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.

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.

The Many Fortunes of Maya by Nicole D. Collier

12 year old Maya relies on her Wheel of Fortunes for good luck and lately, she really needs the help. She wants to make the Chargers club soccer team to make her dad, a former Charger, proud. She gave up the flute lessons for soccer, but she still secretly plays her flute in the Cave aka her closet. Her best friend Ginger seems a little distant and the worst blow of all, her parents just announced a trial separation for the summer.

Her parents are open to answering questions, but Maya is too hurt to ask. She is close to her uncle Jimmy, her dad’s twin, who shares many words of wisdom with her.

‘Listen to your own songs. Sometimes that means tuning everything and everyone out so you can really tune into you.”
“Even in the middle of pain, there’s always a sweetness if you know where to look.”
“You gotta release the things you’re done with so you can embrace the things that bring you joy.”

Gradually, Maya tunes into her uncle’s words as well as her parents and begins to listen to her own voice. Like her debut novel Just Right Jillian, Collier’s The Many Fortunes of Maya fills your heart with hope. With short chapters, 231 pages total as well as strong characters and an engaging plot, the reading specialist in me loves that this novel is appealing and accessible to readers transitioning to middle grade. Thanks to the author for sharing an ARC with my #bookexcursion group. The Many Fortunes of Maya celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on January 24, 2023.

Bad Kitty: Supercat by Nick Bruel

When Kitty is bored, she is prone to make a mess. When Kitty doesn’t clean up, her humans schedule a playdate stipulating no electronics. The first 3 playdate candidates are a bust, but when Strange Kitty suggests pretending to be superheroes, Kitty is intrigued. Strange Kitty aka Captain Fantasticat and his rodent sidekick Power Mouse help transform Kitty into Supercat. Not long after, Dr. Lagomorph (a rabbit) shows up with the three orbs of destiny (tennis balls) that are hidden in the kitchen, basement, and backyard. If the orbs can’t be found, Dr. Lagomorph will turn 92 universes into cheese. Will the superheroes triumph over the villainous bunny?

It’s easy for kids to laugh out loud when reading Bad Kitty, but Bruel makes sure adults also gets the giggles with subtle sarcasm. I love that when Kitty was evaluating playdates, Bruel created Kitty’s View, a talk show with guests Logic, Instinct, and Emotion to provide commentary. Another highlight was comparing the illustration of animals dressed in superhero costume with the illustrations of how they perceive themselves to look. While Kitty’s humans are happy she took a day off from electronics, they might feel differently after observing the additional mess playing superheroes created. Thanks to Macmillan Children’s Publishing for sharing a copy. Bad Kitty: Supercat recently released on December 27, 2022.

Love Made Me More by Colleen Rowan Kosinski Illustrated by Sonia Sanchez

On a random day, a young boy’s grandma makes him an orange origami crane with blue and white spots. The crane has a prominent place on the boy’s nightstand so when the boy experiences a loss in his life, the crane is there to provide support, protection, and wishes. For a while, the boy forgets about the crane placing a picture of himself and his girlfriend in front of it. but when the boy, now man, decides to propose marriage, the crane is an integral part. Years later, the crane is one of many birds hanging from a wire on a mobile overlooking his newborn son.

A modern day Giving Tree, Love Made Me More is a sweet story about the connection between a boy and his origami crane. While time passed when the crane was ignored, the boy realizes the importance of the crane in his life and moving forward, includes the crane in future milestones. Kosinski’s lyrical text coupled with Sanchez’s warm, expressive illustrations make Love Made Me More a heartprint story. Thanks to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing a copy. Love Made Me More published on December 13, 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.

The Corgi and the Queen by Caroline Perry Illustrated by Lydia Corry

While the Windsor family has a long history with corgis, this picture book biography features the incredible bond between the future queen Elizabeth and her first corgi pup Susan. A gift on her 18th birthday, the princess and her pup were inseparable which made it imperative that Susan approve of her future husband Philip. Thankfully, Philip passed the Susan test and when Elizabeth and Philip were married, unbeknownst to the public, Susan joined her family in the wedding carriage courtesy of the palace staff. Susan was by Elizabeth’s side for times of joy such as when her first son, Charles, was born and times of grief when King George unexpectedly passed away and she assumes the throne.

As a dog mom and a royal aficionado, I absolutely adored The Corgi and the Queen. I love that the picture book not only highlights the close relationship between a human and their pup but also credit Susan with helping Elizabeth successfully transition from young princess to beloved queen. Perry’s gentle, informative text and Corry’s warmhearted illustrations perfectly complement each other. Back matter includes a family tree of both Queen Elizabeth and Susan, who is the matriarch of 14 generations of royal corgis. Thanks to Macmillan Children’s Publishing for sharing a copy. The Corgi and the Queen released on November 22, 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.

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

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading! Dark on Light by Dianne White Illustrated by Felicita Sala

December 19, 2022December 19, 2022 lauramossa

About the Book:
Title: Dark on Light
Author: Dianne White
Illustrator: Felicita Sala
Pub. Date: December 6, 2022

Beagles & Books is thrilled to share a review of Dark on Light. Special thanks to Beach Lane/Simon & Schuster and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Review:

As the sun sets, the family dog scampers away from the house. Three siblings go on a search to find their pup. When the dog isn’t found in the hedges near their house, the children venture into the woods with a flashlight to guide their way. Both White’s soothing, lyrical text and Sala’s warm, breathtaking artwork evoke calm and wonder as readers join the trio on their quest to find their pet.

When I read Dark on Light to kindergarteners for #classroombookaday, they immediately were captured by White’s rhyming text. A few students quickly caught on to the repetitive phrase “dark and light” reading it with me which prompted the whole class to join in. As I read, I ask the children to look closely at the illustrations to see if they could find the pup and as they searched page after page, they discovered lots of forest animals. I love how Sala “hid” some of the animals in her artwork inviting the children to hunt for them.

When the siblings find their dog in a burrow, the kindergarteners cheered. Once back at home, they are greeted by their parents and soon nestled in their beds for a good night’s sleep. If you are looking for a gentle and cozy bedtime story, Dark on Light is just perfect.

Praise for Dark on Light!

★Lilting, haunting, rhyming, and as unforgettable as a dream the daylight just can’t quite erase.”
— Kirkus Reviews

★“The creators of Green on Green follow that seasonal work with one focused on shadow and light, centering lulling, mesmerizing sensate verse accompanied by artwork in warm, saturated hues…. Closing bedtime scenes in a shared bedroom embody warmth and security… in this quiet celebration of chiaroscuro in the natural world.”
— Publishers Weekly

One of Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Books about Nature 2022
A Junior Library Guild Gold Selection

About the Author:
Dianne White is fond of lavender blooms and the way an orange moon hangs in the evening sky. She’s the author of several picture books, including the award-winning Blue on Blue, illustrated by Caldecott medalist Beth Krommes, and Green on Green, illustrated by Felicita Sala. Dianne lives with her family in Gilbert, Arizona, where many nights at twilight, the desert blazes rose on sapphire on dark on light. For more information and to download a free activity kit, visit diannewrites.com

Instagram: @diannewrites
Facebook: Dianne White
Twitter: @diannewrites

About the Illustrator:
Felicita Sala is a self-taught illustrator and painter. She has a degree in philosophy from the University of Western Australia. She now lives and works in Rome. She draws inspiration from nature, children, mid-century illustration, folk art, and architecture. To learn more, visit felicitasala.com

Instagram: @felicita.sala

Thanks for visiting Beagles and Books!

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

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 11/28/22

November 28, 2022 lauramossa

A Sweet New Year for Ren by Michelle Sterling Illustrated by Dung Ho

Ren is excited to celebrate Lunar New Year with her family, but when she asks to help with the festivities, she gets the same response “You’re still too little.” When her older brother Charlie arrives home, everything changes for he has the patience to teach Ren to make pineapple cakes.. Soon her aunts see Ren in a different light offering advice and when the pineapples cakes are ready for the oven, her mother acknowledges her ability.

This year, I adopted a kindergarten class for #classroombookaday and A Sweet New Year for Ren is a perfect read aloud to teach them about Lunar New Year especially since this is the first year our district recognizes it as a holiday for students. What I love most about this story is it highlights how Lunar New Year focuses on family and while the food fills the stomach, their togetherness fills the heart. Thanks to Paula Wiseman/Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers for sharing a copy. A Sweet New Year for Ren recently released on November 15, 2022.

The Best Gift for Bear by Jennifer A. Bell

Hedgehog bakes gingerbread cookies for all her friends, but she needs a grand present for her dear friend Bear. When her snow covered roof gives her inspiration, Hedgehog is giddy with excitement. Bear’s immense friendship is worthy of the multi-day task and when it is finished, Hedgehog is proud. Bear’s house is far so Hedgehog begins her journey early in the morning. All is fine until the winter wind whips around her and within seconds, her gift is destroyed a few feet away from Bear’s home. After Bear rescues Hedgehog from the snow, a distraught Hedgehog shares her story and Bear confesses baking is not easy.. Hedgehog suggests baking together.

Bell’s sweet story warmed my heart. First, who can resist an adorably drawn hedgehog with earmuffs? I love how both Hedgehog and Bear wanted to make a special gift for each other and realized the best gift is truly spending time together. Included in the front endpapers is a recipe for Hedgehog’s Gingerbread Cookies and Grandma’s Honey Icing. Thanks to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media and Two Lions for sharing a copy. The Best Gift for Bear published on September 27, 2022.

Bright Winter Night by Alli Braydon Illustrated by Ashling Lindsay

Forest animals band together to create a sleigh that will take them to see the northern lights. Once Mouse knots the reins, the wolf pack is ready to take the animals to their destination. The snowy terrain causes a slight mishap but once they see a flash of light in the distance, the animals work together to get back on track. .Astute readers will notice how the color palette changes once the northern lights are within their grasp and once they see them, the page spread is glorious with the animals mesmerized by the sky.

Brydon’s rhyming text and Lindsay’s brilliant artwork perfectly complement each other. I love how the animals collaborated on their mode of transportation and problem solved when the sleigh was stifled. The result was the glorious beauty of the northern lights which Lindsay majestically captured. Bright Winter Night makes me want to book a trip to Norway or Iceland to see the nature’s sheer beauty with my own eyes. Thanks to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media and Two Lions for sharing a copy. Bright Winter Night publishes soon on December 1, 2022.

Fuzzy Furry Ouch by Cree Lane & Amanda Jane Jones

On the cover, Fuzzy Furry Ouch labels itself as a Do Not Touch Book but don’t despair. This touch and feel book is completely safe teaching littles what they can and cannot touch. Author Lane has fun for while a cactus and stove are items a child may encounter, she also humorously includes a dinosaur and a rocket ship. I love how she exposes children to robust vocabulary such as slick, squishy, and rough to describe the texture of items. Jones’ eye-catching’ illustrations are visually appealing centered on each page and invite a child to explore. Thanks to Little Simon/Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers for sharing a copy. A companion to Lane’s and Jones’ 2019 collaboration, Yum Yummy Yuck, Fuzzy Furry Ouch celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on November 29, 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.

What’s Up Pup? How Our Furry Friends Communicate and What They Are Saying by Kersten Hamilton Illustrated by Lili Chin

When Bella is not feeling 100%, it would be helpful if she could tell me in words what was wrong. But after reading What’s Up Pup, I realize that she is communicating with me through her body language all the time and it is my job to see her “talk” with my eyes.

With its rhyming text, Hamilton’s nonfiction picture book is as playful as the dogs she describes. She shares how dogs use their eyes, ears, rears, noses, tails, and legs to send signals to humans and other canines about how they are feeling. Hamilton clarifies that a dog’s body language can mean different things depending on whether they are they are in company of humans or another dog. Chin’s vivid artwork is full of energy conveying the doggy dialogue. I appreciate how Chin has a variety of dog breeds in her illustrations including a basset hound. Immediately following the text, backmatter includes an author’s note, definitions of the dog language in the book, additional fascinating facts, and a bibliography. I especially loved learning how dogs can not only smell time but also their human’s emotions. Thanks to Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR)/Macmillan Children’s Publishing for sharing an electronic copy. What’s Up Pup? recently released on November 16, 2022.

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!

Early Readers, Graphic Novel, It's Monday! What Are You Reading?, Middle Grade Literature, Nonfiction

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

November 20, 2022November 21, 2022 lauramossa

Oodles of Doodles by Aletheta Kontis Illustrated by Christopher Jacques

This humorous Ready to Read book features two oval shaped creatures and a poodle. When the two creatures meet, the larger one sees artwork on easels and asks the smaller one “Do you doodle?” Not only does the small creature doodle, but also his poodle and they can both doodle oodles of noodles. The larger creature joins in doodling the poodle doodling noodles in exchange for two doodles from the doodling poodle and his owner. Whoa! That’s a lot of oo-dles!

I love how Kantis playfully uses rhyming words (doodle, poodles, oodles, noodles and toodle) and sight words to engage young readers. The repetition will support kids reading the rhyming words in the story and the sight words make the text very accessible. While Jacques’ creatures are simply drawn, they have a wide range of emotions based on their eyes and mouths. I am though partial to the adorable beret and sweater wearing poodle who doodles a caboodle of doodles one after another. Thanks to Simon & Schuster for sharing a copy. Oodles of Doodles released October 11, 2022.

The Greatest in the World (Tater Tales #1) by Ben Clanton

Picture book mutant potato Rot makes his debut in Tater Tales, a graphic novel series. In his first adventure, Rot and his brother Spud argue who is the best. They vie for the title, The Greatest in the World. competing in a potato sack race with their younger sister, Tot, serving as judge. When Tot rules the race a tie, they face off in a rolling game down Hot Potato Hill. Since neither brother was able to catch her, the final competition is a laugh off. Who will be the spud to laugh last and claim victory?

Where do I even starch? With carbo-rific characters, an a-peeling plot, and lots of potato puns, The Greatest in the World is a tuberous tale that is tater-ly hilarious! I love the sibling rivalry between Rot and Snot and how Tot keeps them both in check. Clanton’s cartoon illustrations are full of action and expression. Thanks to Simon & Schuster for sharing a copy. The Greatest in the World published on November 8, 2022.

How Do Meerkats Order Pizza? Wild Facts about Animals and the Scientists Who Study Them by Brooke Barker

Do you know a kid (or adult) who loves learning new and intriguing facts about animals? This nonfiction text is unique because it introduces readers to real scientists and their animal research. Through the lens of a specific scientist, Barker teaches us about meerkats, deep-sea mussels, seaside sparrows, bees, bonobos, Japanese macaques, crows, gars, birds, dogs, lizards, humpback whales, jaguars, roosters, Antarctic midge (my favorite), white-tailed deer, and endangered marsupials.

In the text, Barker explains how the scientists are researching the animals to support their survival or to help us better understand big ideas such as communication, emotions, and preservation. I must be honest that a few of the animals featured were new to me which is fascinating. Barker’s text reminds me of a sketch notebook with engaging artwork and annotations that will keep kids reading until the very last page. I especially loved the animals’ commentary throughout the text which gave me smiles and giggles. Thanks to Simon & Schuster for sharing a copy. How Do Meerkats Order Pizza? celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on November 22, 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.

New Kids and Underdogs by Margaret Finnegan

Due to her mom’s job as an university professor, Robyn has moved a lot which means she has had plenty of practice being the new kid. Before moving to San Luis Obispo, their sixth city and beginning fifth grade, Robyn makes a list of ten rules for herself to make the transition smooth. The rules are especially important because her mom hopes San Luis Obispo to be their permanent home and Robyn knows that means she only has one chance to make a first impression.

Her mom is big on extracurricular activities so when Robyn sees an agility dog training class, she is willing to jump right in, but her mom brings up their rescue Jack Russell terriers’ physical and emotional needs. Fudge is deaf and vision impaired and Sundae has anxiety. The dog trainer agrees with her mom which angers Robyn. When she discovers one of her classmates, Nestor, is the dog trainer’s grandson, Robyn asks him to teach her dogs agility. Nestor’s initial answer is no, but with the support of fellow classmates Jonathan (Nestor’s cousin) and Alejandra (who is a semi new kid since she skipped fourth grade), Nestor agrees. Robyn’s excitement is quickly deflated when she worries that making their acquaintance may be breaking her rule to lay low and blend in.

New Kids and Underdogs is a story that pulls the reader right in. Although Finnegan wrote in the third person, readers really get to know Robyn as a character and given her past experiences, it’s easy to have empathy or sympathy for her. But after spending time with Nestor, Jonathan and Alejandra, you realize that they are kids with whom you would want to be friends. Robyn learns that the rules don’t allow her or others to ever share their whole story which is important in building relationships. As a dog mom, I especially loved Robyn for being such an advocate for her dogs Sundae and Fudge believing they could succeed. Thanks to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media and Simon & Schuster for sharing a copy. New Kids and Underdogs released October 25, 2022.

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!

#classroombookaday, Blog Tour, Picture Books

Blog Tour Review: The Great Caper Caper by Josh Funk Illustrated by Brendan Kearney

November 11, 2022November 11, 2022 lauramossa

Beagles & Books is thrilled to be a part of The Great Caper Caper Great Virtual Virtual Tour! Special thanks to author Josh Funk for the invite and for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

About the Book:
Title: The Great Caper Caper ((Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast #5)
Author: Josh Funk
Illustrator: Brendan Kearney
Publisher: Union Square & Co.
Pub. Date: November 15, 2022

When Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast awake one morning to near-darkness, they are aghast. Who would steal the fridge light? Could it be the evil Count Caper? (spoiler alert: yes. Yes it is.) Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast put a crew together with all their old friends (Baron von Waffle, Inspector Croissant, Miss Brie, and more) and plan a delicious heist to get the light back and save the fridge once again!

Review:

“Oh my crepes!” utters Lady Pancake when she and Sir French Toast discover the Great Light in the refrigerator has gone missing. Darkness does not sit well with Toast or the other foods who reside in the fridge. Who could be the culprit? Perhaps the light past Pita Plateau will provide the answer.

Upon arrival, the illuminated Welcome to Fabulous Las Veggies sign is hard to miss. When they find out that Count Caper is in charge, Pancake and Toast waste no time and asks about the Great Light. Count Caper adamantly denies stealing but readers know he is not telling the truth. How do they make him confess? Problem solving Pancake whips up a plan to return the Great Light to its rightful place. With the help of other series characters such as Inspector Croissant and Baron von Waffle, can Pancake and Toast succeed?

I adore The Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast series! Funk keeps kids (and adults) engaged with his bouncy, rhyming text, novel and lively characters, and intriguing plot. Kearney’s detailed and imaginative illustrations bring both the characters and setting to life. As I read the story, the kids were captivated by the artwork especially the final page spread of the “Berry Manilow” show as well as the “photos” of the food hanging out in Las Veggies.

After reading The Great Caper Caper to my kindergarten #classroombookaday class, I asked students the following questions to unpack the lesson of the story.

“Who did something unhelpful or hurtful in the story?”
Why did Count Caper take the Great Light?
When the Great Light was found, what did Lady Pancake ask Count Caper to do?
How did Count Caper feel when he returned the Great Light?

Collaboratively, we were able to identify one of the lesson is if you tell the truth and return what you take, you feel better and your friends may forgive you. Character motivation was also a big part of the plot and I mentioned why Count Caper stole the Great Light so the kids could better understand him. Friendship is another important theme because Lady Pancake wanted to help Sir French Toast because he was afraid of the dark. Finally, we discussed how all the foods collaborated on Lady Pancake’s plan to get back the Great Light; therefore, another lesson is when a problem arises in the classroom, we must work together as a team to solve it. I love how The Great Caper Caper supports teaching theme to our youngest learners while still providing opportunities to laugh out loud!

If you haven’t feasted on the Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast series, the time is now!

Praise for THE GREAT CAPER CAPER!

The Great Caper Caper was recently selected as an Indie Kids’ Next Pick!

“The fifth installment in the Lady Pancake series features a madcap caper that kids will love. Parents can look forward to some humor that is, undoubtedly, aimed at them. Definitely a book the whole family will want to read over and over!”

— Audrey Beatty, River Bend Bookshop, Glastonbury, CT

You can see the whole list here: https://www.indiebound.org/kids-indie-next-list.

About the Author:
Like the characters in his books, Josh Funk doesn’t like being told how stories should go―so he writes his own. He is the author of a bunch of picture books, including My Pet Feet, illustrated by Billy Yong; the popular Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast series, illustrated by Brendan Kearney; How to Code a Sandcastle, illustrated by Sara Palacios; and Lost in the Library: A Story of Patience & Fortitude, illustrated by Stevie Lewis. He lives in New England with his wife and children. Learn more about him at www.joshfunkbooks.com and follow him on social media:

Facebook: Josh Funk Books
Instagram: @joshfunkbooks
Twitter: @joshfunkbooks

Continue to follow the tour by visiting these blogs!

The Great Caper Caper Virtual Tour Image

#Bookexcursion, #classroombookaday, Giveaway, Picture Books

Review & Giveaway: It’s Not The Three Little Pigs by Josh Funk Illustrated by Edwardian Taylor

November 7, 2022November 7, 2022 lauramossa

About the Book:
Title: It’s Not The Three Little Pigs
Author: Josh Funk
Illustrator: Edwardian Taylor
Pub. Date: November 1, 2022

Beagles & Books is thrilled to share a review of It’s Not The Three Little Pigs. Special thanks to Two Lions Publishing and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Review:
The amazing duo, Josh Funk and Edwardian Taylor, are back with their fourth installment in the It’s Not a Fairytale series featuring the three (I stand corrected four) little pigs.

ItsNotTheThreeLittlePigs-9781542032438-large-1

The first pig, Alan, is the only one interested in building. The second pig, Alfred, wants to be an actor and Alvin, the third pig, dreams of being a pumpkin. Readers are introduced to the fourth pig, Alison, who adds her own spin to the classic story resulting in a very frustrated narrator. When the narrator states that Alan will make his house out of straw, Alison interjects that her brother is eco-conscious repurposing plastic drinking straws to build his abode. Not long after, the wolf appears. The narrator feeds Alan his lines, but Alison offers some constructive criticism for the phrase, “Not by the hair of my chinny chin chin.” The pig does make a good point.

ItsNotTheThreeLittlePigs-9781542032438-large-2

The wolf moves on prompting Alan and Alison to warn the second pig, Alfred. A hot air balloon ride is quicker than walking right? It’s a good thing because Alfred is on a stage, not a house, made out of sticks. It’s up to Alan to plan and construct a house to protect himself and his siblings. But of course, when the big bad wolf walks up, the pigs are not in the house which annoys the narrator. Can’t they follow the original story?

ItsNotTheThreeLittlePigs-9781542032438-large-3

The pigs take shelter in the house, but when they don’t respond to the wolf, he does not huff and puff and departs. Now, the narrator is nervous imploring the pigs to high tail it to the third pig, Alvin. Alison delivers by producing jetpacks and they arrive at Alvin’s pumpkin (courtesy of Cinderella’s fairy godmother) ahead of the wolf. When the wolf says “Little pig, little pig, let me come in,” his words don’t mean what you think. The narrator is exhausted and a bit hurt with all the changes. Alison offers a collaborative opportunity which reminds us that teamwork does make the dream work. On the last page spread, Alfred is in his glory performing on stage with an audience full of fairy tale characters. Readers see Jack and Giant, Hansel and Gretel, Red and Captain Hook as well as many, many other fairy tale characters which makes me wonder who will star in the next book in the series.

When I read aloud It’s Not The Three Little Pigs to a kindergarten class, they couldn’t stop giggling. They loved the addition of the fourth pig and how the pigs use innovative methods to travel. Who doesn’t love a pig with a jetpack! As a teacher, I love that the dialogue was color-coded matching the hue of the pig’s clothes. This feature makes the story perfect for readers’ theater.

Funk’s clever and comical writing produces constant chuckles and Taylor’s energetic and engaging illustrations literally leap off the page. His detailed blueprints of all the houses are especially fun and require time to truly appreciate so closer looks are warranted.

Praise for It’s Not The Three Little Pigs!

“Those who love to make up their own stories will be inspired, and readers who march to the beats of their own drums will be delighted. Will leave readers as happy as a pig in mud.”
―Kirkus Reviews

Facebook: Josh Funk Books
Instagram: @joshfunkbooks
Twitter: @joshfunkbooks

About the Illustrator:
Edwardian Taylor is the illustrator of multiple children’s books, including Hey, You’re Not Santa!, written by Ethan T. Berlin; Goldibooks and the Wee Bear, written by Troy Wilson; the Toy Academy chapter books, written by Brian Lynch; and the It’s Not a Fairy Tale books, written by Josh Funk, among other titles. He lives in Texas with his partner and their three dogs. Learn more about him at www.edwardiantaylor.com and follow him on Tumblr, Instagram, and Twitter @edwardiantaylor

Thanks for visiting Beagles and Books!

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?, Middle Grade Literature

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 10/31/22

October 30, 2022November 1, 2022 lauramossa

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.

Looking for True by Tricia Springstubb

11 year old Jude and Gladys live close to each other, attend the same school, and their paths have never crossed. It’s not surprising since their personalities are as different as night and day, but when they each see the same dog being mistreated by its owner on a walk, both their hearts are touched.

When Jude and Gladys officially meet each other, they see the dog with its mean owner and their hearts hurt once again. Not long after, Gladys discovers that the dog has run away and enlists Jude to help find the pup she calls True Blue. Miraculously, they find True Blue but with Gladys’ dad allergic and Jude’s mom fearful, True Blue cannot live with either of them. Their only option is to temporarily hide her in the fortress, an abandoned house across the railroad tracks. Despite all the obstacles, will Jude and Gladys be true to True Blue and each other?

Told in alternating chapters from Jude’s and Gladys’ point of view, Looking for True is a story with poses good questions to readers.

Is it more important to be safe or be with someone you love?
Is there good in everybody even if you can’t see it?
Can there be two definitions of the same person?
Could a wish work with no star at night?

With themes of family and friendship, Looking for True is a touching middle grade novel that teaches us that sometimes you have to first follow your heart and then figure it out. I love how Jude and Gladys learn so much about themselves through their relationship with True Blue. Thanks to the author and publisher of sharing an ARC. Looking for True celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on November 1, 2022.

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!

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

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 10/17/22

October 17, 2022 lauramossa

Our Recent Reads:

Rover and Speck: This Planet Rocks by Jonathan Roth

After Rover lands on an unknown planet, the robot discovers another rover in a ditch. With Rover’s help, Speck is able to recharge in the sun. Rover shares its mission to study all the amazing things in the galaxy and it seems Speck is headed the same way. Coincidence or budding friendship? As the two explore together, their personalities emerge. Rover is methodical keeping to the mission whereas Speck has a bit more whimsy programmed. For example, he can play music when he is scared. I don’t blame him because giant rock people would scare me too! But don’t worry. It turns out that rock people really like to rock and roll in more ways than one.

The first book in this new graphic novel has a lot a kid appeal. The engaging and fun characters, the intriguing and humorous plot, and detailed and expressive illustrations will capture kids’ attention. I appreciate how Roth intersperses fun science facts teaching kids about microseconds, space caves, echoes and more. What I love most is the speck-tacular message that “finding new friends is the most important discovery of all.” This Planet Rocks celebrated its book birthday on October 4, 2022.

The Tryout by Christina Soontornvat and Joanna Cacao

Middle school is a tough transition especially when Christina and her best friend Megan only have lunch together. As one of the only Asian Americans in her school, Christina has to endure micro aggressions from not only a classmate who calls her Rice Girl, but also teachers who choose not to learn to correctly pronounce her last name. When the cheerleading tryout sign up is posted, Christina and Megan take the plunge in hopes of making the squad will allow them to fit in rather than sticking out. Their friendship is tested when Megan decides to choose someone to be her partner for tryouts. What if Megan makes the team without her?

In the author’s note, Soontornvat shares that she never planned to write a memoir but signs kept telling her to tell her story. I am so glad she did because kids will relate to the many challenges she faced in middle school. What I love most is her family who keep her grounded and remind Christina that they are good people in their town. And by the end of the school year, Christina learns that sometimes life gives you something better that you expected. Honest, heartfelt, and hopeful, The Tryout is a must read middle grade novel. Cacao’s expressive artwork brings Soontornvat’s story to life. Thanks to Scholastic for sharing a copy with our #bookexcursion group. The paperback edition released in September and the hardcover publishes on November 1, 2022.

Ice Cycle: Poems About the Life of Ice by Maria Gianferrari Illustrated by Jieting Chen

Ice is created from freezing water, but it can take on many forms, On the very first page, I love how Gianferrari starts with something familiar-shapes and how Chen’s illustrations and labels will help young readers understand.

Using rich, rhyming text, the next poem, “Ice Grows” describes how ice builds on plants, for it swirls and curls and binds and winds. The imagery continues with “Ice Plays” as Chen’s illustrations capture the ice’s movement as it drips and drops, sticks and pricks, and smacks and cracks. This poem introduces readers to cat ice and pancake ice, which are forms I have never heard of before.

The last poems transition from ice on land to ice at sea. Readers find out that wind and waves play a role in how ice is shaped. In the poem, “Sea Ice Ages,” Gianferrari’s text is full of emotion as ice “weeps, leaks, ebbs, and oozes, and floods.” I love how kids are exposed to rich vocabulary to help them visualize the ice as it changes forms.

Beyond the poems is extensive back matter providing definitions of terms, experiments with ice, and additional resources which includes books, websites, photos, videos, and sounds. Combining poetry and science, Ice Cycle warms souls and stimulates minds of readers of all ages. Ice Cycle celebrated its book birthday on October 4, 2022. 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 a canine character.

Busy Betty by Reese Witherspoon Illustrated by Xindi Yan

Always on the go, Betty is constantly making, doing, and playing. So when her pup Frank is in need of a bath, Betty gets busy filling the kiddie pool with water. And while she doesn’t have any soap, Betty improvises with bubbles which momentarily distract her. She recalls her mother’s words saying “I have to focus to finish” but that is no easy task. With her best friend Mae arriving soon for a playdate, Betty must mask the messiness. When Mae arrives, she sees Frank in the pool and thinks Betty is amazing for her resourcefulness, for now they can start a neighborhood dog washing business. Teamwork makes the dream work!

Witherspoon’s bouncy text and Yan’s lively illustrations capture Betty’s energy. I love that while Betty’s family gives her advice about slowing down and focusing, they embrace her enthusiasm. Busy Betty just celebrated its book birthday on October 4, 2022.

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!

Blog Tour, Giveaway, Nonfiction, Picture Books, Poetry

Blog Tour & Giveaway for Ice Cycle: Poems About the Life of Ice by Maria Gianferrari

October 7, 2022 lauramossa

Bella and I are thrilled to be part of the blog tour for Ice Cycle: Poems About the Life of Ice written by Maria Gianferrari and illustrated by Jieting Chen. This expressive and educational picture book celebrated its book birthday this week on October 4, 2022. Thanks to author Maria Gianferrari and Lerner Publishing Group for sharing an electronic copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Review:

When I think of ice, I visualize ice cubes to keep my drink cold, an icy windshield I have to scrape or the beauty of icicles hanging from my house. After reading Ice Cycle, my knowledge of ice was only the tip of the iceberg.

Ice Cycle

In “Ice Speaks,” Gianferrari’s lyrical language engages the ears with sound. As I was reading the text, I could literally hear the noises that ice makes and Chen seamlessly incorporates the sounds in her artwork with swirling, dotted yellow lines.

The last poems transition from ice on land to ice at sea. Readers find out that wind and waves play a role in how ice is shaped. New forms such as ice rind, anchor ice, shuga, hummock, and bummock are introduced with text, illustrations, and labels. In the poem, “Sea Ice Ages,” Gianferrari’s text is full of emotion as ice “weeps, leaks, ebbs, and oozes, and floods.” I love how kids are exposed to rich vocabulary to help them visualize the ice as it changes forms. And while, ice does die, all it takes is a temperature dive for ice to once again come alive. Gianferrari’s last three words, “Ice is born…” connects back to the first poem reminding us of its life cycle.

Check Out These Ice Cycle Extras!

To view the book trailer, click here.

To view and download the Teacher’s Guide, click here.

About the Author:

Maria-blackandwhite

Maria Gianferrari thinks ice is nice. After seeing editor Carol Hinz’s feathery frost photos on Instagram, she was inspired to find out more. During her research, Maria was amazed by all the diverse kinds of ice that exist, and this book was born. Her favorite form is pancake ice. Maria lives in Massachusetts with her family, where winters usually bring ice and snow. You can learn more about Maria at her brand new website, mariagianferrari.com

Enter Beagles & Books’ Giveaway!

Follow me @lauramossa on Twitter and retweet my Ice Cycle giveaway tweet (US residents only).

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

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 10/3/22

October 2, 2022October 3, 2022 lauramossa

Our Recent Reads:

The Hunger Heroes: Snack Cabinet Sabotage by Jarrett Lerner

In the first book of the series, the Hunger Heroes saved a hungry kid about to take a math test. Now, the quartet (Mr. Toots, Chip, Tammy and Leonard) have a new assignment. A young girl, Gabby, is babysitting at the Richardson’s house and with no snacks to be found, she is getting hangry. Chip is skeptical, for this is not typical Richardson family behavior and when the Hovercraft’s crash lands and they find dog treats on the Richardson’s lawn, his suspicion grows. Is someone trying to sabotage the Hunger Heroes? If the Hungry Heroes can’t get to Gabby on time, she could hit guac (I mean rock) bottom. Wait a minute. The other day, Ava the avocado was not acting “allripe.” Could she be responsible for this “pitiful” situation?

Ever since his first novel, Enginerds, I anxiously await any story that Jarrett Lerner writes and illustrates. I love how his novels engage and entertain readers but also educate in a non preachy way. While Ava was responsible for the hangry alert, she apologizes admitting her jealousy. Her honesty reminds the Hunger Heroes that “there’s always more to someone’s story than meets the eye.” Always love a story that is full of both humor and heart! Thanks to Simon and Schuster for sharing a copy with me. The Hunger Heroes: Snack Cabinet Sabotage celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on October 4, 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.

Is This Your Class Pet? by Troy Cummings

Arfy is back with another adventure. On the third book of the series, Arfy is working at the local elementary school as a library helper dog listening to kids read. When Arfy returns home with his human, he discovers a stowaway in his vest pocket. It’s a small turtle. Without hesitation, Arfy sends an email to the school principal in hopes of returning the turtle to its home. When Arfy gets an away from my desk auto reply, he writes a note to the lunchroom cooks who respond that the turtle (now named Hidey) does not belong in the cafeteria. Determined to locate Hidey’s home, Arfy writes to the gym coach, the art teacher, and lastly, video chats with Mrs. Tortuga’s class who have been missing their pet. Mystery solved right? Well, yes, until another animal hides in Arfy’s vest pocket!

Arfy is a favorite character with my primary students. I love how he exhibits positive values such as kindness and persistence with his actions. As a reading specialist, I appreciate that kids can learn about letter writing in many formats. Prior to 2020, I would have never expected to see students on a video call, but now, it is just another way to communicate. And while Mrs. Tortuga’s class may have had a turtle as a pet, a note from Arfy’s human explains why turtles are not good pets for people and advocates adopting a dog or cat. Is This Your Class Pet? published in June 2022.

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!