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...
Book Review
The Paper Bridge
The village of Paperlee is made entirely of paper, including the people; when the seasonal winds blow, they tie down their houses and carry stones in their pockets. When the winds begin to blow sporadically, Anya suspects the people of...
Book Review
Hannah and the Wrong Note
A perfectionist pianist learns to let loose in this melodic picture book. Hannah dreams of being a professional musician, selecting Swan Lake as her piece for a school concert, but she can’t shake a stubborn wrong note. When the wrong...
Book Review
A Surprise in the Wood
Enchanting watercolor illustrations enhance this emotional story about the boundless depth of a parent’s love. Mama and Papa Bear have long awaited the arrival of their cub. When a fish in a bowl is sent down from the stars, they...