Category: Nonfiction

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

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 3/31/25

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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.

Book Birthday, Nonfiction, Picture Books

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

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

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 7/22/24

lauramossa
 

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

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Rescue Cat by Stephen Savage

Being brave doesn’t come easy to Butterscotch; however, her courage helped her get rescued by her human. When she sees a lion cub in danger on television, Butterscotch knows she must be a rescue cat to a fellow feline. Leaping into the television, Butterscotch roars in order to save the cub from the crocodile.  When the crocodile bellows back, the duo race away jumping into the television. But how can they stop the crocodile from catching them?  After his initial shock, Butterscotch’s human aids them with the click of a button.  Not long after, the cub is reunited with its family making Butterscotch proud of her courage.  

With a charming character & inventive plot, kids will think author/illustrator Savage’s RESCUE CAT is a purrfect picture book. I love how Savage quietly begins the tale, escalates the plot with a fantastical element, and calmness returns at the end. It is a great story for teaching mood to young children.  Savage’s bold illustrations fill up the page spread and could tell the story alone; however, the text is integral since Butterscotch is a rescue cat in more ways than one.  I adore the message that bravery can manifest after feeling scared. Thanks to Macmillan Children’s Publishing for sharing a copy.  Rescue Cat celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on July 23, 2024. 

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When Beavers Flew: A True Story of Rescue and Relocation by Kristen Tracy Illustrated by Luisa Uribe

In 1948, what happens when too many beavers are causing problems in McCall, Idaho?  Fish and Game Warden Elmo Heter concocts a plan to relocate some of them to the Chamberlain Basin.  While his first plan of moving them with mules and packhorses didn’t work, a surplus of World War II parachutes gives him a better idea. After a lot of time and energy creating and testing out his new plan, Heter is able to safely move 76 beavers.  How? He loads beavers into special boxes full of holes designed to open once they hit the ground.  On a windless day, parachutes attached to the boxes are dropped from an airplane.  As a result of Heter’s ingenuity, all but one beaver survived and collectively, the colony created the largest protected roadless forest in the continental United States.  

Tracy’s nonfiction narrative will intrigue kids and promote a lot of rich discussion about the ethics of relocating the beavers, the safety of Hector’s plan, and what may have happened if the beavers remained in McCall, Idaho.  In the author’s note, Tracy hits on these points defining the beavers’ move from one habitat to another as translocation.  Uribe’s warm illustrations evoke a nostalgic feel.  I love how she embedded possible diagrams, drawings, and notes of Heter’s to accentuate his determination in moving the beavers safely.  Thanks to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media and Random House for sharing a copy.  When Beavers Flew celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on July 23, 2024.

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Brave Baby Hummingbird by Sy Montgomery Illustrated by Tiffany Bozic

A male hummingbird recounts his first year of life.   He and his sister were orphaned and are being cared for by humans at a rescue center.  As he narrates his story, readers learn that hummingbirds are mostly made of air, eat every 20 minutes, and are the only birds that can hover and fly backwards and upside down. Once they are ready, the door on the Hummingbird Hotel is open allowing the birds to live in the wild.  Instinctually, the siblings know where to go to enjoy their rest of their lives in their natural habitat.  

Montgomery’s gentle narration from the bird’s point of view and Bozic’s gorgeous artwork will captivate readers of all ages.  Montgomery not only embeds facts in her narrative but also emotion eliciting compassion from readers. Bozic’s 3d illustrations make the hummingbirds literally fly off the page.  Back matter includes an author’s note which explains the inspiration behind the story, more hummingbird facts, and suggestions on how to attract and help hummers in your own yard.  Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing a copy. Brave Baby Hummingbird published in March 2024.

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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Tate’s Wild Rescue by Jenny Turnbull Illustrated by Izzy Burton

Animal lover Tate worries about those living in the wild.  Are they cold, hungry, lonely or scared? Deciding to rescue one, she writes letters to a lion, dolphin, tiger, bear, kangaroo and raccoon.  To her surprise, none of the animals accept her invitation providing reasons (with a spot of humor) why they enjoy their life in the natural habitat.  Observant readers will spot a stray dog in each page spread getting closer and closer to Tate.  When the dog sees Tate feeling sad, he decides to take matters into his own paws writing her a letter.  What happens next will feel your heart with joy.

Debut author Turnbull has written a touching story that has elements of multiple genres.  It is epistolary since Tate and the animals communicate through writing letters, fantasy because animals cannot write, and informational for the animals include facts about themselves in their letters.   Burton’s vibrant and detailed artwork is integral to the plot for the text does not tell the full story. Clues are embedded in the artwork. I love that Turnbull included backmatter teaching kids about how they can protect wild animal habitats as well as advocate for rescue dogs or cats. Thanks to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media and Crown Books for Young Readers for sharing a copy.  Tate’s Wild Rescue published in June 2024. 

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.
Book Birthday, Nonfiction, Picture Books

Happy Early Book Birthday to Flamingos Are Funky: (A Not So Serious Guide) by Abi Cushman

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Flamingos are Pretty Funky: A (Not So) Serious Guide by Abi Cushman

If you went wild for Cushman’s Wombats Are Pretty Weird, you will find her next installment fantastically fabulous.  In the next book in the A (Not So) Serious Guide series, readers of all ages learn fascinating facts about flamingos.

Cushman immediately hooks readers speaking directly to them as her artwork zooms out over a few page spreads to reveal the tall, pink wading bird.  Joey the snake from Animals Go Vroom returns to playfully banter with the narrator and the flamingos as details are shared.  Here are a few of my favorites-

  • Flamingos live are on every continent except for Australia and Antarctica.
  • Flamingos are born with gray feathers and don’t start turning pink until they are two to three years old. 
  • Flamingos apply natural makeup from their uropygial gland during breeding season.
  • Flamingos have the ability to live in very harsh environments.
  • Flamingos can more easily stand on one leg than two legs. 
  • Flamingos colonies are called flamboyances.

In addition to the text, Cushman gives the flamingos’ voice as they share personal commentary about their characteristics through speech bubbles.  The Lesser Flamingo wants a better name; flamingos discuss where they get their makeup as well as how their leathery and scaly skin protects them from toxic water and extreme temperatures. 

Cushman’s artwork is so entertaining because she includes such detail and humor into every illustration.  Text features such as sidebars and maps as well as back matter including real photos of flamingos and a glossary of terms teach kids the elements of nonfiction.   Thanks to the author for sharing a copy.  Flamingos Are Pretty Funky celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on June 2, 2024. 

Book Birthday, Middle Grade Literature, Nonfiction, Picture Books

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 4/22/24

lauramossa
 

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

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Sunny Parker Is Here to Stay by Margaret Finnegan

It’s the summer before sixth grade and on the first day of vacation, Sunny is already bored.  Sure, she has her chores helping her dad who manages Del Mar, the affordable housing apartment complex where they live, but she can’t deny she is a little jealous of her neighbor Minh who got a scholarship to go to the YMCA day camp.  

Sunny keeps busy enjoying walks with her neighbor, Mrs. Garcia.  On one walk, Sunny discovers that the housing authority has proposed building more affordable housing on the grounds of a former elementary school.  When Sunny excitedly tells her dad, he immediately dismisses it saying it will never happen; the wealthy community will not allow another Del Mar. Sunny is stunned. What’s not to like about Del Mar?

Sunny needs to take action, but her dad wants her to lay low and not draw attention to the Del Mar.  Fortunately, with the support of her best friend, Hailey, a petition is circulated in favor of the proposed apartment complex to take to the hearing.  Sunny is here to stay but can she convince others that another Del Mar is an asset to the community? 

Written from Sunny’s point of view, Finnegan captures both her innocence and passion. While Sunny is aware that she and her dad aren’t rich, she never thought of herself as poor.  At the Del Mar, she feels safe and connected to her community which I love. Sensitive topics of race, socio-economic status, and domestic violence are handled delicately but may require discussion depending on the schema of the reader.  An author’s note explains how the novel is based on the author’s own experiences.  Thanks to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing an ARC.  Sunny Parker Is Here to Stay celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on April 23, 2024. 

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The Secret Elephant: Inspired by A True Story of Friendship by Ellan Rankin

This nonfiction narrative tells the true tale of Sheila, a baby Asian elephant who lived at the Belfast Zoo.  When World War II broke out, Sheila’s keeper, Denise, could not bear to leave the elephant at the zoo all alone.  As a result, Denise covertly brought Sheila home each night and snuck her back to the zoo every morning until…their secret was discovered.  Distraught, Denise returned Sheila to the zoo but quickly devised a new plan; she would live in the enclosure with Sheila until the war ended.  

From the very first pages, this story tugged my heart.  Unlike the other zoo animals who lived communally, Sheila, being the only elephant, was all by herself.  Sheila and Denise had already developed a close bond which was why Denise had to swiftly act.  Rankin’s tender narrative and expressive artwork show the immense love Denise and Sheila had for one another.  I appreciate that Rankin chose Sheila to be the narrator allowing readers to hear her perspective;  I also love that Rankin includes some humor in both the text and illustrations with Sheila drinking from a toilet, leaving a “present” in the dining room, and serving as a footstool.  Kids will adore learning about Sheila and Denise and be inspired to do some of their own research about them.

Thanks to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing a copy.  The Secret Elephant celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on April 23, 2024. 

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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Jump for Joy by Karen Gray Ruelle Illustrated by Hadley Hooper

A young girl, Joy, desperately wanted a dog.  She wasn’t picky; however, she decided she would know her dog when she saw him.

A dog, Jump, desperately wanted a kid.  He wasn’t picky; however, he decided he would know his kid when he saw her. 

Joy made dogs out of flowers, seashells, sticks, and snow.  Jump made kids out of ferns, sand, mud, and snow.  Unfortunately, the flowers and ferns wilted, the seashells and sand washed away, the sticks and mud blew and scattered, and the snow melted.  

But when both Joy and Jump see tulips and ferns growing, their excitement exudes and a miracle happens.  

Jump for Joy lives up to its title.  Ruelle’s narrative is concise in words but large in sentiment. I love the repetition as readers meet both Joy and Jump.  Readers will be wishing for the happy ending which is only a matter of time.  Hooper’s artwork is mostly black and white with just a touch of yellow until the last two page spreads which burst with color and show the sheer happiness of two souls.  My heart (and yours) will explode with warmth!   Jump for Joy published on January 23, 2024. 

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.
Nonfiction, Picture Books

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 4/8/24

lauramossa
 

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

Are you ready for the Solar Eclipse?  Bella is!  

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Grateful to Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing copies of the newly published and soon to be released picture books with Beagles & Books. All opinions are my own. 


The Storyteller by Lindsay Bonilla Illustrated by Noar Lee Naggan

Bonilla’s passionate text and Naggan’s soulful illustrations gorgeously express how a grandmother nourished her grandson Griffin with stories.  As his grandmother shares her tales, Griffin listens attentively, sketches in his notebook, and asks questions  Their love for each other is sweetly depicted in Naggan’s warm artwork which hearkens to a time long ago. When his grandmother fell ill, Griffin was distraught; however, he took comfort in remembering all her stories.  The tale of Jack and the Beanstalk gave Griffin the strength to say goodbye to his grandmother and he kept her memory alive by sharing her stories with others.  

The Storyteller is a tender story about love, loss, and legacy.   The Storyteller released on March 5, 2024. 


Speck: An Itty-Bitty Epic by Margaux Meganck

This lyrical picture book chronicles tiny specks on their journey across the ocean.  Beginning in the tide pool. they travel via waves and currents searching for a place to stay and grow.  Through gorgeous artwork, children will see the specks dwindle in number from thousands to hundreds to only one.  Instead of hiding in the deep sea, the speck treks with a school of fish venturing to the surface.  Finally, the speck has found its home attaching to a blue whale joining other barnacles.  The illustration of the smiling barnacles show the joy of finding your place in the world.

With a melodic, concise text, and vibrant watercolor illustrations, Meganck’s Speck is a reminder that the goal of every living thing is to discover the place to evolve and thrive.  Speck published on March 19, 2024. 


The Wonderful Wisdom of Ants by Phillip Bunting

Ants are pretty common insects, but did you know that there are 10 quadrillion on our planet?  In The Wonderful Wisdom of Ants, Bunting humorously shares facts about what ants love and hate as well as how ants live, work, and communicate.  The witty text and amusing illustrations with dialogue from the ants will make readers laugh out loud while they learn about these intriguing insects. 

I especially love that Bunting ends with what lessons ants can teach us such as love your family, waste nothing, take power naps (LOL), and always help those around you.  The Wonderful Wisdom of Ants published on March 19, 2024. 


This Baby. That Baby by Cari Best Illustrated by Rasin Kheiriyeh

In a city, two babies live across across each other on the fifth floor of tall buildings.  When the babies see each other through the windows, one waves and one claps. In their home, one baby kisses his cat, and one baby tugs on her pup’s tail.  One baby sings about a baby whale.  The other baby sings about a baby shark. Both babies are hungry and get to eat but at naptime, both babies do not fall asleep quickly, Waking up, one baby is sad and the other baby is grumpy.  Both babies go for a walk and meet up at the park.  When they see each other, both babies smile.  One baby says “Bay Bay,”  The other baby says “Bee Bee.”  Together, they play peekaboo.  

With Best’s peppy text and Kheiriyeh’s lively illustrations, This Baby. That Baby. is an energetic story that shows how babies with different personalities and interests can be friends.  I love how both single parents (and pets) demonstrate patience with their children as they go throughout their day. This Baby. That Baby released on February 27, 2024. 

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.

Saving Delicia by Laura Gehl Illustrated by Patricia Metola

A young girl named Kari sits under the last remaining delicia tree with her pup Cookie listening to Old Otis tell stories.  Sharing a small piece of the last delicia of the season with Cookie, Kari asks Otis if she can plant the seeds.  Through Otis, Kari learns that a plant disease called blight will prevent any new delicias to grow.  With Cookie following her, Kari bikes to the library with an idea stirring in her head inspired by one of Otis’ stories.  After much research, Kari decides to dry, store, and freeze delicia seeds in Otis’ old shed freezer.  If scientists can can find a cure for blight, Kari’s seed bank will be ready.  

While Cookie is only a minor character, I love how the pup is Kari’s constant companion.  Metola’s artwork shows the sweet relationship between Kari and Cookie as she carries the dog in her arms, shares fruit, and is by her side when both the last delicia tree and Otis are no longer with them.  At the end of the story, Kari is an adult sitting under a delicia orchard (spoiler) telling Otis’ stories to children and there is a heartwarming tribute to both Otis and Cookie.  And another pup is part of her family. 

Like their previous collaboration in Apple and Magnolia, Gehl and Metola tell an uplifting story about the power of planning and patience to make a dream come true. Gehl’s gentle narrative text and Metola’s warm illustrations wrap readers in a hug. In the author’s note, Gehl shares that while delicia trees are not real, seed banks are.  In fact, there are more than 1000 seed banks in the world.  Saving Delicia celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on April 9, 2024. 

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.
Nonfiction, Picture Books

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? 12/18/23

lauramossa
 

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

Beagle & Books News

Honored and excited to have been selected as a Cybil Awards (Children’s and Young Adult Book Lovers’ Literacy) Round 2 Judge in the Easy Reader/Early Chapter Book category. Finalists will be shared publicly on January 1st.  I will have the privilege of collaborating with chair Maggi Rohde and fellow judges to choose the winners who will be announced on February 14th. 

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Your One and Only Heart by Rajani LaRocca, MD Illustrated by Lauren Paige Conrad

Teaching content to young kids is made much easier with a picture book like Your One and Only Heart.  Author and practicing doctor LaRocca’s melodic text explains how the heart works.  I love how she defines the heart in opposite terms: singular vs. cooperative, energetic vs. relaxed, and selfish vs. selfless to show its range. 

Conrad’s expressive artwork provide visuals to support content knowledge.  I especially love the page spread illustrating heartbeats comparing elephants, mice and children. The diagrams of the body and the heart also support understanding.  On the last page spread, LaRocca summarizes how while the heart is contradictory, “it does everything it’s supposed to do. Just like you.”  Back matter includes more detailed facts about the outer and inner heart. Thanks to the author for hosting a giveaway.  Your One and Only Heart published in August 2023. 

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A Story No One Has Ever Heard Before by Avi Steinberg

For teachers searching for a book to get kids excited about creative writing, look no further.  Author/illustrator Steinberg breaks the fourth wall to encourage kids to tell an imaginative story.  While kids may be reluctant in their abilities, Steinberg pledges his support offering advice in the brainstorming process.  First, a story needs a character.  Then the character needs a problem and that problem can’t be solved without a struggle.  In fact, the more twists and turns, the better! 

Amusing examples are shared which will not only get the creative juices flowing but also elicit smiles and giggles.  Of course, a solution surfaces due to help from others or a inner revelation bringing the story to its epic ending.  On the last page spread, I love that a story frame is provided to support kids in telling their stories both orally and in writing. Thanks to Macmillan Children’s Publishing for sharing a copy.  A Story No One Has Ever Heard Before recently released in November 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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10 Dogs by Emily Gravett

10 dogs, 10 sausages. One for each right?  Not when 1 dog jumps on the table claiming them all as its own.  Victory is short lived for as the table topples, 2 different dogs play sausage tug of war leaving 8 dogs without.  With its page turn, the number of dogs with sausages increases until 9 dogs have a tasty treat and a small dachshund is sulking under the table.  Observant readers will notice a lone sausage on the table.  Will the 9 dogs show compassion and help out the hungry hound?  

10 Dogs is more than a counting book.  With a concise, rhyming text and energetic illustrations, author/illustrator Gravett tells the story of 10 dogs with a mission yet in the end, the pups make sure everyone gets a piece of the prize.  I love that the theme of sharing is embedded in the narrative. And pay close attention to the endpapers for they are a good synopsis of the plot. Thanks to Union Square Kids for sharing a copy. 10 Dogs published in September 2023. Check out its companion picture book 10 Cats! 

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

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

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!

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

Blog Tour & Giveaway for Fungi Grow by Maria Gianferrari

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Bella and I are “shrooming” with excitement to be part of the blog tour for Fungi Grow written by Maria Gianferrari and illustrated by Diana Sudyka. This nonfiction picture book celebrated its book birthday on October 17, 2023. Thanks to author Maria Gianferrari and Beach Lane Books/Simon & Schuster for sharing a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

What do you call a book about mushrooms?
A fun guide!

Picture books are impactful when the text and art seamless tell a story. In Fungi Grow, Gianferrari’s dynamic text and Sudyka’s energetic artwork make learning about fungi enjoyable and accessible. 

On the first page spread, text is minimal allowing the illustration to explain the first stage of fungi. I love how kids can see the vast amount of spores released.

In the subsequent pages, kids learn the many ways fungi shoot spores. Gianferrari’s text remains concise giving Sudyka’s illustrations the spotlight. What I love most is the blending of text and art with words like puff, plop, poof, and pee-ew. Not only are kids exposed to alliteration, but also the meanings of the words are conveyed through the art.

The next stage of spores taking root is explained. Readers are introduced to tier 3 words such as hyphae and mycelium building their knowledge about the fungi life cycle. Throughout all stages, I love how Gianferrari shares information with two levels of text-the lyrical, concise narrative text as well as sidebars embedded in Sudkya’s illustrations providing more depth of facts in a paragraph.

As fungi grows into mature mushrooms, vivid verbs are once again incorporated in the artwork showing the variety that can be seen above ground.

After learning about the life cycle, readers discover how fungi are helpful and harmful. Having the ability to both hurt and heal makes mushrooms even more fascinating.

Whenever I read a text written by Gianferrari, I am always grateful because I am building content knowledge along with my students. Sudyka’s artwork supports readers to visualize and retain their new learning. For budding mycologists, back matter includes a glossary, more facts, a visual of the life cycle, additional books, blogs, and websites.

About the Author:

Maria Gianferrari’s yard is full of fungi. From branching corals and pointy stinkhorns to smoky puffballs and colorful jack-o’-lanterns, everything’s coming up mushrooms! Someday she hopes to find some morels—she’ll even share them with a squirrel. Maria’s favorite edible mushroom is the hearty portobello. She lives in Massachusetts.

About the Illustrator:

Diana Sudyka grew up hearing stories of her grandfather, an ardent forager, bringing home chicken of the woods and maitake mushrooms for meals. Her favorite edible mushroom is the delicious morel that popped up in her yard last spring. Diana lives with her family in Evanston, Illinois.

Enter Beagles & Books’ Giveaway!

  • Follow me @lauramossa on Twitter and retweet my Fungi Grow giveaway tweet.

Blog Tour, Giveaway, Nonfiction, Picture Books

Blog Tour & Giveaway for Thank A Farmer by Maria Gianferrari

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Bella and I are honored to be part of the blog tour for Thank A Farmer written by Maria Gianferrari and illustrated by Monica Mikai   This nonfiction narrative picture book celebrated its book birthday on September 5, 2023.  Thanks to author Maria Gianferrari and Norton Young Readers for sharing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

When you sit at the table to eat a meal, do you ever think about where your food comes from? With her peppy, poetic text, Gianferrari celebrates the people behind the food beginning with our breakfast. As in her other books, Gianferrari appeals to our senses using vivid verbs like plop, squirt, and ping. As I read, I could hear these sounds in my head visualizing the process.

I love how Mikai’s artwork embeds the children drinking their milk as if they are watching the actions of the dairy farmers. Virtually all subsequent artwork includes the family enjoying the food or product produced.

The labor involved in growing, picking, and preparing vegetables, fruits, peanuts, rice, and mushrooms for the market is also shared. In Mikai’s detailed full page spread illustrations, young readers see most of the work is done by hand emphasizing the sheer physical effort of farmers and farm workers. Kids also see how machines can make the work easier shaking cherry trees, cutting wheat, and grinding peanuts.

Food is not the only thing on Gianferrari’s menu. She also shares the process of shearing sheep for wool used to make cozy sweaters and socks. While the message of the book is to show appreciation to farmers, Gianferrari seeks to inspire readers to grow their own food too! I also love that she acknowledges farmers can’t do it alone. With alliteration, farmers thank nature for their bounty.

Gianferrari’s picture books aren’t only for kids. As an adult, I always learn factual information building my content knowledge on a variety of topics. Thank a Farmer is a perfect read aloud to teach or reinforce instruction on production, agriculture, and interdependence. Back matter includes further explanations of the farming methods of the products featured in the book as well as additional books, videos, and website.

About the Author:

Maria Gianferrari has two connections to farming: she is descended from a long line of dairy farmers in Emilia-Romagna, Italy whose cows provided milk to make the region’s famous Parmigiano Reggiano cheese; she also grew up in New Hampshire, down the street from Barrett’s Farm and across the street from a maple sugar house where cotton-candy scented clouds filled the air. She now lives with her family in Massachusetts. Her website is http://www.mariagianferrari.com

Enter Beagles & Books’ Giveaway!

  • Follow me @lauramossa on Twitter and retweet my Thank a Farmer giveaway tweet.