Title: A Christmas Too Big Author/Illustrator: Colleen Madden Pub. Date: November 2, 2021
Beagles and Books is thrilled to be part of the blog tour for A Christmas Too Big Special thanks to Two Lions and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review:
It’s the day after Thanksgiving and Kerry’s family cannot contain their Christmas spirit. Bring on the decorations, Christmas carols, cookie baking, binge holiday movie watching, and elves on a shelf. It’s Christmas around the clock!
Even when the family chooses a tree, they choose one the size of the Rockefeller Center tree. Overwhelmed, Kerry needs some space and heads outdoors in hopes for some simplicity. As Kerry walks down her street, she sees massive holiday decorations in her neighbors’ yards. Has everyone decided to have a Christmas too big?
Kerry’s saving grace is Mrs. Flores. After helping Mrs. Flores get her cart out of the snow, Kerry is invited into her house for un poco de cacao (cocoa). She notices that Mrs. Flores’ decorations are simple-a small Christmas tree with a picture of her family who live in Mexico. I love Kerry’s and Mrs. Flores’ interactions because their dialogue is written in English and Spanish. As Mrs. Flores teaches Kerry how to make paper flowers and they sing a song together, my heart tugged; Mrs. Flores is missing her family and Kerry is a source of comfort. When Kerry helps Mrs. Flores use her Christmas present from her family, my heart melted because the tablet allowed Mrs. Flores to communicate with her family.
A Christmas Too Big is full of humor and heart! The very detailed illustrations show how Kerry’s family goes full out for the holiday. I especially love the page spread of the entire house which shows there is not one area not adorned in Christmas decor. After spending time with Mrs. Flores, Kerry realizes that a small Christmas can still be big because the most important thing about Christmas is to be with those you love and care about. When she gets home, Kerry makes more paper flowers and adds them to her family’s decorations which propels her mom to suggest inviting over Mrs. Flores for Christmas dinner. By bringing Mrs. Flores’ small Christmas to her house, Kerry made Christmas big in heart for both her family and Mrs. Flores. At the end of the story, directions explain how to make Flores de Navidad (Christmas Flowers). Highly recommend this heartwarming holiday story!
Praise for A Christmas Too Big!
“An intergenerational friendship and a busy holiday made meaningful set this title apart.” —Kirkus Reviews
“Madden’s bilingual tale strikes both humorous and poignant notes; the visual blend of comic-style panels, playful fonts, speech bubbles in both English and Spanish, and traditional spreads offers readers plenty to celebrate.” —Publishers Weekly
About the Author/Illustrator:
Colleen Madden grew up in a crazy Christmas house and, like Kerry, she found a break by spending time with her neighbor who was from another country. She has illustrated many children’s books, including the bestselling What If Everybody? series, written by Ellen Javernick, and the picture-book adaptation of All I Want for Christmas Is You, by Mariah Carey. She recently published Monkey Walk, her debut as both author and illustrator, and is currently working on her first graphic novel. She lives in the Philadelphia area with her husband and two sons.
Bella and I are excited to share our latest reads in It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? #IMWAYR is a community of bloggers who link up to share what they are reading. Kellee Moye of Unleashing Readers and Jen Vincent of Teach Mentor Texts decided to give it a #kidlit focus and encourage everyone who participates to visit at least 3 of the other #kidlit book bloggers that link up and leave comments for them.
Our Recent Reads:
Batpig: When Pigs Fly by Ron Harrell
It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s….Batpig!
Gary was just an ordinary pig until he plays a prank on his sleepy bat friend Brooklyn and she bites his nose when she awakes. The next day, Gary feels odd and discovers he has super strength, the ability to float, and move things with his brain. Gary can now identify with his favorite comic book superhero, The Crimson Swine. Because their fish friend, Carl, cannot keep a secret, Gary and Brooklyn withhold Gary’s new powers and superhero alter ego, Batpig. As a result of being out of the loop, Carl becomes angry and unintentionally turns his pet lizard into a supervillain with a potty mouth. Thankfully, the friends collectively put the lizard back in its place, but now Carl has to stay mum about Gary which is tough for the fish. The quiet doesn’t last long because a butcher who enjoys pig puns and wants to control the world challenges Batpig. Can Gary, Brooklyn, and Carl save the town again?
Batpig is pure fun! I laughed from the first page to the last and I know kids will be do the same. Amid all the giggles, the friendship between the trio was the core of the story. My heart kind of hurt for Carl when he was excluded but I soon understood Gary’s and Brooklyn’s decision. Carl is a loudmouth but he did redeem himself in the story. I can’t wait for the adventure to continue with the second book, Too Pig To Fall which publishes in June 2022. Thanks to Penguin Random House for sharing with #bookexcursion. When Pigs Fly celebrates its book birthday tomorrow.
A Hundred Thousand Welcomes by Mary Lee Donovan Illustrated by Lian Cho
Written in verse, this beautiful picture book inspires us all to be inclusive. Donovan’s soulful, rhyming text includes 13 translations for the English word, welcome. Embedded into Cho’s soft and warm artwork is the pronunciation of the word, welcome, to support the reader. The expressive illustrations convey how the act of accepting others brings joy, for people are smiling or laughing all across the world as they welcome one another. What I love is at the end of the book there is a fold page where all the people featured in the artwork are gathered together at a very long table (that is the width of of the double page spread) sharing food, conversation, and each other’s company.
A Hundred Thousand Welcomes celebrates diversity as well as acknowledges our connectedness. Back matter includes notes from the author and illustrator, information about pronunciation, selected sources, and further reading. Thanks to SparkPoint Studio and Harper Collins Publishers for sharing a copy. A Hundred Thousand Welcomes recently published October 12, 2021.
A Sari for Ammi by Mamta Nainy Illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat
With themes of family, kindness, cooperation, and problem solving, A Sari for Ammi is a touching story that all children can relate to. What I love most is kids learn more about the culture and traditions of a rural Indian Muslim family and their lifestyle. Nainy seamlessly weaves Indian words into the text which are defined in a glossary and shares background about the history of making saris in Kaithoon, the Rajasthan town where the story takes place. The love that the sisters not only for their ammi but also for their whole family was evident in Nainy’s engaging plot and Prabhat’s bright and lively illustrations. I adored the way they collaborated to earn enough money to buy a sari. Their good deed will make readers want to pay it forward and show kindness to a loved one. Highly recommend A Sari for Ammi for home libraries, classroom libraries, school libraries, and public libraries!
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.
I Am Tucker, Detection Expert (A Dog Day’s 6) by Catherine Stier Illustrated by Francesca Rosa
A Dog’s Day is an engaging early chapter book series about working dogs. In the sixth book, a beagle named Tucker describes his job as detector dog at the airport. Narrated by Tucker, he shares his journey to becoming a member of the Beagle Brigade, for “the tale of his life has a few bumps along the way.”
When Tucker was a puppy, he was adopted by Edward. First, Edward trained Tucker to compete in dog shows, but his beagle nose made it difficult to concentrate when Tucker smelled food. Then Tucker became a therapy dog greeting air travelers to ease their stress When Edward falls ill and can no longer care for Tucker, his niece Melissa gets the idea to apply for Tucker to become a detection dog to keep his mind and body busy.
AROO! Tucker is accepted into the Beagle Brigade and Stier does an fabulous job of explaining the training and the responsibilities of detection dogs so that kids can understand. Since the story is written from Tucker’s viewpoint, he gets to share his feelings with readers. Tucker recalls even when he made mistakes, Edward still loved him. Throughout his detection training, mistakes happen which worry Tucker. Can he trust his nose stay focused and out of trouble?
As a reading specialist, I appreciate all the supports this series provides young readers transitioning into chapter books. The actual story is written in 85 pages with 10 short chapters and Rosa’s engaging black and white illustrations appear every few pages. At the end of the book, Stier includes more information about detector dogs which provides even more facts about these incredible working dogs Thanks to the author and Albert Whitman & Company for sharing a copy. For more information about A Dog’s Day series, click here.
Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!
“People love dogs. You can never go wrong adding a dog to the story.” Jim Butcher #IMWAYR is dedicated to dear Etta, my original book beagle. Blessed that Etta is part of my story.
Title: A Sari for Ammi Author: Mamta Nainy Illustrator: Sandhya Prabhat Pub. Date: November 9, 2021
Beagles and Books is thrilled to be part of the blog tour for A Sari for Ammi published by Amazon Crossing Kids which aims to increase the diversity of children’s books in translation and encourage young reading from a range of cultural perspectives. Special thanks to the publisher and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review:
Making saris is a family affair for a young girl, her sister, Sadaf, and her mother (Ammi) and father (Abba). In fact, weaving has been a family trade for generations. One day, the very observant daughter recognizes that Ammi weaves the most colorful and gorgeous saris but she never keeps any of her beautiful creations for herself. When she asks why, Ammi responds “If we keep the saris, what will we eat?” Young readers learn that making saris is the the family’s job and the way they earn money for the things they need. As Ammi looks in the mirror wearing one of her sari, Prabhat captures her feelings that perhaps once, she wishes she could keep a sari as her own.
But what if they bought a sari for Ammi? The girl shares her idea of breaking their gullak (piggybank) with Sadaf. They decide to forego buying themselves things from the bazaar and use the money for Ammi. After the money is counted, a new problem arises. They do not have enough. The sisters need to work together to get more money.
First, they sell old junk like paper, bottles, and metal to Jhammu Kaka, the scrap dealer earning more money, but not quite enough for a sari. As they walk through a wheat field, they get another idea to help Amina Khala color thread. Do they finally have enough? “Just enough!” screams Sadaf.
And the sisters don’t just buy any sari. They purchase a sari that Ammi has weaved. What tugged at my heart is the sari they chose was the sari that Ammi was wearing while looking in the mirror. Prabhat’s vivid artwork shows Ammi’s pure joy in her smile and the single tear streaming down her cheek as she tightly hugs her daughters.
With themes of family, kindness, cooperation, and problem solving, A Sari for Ammi is a touching story that all children can relate to. What I love most is kids learn more about the culture and traditions of a rural Indian Muslim family and their lifestyle. Nainy seamlessly weaves Indian words into the text which are defined in a glossary and shares background about the history of making saris in Kaithoon, the Rajasthan town where the story takes place. The love that the sisters not only for their ammi but also for their whole family was evident in Nainy’s engaging plot and Prabhat’s bright and lively illustrations. I adored the way they collaborated to earn enough money to buy a sari. Their good deed will make readers want to pay it forward and show kindness to a loved one. Highly recommend A Sari for Ammi for home libraries, classroom libraries, school libraries, and public libraries!
Praise A Sari for Ammi!
“This delightful picture book shines a spotlight on a rural, underrepresented Indian Muslim community.” —Kirkus Reviews
About the Author: Mamta Nainy is a children’s writer, editor, and translator based in New Delhi, India. She is the author of many children’s books, including A Brush with Indian Art, illustrated by Aniruddha Mukherjee, which won the Hindu Young World-Goodbooks Award in 2019; and Bioscope, illustrated by Shanti Devi, which was named to the IBBY Honor List in 2012. Follow the author on Instagram @mamtanainy.
About the Illustrator: Sandhya Prabhat is an independent animator and illustrator from Chennai, India, who resides in the United States. She has a master’s degree in animation and digital arts from New York University. She has illustrated nearly a dozen picture books, including her recent book I Am Brown, written by Ashok Banker. She animates for TV and movies and creates content for social media websites such as Facebook, Google, and Snapchat. Follow the artist on Instagram @sandhyaprabhat.
Bella and I are excited to share our latest reads in It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? #IMWAYR is a community of bloggers who link up to share what they are reading. Kellee Moye of Unleashing Readers and Jen Vincent of Teach Mentor Texts decided to give it a #kidlit focus and encourage everyone who participates to visit at least 3 of the other #kidlit book bloggers that link up and leave comments for them.
Our Recent Reads:
The Hunger Heroes: Missed Meal Mayhem by Jarrett Lerner
Comprised of Mr. Toots, a bean, Chip Ninja, Tomato Tammy, and Leonard, a nervous chunk of cheese, the Hunger Heroes are a team of food who have one mission-saving kids from a missed meal. When the quartet gets an alert from a nearby elementary school, they quickly jump in their taco hovercraft in hopes of arriving in time before a student, Jason, takes his math test. The Hunger Heroes must not only gain access to the building but also get past his teacher, Mrs. Sternbladder whose classroom is a no-snack zone. Once inside, the team realizes that time is of the essence because Jason is fading fast. Mr. Toots knows that they need to distract Mrs. Sternbladder but how? Will the Hunger Heroes be successful in achieving their objective?
I am a big fan of anything Jarrett Lerner writes and illustrates because his books not only engage and entertain readers but also educate in a non preachy way. In Missed Meal Mayhem, Mrs. Sternbladder appears cranky and then readers learn the backstory behind the teacher’s no snack policy. Prior to reading, Lerner even cautions readers that the chapter may cause them to empathize with an adult. The Hunger Heroes are so adorable and remind me of the Del Monte Country Yumkins; we saved many, many labels to get the whole family (although we did not have the pineapple and plum).
Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing a finished copy. Missed Meal Mayhem celebrates its book birthday next week on November 9, 2021. Already eagerly awaiting the Hunger Heroes’ next adventure, Snack Cabinet Sabotage, due out in August 2022!
Barb The Last Berzerker by Dan Abdo and Jason Patterson
In the land of Bailiwick, humans and monsters are at war and the Berzerkers keep the monsters in check. Spunky Barb is the youngest and smallest Berzerker and is always told to stay back because of her age and size. But when the Berzerkers are tricked by the evil Witch Head, Barb is only one able to escape and she doesn’t leave empty handed; she takes the legendary Shadow Blade, a magical sword with her. Befriending a yeti named Porkchop, Barb is on a mission to find the Northern Zerks to help her her Berzerker family.
Character development is on point. Readers will immediately determine from her words and actions that Barb is no pipsqueak; she is determined to not only help her Berzerker family but also others she meets in her quest to find the Northern Zerks. Amid the humor, there is a lot of heart, for Barb is always putting others before herself. Through her relationship with Porkchop, Barb shows that humans and monsters are not that much different and surprisingly, can be friends. This friendship forever changes her, for even when she defeats the monster Grom, she feels compelled to save him from drowning in mud. With an intriguing fast paced plot, dynamic characters, and vivid comic panels, kids will love this graphic novel adventure! Thanks to Simon and Schuster’s Children Publishing for sharing a finished copy. Barb the Last Berzerker recently released on September 28, 2021. And don’t worry. Barb will be back in Barb and the Ghost Blade in May 2022!
A Home Again by Colleen Rowan Kosinski Illustrated by Valeria Docampo
A newly built house eagerly awaits its first family to call their home. As the family grows, their level of activity and noise increases until one day they leave the house with tears in their eyes. Readers see a For Sale but the house is unaware. When people come to look at it, the distraught house makes it shingles shake and steps creak in hopes the family will return.. As times passes, the house’s despair in evident in its roof sagging and brown, weed filled garden until one day two men and their dog see past the squeaks, cracks, and weeds. Will the house be willing to be a home again?
Told from the house’s point of view, Kosinki’s lyrical text and Docampo’s use of light and dark in the illustrations beautifully conveys the house’s range of emotions. A Home Again teaches the important lesson that we can all can heal after a loss and learn to love again. Thanks to Two Lions Publishing and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing a finished copy. A Home Again celebrates its book birthday today!
Odd Beasts: Meet Nature’s Weirdest Animals by Laura Gehl Illustrated by Gareth Lucas
Toddlers and preschoolers will be captivated by this nonfiction picture book that introduces them to animals with unique characteristics. On each page spread, children learn a fact about an animal and as the concise text is read aloud, the rhyme scheme is revealed. Lucas makes use of the whole page spread for his large and appealing illustrations of each animal. Even as an adult, I learned new information like the immense weight of a sunfish and glass frogs have see through skin. And I especially love that at the end of the book, Gehl has included real photographs of all the animals and an explanation about their unusual trait.
Thanks to Abrams and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing a finished copy. Odd Beasts: Meet Nature’s Weirdest Animals celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on November 2, 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.
Awake by Mags DeRoma
A girl and her pup Oscar are all ready for a good night’s sleep but right before she turns off her light, she spies a spider and its web in her window. Now she is wide awake because she can’t go to sleep knowing a spider in her bedroom! As she ponders her options, Oscar holds the book titled Itsy Bitsy Spider in his mouth but she doesn’t give him credit when she thinks of the nursery rhyme. The girl continues to brainstorm ideas until finally her frustration overtakes her and she captures the spider under a glass. DeRoma’s illustration of the spider under the glass tugs at the heart because the arachnid looks small and harmless to not only the reader but also the girl. This revelation changes the girl’s perspective resulting in her releasing the spider and naming it Harry.
I love DeRoma’s debut picture book because it teaches kids about empathy. The plot conveys the theme and on the back endpapers, DeRoma cleverly provides kids with illustrated step by step directions for how to kindly and carefully relocate a spider. Oscar is a loyal companion never leaving his girl’s side. Thanks to Macmillan Children’s Publishing for sharing a finished copy. Awake recently released on October 19, 2021.
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.
Bella and I are excited to share our latest reads in It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? #IMWAYR is a community of bloggers who link up to share what they are reading. Kellee Moye of Unleashing Readers and Jen Vincent of Teach Mentor Texts decided to give it a #kidlit focus and encourage everyone who participates to visit at least 3 of the other #kidlit book bloggers that link up and leave comments for them.
Our Recent Reads:
The Bookshop of Dust and Dreams by Mindy Thompson
Set in Sutton, New York in 1944, 13 year old Poppy Fulbright and her family own the bookshop, Rhyme and Reason. What makes Rhyme and Reason unique is that it searches in the past and the future for customers who need light and hope and brings them to the shop. When her older brother Al’s best friend dies in World War II, Al wants to go back in time to save him. Rhyme and Reason has strict rules, one of them being shopkeepers must never use the magic for their own gain. But Al becomes obsessed with moving forward with his plan undeterred when their father, who has mysteriously fallen ill, tells them the rule was made because the magic is complicated; it has more than one side.
An observant Poppy begins to see odd things occurring at the bookshop and after some research discovers while bookshops spread light, love, and hope through stories, the Dark lies in wait searching for an open door. Poppy must be the girl who chases the light to save Rhyme and Reason and all those she loves.
Debut author Mindy Thompson time travel fantasy appealed to me immediately. I cannot deny I was first drawn to the book because of the setting (a magical bookshop is a dream!), but once I began reading, it was Poppy who made the story hard to put down. I liked her instantly because of her love for books, her kindness, and her want to make everything right. Since Al was the oldest, he would inherit Rhyme and Reason and this hurt Poppy, for she had a deep connection with the shop. When strange things started to happen, she was not only worried for her family but also her best friend, Rhyme and Reason who she sensed was suffering. Poppy learns that while the bookshop was magical, she has magic inside of her too. She just needs to believe in her own strength to find it.
Thanks to the author and publisher for sharing an eARC. The Bookshop of Dust and Dreams celebrates its book birthday tomorrow!
Waffles and Pancakes: Planetary-Yum (Book 1) by Drew Brockington
A prequel to Brockington’s CatStronauts series, this early graphic novel series focuses on a young Waffles as a kitten. In this first adventure, Waffles and his sister Pancake go to the science museum with Cat-Dad. Young readers will giggle at the exhibits which are feline themed-Dino Cats, Hairballs in 4-D, and a planetarium show with cat constellations. When they visit the Hall of Planets, Cat-Dad reminisces about the CatStronauts’ moon landing. They join a guided tour of the exhibit and are so mesmerized, they get separated from Dad-Cat. These kittens are smarty cats and seek help from the guide and are soon reunited with their worried father. On the drive to Mom-Cat’s house, Dad-Cat asks their favorite part. While the siblings say lunch, it is clear that the outing sparked an interest in the night sky as they gaze as stars. Readers will see the beginnings of Waffles’ interest in space travel.
What I love most about Planetary-Yum is the sweet relationship between the cat siblings and their divorced parents. Written in under 60 pages with engaging and expressive comic panels, primary age kids will enjoy this STEM adventure that is full of both facts and fun. Thanks to Wunderkind PR for sharing an ARC. Planetary-Yum celebrates its book birthday tomorrow.
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.
The Longest Letsgoboy by Derick Wilder Illustrated by Catia Chen
You will need to grab some tissues before you open Wilder’s debut picture book about an old dog’s last walk with his girl who he calls Little. I love that Wilder chose to have the dog narrate the story because while the story is sad, the dog’s words will make you smile. He calls the sun “fireball”, dirt “diggiedirt” and memories “waybacks.” Wilder’s inventive use of language coupled with Chen’s gorgeous artwork lets readers know the dog has enjoyed the very best life with Little and their love will continue even after he leaves the earth.
What sets The Longest Letsgoboy apart from other picture books about loss is that the story does not end with the dog’s passing. After he closes his eyes, he feels the “flutter of beautifuls” lifting him up high. Again, Wilder’s lyrical text and Chin’s brilliant illustrations warmed my heart. The dog watches over Little and her pack of “twopaws” (parents) as each seasons comes and goes until finally he catches a glimpse of an “awwpuppy” on a “letsgoboy” with Little. Little acknowledges him by looking up at the sky and smiling showing that their love is forever. And the last page spread is just breathtaking. I know the loss of a beloved pet is devastating. The Longest Letsgoboy helps the heart heal by focusing on the joy rather than the pain.
Thanks to the author and Chronicle Books for sharing a finished copy. The Longest Letsgoboy celebrates its book birthday tomorrow.
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.
Bella and I are excited to share our latest reads in It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? #IMWAYR is a community of bloggers who link up to share what they are reading. Kellee Moye of Unleashing Readers and Jen Vincent of Teach Mentor Texts decided to give it a #kidlit focus and encourage everyone who participates to visit at least 3 of the other #kidlit book bloggers that link up and leave comments for them.
Our Recent Reads:
Thanks to Jenny Lu of Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing these Halloween picture books with Beagles and Books. All published on July 20, 2021.
Vampenguin by Lucy Ann Cummins
What happens when the Dracula family visits the zoo? When the door to the penguin habitat is ajar, the youngest vampire seizes the opportunity to visit the birds. With his black and white clothing, his yellow pacifier mimicking a beak and yellow shoes matching webbed feet, the resemblance is spot on and the two swap places with the penguin climbing into the stroller. Unaware, the Dracula family travels through the zoo yet the animals are wise to the switch.
A soft color palette and charming illustration make Vampenguin spookingly sweet. What I love most is Cummins makes the story fun for both children and adults. Young children will adore the plot and the illustrations and adults and older readers will chuckle at the discrepancy between the text and the illustrations. For example, the text says “after a short wait in line…” but the illustrations shows many people in front of the Dracula family. The last illustration is simply fabulous, for it is a copy of the souvenir photo with the penguin in the stroller and the youngest vampire peeking through the window of the penguin enclosure.
How to Hide a Ghost: A Lift the Flap Book by MacKenzie Haley
Where can a ghost hide? This Halloween board book is a perfect interactive read aloud for toddlers. On each page spread, children will encounter a lively, rhyming text, sweet (not scary) illustrations, and a sturdy flap that can be lifted easily by small hands to reveal the ghost’s hiding place. Under the flap, the ghosts’ expressions are simply adorable and will put a smile onto a child’s face.
I love that the cover also includes a flap and the durability of the board book. It is actually one of the most well-made board books I have ever seen. How to Hide a Ghost is an engaging (not eerie) story that kids will want to read again and again.
Bella’s Dog Cat Pick of the Week
Wanting to spread the dog cat love, Beagles and Books has a weekly feature of highlighting a literary selection with a canine feline main character.
Warning: A cat pounced on the opportunity to take over Bella’s Pick of the Week. Rest assured that dogs WILL be back next week.
Hardly Haunted by Jessie Sima
A vacant house feels lonely and worries people won’t move in because she is haunted. A curious black cat enters the residence and takes the reader on a tour of each room as the house attempts to suppress her creaks, squeaks, and rattles but is unsuccessful. The quivering cat leaps out of the house but remains close by. Holding her breath, the house tries again, but this time, the wind is the culprit rustling leave and scratching branches against her side causing her lights to flicker and base to groan. Finally, the rush of air makes a howling sound through her roof. Instead of feeling depressed, the house feels invigorated. Perhaps being haunted is her thing! Now all she needs is to find a family who will embrace her spookiness. Don’t worry readers! A happy ending awaits for this haunted house as well as the cat.
I love how Sima’s illustrations make the house come alive. The third story windows serve as her eyes which convey her range of feelings from apprehension to contentment. The black cat also helps set the tone for the story, for its expression and disposition changes once the house accepts herself unconditionally.
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.
Title: Between the Lines Author/Illustrator: Lindsay Ward Pub. Date: October 1, 2021
Happy Book Birthday to Between the Lines written and illustrated by Lindsay Ward! Beagles and Books is excited to be part of the blog tour! 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:
A young boy recalls how the colors began fading from his neighborhood street.
A lightning storm not only takes the color away but also creates a split in the road that separates the community. As I read aloud the story to a kindergarten class, the kids were surprised with their mouths open when I turned the page and the color was gone. I asked them the questions that author/illustrator Ward poses on the page spread below. Like most 5 year olds, their responses to the first question was literal.
“The rain made the colors go away.”
“The lightning made a hole in the street and took away the colors.”
The answers to the second question showed their thinking skills.
“I think the colors will come back because they will fix the hole.”
“They look sad so if they fix the hole, they will be happy again, and then the colors will come back.”
As I continued reading, the kids immediately noticed that the boy and girl remained sad. When the boy stopped dreaming about the colors, he realized that he must take action.
From their windows, the community observes the boy’s initiative and determination and gradually joins him in repairing the crevice that divided them. When rain begins to fall, the boy’s and girl’s smiles fade but instead of going their separate ways, the community stands together. Their unity allows color to return and makes the community whole again. When I turned the page and the kids saw the color, they clapped. My heart melted seeing their excitement and hearing the sound of their happiness.
After the clapping ended, I revisited the question, “Why did the color come back?’ and the kindergarteners were bursting with their thoughts.
“The boy started fixing the street and then everyone else helped.”
“The boy was sad so he decided fixing the street would make him happy.”
One particular student was bubbling with lots of ideas while I was reading aloud. At the end of the story, she said, “They worked as a team and you know, teamwork makes the dream work! That’s why the colors came back.”
Wow! I was blown away by their thoughtful responses! Ward’s colorful and black and white illustrations are the perfect vehicle to teaching theme with our youngest learners. Kindergarteners could see easily the change in mood and feelings through the use (or absence) of color. We also discussed the importance of working together as a class family when there is a problem. Between the Lines is a picture book that promotes deep thinking at all ages.
Praise for Between the Lines!
“A vibrant neighborhood loses its color, literally, as the community becomes fractured.” —Kirkus Reviews
“The illustrations…bring the atmosphere and ideas of the story to life. The depictions of both isolation and community in a dense urban neighborhood are poignant, especially after a year when COVID-19 forced people worldwide to forgo, and then to reinvent, community togetherness.” —Booklist
About the Author/Illustrator:
Lindsay Ward is the creator of the Dexter T. Rexter series as well as Rosie: Stronger than Steel; This Book Is Gray; Brobarians; Helping Hospital; the Wheels on the Go series; Rosco vs. the Baby; and The Importance of Being 3. Her book Please Bring Balloons was also made into a play. Lindsay lives with her family in Peninsula, Ohio with her family. Learn more about her online at www.lindsaymward.com.
Bella and I are excited to share our latest reads in It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? #IMWAYR is a community of bloggers who link up to share what they are reading. Kellee Moye of Unleashing Readers and Jen Vincent of Teach Mentor Texts decided to give it a #kidlit focus and encourage everyone who participates to visit at least 3 of the other #kidlit book bloggers that link up and leave comments for them.
Our Recent Reads:
All for One (Definitely Dominguita Book 3) by Terry Catasus Jennings Illustrated by Fatima Amaya
In the third book in the series, Dominguita’s love for reading and re-enacting the classics continues with The Three Musketeers. While at Fuentes Salvages borrowing costume props, El Senor Fuentes asks Dom to take a check to Tava’s Butcher to pay for the pigs for his granddaughter Leni’s quinceanera. Always of service, Dom is happy to oblige. When Dom arrives at the shop, Mr. Tava is not there; only a boy named Vinnie. With his hyena laugh, Dom senses something is not right, but feels she has no choice than to give Vinnie the check. Dom’s suspicions were correct, for Vinnie is the oldest of the Bublassi brothers. Why would Vinnie and his brothers want to sabotage Leah’s party? Dom along with her other musketeers Pancho and Steph refuse to let them win and embark on an adventure to save Leah’s important day.
With themes of family, friendship, and fortitude, the Definitely Dominguita series has a lot of kid appeal. Written in under 130 pages with short chapters and engaging illustrations, the series is perfect for readers transitioning to chapter books. Kids not only learn some Spanish words and traditions, but also a knowledge of classic stories. Most importantly, Dom is a great role model demonstrating creativity, grit, perservance, and kindness.
Thanks to the author for sharing a finished copy with my #bookexcursion group. All for One recently published on August 17, 2021. Stay tuned for Book 4: Sherlock Dom, which releases on November 16, 2021.
Niki Nakayama: A Chef’s Tale in 13 Bites by Jamie Michalak & Debbie Michiko Florence Illustrated by Yuko Jones
Paying homage to chef Niki Naykayama’s 13 course meal, this picture book biography tells her life story in 13 bites. Growing up in Los Angeles with Japanese born parents, Niki’s enjoyed American foods with a Japanese flair. While Niki always did well in school, her parents’ focus was her brother. Niki was determined to prove she could be a success. Michalak and Florence repeatedly use the word, Kuyashii (meaning I’ll show them) to show Niki’s persistence.
After graduating high school, a visit to her cousin’s inn in the mountains of Japan introduced Niki to kaiseki, a multi course meal that tells a story.Despite her family’s misgivings, Niki enrolled in cooking school and not only excelled but also became one of the first female sushi chefs. She returned to Japan to learn more about kaiseki and once back home in Los Angeles, Niki opened her own restaurant.
Co-writers Michalak and Florence flawlessly convey the message-Never give up on your goals. I loved Niki’s spunk (Kayashii) because no matter the obstacle, she always had the tenacity to pursue her passion. Illustrator Jones’ artwork shows Niki’s determination to make her dream come true. Thanks to Brittany Pearlman of Macmillan Children’s Publishing for sharing a finished copy, NikiNakayama: A Chef’s Tale in 13 Bites recently published on September 14, 2021.
Between the Lines by Lindsay Ward
A young boy recalls how the colors began fading from his neighborhood street. A lightning storm not only takes the color away but also creates a split in the road that separates the community. As I read aloud the story to a kindergarten class, the kids were surprised with their mouths open when I turned the page and the color was gone. I asked them the questions that author/illustrator Ward poses. . Like most 5 year olds, their responses to the first question was literal.
“The rain made the colors go away.”
“The lightning made a hole in the street and took away the colors.”
The answers to the second question showed their thinking skills.
“I think the colors will come back because they will fix the hole.”
“They look sad so if they fix the hole, they will be happy again, and then the colors will come back.”
As I continued reading, the kids immediately noticed that the boy and girl remained sad. When the boy stopped dreaming about the colors, he realized that he must take action.
From their windows, the community observes the boy’s initiative and determination and gradually joins him in repairing the crevice that divided them. When rain begins to fall, the boy’s and girl’s smiles fade but instead of going their separate ways, the community stands together. Their unity allows color to return and makes the community whole again. When I turned the page and the kids saw the color, they clapped. My heart melted seeing their excitement and hearing the sound of their happiness.
After the clapping ended, I revisited the question, “Why did the color come back?’ and the kindergarteners were bursting with their thoughts.
“The boy started fixing the street and then everyone else helped.”
“The boy was sad so he decided fixing the street would make him happy.”
One particular student was bubbling with lots of ideas while I was reading aloud. At the end of the story, she said, “They worked as a team and you know, teamwork makes the dream work! That’s why the colors came back.”
Wow! I was blown away by their thoughtful responses! Ward’s colorful and black and white illustrations are the perfect vehicle to teaching theme with our youngest learners. Kindergarteners could see easily the change in mood and feelings through the use (or absence) of color. We also discussed the importance of working together as a class family when there is a problem. Between the Lines is a picture book that promotes deep thinking at all ages
tpThanks to Two Lions and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing a copy. Between the Lines published on October 1, 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.
How to Make a Book (About My Dog) by Chris Barton Illustrated by Sarah Horne
Barton’s most frequently asked questions from kids, “How do you make your books? and “Are you ever going to write a book about your dog?” inspired him to write a nonfiction picture book about his beloved rescue dog Ernie.
Barton thoroughly and humorously explains the process of writing a book from concept to publication. Before sharing each step in order, he tells readers that books take a team to be created and during his explanation, Barton makes a point to identify all the different jobs they perform. Research is very important even when writing a book about his own dog. Barton shares that he asks family members, Ernie’s foster, and even the shelter about Ernie so he had the most accurate facts about him. I love how he uses the example that while he initially thought Ernie was part dachshund and part Jack Russell, a DNA test revealed a few other breeds.
To support young writers, Barton discusses how he begins formulating his ideas into writing. He discusses the roles of his agent, editor, the art director, and illustrator. LOTS of questions are asked by them and other team members which strengthen the text, illustrations, format, and presentation. Once the book is printed and delivered to bookstores and libraries, How to Make a Book (About My Dog) meets the final member of the team-the reader!
Publishing on October 5, 2021, How to Make a Book (About My Dog) is a perfect mentor text for a nonfiction writing unit. I love that Barton speaks directly to the reader in a conversational tone and includes Ernie anecdotes throughout the book. Horne’s colorful and energetic comic illustrations perfectly complement the text. Thank you to Millbrook Press/Lerner Publishing and NetGalley for providing an eARC.
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.
Bella and I are excited to share our latest reads in It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? #IMWAYR is a community of bloggers who link up to share what they are reading. Kellee Moye of Unleashing Readers and Jen Vincent of Teach Mentor Texts decided to give it a #kidlit focus and encourage everyone who participates to visit at least 3 of the other #kidlit book bloggers that link up and leave comments for them.
Our Recent Reads:
Squirrel’s Sweater by Laura Renauld Illustrated by Jennie Poh
As Squirrel prepares for winter, she discovers a problem. Her favorite sweater no longer fits her. Unsure if the garment shrank or she grew, Squirrel asks her friends for advice. Doe, Bear, and Porcupine all attempt to help, but sadly, her sweater cannot be fixed. This realization hits Squirrel hard because her grandma knit it for her when she was young. Porcupine consoles Squirrel reminding her that Granny Gray will always live in her heart. Porcupine’s words not only provide comfort but also give Squirrel an idea of how to use the materials her friends gave her to repurpose her sweater into a heart pillow. Squirrel’s new creation is now a keepsake of her dear grandma and supportive friends.
The third book in Renault’s Woodland Friends series, Squirrel’s Sweater is a sweet story for young children. While friendship and problem solving are both themes central to the plot, the story also addresses how to handle the heartache of losing a loved one. I loved how Renauld chose to have the pillow represent Squirrel’s love for her grandma and her friends. Poh’s lively illustrations show Squirrel’s range of emotions from the beginning to end. An added bonus are directions for how to make a no-sew memory pillow. Thanks to the author for sharing a finished copy. Squirrel’s Sweater celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on September 21, 2021.
Looking for a Jumbie by Tracy Baptiste Illustrated by Amber Ren
If you are a fan of Baptiste’s middle grade Jumbies series, you’ll be excited about her picture book debut! Young Naya is not scared of jumbies in stories and wonders if they could indeed be real. After her mama puts her to bed, she climbs out of her window in search of these Caribbean fairies or trolls. Kids will love joining in the read aloud with the repeated chant “I’m (We’re) looking for a jumbie. I’m (We’re) going to find a scary one.” As Naya walks through the dark woods, she encounters a variety of creatures who each have Jumbie characteristics such as large mouths, sharp teeth, glowing skin, tangly hair full of leaves or a long snake tail. These creatures are friendly, not scary; therefore, they can’t be jumbies right?
Baptiste’s playful text begs to be read aloud and Ren’s vivid illustrations make the story come alive. As I read Baptiste’s descriptions of different types of jumbies, I couldn’t wait to turn the page to see how Ren drew the creatures. While Naya’s mama said jumbies are only in stories, Naya’s moonlit adventure may make her mama change her mind. Thanks to Sabrina Kenoun of Sparks Point Studio for sharing a finished copy. Looking for a Jumbie celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on September 21, 2021.
Before We Sleep by Giorgio Volpe Illustrated by Paolo Proetti
Little Red, a fox, is happy for the arrival of autumn, for he can blend in with the brown, burgundy, anmd copper colors. The fall colors make it more difficult for his best friend Hazel, a dormouse to find them during a game of hide and seek. But winter is quickly approaching which means Hazel will be hibernating soon. Worried about being alone, Little Red attempts to keep Hazel awake, but a yawning Hazel knows sleep is imminent. She assures her dear friend when spring comes, they will play again. Finally, Little Red asks if he can tell Hazel a story and before a word is uttered, the duo drift asleep together with Hazel’s head resting on Little Red’s bushy tail.
Translated from Italian, Before We Sleep is a lyrical lullaby. The gentle, soothing text and warm, expressive illustrations are the perfect combination for a bedtime story that both kids and adults will enjoy. What struck me the most is how both the words and artwork show the endearing friendship between the fox and the mouse. Thanks to Red Comet Press and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing a finished copy. Before We Sleep recently published on September 7, 2021.
Mister Fairy by Morgane de Cadier Illustrated by Florian Pigé
Unlike all the other fairies in the forest, Mister Fairy does not know what his true gift is. Whenever he waves his wand, animals giggle or trees turn to pink fluff. Distraught, Mister Fairy leaves the forest and flies to what he thinks is another forest, but it’s actually the city. Immediately, he notices the gray and gloom of the both the buildings and people. Wanting to help, Mister Fairy waves his wand and a splash of yellow appear on a building which brings smiles from all the onlookers. Feeling invigorated, he flies down to the subway and his wand waving invokes giggles. Back above ground, at an outdoor café, his wand turns umbrellas into cotton candy balls to the delight of the patrons. Something inside Mister Fairy makes him fly home to his forest. Upon arrival, he sees a colorless forest and sad animals and with one self-assured wand wave, the forest is full of color and laughter.
Originally published in French, Mister Fairy is an uplifting story that reminds us we all have a purpose; sometimes, it takes a journey away from home to discover our talent. Thanks to Red Comet Press and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sharing a finished copy. Mister Fairy recently published on September 7, 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.
Lost Things by Carey Sookocheff
In a park, a squirrel picks up an acorn. A dog (actually, a hound!) with a stick in its mouth is on a walk with his person and sees the squirrel. As the hound chases the squirrel, the girl loses her orange hair ribbon as well as the hold of her dog’s leash. The dog loses the stick and the squirrel loses the acorn. As the girl runs to catch her dog, a bird finds the hair ribbon and takes it back to its nest. Something lost is now found. The story continues with other lost things (a stuffed bear, a pencil, a ball) and how they are found by the people who need them most. And when the girl picks up the ball in the park, she is soon reunited with her hound as is the squirrel with its acorn.
As a reading specialist, I am always looking for books to support teaching of key reading skills. With minimal text and illustrations, Lost Things would be a great anchor text for teaching cause and effect relationships at any grade level as well as plot for the story comes full circle. I love that Sookocheff consciously chose to color all lost things orange, for it tied them all together. Thanks to Kids Can Press and Edelweiss for sharing a digital ARC. Lost Things recently published on September 7, 2021.
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.
Title: Magic Candies Author: Heena Baek Translator: Sophie Bowman Pub. Date: September 1, 2021
Beagles and Books is excited to be part of the blog tour for Magic Candies published by Amazon Crossing Kids which aims to increase the diversity of children’s books in translation and encourage young reading from a range of cultural perspectives. Special thanks to the publisher and Barbara Fisch of Blue Slip Media for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review:
A young boy named Tong Tong plays marbles alone in the park while his dog watches. Depressed, Tong Tong goes to a shop to buy new marbles. Instead he finds hard candies that look like his round toy. As soon as Tong Tong puts one in his mouth, the magic begins, for the candies give him the ability to hear things such as the sofa talking. Tong Tong not only finds the missing remote but also that his dad has a stinky habit that the sofa does not like. Once the candy dissolves, the sofa is silent. Tong Tong wonders what will happen if he eats another?
Guess who starts talking? Yup! Tong Tong’s dog, Marbles who gives him important information. This page spread is just precious because while I wouldn’t want Bella to talk all the time, I love that Marbles can verbally communicate his feelings.
When his dad comes home, Tong Tong only hears questions and commands which appear in the form of words and take up the space of an entire page. Angered by his dad’s barks, he puts a spotty candy in his mouth and then hears three words over, I love you, over and over again. Perhaps, these magic candies tell the honest truth?
Not long after Tong Tong puts a pink candy in his mouth and blows a bubble, he hears his decreased Grandma’s voice and discovers she is doing well. I love this page spread which shows his range of emotions from shocked to determined.
With the last candy, the only word uttered was bye. This page spread is gorgeous because Baek cleverly blends in the word with the falling leaves. As Tong Tong walks through the park, he sees another boy in the distance. Since the candy did not produce sound, Tong Tong realizes that maybe, he should do the talking and asks the boy “Do you want to play with me?”
Always eager to share books with students, I read aloud Magic Candies to a class of third graders yesterday. I was blown away by their observations. Here are some of their thoughts regarding the lesson.
“The boy got the magic candies to learn how others were feeling.”
“The shopkeeper knew Tong Tong needed help and sold him the candies.”
“The candies gave him the courage to make friends.”
“At the beginning, Tong Tong was lonely but the candies made him realize he was not alone.”
The last statement really resonated with me. Magic Candies is a story of hope, for with each candy, Tong Tong realizes he is not alone. His dog, father, and grandma are there with him. The photographed clay molds make the story come alive because readers see the transformation of Tong Tong from lonely to loved. What I loved the most is the back endpages which show the effect of Tong Tong’s brave actions- he and another boy are playing together in the park. Baek does a magnificent job of bringing the story full circle; at the beginning, Tong Tong was shooting marbles by himself and now he is riding with a friend. I highly recommend Magic Candies because the story will promote engaging discussion no matter what the age!
Praise for Magic Candies!
★“Show-stopping spreads by Baek, similar to art by Red Nose Studio, feature molded, emotive figures in meticulously constructed scenery with miniature furniture, photographed under dramatic lighting—an effect startlingly close to animation. It’s a fully realized world that considers discerning meaning and making friends, while offering artwork that lingers in the memory.” —Publishers Weekly (starred)
“The enhanced artwork establishes depth and perspective…depictions of facial expressions are skillful and endearing, and the interplay between text and illustrations will cause readers to linger and ponder. An enigmatic, quirky representation of an active imagination in search of understanding and companionship.” —Kirkus Reviews
“Deeply touching, funny, and incredibly odd, this is the kind of picture book that gets you excited about picture books all over again…MagicCandies is so remarkable…a book that is both about giving voice to the voiceless and finding your own.” —Betsy Bird, School Library Journal
About the Author/Illustrator: Heena Baek is an acclaimed picture book author and illustrator from South Korea. She won the 2020 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award, a huge international award honoring the body of work of children’s book creators. She studied educational technology at Ewha Womans University and animation at the California Institute of the Arts. Utilizing her diverse animation production experience, Heena creates powerful and interesting picture books, often sculpting characters and building sets. She is the author and illustrator of a number of picture books, many of which have been translated and have received awards from South Korea and internationally. Follow her on Twitter @heenastory and on Instagram: @baekheena
About the Translator: Sophie Bowman is a PhD student at the University of Toronto, studying Korean literature. She was awarded the ICF Literature Translation Fellowship at Ewha Womans University. In 2015, she won the Korea Times Modern Korean Literature Translation Award grand prize for poetry with her translations of Jin Eun-young and co-translated Kim Bo-Young’s I’m Waiting for You and Other Stories. Follow her on Twitter @SophieOrbital.
Niki Nakayama: A Chef’s Tale in 13 Bites by Jamie Michalak & Debbie Michiko Florence Illustrated by Yuko Jones
Beagles & Books 