Go, Sled! Go! by James Yang

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“Go, Sled! Go!” by James Yang is a delightful and energetic picture book that brings the thrill of winter adventures. This book has an engaging storyline and dynamic illustrations that will appeal to our younger readers.

Yang’s minimalist yet expressive art style captures the exhilaration of sledding down snowy slopes, drawing children into the heart of the action. 

The rhythmic text and onomatopoeic language add to the book’s interactive nature, making it an ideal read-aloud choice. Through the protagonist’s determined spirit, the book subtly conveys messages of perseverance and the joy of outdoor play. “Go, Sled! Go!” is a perfect addition to our library collection, offering an entertaining and visually appealing reading experience that will resonate with our young readers.

A Bucket of Questions Almost Answered by Tim Fite

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“A Bucket of Questions” by Tim Fite is a delightful and imaginative picture book that captures the essence of curiosity for young readers. Fite’s engaging storytelling takes children on a captivating journey of exploration, sparked by a bucket brimming with thought-provoking questions. The relatable characters and whimsical illustrations create an inviting atmosphere that encourages active participation and critical thinking.

This book serves as a wonderful tool to foster classroom discussions and inspire young minds to embrace their curiosity. “A Bucket of Questions” not only entertains but also nurtures the natural desire to learn and discover, making it a perfect resource to spark curiosity and creativity in our young readers.

The Van Buren Sisters VS. The Pants Police by J.F. Fox

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“The Van Buren Sisters VS. The Pants Police” by J.F. Fox and illustrated by Anna Kwan is a spirited and empowering picture book that tackles the notion of gender norms with humor and heart. Set in a world where “Pants Police” enforce strict clothing rules for women, the Van Buren sisters challenge convention by wearing pants and setting off on a mission of change. 
Fox’s engaging narrative is accompanied by Kwan’s vibrant illustrations, capturing the sisters’ determination and camaraderie. This book gently dismantles stereotypes and encourages individuality while celebrating the bond between siblings. With a playful tone and a powerful message, “The Van Buren Sisters VS. The Pants Police” is a delightful read that champions self-expression and challenges societal expectations. This book is also part of the Head-to-Head History series, this inspiring story by J. F. Fox showcases one of the many battles in the history of the women’s movement.

The Only Astronaut by Mahak Jain

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“The Only Astronaut” by Mahak Jain, brought to life through the captivating illustrations of Andrea Stegmaier, is a stellar picture book that ignites young minds with its poignant tale of ambition and courage. The story follows a determined young girl who dreams of becoming an astronaut. She quickly discovers that space is a lot of work and sets out to find an assistant. 

Jain’s lyrical prose weaves a narrative of resilience, emphasizing the importance of chasing one’s aspirations. Stegmaier’s art brilliantly balances earthly scenes with dreamlike cosmic visions, sparking a sense of wonder. Together, words and images convey the transformative power of following one’s heart, while making room for both creativity and another person’s perspective. “The Only Astronaut” is a great reminder that dreams are boundless, and determination knows no bounds.

Can You Hug a Forest? by Frances Gilbert

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“Can You Hug a Forest?” by Frances Gilbert is a beautifully illustrated picture book that invites young readers on a captivating journey into the natural world. Through vivid prose and enchanting artwork by Lorna Murphy, the book awakens curiosity about the wonders of nature. The story follows a child’s exploration, pondering if it’s possible to hug elements of the environment, from a tree to a stream, a mountain, and more. 

Gilbert’s gentle narrative and Hevron’s expressive illustrations harmonize to evoke a sense of wonder and appreciation for the earth’s treasures. With its rhythmic language and imaginative approach, this book not only entertains but also encourages children to connect with nature and understand the importance of caring for our planet.

Wonder Dogs! by Linda Ashman

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“Wonder Dogs!” by Linda Ashman is a heartwarming and vibrant picture book that celebrates the unique qualities that make every dog special. Through rhythmic and engaging verse, Ashman introduces readers to a delightful array of dogs, each with its own remarkable talent or trait. The colorful and expressive illustrations by Karen Obuhanych bring these furry characters to life, capturing their personalities and actions with great charm. 

As the story unfolds, young readers are treated to a delightful showcase of canine abilities, from fetching to leaping, cuddling to guarding. Beyond the captivating visuals, “Wonder Dogs!” subtly imparts a message of acceptance and appreciation for individual differences. This book would be a wonderful read-aloud that will leave our dog loving kids smiling.

Linus by Stuart Hausmann

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“Linus” by Stuart Hausmann is a whimsical picture book that takes young readers on a captivating journey of curiosity and friendship. With enchanting illustrations that burst with color and detail, the story follows Linus, a spirited young explorer, as he discovers the magic of the world around him. 

Hausmann’s prose and the charming artwork work in harmony to convey the joy of exploration and the value of forming connections. In just a few pages, “Linus” beautifully encapsulates the wonder of childhood and the importance of embracing new experiences. This picture book is a delightful celebration of curiosity and the bonds that unite us.

My Town= Mi Pueblo

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written by Nicholas Solis; Illustrated by Luisa Uribe

Two cousins live on either side of the Mexico-U.S border and share what they love about their homes as well as their enjoyment of their cousin’s town. Each two page spread shares a unique aspect of their towns in both English and Spanish. They share about their houses, schools, markets, holidays and time together in both towns. This sweet story ends with the cousins and their families crossing the border, a bridge over a river, with guards on both sides and both kids expressing the wish that visits could be easier. They stand overlooking the river and share that both towns feel like home.

This story is great on many levels. The lovely illustrations, which offer details of life on both sides of the border, are perfect for some compare and contrast discussions. The English and Spanish is simple enough for language learners and read alouds. And, students will notice the joy that these two cousins experience no matter what town they are in together.

Guardians of Horse: Legend of the Yearling

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by Roan Black

Four young horses from a divided kingdom come together to fulfill the prophesy of Horsa. Their quest is to locate the magical yearling that will bring peace to their warring realms once again. They are chosen by a magical pink sun and their hooves are marked by that magic. This story, the first in a series, shares their selection to the group and their first attempt at locating the magical yearling with all its dangers along the way. Guided by a special map, they begin this quest underground, fighting off rock monsters and coming to a rather uneasy alliance.

Vivid illustrations and manageable text will gain young fans of graphic novels, fantasy and horses. Each horse’s personality comes through clearly and their interactions are, at times, humorous. The story is nicely paced and young readers will certainly look forward to the next installment in the series. Highly recommended.

Bolivia

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By Alicia Z. Klepeis

This book is an introduction to a South American country that is unbiased and current. Readers will enjoy the colorful images as well as the opportunities to try a traditional recipe of Cocadas and make creative spinning tops. There is fun and fascinating information about a variety of animals such as: the Andean Condor, Capybaras and Giant Otters. This book also shows citizens in traditional as well as daily dress doing a variety things throughout the day. This is an informative book that could not only assist a student in a project but could also just be a fun read. It is recommended for elementary libraries that are interested in purchasing/updating country reference books that covers just the basics.

The Blastoff! Discovery – Countries of the World series contains many informational chapters including but not limited to: What sites to see and activities to do in the Madidi National Park, landscape and climate, wildlife, people/communities, various cultural aspects, a timeline, and facts about the country. These books also include a glossary with terms that are in bold throughout the book as well as an index and a section with links and books to learn more about the country. These books are recommended for grades 3 – 8 and are marked at a fourth grade reading level. They are at “Level 3″ which offers a bit more challenge newly fluent readers but also includes an increased text load, and test-supportive special features.”

Finland

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By Alicia Z. Klepeis

This book is a introduction to a Northern European country that is unbiased and current. Readers will enjoy the colorful images as well as the opportunities to learn about a famous hockey player and learn to make a “Himmeli”. There is fun and fascinating information about a variety of animals such as: the Eurasian Lynx, Moor Frogs, and Reindeer. This book also shows citizens in traditional as well as daily dress doing a variety things throughout the day. This is an informative book that could not only assist a student in a project but could also just be a fun read. It is recommended for elementary libraries that are interested in purchasing/updating country reference books that covers just the basics.

The Blastoff! Discovery – Countries of the World series contains many informational chapters including but not limited to: What a family or person would do in a famous national park, landscape and climate, wildlife, people/communities, various cultural aspects, a timeline, and facts about the country. These books also include a glossary with terms that are in bold throughout the book as well as an index and a section with links and books to learn more about the country. These books are recommended for grades 3 – 8 and are marked at a fourth grade reading level. They are at “Level 3″ which offers a bit more challenge newly fluent readers but also includes an increased text load, and test-supportive special features.”

Slovenia

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By Golriz Golkar

This book is a introduction to an Eastern European country that is unbiased and current. Readers will enjoy the colorful images as well as the opportunities to try a traditional recipe of Carnival Fried Dough Balls and an activity called Thieves and Cops. There is fun and fascinating information about a variety of animals such as: the Olm, Alpine Ibex and the Ural Owl. This book also shows citizens in traditional as well as daily dress doing a variety things throughout the day. This is an informative book that could not only assist a student in a project but could also just be a fun read. It is recommended for elementary libraries that are interested in purchasing/updating country reference books that covers just the basics.

The Blastoff! Discovery – Countries of the World series contains many informational chapters including but not limited to: What someone would do and/or see in a major city of the country, landscape and climate, wildlife, people/communities, various cultural aspects, a timeline, and facts about the country. These books also include a glossary with terms that are in bold throughout the book as well as an index and a section with links and books to learn more about the country. These books are recommended for grades 3 – 8 and are marked at a fourth grade reading level. They are at “Level 3″ which offers a bit more challenge newly fluent readers but also includes an increased text load, and test-supportive special features.”

Taiwan

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By Golriz Golkar

This book is a introduction to an Asian country that is unbiased and current. Readers will enjoy the colorful images as well as the opportunities to try basic Mandarin phrases and learn about a famous film director and screenwriter from the country. There is fun and fascinating information about a variety of animals such as: the Formosan Black Bear, Sambars and Chinese Cobras. This book also shows citizens in traditional as well as daily dress doing a variety things throughout the day. This is an informative book that could not only assist a student in a project but could also just be a fun read. It is recommended for elementary libraries that are interested in purchasing/updating country reference books that covers just the basics.

The Blastoff! Discovery – Countries of the World series contains many informational chapters including but not limited to: What someone would do and/or see in a major city of the country, landscape and climate, wildlife, people/communities, various cultural aspects, a timeline, and facts about the country. These books also include a glossary with terms that are in bold throughout the book as well as an index and a section with links and books to learn more about the country. These books are recommended for grades 3 – 8 and are marked at a fourth grade reading level. They are at “Level 3″ which offers a bit more challenge newly fluent readers but also includes an increased text load, and test-supportive special features.”

Tanzania

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By Golriz Golkar

This book is a introduction to an African country that is unbiased and current. Readers will enjoy the colorful images as well as the opportunities to try the main language, Kiswahili, and learn about a famous singer as well. There is fun and fascinating information about a variety of animals such as: the Dik-Dik, Marsai Giraffes and the Hippopotamus. This book also shows citizens in traditional as well as daily dress doing a variety things throughout the day. This is an informative book that could not only assist a student in a project but could also just be a fun read. It is recommended for elementary libraries that are interested in purchasing/updating country reference books that covers just the basics.

The Blastoff! Discovery – Countries of the World series contains many informational chapters including but not limited to: What someone would do and/or see in a major city of the country, landscape and climate, wildlife, people/communities, various cultural aspects, a timeline, and facts about the country. These books also include a glossary with terms that are in bold throughout the book as well as an index and a section with links and books to learn more about the country. These books are recommended for grades 3 – 8 and are marked at a fourth grade reading level. They are at “Level 3″ which offers a bit more challenge newly fluent readers but also includes an increased text load, and test-supportive special features.”

United Arab Emirates

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Country Profiles

By Alicia Z. Klepeis

This book is an introduction to a Middle Eastern country that is unbiased and current. Readers will enjoy the colorful images as well as the opportunities to try a traditional recipe and do a cultural activity. There is fun and fascinating information about a variety of animals such as: the Arabian Oryx, Sand Cats and Hawksbill Turtles. This book also shows citizens in traditional as well as daily dress doing a variety things throughout the day. This is an informative book that could not only assist a student in a project but is also just a fun and fascinating read. It is recommended for elementary libraries that are interested in purchasing/updating country reference books that covers just the basics.

The Blastoff! Discovery – Countries of the World series contains many informational chapters including but not limited to: What someone would do and/or see in a major city of the country, landscape and climate, wildlife, people/communities, various cultural aspects, a timeline, and facts about the country. These books also include a glossary with terms that are in bold throughout the book as well as an index and a section with links and books to learn more about the country. These books are recommended for grades 3 – 8 and are marked at a fourth grade reading level. They are at “Level 3″ which offers a bit more challenge newly fluent readers but also includes an increased text load, and test-supportive special features.”

Burt the Beetle Lives Here

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By Ashley Spires

Burt is a junebug in search of the perfect home. As he travels, he learns about the many homes that insects live in. This adorable critter searches long and far becoming frustrated and cold only to find his shelter can simply be a leaf to sit under. Not only does this book introduce many insects and where they live, it shows that one can overcome adversity as well as find supportive friends.

This is book two in the series but can easily be a stand alone. Also included are some “Awesome Insect Builder Facts” as the end of the book. This book is highly recommended and this librarian will be searching to include book one, “Burt the Beetle Doesn’t Bite” to her collection.

I am John Lewis

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By Brad Meltzer, Illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos

In another wonderful addition to the Ordinary People Change the World biographical series, Brad Meltzer has done an excellent job writing about yet another impactful person in history. Not only is this title an introduction to John Lewis. It also introduces the Civil Rights Movement in a way that is colorful and visually appealing to young audiences. Meltzer touches on others in the movement such as Martin Luther King, Jr as well as important events in Civil Rights history. Also included are historical images and a timeline.

This is a book in a must have series for libraries that shows grit and determination.

Champion Chompers, Super Stinkers and Other Poems by Extraordinary Animals

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written by Linda Ashman and illustrated by Aparna Varma

Part science, part poetry and part riddle/puzzle book – what’s not to love about this delightful book? Nineteen animals that are record-holders of some sort (fastest, slowest, tallest, stinkiest and so forth) are introduced by a personified mask poems and a portion of the animal to tease the reader. Turn the page and the full animal is there along with a paragraph detailing its claim to fame along with some well-chosen extra facts. At the end, there is information about protecting endangered animals and suggested websites. There is also guidance about measurements and mask poems. Finally, there is a glossary and recommended reading for further investigation.

The fun game-like format along with the accessible poetry and information makes this a book that should be in everyone’s library. It is nonfiction that can be used in so many ways (examples are animal units, nonfiction studies, poetry units, conservation lessons). But, not only is it a great book for lessons. It is a fascination, fun read for students. And, that makes it a winner in all areas!

Shall We Dance?

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written and illustrated by Robin Page

Animals move in many ways for a variety of reasons. Many use these “dances” as a courtship behavior while some animals spin and pirouette to warn of danger or to remove parasites. Whatever the reason, animals exhibit some amazing moves in this beautifully illustrated book.

Each page or two page spread has a large illustration of an animal (or pair) along with a short description of its “dance” and the possible reasons for such movement. There is a lot of information packed into those short paragraphs and they might pique the interest of would-be scientists, who will want to learn more about the featured creatures. Digital illustrations are colorful and dynamic. Text is not overwhelming and sometimes humorous. For example: the male praying mantis hopes that the female is well fed and won’t eat him after their courtship. This nonfiction book will certainly be popular in your library.

A Girl Can Build Anything

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written by e.E. Charlton-Trujillo and Pat Zietlow Miller; illustrated by Keisha Morris

“It starts with a vision.” So begins an encouraging story of dreaming, building, failure, success and growth. Girls are sketching, gathering materials and creating. There are a few adults to help. But, the girls are the stars and the book shows that it can lead to bigger things, because “A girl can build anything. A girl can build everything.”

Short sentences with digital paper collage impart an empowering message to girls everywhere. Characters are diverse and the process of creating and building is realistically portrayed as something that takes work and, on occasion, failure to successfully complete. While it is a wonderful story for girls, this book is really for everyone. The process of creating is the same for all builders and the growth-mindset involved is necessary no matter who you are. Recommended.

What If I’m Not a Cat?

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written by Kari-Lynn Winters and illustrated by Kelly Collier

Donkey is a cat – or so he thinks. He acts like a cat. He cuddles the other kitties in the barn, he pounces and he perches. But, sometimes things don’t feel quite right. He doesn’t like cat food and climbing? That’s hard. One day, the farmer said something that made him question himself. She said “Donkey, you’re acting like a cat.” What? Is this true? He and his kitty friends start to wonder. Sadly, Donkey walks away to sleep under a tree by himself. Suddenly, he heard a kitten meow in distress and ran to the rescue, kicking at a fox and saving the day. Upon his return to the barn with the kitten, the other cats cheerfully welcome him back, whatever he is. He decides that he is happy with who he is – a don-kitty!

This book tells a story of friendship and being who you are. Speech bubbles and cartoon-like illustrations help us grasp the personalities of the characters. The story is humorous, sweet and a great kick off to everything from lessons on animal traits to self-acceptance. Given its many possibilities, this is a great book for your library. Highly recommended.

Zara’s Rules for Living Your Best Life

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By Hena Khan, Wastana Haikal – Illustrator

Zara, a young Muslim American, is looking forward to spring break while she organizes activities with her best friend for the neighborhood kids. When everything is coming together she finds out her friend, Naomi, is going to be at Hebrew Camp for the entire week. Then she finds out that she will be staying at her grandparents home with her brother Zayd every day as her parents have to work. While she is disappointed to not be spending time with friends she is still excited to spend time with her grandparents. Zara is determined to have an adventuresome and fun week only to find that Naano (grandma) is trying to make games out of doing chores and Nana Abu (grandpa) only wants to doze on the couch. Will the week be disappointing and boring? or will Zara find a way to make sure her grandparents are living their best lives and have fun the whole week?

This is a very heartwarming diverse book that many older elementary readers will enjoy. It is recommended for purchase as it is a book with humor and diversity.

Baby Badger

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By Hannah Shaw

Animal Advocate, Hannah Shaw, has written 4 books in the series “Adventures in Fosterland”. This title is book three and book five will be released Spring 2024. Baby Badger is a newborn kitten that has been abandoned by his mother during a winter storm. When he is about to die he is saved and brought to Fosterland where he fights to survive in an incubator. As he is becoming healthier, a pregnant cat, Mamma Mia, comes to Fosterland as well. Badger soon finds that being alone is not something that he has to endure. This heartfelt story of survival and the true meaning of family is recommended for elementary school age readers. Cat lovers in particular will enjoy this story of perseverance and acceptance.

This is book 3 in a 4 book (soon to be 5) series that is a great introduction to animal rescue groups for emerging readers. As I have not read the other books in the series, I cannot say if they are all as enjoyable as this one but after reading this one, this librarian plans on purchasing the others for her library!

There Might be a Kazoo Emergency

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written by Heidi E.Y. Stemple; illustrated by Selom Sunu

Gregory James is on his way to school when he is knocked over by two bigger boys. As he picks up the items that spilled out of his backpack, Lola (who becomes his new friend) stops to help him. He explains the odd contents of his backpack (duster, strainer and kazoo) and they walk to school, because they missed the bus. They come upon their school bus being attacked by a dinosaur AND flying aloft under a rainbow balloon. Fortunately, Gregory James has the tools necessary to save the day and rescue the bus and the bigger boys from earlier. Then, he and Lola continue on their way to school.

This early reader graphic novel starts with a nice tutorial about graphic novels, Speech and thought bubbles are explained as are panels. Minimal text and clean, simple cartoon-like illustrations make this an easy read. The story line is rather strange. But, a beginning reader will feel quite successful with this simple book.

What’s in Your Body? (Ready-To-Read: Level 2-Super Gross)

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written by Ximena Hastings; illustrated by Alison Hawkins

Blood, boogers, pus, gas and other bodily excretions and their origins are discussed in this early reader. Do you want to know how many skin cells you shed per hour? How about the mites on your eyelashes? You’ll learn all about those topics and more in this short, but informative, book.

Cartoon-like illustrations and photographs accompanied by simple informative text pack a lot of stuff into a relatively short book. A glossary, bold-faced type and a skeleton craft at the end will help would-be scientists learn basics of the messier parts of human anatomy and physiology. It might be too much information for its target audience. But, they’ll be happily ‘grossed out’ and will certainly share what they’ve learned.