jungle on a Snowy Evening by Richard T. Morris Illustrated by Julie Rowan-Zoch

Author Morris takes the classic Robert Frost poem Stopping By Woods On A Snowy Evening to a whole new level. Instead of a horse, a boy is riding a jingle collared blue hippopotamus. Frost corrects the boy who gets schooled on the original poem. The boy takes it in stride suggesting changing a few words; however, Frost protests because the boy’s ideas do not fit the setting or rhyme. When Frost continues reciting his original poem, the boy and the hippopotamus both agree the lyrics are a snoozer. What about snake attacks, karate moves or a mega-battle? The action-packed ending will appeal to kids and adults will be in awe of how Morris seamlessly wove another of Frost’s iconic poems in his side-splitting story. Illustrator Rowan-Zach’s artwork literally jumps off the page with rich details, expressive characters, and comical commotion.

Thanks to Simon & Schuster for sharing a copy.

Narwhal: Unicorn of the Artic by Candace Fleming Illustrated by Deena So’oteh

You are a narwhal-shy, swift, small (for a whale) begins and ends this gorgeous nonfiction picture book which chronicles a year in the life of a male narwhal. Fleming’s lyrical text and So’oteh’s stunning artwork perfectly complement one another. Within her poetic text, Fleming shares facts about the narwhal such as when their tusk begins and ends growing, how they can’t live without leads (cracks of open water), their predators, their migrating journey, and how they collaborate as a pod. A wonderful surprise was a breathtaking two spread fold out flap illustrating a pod diving deep in the ocean for their dinner. No doubt kids will be mesmerized by the words and illustrations pouring over Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea for hours.

Thanks to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing a copy.

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

The Little Puppy by Nicola Killen

Fans of Killen’s My Little Animal Friend series will love The Little Puppy! Dressed in a puppy costume (matching Milo’s coat), Ollie is ecstatic to have Milo, her grandma’s new puppy, over for a playdate. The day is going great until Ollie leaves the room and Milo chews up her drawing for grandma. Ollie can’t contain her sadness leaving the house for a solitary walk. Kids will notice how Milo is following her at a distance. As Ollie walks into the woods, she has time to reflect and think. Since Milo is a puppy, she realizes that she shouldn’t have left her picture on the floor. Sitting on a stump, she is contrite and lonely. Kids can search the illustrations for Milo who comes to her rescue dropping a stick in front of her. For the rest of the day, the pair play and when they return home, Ollie draws a picture for grandma and Milo. Author/illustrator Killen’s heartwarming text and charming artwork wraps up the reader in a warm hug. What I love most about the story is Ollie subtly teaches kids self-regulation skills.

Thanks to Simon and Schuster for sharing a copy.

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.*

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

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 11/11/24

November 11, 2024 lauramossa

Scare School Diaries: Forest Frights by Jarrett Lerner

Bash is back with another stint in Scare School! Unlike before, he is anxiously awaiting his return to see his friends especially his roommate Itsy to continue collaborating on their comic. When Headmaster Dave shares the main focus is a group project, Bash is elated. His enthusiasm is quickly deflated when group members are randomly assigned. Working with Wes, a werewolf and fellow artist is great but not the twins, Vlad and Vicky. To quote Bash, “It’s going to a long eleven days.”

Reluctantly, Bash’s group chooses to research the Forest. Wes is willing to do the work but the twins are always unavailable. Both Bash and Wes are non-confrontational yet they rise to the occasion to hold Vlad and Vicky accountable. While Bash isn’t keen on going into the forest at night, he is willing to admit his fear to Vlad which proves beneficial to the group. What a great lesson to share with kids!

At only 133 pages with a large font and artwork on almost every page, this illustrated chapter book (and series) is highly accessible to developing readers of all ages. Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing a copy. Scare School Diaries: Forest Frights celebrated its book birthday on November 5, 2024.

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

Rocket Puppies by William “Whoosh!” Joyce

Once the world got stuck being sad. Why? Well, Snarly McBummerpants liked huffing and puffing Mopey Smoke out of his volcano all day. But hope arrived in the form of Rocket Puppies! With one look, all sadness went away. Hugs were their fuel and once charged, their PUPPY-RAY- VISION brought smiles and joy to everyone including zombies, clowns, and sea serpents.

Snarly McBummerpsnts was not mesmerized by the Rocket Puppiss and continued to send Mopey Smoke clouds to encourage sadness. Thankfully, the Rocket Puppies had a counter-an adorable tiny dog. When Tiny Brad and Snarly meet, who will prevail?

Rocket Puppies is a new narrative with a nostalgic feel introducing readers to an antagonist, Snarly McBummerpants, and the Rocket Puppies, the protagonists. Joyce’s vintage artwork will appeal to both kids and their parents. What I love most about Rocket Puppies is the message that a dog’s love can melt the heart of the coldest soul. Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing a copy. Rocket Puppies celebrated its book birthday on November 5, 2024.

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!

Blog Tour, Picture Books

Blog Tour for Who’s Walking Dawg? by Marie Prins Illustrated by Leanne Franson

November 10, 2024November 10, 2024 lauramossa

Beagles and Books is excited to be part of the blog tour for Who’s Walking Dawg? which recently published on October 31, 2024 by Red Door Press. Special thanks to the author for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Dawg enjoys a pretty pawsome life with his family; however, one day he stands by the door with his leash in his mouth waiting. Dad is busy cooking, Mom is on the computer, Bro is practicing his guitar and Sis is on her phone.

What’s Dawg to do? His only solution is to take himself on a walk as Little One, the youngest, watches him leave. The yard is his first stop, then the sidewalk where his nose tells him which dogs have previously visited, and finally to the park to romp with the dogs he “met” earlier.

Will Dawg’s family notice his absence? Will Dawg find his way back home? Don’t worry! Author Prins crafts a story about an independent and intelligent dog with a happy ending. I love how Dawg attempts to communicate with his family and readers can see his words in speech bubbles. Prins’ text is full of vivid verbs, awesome adjectives, and luscious literary language exposing kids to rich vocabulary and Franson’s expressive illustrations show Dawg as a clever and resource canine.

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

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 10/7/2024

October 6, 2024 lauramossa

Lost by Bob Staake

This wordless picture book chronicles a young girl’s search for her cat as well as other pet owners with lost animals. Once she realizes her kitty is missing, the girl quickly creates LOST posters with a drawing of her red cat to hang all around town. As she attaches one to a mailbox, she meets a mail carrier who shows her a picture of his beloved green bird who left its cage and flew out the window. At the park, the girl befriends an older woman whose blue dog snuck under the front gate. At the supermarket, a man sees her taping posters and he shares his yellow giraffe just left his yard. Will the owners ever locate their precious pets?

No text necessary, for author/illustrator Staake’s energetic paneled artwork charmingly and comically share the story’s intriguing plot. Color or lack of color plays a crucial role in the narrative. All the illustrations have a retro vibe and are achromatic with the exception of the main characters’ faces, their pets, and the posters. When the girl buys a hot dog from a vendor, the smoke is blue. The smoke travels and lo and behold, the blue dog appears. Later, the green bird is perched on the mailbox. After the girl takes them home and creates FOUND posters for both, the trio notice a sound at the top of her backyard tree which is depicted with red squiggly lines. Fortunately, her beloved red kitty is rescued by the giraffe and in the end, all owners are reunited with their pets. Thanks to Blue Slip Media for sharing a copy. Lost celebrates its book birthday last week on October 1, 2024.

Mabel Wants a Friend by Ariel Bernstein Illustrated by Marc Rosenthal

Mabel likes to get her way and generally does until one day she sees a ball, takes it, and surprisingly receives a thank you for finding it. As a result, Mabel gets an unexpected friend named Chester to play catch, seesaw, and tell jokes. But when she wants something, Mabel’s bad manners emerge. Chester corrects her behavior which Mabel does not appreciate making their friendship short lived. Being alone means Mabel can do what she wants: however, things now feel different without Chester. Perhaps a friend is what really she wants. How can she regain Chester’s friendship?

The theme of friendship is prevalent in picture books yet Bernstein’s characters and plot struck a new chord. I love how Mabel’s and Chester’s friendship is accidental. She actually was stealing his ball instead of retrieving it for him. Chester sees the good in Mabel before she does. When Mabel acts selfishly, Chester calls her out. Chester is a great role model for kids reminding them to use their big voice when a friend is being unkind. Chester helps Mabel realize that having a friend is more important than being first in line. Rosenthal’s warm and expressive artwork perfectly complements Bernstein’s narrative and including Mabel’s and Chester’s dialogue in the illustrations aids readers in truly getting to know the characters. Thanks to Simon & Schuster for sharing a copy. Mabel Wants A Friend celebrates its book birthday lastl week on October 1, 2024.

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

Dog Vs. Strawberry by Nelly Buchet Illustrated by Andrea Zuill

It’s a race between a dog and a strawberry. Dog starts strong but gets distracted by her tail. Strawberry remains focused. Sleep overcomes Dog and a wind from an open window propels Strawberry to gain the lead. Once Dog wakes up, she realizes she needs to step it up by climbing a chair. To her surprise, Strawberry is still in the lead! With an AWWWWOOO, Dog tries to overtake Strawberry. Before the winner is officially declared, a foot steps on Strawberry allowing Dog to casually walk to the finish line.

As a beagle mom, I am a huge fan of hounds. Hounds though are easily distracted so it makes sense that Strawberry was considered the frontrunner. Without human interference, Strawberry may have been victorious. Buchet’s peppy text and Zuill’s playful illustrations give readers the thrill of watching a slow NASCAR race. What I love is Dog thinks she is victorious based on her endurance; however, readers know she won by default. Dog Vs. Strawberry is a fun romp between two formidable opponents.

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!

Book Birthday, Chapter Books, It's Monday! What Are You Reading?, Middle Grade Literature, Novels in Verse, Picture Books

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 9/23/24

September 23, 2024September 23, 2024 lauramossa

The Most Boring Book Ever by Brandon Sanderson Illustrated by Kazu Kibuishi

If you judge this book by its first page spread, the title, The Most Boring Book Ever, fits. The artwork shows a hat and glass wearing boy with his hands folded on his lap sitting in a chair in a white background and the text reads “A boy sat in a chair.” If one continues to only read the text, the opinion would remain the same. however, Kibuishi’s action-packed illustrations immediately change the meaning of the Sanderson’s straightforward text. As a result, readers witness the genius collaboration between author and illustrator and will not to be able to put this picture book down.

I could say more, but it would ruin the reader experience. I am in awe of Sanderson’s carefully crafted text and Kibuishi’s ingenious illustrations. Their partnership in creating a unique picture book not only entertains readers but also serve as a mentor text for writing and illustrating an imaginative story. Thanks to Macmillan for sharing a copy. The Most Boring Book Ever celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on September 24, 2024.

The Witching Wind by Natalie Lloyd

Grayson Patch is on her way to another foster home but isn’t fazed. In two days, her sister Beanie turns eighteen and the siblings will reunite and embark on their road trip to live in New York City. In the same Tennessee town, Roxie Darling is dealing with a humiliating experience at the incoming sixth grade pool party. Her only hope is her country singer Granny’s invitation to join her on a reunion tour to play guitar which means attending school virtually (with parent permission of course!)

Grayson and Roxie meet through their first period club. When Grayson says “One of my life goals-to love and be loved by a dog,” Roxie decides hat she and Grayson will be friends. When Beanie doesn’t respond to Grayson’s texts and Granny disappears, the girls have another reason to bond Perhaps the Witching Wind’s ability to steal people is more truth than legend. With the help of the other club members (now named Club Yeehaw) and Roxie’s cousin, Colette, Grayson and Roxie embark on a mission to Mount LeConte to confront the Witching Wind and find their relatives. What the girls discover is they are already surrounded by family whether by blood or choice.

When I read one of Lloyd’s novels, I am immediately drawn in by the dynamic characters, warm setting, and an intriguing plot with a touch of fantastical elements. Grayson and Roxie are strong characters yet have a vulnerability making them relatable to readers. In addition to being a foster kid, Grayson has brittle bones and uses a walker as a support; however, she doesn’t let those things define her. And in my opinion, Roxie demonstrates resilience after an embarrassing incident. Lloyd always reminds readers to be hopeful and open to all possibilities which is much needed in today’s world. Thanks to the author for sharing a copy. The Witching Wind recently published on September 3, 2024.

Roar for Reading by Beth Ferry Illustrated by Andrew Joyner

Looking for a read aloud for Banned Book Week? I got one for you!

Did you know that lions have a long history with libraries? And with just a sniff or a roar, they could ensure books were well protected. So in present day, when lioness head librarian. Ms. Millicent receives a letter that prompts her to visit the mayor and use words such as banning, censorship, and accessibility, her son, Julius, is confused when she silently returns to the library and removes books from the shelves. Julius asks “What are you doing?” His mom responds “Some folks thinks these books are dangerous and it seems that the mayor agrees.”

When Julius sees a bookcase with lots of empty shelf space, he starts to worry.. What about his favorite books? The rumble in his belly turns into a full out roar which reminds his mom of her own voice. United together, they roar back along with library patrons to save their stories.

Ferry masterfully tells a story of how individuals can band together to fight a cause. I love she chose Julius to be the catalyst of change. Joyner’s nostalgic artwork is reminiscent of Richard Scarry, a beloved author/illustrator from my childhood. The detail in each page spread is remarkable and readers will get lost in his lively illustrations. At the end of the book, the acronym ROAR (Recognize, Organize, Act, Respect) is defined to encourage kids and adults to take action when necessary. Thanks to Simon and Schuster for sharing a copy. Roar for Reading recently released on September 3, 2024.

Invisible Isabel by Sally Pla Illustrated by Tania de Regil

Being one of five siblings, Isabel feels overwhelmed with the noisy hustle and bustle at home. At school, her teacher, Mrs. Pickel’s announcement of standardized testing and bossy new girl Monica Hicks ignites uneasiness. While Mama dismisses her stomachaches encouraging her to speak up and be social, Isabel feels worry-moths in her body all day long. Her only coping mechanism is to retreat into herself. What if being invisible is the only thing she is good at?

Meanwhile, Monica sits alone in her giant room in her big, quiet new house. When her doctor father brings up her birthday and her mom not being around to plan, she has a reaction opposite of Isabel. Monica’s eyes boil, her tongue swells, and her guts feel ready to explode. She decides on a sleepover party and invites all the girls in her class minus one.. Wny? Because Isabel didn’t really count.

Although Pla’s novel in verse is told in third person, the author shares both Isabel’s and Monica’s perspective. From the first chapter, it is easy to sympathize with Isabel; however, Monica is a whole different story. Her rude behavior toward Isabel was unforgivable. I like how Pla gradually shared more details which does not excuse Monica’s words and actions but sheds a light into the possible why. de Regil’s black and white artwork supports the text giving readers insight on the characters.

When Isabel’s stomachache reveals appendicitis, Isabel finally secures not only her mother’s attention but also her whole family’s giving her the strength to be honest about all the things that make her anxious. As a result, changes and supports are put in place to ensure Isabel is no longer invisible to her family, teacher, classmates including Monica. Pla who is autistic does a superb job explaining neurodiversity to young readers. An author’s note provides resources on anxiety and autism. Thanks to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing a copy. Invisible Isabel published on July 3, 2024

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!

Book Birthday, Picture Books, SEL

Happy Book Birthday to Porcupine Had a Fuzzy Sweater!

September 16, 2024September 17, 2024 lauramossa

Bella and I wish a Happy Book Birthday to Porcupine Had a Fuzzy Sweater written by Jody Jensen Shaffer and illustrated by Angela Edmunds. Thanks to the author for sharing an eARC. All opinions are my own.

Breaking the fourth wall, Porcupine tells readers that normally he is happy; however, today he is sad. Why? He lost his fuzzy red sweater handmade by his grandma. Not wanting to disappoint her, Porcupine attempts to problem solve. Perhaps he could make a new sweater, borrow his friend Hedgehog’s sweater or worse case scenario run away from home. None of these options feel right so Porcupine asks for support from the reader. Should he tell Grandma the truth?

Author Shaffer has crafted a charming character to help kids navigate conscious decision making. I love how Shaffer chose to have Porcupine speak directly to readers engaging them in the problem solving process. Edmonds’ expressive artwork shows Porcupine’s range of emotions throughout the story connecting him with readers. Readers will feel empathy for Porcupine because we have all been in a similar predicament.

Porcupine Had a Fuzzy Sweater is a sweet SEL read aloud promoting a rich discussion about being honest to yourself and others. Back matter includes a Reader’s Note with tips on supporting children with making room for emotions, acknowledging mistakes, problem solving, and practicing self-kindness.