Book Review
The Wanting Monster
Dreamlike illustrations track this fable about the dangers of envy. The Wanting Monster whispers in the ear of a villager, prompting him to redirect the stream to make himself a pool. His neighbors grow envious and dig their own pools;...
Book Review
The Aliens Do NOT Want to Go Home
A muted palette and visible brushstrokes lend the impression of stepping into a painting in this cosmic picture book that will delight children and feel familiar to their guardians. A playdate on Earth is coming to a close—just as soon...
Book Review
Everything Grows in Jiddo's Garden
A thriving garden is likened to the indomitable spirit of Palestinian refugees in this heartfelt picture book. A girl loves to help her jiddo in his garden; he tells her about the garden his father had before their land was taken,...
Book Review
Is It Asleep?
Simple, to-the-point language brings the abstract topics of death, grieving, and carrying on into focus for children in this comforting picture book. Squirrel and his friend Pock, a mushroom, go in search of their favorite bird; they...
Book Review
The Phone Booth in Mr. Hirota's Garden
Inspired by the true story of a personal art piece that became a comfort to thousands, this heart-wrenching picture book includes an age-appropriate portrayal of grief. Makio and Mr. Hirota make a game of watching for Makio’s father...
Book Review
Bringing the Beach Home
A child uses creativity to find comfort within the changes of divorce in this gentle picture book. Rowan is tired of traveling between Mom’s house and Dad’s; nowhere feels like home anymore. A surprise beach day gets off to a rough...
Book Review
The Spider Lady
With a palette plucked from nature, this educational picture book spins the tale of an unsung hero of WWII. A naturalist from a young age, Nan Songer was always fascinated by bugs. When she learned that spider silk could be sold to...
Book Review
Like That Eleanor
With Eleanor Roosevelt as its guide, this warm picture book provides a primer on allyship. Eleanor wants to be more like her namesake, but situations often feel too big for her to change. When her teacher splits the class into girls and...