Bella and I are howling with excitement to be part of the blog tour for To Dogs, with Love written by Maria Gianferrari and illustrated by Ishaa Lobo. This picture book honoring all the ways dogs celebrates its book birthday on December 5, 2023. Thanks to author Maria Gianferrari for sharing an e-copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Confession. I was late to the dog loving party. As a child, I didn’t have much interaction with dogs and when I did, I was scared. When I met my husband 23 years ago, his dog, Beaglie, changed my whole perspective which is now evident with my blog. As I read To Dogs, with Love, I kept thinking about Beaglie as well as Etta and Bella and how grateful I am for their unconditional love.
Beginning with the words, “Dear Dogs,” Gianferrari directly addresses our canine companions. On each page spread, she thanks dogs by identifying one of their features and how it brings us joy. Lobo’s warm, expressive artwork perfectly complements Gianferrari’s concise, melodic text. I especially love this illustration which brings together kids, dogs, and books, all things I love.
As other physical characteristics such as fur, paws, and tongues are thanked, Gianferrari weaves in different jobs that dogs perform to support humans but especially kids. Dogs provide comfort to kids testifying in court, experiencing grief, and battling illness. Pups also provide purpose to adults in prison who train them to be therapy dogs. As always, Gianferrari consciously chooses vivid verbs such as nuzzling exposing kids to rich vocabulary.
Gianferrari’s heartwarming tribute continues by recognizing dogs’ daily behaviors such as playing, sitting and staying. And the best of all, snuggling in bed. Readers can see the sheer love between the dog and boy in Lobo’s gorgeous artwork.
At the end of the book, back matter shares more information on therapy dogs including websites. As advocate of animal rescue, Gianferrari reminds readers to adopt, not shop which is also conveyed in Lobo’s final illustrations where many have gathered for a dog shelter fundraiser. In fact, the Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry is an organization that inspired this book.
Grateful to Gianferrari and Lobo for creating the love letter all our dogs deserve. And thanks to Beaglie, Etta, and Bella for your warmth and love.
About the Author:
For Maria Gianferrari, dog love is the most pawsitive medicine of all! To Dogs, with Love is Maria’s seventh book featuring beloved canine characters, following Being a Dog: A Tail of Mindfulness, Operation Rescue Dog, Hello Goodbye Dog, Officer Katz and Houndini, and the Penny & Jelly series.
About the Illustrator:
Ishaa Lobo is a children’s Book Illustrator living in London. She is the illustrator of The Mystery of the Love List by Sarah Glenn Marsh; To Dogs, with Love by Maria Gianferrari; and There’s Always Room for One More by Robyn McGrath. Her next book, Bigfoot’s Big Heart, written by Sarah Glenn Marsh, will be released next year. In her spare time she likes to visit galleries, go to the cinema, and go on walks. See her work at ishaalobo.com.
Enter Beagles & Books’ Giveaway!
Follow me @lauramossa on Twitter and retweet my To Dogs with Love giveaway tweet.
Bella and I are excited to share our latest reads in It’s Monday! What Are You Reading? #IMWAYR is a community of bloggers who link up to share what they are reading. Kellee Moye of Unleashing Readers and Jen Vincent of Teach Mentor Texts decided to give it a #kidlit focus and encourage everyone who participates to visit at least 3 of the other #kidlit book bloggers that link up and leave comments for them.
Thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing copies of the following in exchange for honest reviews. All opinions are my own.
Elves Are the Worst by Alex Willan
When one thinks of Christmas, elves own the holiday. Well, Gilbert is on a campaign to change people’s minds announcing that goblins are just as hardworking as elves. After citing all the tasks he can perform, Gilbert exposes that elves aren’t that conscientious. While kids will easily get the reference to sitting on a shelf, adult readers will love his nostalgic nods of elves baking cookies in a tree and pouring cereal into a bowl. Perhaps Gilbert needs to prove himself with a trip to the North Pole. Will he able to show off his skill set or learn a valuable lesson?
Like all the books in the Worst series, Elves Are the Worst is full of humor and heart. And while Gilbert makes some good points in the beginning, his visit to the North Pole opens his eyes and mind. Amid the laughter, kids learn the value of teamwork, an essential life skill.
I’m Going to Build a Snowman by Jashar Awan
When a boy wakes up to snow, he can’t contain his excitement to build the best snowman ever! The warmly dressed boy ventures outside clearly outlining his snowman making steps. Once complete, the snowman comes to life singing, dancing, and flying. Or does it? Kids discover the boy was visualizing this perfect snowman and while he follows the same steps in real life, his creation does not match his expectations. How can the boy make his snowman the best ever?
While there are many picture books about making a snowman, I love how author-illustrator Awan chose to tell his story. First, the boy narrates speaking directly to readers with a concise text filled with sensory language. The full page landscape illustrations are full of action and emotion. Having the boy grapple with his vision and his reality promotes a rich discussion with kids, and a life lesson that perfection is in the eye of the beholder.
The Snow Man by Jonah Winter Illustrated by Jeanette Winter
This picture book biography reminds of the importance of observation. With its lyrical text and warm illustrations, the Winter mother-son team beautifully tell the story of a young man who moved to an abandoned shack in the Rocky Mountains. To pass the time, he decides to measure the falling snow, the snowpack, and first snowfall each winter logging his data on paper. He also recorded dates in the spring such as the first wildflower blossom, when animals ended hibernation, and when hummingbirds returned.
Over the years, all of his filled notebooks reveal some surprising conclusions about climate change and its effects on living things. His data proved vital to scientists all over the world. In the author’s note, The Snow Man is revealed to be billy barr (no caps). Readers learn more about the man who never pursued fame; however, his informal work offered incredible insight to the world.
Red & Green by Lois Ehlert
Kids and adults will immediately be drawn to this fun twist on the classic ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. Ehlert’s signature graphic style engages young children as the rhyming text tells the story. The tall rectangular picture book also lends itself to little hands for holding. As each page is turned, kids’ senses are awakened due to Ehlert’s bold colors and tactile die-cuts. What I love is Ehlert’s art is full of basic shapes making her it easy for children to replicate.
Bella’s Dog Pick of the Week
Wanting to spread the dog love, Beagles and Books has a weekly feature of highlighting a literary selection with a canine character.
Bundle Up, Little Pup by Deri Elys Illustrated by Elena Comte
As winter approaches, this rhyming board book is perfect to read to young children. The kids are not the only ones excited to play in the snow; their pups also can’t wait. Both Elys’ bouncy text and Comte’s warm illustrations show the importance of proper clothing for both children and pets. The last page spread is my favorite seeing all the children and the dogs enjoying the winter wonderland and if one looks closely, other animals can be spotted above and underground.
Bella and I thank you for visiting Beagles and Books!
“People love dogs. You can never go wrong adding a dog to the story.” –Jim Butcher #IMWAYR is dedicated to dear Etta, my original book beagle. Blessed that Etta is part of my story.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Beagles and Books is excited to be part of the blog tour for The ChimpanSNEEZE publishing on November 14, 2023 by Two Lions. 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:
Buttercups are beautiful, but to a chimpanzee, the flowers caused her to sneeze so hard that her friend, a kinkajou, flew into the sky. Zenz’s bright illustrations show how quickly the scene changed from calm to chaotic. Kids will be able to identify kinkajou’s range of emotions through his facial expressions. Zenz introduces his first play on words-CHIMPANSNEEZE.
Having no control over his destination, the kinkajou tries to alert an elephant painting a gate. Unfortunately, his warning is not in time. Kids see the effects of the sneeze in this dynamic illustration and we read Zenz’s next play on words-ELEFENCE.
Of course, the story can’t end there. A bread carrying buffalo trips on the elephant’s trunk, a hippo with mustard in hand rolls on the many BUFFALOAF on the ground causing him to become a HIPPOPOTAMUSTARD, a pink poodle slips on the mustard dropping her hair product resulting in SHAMPOODLE suds. On every page spread, the kinkajou is spotted in the illustration calling CHIMPY? Where is the Chimpanzee or should I say Chimpansneeze?
Don’t worry! The kinkajou does not have to wait long to find his friend. It seems bubbles have the same effect on the kinkajou as buttercups do on the chimpanzee. With one enormous sneeze, the friends are reunited thanks to a KINKACHOO!
With a bouncy, rhyming text, an action packed plot, and word play, The ChimpanSNEEZE is a hilarious read aloud. On the last page spread, the illustration of the elephant, buffalo, hippo, and poodle all dirty and disheveled and glaring at the duo will make kids laugh out loud. Adults will understand and appreciate the humor when they read the final text. Readers of all ages will giggle at the Cast Bios of each character. As a reading specialist, I love that after reading aloud, The ChimpanSNEEZE can be used to teach or reinforce skills such as plot as in a circle story and cause and effect.
About the Author-Illustrator:
Aaron Zenz used up forty-nine colored pencils and broke eighty-one pencil tips during the making of The Chimpansneeze. He is the author and illustrator of more than forty-five children’s books. He wrote and illustrated the Amazon bestseller The Hiccupotamus, as well as Chuckling Ducklings, Monsters Go Night-Night, and Little Iffy Learns to Fly. He has also illustrated books written by other authors, including The Spaghetti-Slurping Sewer Serpent by Laura Ripes and Orangutangled by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen. He lives with his large family in a small town in West Michigan. Learn more about him at http://www.aaronzenz.com, and follow him on Instagram @AaronZenz.
Two-Book Giveaway!
One lucky winner will receive a copy of The Chimpansneeze along with its companion The Hiccupotamus, courtesy of Two Lions (U.S. and Canada addresses). Follow and repost my post on Twitter (X).
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.
Hidden Truths by Elly Swartz
Best friends since the second grade, Dani and Eric share memories of attending Red Sox games, going camping, and eating donuts. Dani is ecstatic to finally have been chosen to be a part of the Mapleville boy’s baseball team and comic book aficionado Eric is happy for her. On the last weekend before sixth grade, they go on their annual camping trip to Cape Cod, but an accident threatens not only Dani’s baseball playing but also their friendship.
Swartz is my go-to author for middle grade fiction. Her characters are authentic showing both their strengths and flaws. I love that Swartz chose to write Hidden Truths from both Dani’s and Eric’s points of view allowing readers to truly understand each of their perspectives. As I read each chapter, my heart hurt for both of them and I was hopeful that they could find a way to forgive and move forward. One of my favorite characters was Waylan, Dani’s physical therapist, who said it best. When life throws a curveball, you can choose pain or pivot. Good advice for us all!
Hidden Truths also reminds us that while childhood friendships are special, they are also tough to maintain as each individual gradually learns more about who they are. Not to give the story away; I love how Swartz weaved advocacy into the plot to show kids they can make a difference. Thanks to Wunderkind for sharing an ARC. Hidden Truths celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on October 31, 2023.
Geeger the Robot: Field Trip by Jarrett Lerner
In the sixth and final book in the series, Geeger gets to go on his first field trip to the Amblerville History Museum with his classmates. A bumpy bus ride makes it hard to have a conversation and to Geeger, it sounds like all the riders are hiccupping while talking. When Geeger pretends to hiccup even Mrs. Bork, the teacher, can’t stop from laughing. As Geeger tours the exhibits, he is fascinated especially when he discovers a compost pile which does a similar job to Geeger. When he stays too long at the display, Geeger finds himself alone. Fortunately, a museum employee saves the day by not only reuniting Geeger with his classmates but also showing him the best exhibit ever. Read to find out why!
As a teacher, I highly recommend Quix for young students just transitioning to chapter books or older kids who need additional supports. Like all the books in the series, Field Trip is written in a large font with short chapters. The whole story is 80 pages with appealing black and white illustrations to support comprehension. Other accessible features include a list of characters with their role as well as the use of bold font for characters’ names when first introduced in the text. Vocabulary words are also in bold and defined with pronunciation in a glossary. While it is preferable to read the books in order, Lerner includes a summary in the first chapter to support readers new to the series. Thanks to Simon and Schuster for sharing a copy. Field Day published on September 5, 2023.
Brave Little Bear by Steve Small
Arlo is nervous about leaving the den. His mother reassures him calling him “my little brave bear.” Wishing it were true, Arlo follows his mother watching his sister Eva do everything first.
When the family climbs a snowy mountain, winds make it difficult to walk and see. Suddenly, Arlo realizes Eva is missing. When he hears a sound in the distance, Arlo realizes that he must go back and find Eva.
From the moment I saw Arlo with his blue tipped nose, I was smitten. I love how Small drew him for readers see his vulnerability in his expressions and movement. While Arlo didn’t think he was brave, Small shows his strong instinct for recognizing Eva wasn’t nearby.
Thanks to Simon and Schuster for sharing a copy. Brave Little Bear published on October 24, 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.
Remembering by Xelena González Illustrated by Adrianna M. Garcia
Losing a pet is one of the most difficult events in a person’s life. Remembering teaches a ritual celebration of Dia de Muertos where a young boy creates an ofrenda or altar by gathering things to honor the memory of his beloved dog Simon. While the boy is collecting mementos, he is reminiscing about his dog. I love how González chose to have the boy narrate the text which gives him the opportunity to speak directly to young readers. Garcia’s illustrations are full of happiness and sorrow as her artwork shows the past and the present. The picture frames especially tugged at my heart because the photographs spill out of the frame revealing that while Simon is longer in the house, his spirit will always be there. The final page spread with the completed ofrenda shows the immense love the family has for Simon. Any pet owner will agree.
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 “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.
Beagles and Books is excited to be part of the blog tour for Willow and Bunnypublished by Two Lions. 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:
After Bunny hears a voice telling him to find a safe place to grow, he hops quite a distance until he sees Willow, a tree full of height and strength. Willow welcomes Bunny opening her branches to a grassy area which he now calls home. Schulte’s gentle text and Denise’s soft illustrations evoke a sense of warmth as Bunny and Willow become friends spending each day together.
But the calm fades when a storm rolls in. Loud thunder and strong winds startle Bunny who seeks refuge under Willow.
Sensing a greater need, Willow lifts her leaves higher inviting other forest animals to join Bunny. When the animals shares their fears, Bunny reassures them that Willow will protect them. And when the winds grow fierce and the storm surges Willow does just that. After the storm passed, Bunny is still afraid, but Willow’s tender branch embrace provide him comfort.
On the next morning, it is clear that Willow sacrificed herself for the safety of the animals and endured extensive damage. To repay her for her selflessness, the animals tend to Willow clearing underneath her and spreading her cuttings all over the area. As new trees gradually grow, Bunny remains loyal right by Willow’s side.
Willow and Bunny is a story that will both melt and tug at your heart. Schulte’s text is melodic and soulful as she tells a tale of true friendship. As a reading specialist, I appreciate how she carefully chose words to help children visualize and expand their vocabulary. Denise’s digital artwork immerses the reader in the forest making one feel part of the story. At times, the reader is up close right under Willow. Other times, the reader is watching from afar seeing the wind move Willow’s branches.
I love how Schulte’s repeats the following lines at the beginning and end of the story reminding us all of the gift of having one special with whom to share your life.
“Every day was theirs to share.
Just Bunny and Willow,
Willow and Bunny.”
Praise for Willow and Bunny!
“This tale provides a vehicle for conversations both about weather catastrophes and, more generally, about strong bonds that endure through change.” —Publishers Weekly
“The cozy, kindhearted story is beautifully told, mixing moments of sweet simplicity and light peril with a gentle hand. . . . A gratifying glimpse of generous friendship.” —Booklist
About the Author:
Anitra Rowe Schulte is the author of Dancing with Daddy, which won the Christopher Award and the Dolly Gray Children’s Literature Award. She has worked as a journalist for The Kansas City Star and the Sun-Times News Group, as a staff writer for Chicago Public Schools, and as a publicist. She lives in the Chicago area with her husband and their three daughters. Visit her at http://www.anitraroweschulte.com or @anitraschulte on Twitter.
About the Illustrator:
Christopher Denise wrote and illustrated Knight Owl, a 2023 Caldecott Honor winner and New York Times bestseller. He is also the illustrator of many critically acclaimed children’s books, including Anika Aldamuy Denise’s Bunny in the Middle, Alison McGhee’s Firefly Hollow, and Anne Marie Pace’s Groundhug Day, as well as several in Brian Jacques’s award-winning Redwall series. Christopher lives with his family in Rhode Island. Visit him at http://www.christopherdenise.com and @christopherdenise on Instagram.
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.
365: How to Count a Year by Miranda Paul Illustrated by Julien Chung
What is a year? It’s 365 spins around the sun, 365 good mornings and good nights, and 365 clean pairs of underwear. But wait, what about leap year? Well, every 4th year, you get an extra day and a 366th ice cream flavor to try. But what if 365 days is too big a number? No problem. 52 weeks of movie nights, Saturday sleep-ins, and Sunday baths. Can we make the number smaller? Of course. 12 months of bulletin boards and monthly magazines. Whether it’s 365 days, 52 weeks or 12 months, it all adds up to a year unless you want to get really precise counting the hours (8760), minutes (525,600) or seconds (31,536,000).
I love that Paul gives options for counting a year. Chung’s bold and lively illustrations featuring a kid and a lion provide humor as kids learn the many ways to break down a year. What I love most is at the end of the story, Paul asks kids “How will you count your year?” Back matter includes a detailed explanation of the calendar as well as illustrations depicting how much time we spend on activities such as eating, sleeping, and spending time in the bathroom. Thank you to Simon and Schuster for sharing a copy. 365 celebrates its book birthday tomorrow on September 26, 2023.
AlphaBot by Vicky Fang
The possibilities are endless with this inventive flip-flap book with over 700 mix-and-match robots for kids to make. While assembling one of a kind robots, kids are learning vocabulary from A to Z building their content knowledge about robotics. Fang supports understanding of STEM concepts by not only providing a clean illustration but also a kid friendly definition. I love that Fang made the conscious decision to have the definitions on the back of the previous flap so kids can view the meaning side by side with the illustrations. Even as an adult, I learned terms such as hydrojets, quadcopter, and yaw. Kids will love creating robots with Alphabot! Thank you to the author for sharing a copy with my #bookexcursion group. AlphaBot recently published on September 12, 2023.
The Time Machine: Because It’s Never Too Late to Apologize by Pauline David-Sax Illustrated by Melquiea Smith
Last week, Bailey said something to her friend Nia that she wishes she could take back. She tried to apologize but Bailey got nervous. If only she could go back to the day to prevent her from saying it. After reading a few books, Bailey decides to make a time machine; however, building it is harder than she thought. With her mom busy and brother unsupportive, who will help Bailey? Bailey learns that sometimes it is the person you hurt that comes through for you.
I love how Bailey realizes on her own that she is in the wrong and wants to make amends. Her idea of creating a time machine is resourceful. As a district that implements the Conscious Discipline, a SEL curriculum, The Time Machine is a perfect read aloud to support problem solving and conflict resolution. At the end of the book, the author shares kid friendly apologizing do’s and don’ts. Thanks to Cardinal Rule Press for sharing an ARC with my #bookexcursion group. The Time Machine celebrates its book birthday next week on October 2, 2023.
80’s Baby by Hannah Eliot Illustrated by Alyssa Nassner
This board book will take adults back to days of roller skates, leg warmers, and boom boxes. And let’s not forget the walkman, Rubik’s Cube, and Etch a Sketch which I was all blessed to own. Microwaves were also a new concept which made making popcorn simple and easy. Of course, kids today won’t understand VHS tapes but I remember the excitement of going to the store to rent movies to watch at home.
Eliot’s peppy, concise text and Nassner’s bold and expressive artwork make 80’s Baby a fun board book for both adult and kids. I loved the opportunity to not only reminisce about my childhood but also share my experiences with a younger generation. Can’t wait to share this book with my niece and her daughter! Thanks to Simon and Schuster Publishing for sharing a copy. 80’s Baby recently published on September 19, 2023.
The Story of Gumluck the Wizard (Book 1) by Adam Rex
Gumluck is a gullible young wizard who desperately wants to be crowned Harvest Hero. As a result, Gumluck uses his magic to grant wishes to demanding townspeople hoping they will choose him. Unknownst to Gumluck, the villagers did not hold him in high regard saying he is a joke and a clown. A snarky raven named Helvetica narrates revealing that for the last 25 years, the prince has been crowned Harvest Hero. Guess who counts the votes? The king.
I love how Helvetica speaks directly to readers. At first, she is greatly annoyed by Gumluck and makes her feelings known. Well, Gumluck did unknowingly ruined her nest more than once. But through Gumluck’s word and actions, Helvetica learns lessons about friendship, kindness, and self-acceptance. Gumluck may be naive, but only a wise wizard would say “A person should get to tell you who they are. And if they are living that life…then they need a family of friends who hear them tell it and say, Yes, that’s you, all right. We believe you.”
Gumluck the Wizard is not only entertaining, but also accessible written in 133 pages with short chapters and black and white illustrations to support comprehension, Looking forward to the next adventure in the series. Thanks to Chronicle Kids for sharing a copy with our #bookexcursion group. The Story of Gumluck the Wizard released August 15, 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.
Ways to Play by Lynn Miller-Lachman Illustrated by Gabriel Alborozo
In contrast to his bossy older cousin Emma and her sister Violet’s noisy and scattered play, Riley enjoys organized and quiet play with his toys. Riley is tired of Emma’s criticism but doesn’t know how to convince her there are many ways to play. That all changes when he sees his dog Charlie. Going outside, Riley throws Charlie’s ball and after the dog catches it, Charlie first bring it back. The second time though Charlie runs around the yard with the ball in his mouth. Dogs are truly the best teachers.
I love how once Riley sees Charlie, his whole demeanor changes. Alborozo’s warm full page spread of Charlie looking at Riley accompanied by Miller-Lachman’s gentle text “I wink at him because it’s easier to look into dog’s eyes than people and I know he will help me show them how we play.” And did Riley and Charlie show Emma and Violet sharing the message that there is not just one way to play. In the author’s note, Miller-Lachman, who didn’t learned she was autistic until adulthood, shares the inspiration for the story from her own childhood. Thanks to Levine Querido for sharing a copy. Ways to Play released on August 8, 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.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing for sharing spooky stories with Beagles & Books.
Misfit Mansion by Kay Davault
Most of the horrors that live in former paranormal hunter Mr. Halloway’s house feel safe and welcomed but Iris has never felt at home.When the house’s sealing spell is broken by Mathias, the nephew of Halloway’s former paranormal partner, Iris seizes the opportunity to venture into town to find what she is missing. On television, the mayor always says in Dead End Springs, everyone is family.
At first, Iris and other horrors blend in at the Harvest Festival where costumes are the norm.But when Mathias exposes her as a dangerous horror, she fears the worst. Luckily, she is rescued by fellow horrors Kel and Agnes and townsperson Jane. Gradually, the plot unfolds revealing the long standing rift between Mathias’ aunt and Halloway and why Iris has reason to feel slighted.
Once I read the very first comic panels of Misfit Mansion, I was hooked.I sensed Iris’ longing which comes full circle when she realizes her family was always there. Davault’s illustrations are full of energy matching her peppy dialogue. I love that the themes of friendship and forgiveness are highlighted for always an important lesson to not hold grudges and move forward. Hoping for another Misfit Mansion adventure to check in on the family.
Misfit Mansion published on July 25, 2023.
Happy Halloweenie by Kate Vernon
This rhyming board book features a hot dog who can’t decide what to dress up as on Halloween. Kids will relate to the tough decision Weenie has to make.Choosing the right costume is a difficult task. Vernon’s playful text and expressive illustrations will draw in young children and the size of the board book makes it easier for toddlers to hold on their own.
Happy Halloweenie published on July 16, 2023.
Every Night at Midnight by Peter Cheong
A boy named Felix has a unique gift, for at midnight, he becomes a wolf.Felixwishes this metamorphosis didn’t occur every night because he can never join his classmates at sleepovers. When a new girl arrives at school, Felix is a bit jealous; unlike him, she seems to fit in immediately. Felix tries to shrug it off, but it’s difficult especially since the new girl also took over the title of fastest runner.
One night when Felix howls, he hears a howl in return.To his surprise, he meets another wolf and for once, Felix is not lonely.Observant readers will see a resemblance between the new girl and the wolf.At the end of the story, Felix discovers that he has something in common with not only the girl but also his classmates. This imaginative narrative with whimsical artwork is a perfect bedtime story reminding readers there is a pack for everyone.
Every Day at Midnight published on August 8, 2023.
Beagles and Books is thrilled to wish a Happy Book Birthday to Scroll! Special thanks to author/illustrator Hui Li for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Review:
Lulu and her dog, Dumpling look on with delight as Grandpa paints pictures on a scroll. He explains that the pictures are ancient Chinese characters inviting Lulu to try drawing herself. In her words and actions, Lulu’s excitement is palpable so when Grandpa falls asleep in his chair, Lulu continues to paint symbols and accidentally knocks over a rolled scroll onto the floor. With Dumpling at her side, Lulu draws the character for door on the now unrolled paper.
Magically, the door opens with Lulu and Dumpling disappearing into the scroll. Lulu spies the bird that Grandpa first drew and follows it. On the next page spread, Lulu and Dumpling see a village drawn with Chinese symbols. I love how Li includes red squares at the top of the page of each of the Chinese characters included in the illustrations. (This is actually done throughout the story.) Kids will be mesmerized wanting to locate them all in the artwork!
Lulu and Dumpling blissfully stroll through the village, but a fire-breathing dragon disturbs their peace. At first, the pair hides, but Dumpling tugs on the paint brush that Lulu is carrying like an arrow. Can Lulu draw Chinese characters to not only save her and Dumpling but also return home?
What a debut for author/illustrator Li! The moment I saw the cover of Scroll, I was captivated especially with the adorable hound on the cover. Opening the book, the front end pages full of Chinese painted symbols give readers a preview. Before the story, Li shares a brief history of Chinese characters providing background knowledge. Li’s narrative begins quiet with Lulu and Dumpling spending time with Grandpa, but then not long after, an intriguing adventure ensues when Lulu and Dumpling vanish into the scroll. Li’s detailed artwork is full of action and expression. I love how she uses a variety of layouts from half page spreads and full page spreads to panels of up to four illustrations on one page.
An author’s note provides the story behind Scroll. I especially love this quote from Li-
“I’ve always wanted to share this experience with readers young and old. Imagine if every character you draw has its own story…”
I have no doubt that Scroll will inspire kids to become authors/illustrators drawing their own Chinese characters and writing their own adventure.
Meet author/illustrator Hui Li:
About theAuthor/Illustrator:
Hui Lui is a lifelong student of Chinese calligraphy. As a child, she practiced on old newspapers and learned several styles of traditional script. By the age of eleven, she had earned the rank of Kudan or 9-dan (the highest calligraphy rank). This visually expansive and personal story is her first book for young readers. She lives in New Jersey with her family.
Beagles & Books 