Biography – Beagles & Books

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.

Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing copies of the following in exchange for honest reviews. All opinions are my own.

Elves Are the Worst by Alex Willan

When one thinks of Christmas, elves own the holiday. Well, Gilbert is on a campaign to change people’s minds announcing that goblins are just as hardworking as elves. After citing all the tasks he can perform, Gilbert exposes that elves aren’t that conscientious. While kids will easily get the reference to sitting on a shelf, adult readers will love his nostalgic nods of elves baking cookies in a tree and pouring cereal into a bowl. Perhaps Gilbert needs to prove himself with a trip to the North Pole. Will he able to show off his skill set or learn a valuable lesson?

Like all the books in the Worst series, Elves Are the Worst is full of humor and heart. And while Gilbert makes some good points in the beginning, his visit to the North Pole opens his eyes and mind. Amid the laughter, kids learn the value of teamwork, an essential life skill.

I’m Going to Build a Snowman by Jashar Awan

When a boy wakes up to snow, he can’t contain his excitement to build the best snowman ever! The warmly dressed boy ventures outside clearly outlining his snowman making steps. Once complete, the snowman comes to life singing, dancing, and flying. Or does it? Kids discover the boy was visualizing this perfect snowman and while he follows the same steps in real life, his creation does not match his expectations. How can the boy make his snowman the best ever?

While there are many picture books about making a snowman, I love how author-illustrator Awan chose to tell his story. First, the boy narrates speaking directly to readers with a concise text filled with sensory language. The full page landscape illustrations are full of action and emotion. Having the boy grapple with his vision and his reality promotes a rich discussion with kids, and a life lesson that perfection is in the eye of the beholder.

The Snow Man by Jonah Winter Illustrated by Jeanette Winter

This picture book biography reminds of the importance of observation. With its lyrical text and warm illustrations, the Winter mother-son team beautifully tell the story of a young man who moved to an abandoned shack in the Rocky Mountains. To pass the time, he decides to measure the falling snow, the snowpack, and first snowfall each winter logging his data on paper. He also recorded dates in the spring such as the first wildflower blossom, when animals ended hibernation, and when hummingbirds returned.

Over the years, all of his filled notebooks reveal some surprising conclusions about climate change and its effects on living things. His data proved vital to scientists all over the world. In the author’s note, The Snow Man is revealed to be billy barr (no caps). Readers learn more about the man who never pursued fame; however, his informal work offered incredible insight to the world.

Red & Green by Lois Ehlert

Kids and adults will immediately be drawn to this fun twist on the classic ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. Ehlert’s signature graphic style engages young children as the rhyming text tells the story. The tall rectangular picture book also lends itself to little hands for holding. As each page is turned, kids’ senses are awakened due to Ehlert’s bold colors and tactile die-cuts. What I love is Ehlert’s art is full of basic shapes making her it easy for children to replicate.

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.

Bundle Up, Little Pup by Deri Elys Illustrated by Elena Comte

As winter approaches, this rhyming board book is perfect to read to young children. The kids are not the only ones excited to play in the snow; their pups also can’t wait. Both Elys’ bouncy text and Comte’s warm illustrations show the importance of proper clothing for both children and pets. The last page spread is my favorite seeing all the children and the dogs enjoying the winter wonderland and if one looks closely, other animals can be spotted above and underground.

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, Biography, Nonfiction, Picture Books

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 11/20/23

November 20, 2023November 20, 2023 lauramossa

Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing copies of the following picture books in exchange for honest reviews. All opinions are my own.

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Ethan and the Strays by John Sullivan illustrated by Hateem Aly

After seeing stray cats on the way to school, Ethan is smitten. He wants one of his own but his older Sam reminds him that his dad said no pets. As the weather gets colder, Ethan worries about the cats. Sam takes Ethan to the library to do research; however, the best support is the animal clinic. The brothers learn about trap, neuter, and return. Once the cats are released back, Sam gets outdoor cat shelters from the clinic to keep them warm in the winter. All the cats except for one leave and Ethan wonders could this be his pet?

Ethan and the Strays is a story that tugs at your heart. I love how Sullivan included in his heart warming story how Ethan and Sam use their resources to help the stray cats. Aly’s warm and expressive illustrations showed the genuine concern Ethan had for the cats. Back matter includes information on trap-neuter-return as well as resources. Ethan and the Strays published on October 3, 2023.

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Beulah Has a Hunch: Inside the Colorful Mind of Master Inventor Beulah Louise Henry by Katie Mazeika

Invention ideas come easily to Beulah; however, drawing them was another story. Unbeknownst to her, Beulah, she has hyperphantasia giving her the ability to picture things in extreme detail. Unfortunately, her parents did not approve of her interests calling her a daydreamer. While she was instructed in the arts and etiquette, Beulah continued to practice sketching solutions to problems.

One day, the ever observant Beulah noticed that women could benefit from a compartment in their parasols to hold things. Not only did Beulah create a parasol with a “pocket” but also a collapsible handle to make it easy to carry. Another innovation emerged. What if women could change the color of parasol’s fabric making it more versatile? Professional drawings from a local draftsman helped Beulah secure the patent to produce her unique parasols. After being rejected for being a female inventor, Beulah made her own prototype which ultimately convinced someone to manufacture them. As a result of her profitable invention, Beulah opened her own factory to not only produce parasols but also other products. At 40 years old, Beulah held more patents than any other women in history earning her the title of Lady Edison.

As an adult, I had never heard of Beulah Louise Henry until I read this picture book. Grateful to author-illustrator Katie Mazeika for introducing me (and readers) to this inventor who proved yet again how women positively impact industry. Back matter includes a comprehensive biography. Belulah Has a Hunch published on October 17, 2023.

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The Welcome Home by Amy June Bates

Living in a big house, Mr. & Mrs. Gargleson-Bittle decide something is missing. Wanting something soft and waggy, they get a snail. Wait a minute! A snail is soft, but not waggy. Next, they welcome an elephant with a waggy trunk. The husband and wife continue to expand their family with various animals who could roll over but none could play fetch until the octopus and giraffe. More animals join them and their house seems full. But then one day, they hear scratching at their door. Could this be the animal that makes their family complete?

Full of humor and heart, The Welcome Home is a story both kids and adults will enjoy. Based on the text and the illustration of the Mr. & Mrs. Gargleston-Bittle on their balcony, readers think they know the pet the couple will first welcome but are surprised over and over again. I am a big fan of endpapers and I love how the author-illustrator Bates’ front endpapers show a big, empty house and the back endpapers show the house full of life (and animals). Just like her picture book The Big Umbrella, the theme of The Welcome Home, which published September 19, 2023, is there is always room for one more.

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My Brother is an Avocado by Tracy Darnton Illustrated by Yasmeen Ismail

My Brother is an Avocado is perfect book for any child awaiting a new sibling. To help his impatient daughter understand the different growth stages during pregnancy, a dad compares the unborn baby to food. Beginning with a poppy seed, the girl can visualize how tiny her brother is. As her brother grows, more comparisons are made. I love that author Darnton chose the girl as the narrator. Each time a new food is presented to her, she shares her honest thoughts. For example, when he is the size of a brussel sprout, she admits her brother may smell funny or make rude noises.

Illustrator Ismail humorously humanizes the food with a face and motion bringing them to life. I also adore that the girl’s dog is always nearby in each page spread including the one after the baby is born. And to her surprise, the baby isn’t at all what her dad told her. Read to find out the sweet surprise ending! My Brother is an Avocado published on October 17, 2023.

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.

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Noodles Conquers Comfy Mountain by Jonathan Graziano Illustrated by Dan Tavis

While Noodles loves a no bones day, he just can’t get settled today. His bed, his blanket, and even the kitchen didn’t feel right. Noodles is on a mission to find a comfortable spot and as soon as he spies a mound of warmth on the couch, he christens it Comfy Mountain. But his little legs make it difficult to conquer Comfy Mountain. What’s a pug to do?

Noodles recalls his human Jonathan always helps him in times of need so without hesitation, Noodles squawks to get Jonathan’s attention. It is not immediate but Noodles finally conveys his message. After Jonathan lifts him onto Comfy Mountain, Noodles is in pure contentment.

In the first book, Noodles and the No Bones Day, Graziano taught us about enjoying quiet moments with our loved ones. Noodles Conquers Comfy Mountain teaches readers it’s ok to ask for help when we have a problem. Tavis’ illustrations show Noodles’ range of emotions as he searches for his comfy spot. I love the page spread when as Jonathan lifts up a grinning Noodles, a beam of light leads him to the pillows at the peak of Comfy Mountain. Noodles Conquers Comfy Mountain recently released on November 7, 2023.

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!

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

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 1/23/23

January 23, 2023January 23, 2023 lauramossa

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!

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

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 9/6/21

September 4, 2021September 6, 2021 lauramossa

My school year with students officially began last week. Even with masks on, I could see the enthusiasm and excitement in the kids’ faces. What warmed my heart the most is seeing teachers set up their classroom libraries, introducing kids to books through book tastings, and visiting classrooms for read alouds. Our school is once again celebrating birthdays with books and it is a joy to see students choose a title to add to their home libraries.

In August, Beagles and Books celebrated its 4th birthday. Last week, my blog was featured in Feedspot’s Top 20 Middle Grade Book Blogs. I am so grateful for the recognition and have to give a shout out to all the authors, illustrators, publishers, publicists, my #bookexcursion group, and the many #kidlit book bloggers who support me. And of course, my beagles who patiently pose as my book models. I love being part of this amazing community that aims to ensure every kid sees themselves as reader!

Our Recent Reads:

Once Upon a Camel by Kathi Appelt Illustrated by Eric Rohmann

In the foothills of the Chiso Mountains in West Texas lives an old camel named Zada and a family of American kestrels. Zada is Auntie to Wims and Beulah, two chicks who are barely two weeks old. When a dust storm quickly and violently comes across the canyon, Zada tucks the chicks in her fur, for after all, camels are the ships of the desert. But when a stray dust devil seizes the chicks’ parents, Perlita and Pard, and they go adrift, Zada knows her mission is even more important. She must keep Wims and Beulah safe at all cost until they can be reunited with their parents. Aging and wise Zada travels with her two fledglings to the closest shelter. The only issue is the trio’s refuge is mountain lion Pecos de Leon’s territory, but Zada is certain that it is their best chance.

Once Zada reaches Pecos’ den, she is relieved it is empty. He could come back at anytime; therefore, Zada remains standing and on alert because if she sits down, she might not be able to get back up in time. With two scared chicks in her fur missing their parents, Zada realizes the only way to console Wims and Beulah is to tell them stories about her early days as a racing camel in Turkey, her friendship with fellow camel Asiye, and her voyage to the United States. So once she has OOD (Official Okie Dokie) from the chicks, Zada begins telling her story which gives you ALL the feels-happy, sad, excited, scared, and most importantly, hopeful.

Appelt’s words are pure joy to read, for she writes directly to the reader and her concise text carries a lot of weight and meaning. As I read, I was literally transported to West Texas as well as Turkey and felt I was on the caravan with Zada. Rohmann’s illustrations complement the text showing readers the feelings of the characters. I would highly recommend Once Upon a Camel as a class read aloud, for with short chapters, engaging characters, and an intriguing plot, kids would be captivated by the story begging the teacher to continue reading. What touched my heart the most was Zada’s love for everyone she met in life-Asiye, Perlita, Pard, Wims, Beulah, and many others. Zada was truly the brighest star because of her love, perseverance, and courage. As a reading specialist, I love that Zada reminds us that stories both comfort and save us. And in my opinion, once upon a time… in a land far away… is always a perfect beginning to a story.

This review was originally posted as part of the Once Upon a Camel Blog Tour and Twitter giveaway. Once Upon a Camel celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on September 7, 2021.

The Stars Beckoned: Edward White’s Amazing Walk in Space by Candy Wellins Illustrated by Courtney Dawson

When he was a young boy, Edward White was mesmerized with the night sky. With a rhyming text, Wellins energetically expresses how White’s fascination with the stars never waned with these repeating lines-“Come back in. He’d resist, but then he’d go, walking back…so slow…so slow.”

Following in his father’s footsteps, Edward became a pilot. But flying a jet was not enough. Edward wanted to get closer to the stars. The timeline following the story reveals White was chosen to be an astronaut after earning an advanced degree in aeronautical engineering and attending Air Force Test Pilot School, On June 3, 1965, Edward became the first American to walk in space.

With Wellins’ lively rhythmic pattern and Dawson’s warm illustrations conveying White’s curiosity and commitment, The Stars Beckoned is a perfect picture book biography for young children. While Wellins clearly captured White’s passion for the stars, I love how she ended by sharing that his family were truly the brightest stars in his life. Thanks to the author for sharing a copy with my #bookexcursion group. The Stars Beckoned published in April 2021.

Bella’s Dog Pick of the Week

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

All Pets Allowed (Blackberry Farm 2) by Adele Griffin Illustrated by Le Uyen Pham

In the follow-up to The Becket List, Becket and her twin brother Nicholas are turning 10 on October 10th. In true Becket fashion, she wants to celebrate big inviting all their classmates (even prankster Travis) while Nicholas prefers a much smaller affair. The twins not only get their wish granted for their birthday parties but also in their presents. Becket gets to choose a dog to adopt from the shelter and Nicholas can pick a cat. At first, the twins are excited about their choices; however, their pets’ personalities appear to be the opposite of their own. Becket’s dog, Dibs, is shy and anxious while Nicholas’ cat, Given, loves the spotlight. Will the twins accept their pets unconditionally?

While All Pets Allowed is the second book in the Blackberry Farm series, it can definitely be read as a stand alone. Griffin clearly conveys while the twins share the same birthdays, they do not have similar depositions. Becket is all spunk and energy and Nicholas is all quiet and reserved. What I love about this story is because of their pets, the twins has a greater respect and appreciation for each other. Pham’s fun and expressive black and white illustrations capture both Becket’s & Nicholas’ personalities as well as Dibs and Givens. The theme of family is strong, for the Branches are true team supporting each other on their farm and with the new pets. Thanks to Lonnie Lane Marketing for sharing a copy with my #bookexcursion group. All Pets Allowed published last week on August 31, 2021.

Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!