Ten Books I Loved in 2021

Sister, Brother, Family: An American Childhood in Music. Willie Nelson, Bobbie Nelson, and Chris Barton. Illustrated by Kyun Eun Han. 2021. [September] 32 pages. [Source: Review copy]

I absolutely LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this nonfiction picture book written in verse.

A Walk in the Words. Hudson Talbott. 2021. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

I loved this one so much!!! The story is ultimately a love song to stories...to storytellers...to books. I would recommend it to teachers and parents especially. 

Boardwalk Babies. Marissa Moss. Illustrated by April Chu. 2021. 40 pages. [Source: Library]

 I loved, loved, loved, LOVED this book. I thought it was all kinds of awesome. I had never thought about WHO invented incubators before I read this book. I hadn't really taken the time to stop and consider what a miraculous difference it could make. Medicine and science has certainly changed through the centuries. This book mainly spans the mid 1890s to the mid 1940s. If you are looking for a GREAT story--a true story--packed with facts, then this one might just be worth your time.

 

Ten Beautiful Things. Molly Beth Griffin. 2021. [January] 32 pages. [Source: Review copy]

LOVELY. That's the first word that comes to mind when I think about this book. Of course, I could just as easily go with BEAUTIFUL. I loved the emotional journey of this one. It is so easy to suppress emotions instead of actually living in them and feeling them, to find other ways of dealing with the pain and discomfort of change [or loss] other than facing them straight on. This book's approach to life is so wonderful. The writing hits me--as an adult reader--right in the heart.

There were TWO series that I fell absolutely head over heels in love with this year. One being FOX AND RABBIT by Beth Ferry. 

Fox and Rabbit (Fox & Rabbit #1) Beth Ferry. Illustrated by Gergely Dudas. 2020. [April] 96 pages. [Source: Library]
Fox & Rabbit Make Believe (Fox and Rabbit #2) Beth Ferry. Illustrated by Gergely Dudas. 2020. [September] 96 pages. [Source: Review copy]
Fox & Rabbit Celebrate. (Fox & Rabbit #3) Beth Ferry. Illustrated by Gergely Dudas. 2021. [May] 96 pages. [Source: Review copy] 

and the second series being SYDNEY AND TAYLOR by Jacaqueline Davies.

Sydney and Taylor Explore the Whole Wide World. (Sydney and Taylor #1) Jacqueline Davies. Illustrated by Deborah Hocking. 2021. [February] 80 pages. [Source: Library]
Sydney and Taylor Take A Flying Leap (Sydney and Taylor #2) Jacqueline Davies. Illustrated by Deborah Hocking. 2021. [August] 80 pages. [Source: Library]
Sydney and Taylor and the Great Friend Expedition. (Sydney and Taylor #3) Jacqueline Davies. 2022. [February] 80 pages. [Source: Review copy]

Ways to Grow Love. (Ryan Hart #2) Renee Watson. Illustrated by Nina Mata. 2021. [April] 192 pages. [Source: Review copy]

I loved, loved, loved this chapter book. I loved Ryan and her whole family. The characterization was great. I want this new series to be a LONG one because I do not want to say goodbye to these characters.

 

Rosetown. Cynthia Rylant. 2018. 149 pages. [Source: Library]

I loved, loved, loved the WRITING. Rylant (one of my favorite authors) just has a way with words. I believed in Flora's voice from the first page. By the end of the second chapter I knew were were kindred spirits. I knew that Flora was going to end up being a good, good friend.

Secondhand Dogs by Carolyn Crimi. 2021. [July] 256 pages. [Source: Review copy]

Secondhand Dogs reminds me of some of Patricia MacLachlan's animal stories...and then, of course, there's Kate DiCamillo. I really loved everything about this book. The writing. The characters. The alternating characters. The story. The premise--the idea of each dog being born with a special, unique gift. The emotional depth of both the animal and human characters. The ending. This one was just a treat of a book. I highly recommend.

Pencilvania. Stephanie Watson. 2021. [August] 384 pages. [Source: Review copy]

I personally loved, loved, loved it. I did. I loved everything about it. I loved the relationship between Frankie and Zora. I loved the emotional journey--highs and lows. I loved how imaginative and creative it was. It balances a super fun premise with authentic feelings of grief. This book has plenty of heart. But it isn't a heavy, heavy novel.  

Honorable mentions:

See the Cat: Three Stories About A Dog. David LaRochelle. Illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka. 2020. [September] 64 pages.  [Source: Library]

It was LOVE, LOVE, LOVE at first sight. Within the first few pages I knew this book was made for me. It is just my cup of tea. Everything about it is just perfectly perfectly perfect. It's the exact kind of book that I would have read to tatters and had every single word memorized. 

 

Happily for Now. Kelly Jones. Illustrated by Kelly Murphy. 2021. [May] 288 pages. [Source: Library]

I really LOVED this one. I thought it was a great read. I enjoyed the characterization so much. I loved meeting the extended family--flaws and all. I loved getting to know all the people in the community. When well done--like this one is--a wide cast of characters is such a delight.

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

Books Read in 2022

Books Read in 2022

1. Forty Winks: A Bedtime Adventure. Kelly DiPucchio. Illustrated by Lita Judge. 2021. [October 26] 40 pages. [Source: Review copy]
2. Poems from When We Were Very Young. A.A. Milne. Illustrated by Rosemary Wells. 2021. [October 26] 80 pages. [Source: Library]
3. Captain Cat and the Pirate Lunch. (Ready to Read Pre-Level 1) Emma J. Virjan. 2021. [December] 32 pages. [Source: Library]
4. Motor Mouse Delivers. Cynthia Rylant. Illustrated by Arthur Howard. 2020. [August] 72 pages. [Source: Library]
5. The Quest for Snacks (Cat & Cat Adventures #1) Susie Yi. 2021. [September] 96 pages. [Source: Library]
6. Bright Brown Baby. Andrea Davis Pinkney. Illustrated by Brian Pinkney. 2022. [January] 64 pages. [Source: Library]
7. Chester's Way. Kevin Henkes. 1988. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
8. The New Class (Ballet Bunnies #1) Swapna Reddy. Illustrated by Binny Talib. 2021. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
9. Let's Dance (Ballet Bunnies #2) Swapna Reddy. Illustrated by Binny Talib. 2021. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
10. Bear is a Bear. Jonathan Stutzman. Illustrated by Dan Santat. 2021. [September] 48 pages. [Source: Library]
11. Ben Yokoyama and the Cookie of Doom. (Cookie Chronicles #1) Matthew Swanson. Illustrated by Robbi Behr. 2021. 304 pages. [Source: Library]
12. Yes & No. Elisha Cooper. 2021. [April] 40 pages. [Source: Library]
13. Monday: Into the Cave of Thieves. (Total Mayhem #1) 2021. [August] 208 pages. [Source: Library]
14. ¡Mambo Mucho Mambo! the Dance That Crossed Color Lines. Dean Robbins. Illustrated by Eric Velásquez. 2021. [November] 40 pages. [Source: Library]
15. I Wish I Had a Wookiee: And Other Poems For Our Galaxy. Ian Doescher. Illustrated by Tim Budgen. 2021 [September] 128 pages. [Source: Library]
16. Ben Yokoyama and the Cookie of Endless Waiting. (Cookie Chronicles #2) Matthew Swanson. Illustrated by Robbi Behr. 2021. 304 pages. [Source: Library]
17. Tally Tuttle Turns Into a Turtle. (Class Critters #1) Kathryn Holmes. Illustrated by Ariel Landy. 2021. [August] 128 pages. [Source: Review copy]
18. Nicky & Vera: A Quiet Hero of the Holocaust and the Children He Rescued. Peter Sis. 2021. [January] 64 pages. [Source: Library]
19. Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre. Carole Boston Weatherford. Illustrated by Floyd Cooper.  2021. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
20. The Book of Hugs. Tim Harris. Illustrated by Charlie Astrella. 2021. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
21. The More the Merrier. David Martin. Illustrated by Raissa Figueroa. 2021. 40 pages. [Source: Library]
22. Soul Food Sunday. Winsome Bingham. Illustrated by C.G. Esperanza. 2021. 48 pages. [Source: Library]
23. Watercress. Andrea Wang. Illustrated by Jason Chin. 2021. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
24. Dear Librarian. Lydia M. Sigwarth. Illustrated by Romina Galatta. 2021. 40 pages. [Source: Library]
25. Merry Christmas, Anne. Kallie George. Illustrated by Genevieve Godbout. 2021. 40 pages. [Source: Library]
26. Raising Lumie. Joan Bauer. 2020. 272 pages. [Source: Library]
27. Nazi Prison Camp Escape (Great Escapes #1) Michael Burgan. Illustrated by James Bernardin. 2020. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
28. Monster and Boy. Hannah Barnaby. Illustrated by Anoosha Syed. 2020. 144 pages. [Source: Library] 
29. Ben Yokoyama and the Cookie of Perfection. (Cookie Chronicles #3) Matthew Swanson. Illustrated by Robbi Behr. 2021. [December] 336 pages. [Source: Library]
30. The People's Painter: How Ben Shahn Fought for Justice with Art. Cynthia Levinson. Illustrated by Evan Turk. 2021. [April] 48 pages. [Source: Library]
31. Survival in the Wilderness (Great Escapes #4) Steven Otfinoski. 2020. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
32. Tuesday--The Curse of the Blue Spots (Total Mayhem #2)  Ralph Lazar. 2021. 196 pages. [Source: Library]
33. Dino Trouble (Arcade World #1) Nate Bitt. Illustrated by Glass House Graphics. 2022. [February] 144 pages. [Source: Library]
34. The Disappearing Act (Teeny Houdini #1) Katrina Moore. Illustrated by Zoe Si. 2022. [January] 112 pages. [Source: Library]
35. David Dixon's Day as a Dachshund. (Class Critters #2) Kathryn Holmes. Illustrated by Ariel Landy. 2022. [April] 128 pages. [Source: Review copy]
36. Tiny Cedric. Sally Lloyd-Jones. Illustrated by Rowboat Watkins. 2021. [November] 44 pages. [Source: Library]
37. Planet Omar #1: Accidental Trouble Magnet. Zanib Mian. Illustrated by Nasaya Mafaridik. 2019. 224 pages. [Source: Library]
38. Even Robots Aren't Perfect. Jan Thomas. 2022. 64 pages. [Source: Library]
39. The Story of a Story. Deborah Hopkinson. 2021. [November] 40 pages. [Source: Library]
40. Cornbread and Poppy. Matthew Cordell. 2022. 80 pages. [Source: Library]
41. Once Upon a Tim. Stuart Gibbs. 2022. 160 pages. [Source: Library]
42. The Sheep, the Rooster, and The Duck. Matt Phelan. 2022. 240 pages. [Source: Library]
43. The School for Whatnots. Margaret Peterson Haddix. 2022. 304 pages. [Source: Library]
44. The City of Ember. Jeanne DuPrau. 2003. 270 pages. [Source: Bought]
45. The Cats and the Cake. Martha Hamilton and Mitch Weiss. Illustrated by Steve Henry. 2022. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
46. Bathe the Cat. Alice B. McGinty. Illustrated by David Roberts. 2022. 48 pages. [Source: Library]
47. Wondrous Rex. Patricia MacLachlan. Illustrated by Emilia Dziubak. 2020. 88 pages. [Source: Library]
48. The Poet's Dog. Patricia MacLachlan. 2016. 112 pages. [Source: Library]
49. Smitten with Kittens. Florence Minor. Illustrated by Wendell Minor. 2022. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
50. Dear Mr. Dickens. Nancy Churnin. Illustrated by Bethany Stancliffe. 2021. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
51. Good Knight, Mustache Baby. Bridget Heos. Illustrated by Joy Ang. 2021. [December] 40 pages. [Source: Library]
52. King of Ragtime: The Story of Scott Joplin. Stephen Costanza. 2021 [September]. 56 pages. [Source: Library]
53. Fenway and the Bone Thieves (Make Way for Fenway #1) Victoria J. Coe. Illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff. 2022. 85 pages. [Source: Library]
54. The Fabled Stables: Belly of the Beast (Fabled Stables #3) Jonathan Auxier. Illustrated by Olga Demidova. 2022. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
55. Night Train, Night Train. Robert Burleigh. Illustrated by Wendell Minor. 2018. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
56. What Do You See? A Conversation in Pictures. Barney Saltzberg. Photographs by Jamie Lee Curtis. 2022. [March] 32 pages. [Source: Library]
57.  Crab and Snail: The Invisible Whale (Crab & Snail #1) Beth Ferry. Illustrated by Jared Chapman. 2022. [March] 64 pages. [Source: Library]
58. DJ Funkyfoot: The Show Must Go Oink (DJ Funkyfoot #3) Tom Angleberger. Illustrated by Heather Fox. 2022. [March] 112 pages. [Source: Library]
59. Blips on a Screen: How Ralph Baer Invented TV Video Gaming and Launched a Worldwide Obsession. 2022. [March] Kate Hannigan. Illustrated by Zachariah OHora. 48 pages. [Source: Library]
60. Zia Erases the World. Bree Barton. 2022. 256 pages. [Source: Library]
61. Just a Girl: A True Story of World War II. Lia Levi. Illustrated by Jess Mason. Translated by Sylvia Notini. 2022. 144 pages. [Source: Library]
62. Endlessly Ever After: Pick Your Path to Countless Fairy Tale Endings. Laurel Snyder. Illustrated by Dan Santat. 2022. 92 pages. [Source: Library]
63. The Pigeon Will Ride the Roller Coaster. Mo Willems. 2022. 40 pages. [Source: Review copy]
64. Board book: Yellow Like a Submarine, Purple Like the Rain: A Rocking Book of Colors. Duopress Labs. Art by John Coulter. 2022. April. 20 pages. [Source: Library]
65. Before Music: Where Instruments Come From. Annette Bay Pimentel. Illustrated by Madison Safer. 2022. [June] 88 pages. [Source: Review copy]
66. If You Go Down to the Woods Today. Rachel Piercey. Illustrated by Freya Hartas. 2021. 40 pages. [Source: Review copy]
67. Wednesday and Woof: Catastrophe (Wednesday and Woof #1) Sherri Winston. Illustrated by Gladys Jose. 2022. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
68. New Pup on the Block (Wednesday and Woof #2) Sherri Winston. Illustrated by Gladys Jose. 2022. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
69. The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza. Mac Barnett. Illustrated by Shawn Harris. 2022. 320 pages. [Source: Library]
70. Tiny Tales: A Feast for Friends. Steph Waldo. 2022. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
71. Flipping Forward Twisting Backward. Alma Fullerton. 2022. [July] 144 pages. [Source: Review copy]
72. A Cat About Town. Lea Decan. 2022. 44 pages. [Source: Review copy]
73. The Sweetest Scoop: Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Revolution. Lisa Robinson. Illustrated by Stacy Innerst. 2022. 40 pages. [Source: Review copy]
74. Who Was Johnny Cash? Jim Gigliotti. Illustrated by Gregory Copeland. 2022. [June] 112 pages. [Source: Library]
75. Inspector Flytrap (Inspector Flytrap #1) Tom Angleberger. Illustrated by Cece Bell. 2016. 112 pages. [Source: Library]
76. Recipe for Disaster (Didi Dodo, Future Spy #1) Tom Angleberger. Illustrated by Jared Chapman. 2019. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
77. Leave It to Plum! Matt Phelan. 2022. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
78. Oh, Sal. Kevin Henkes. 2022. [September] 144 pages. [Source: Review copy]
79. Eerie Elementary: The School Is Alive. Jack Chabert. Illustrated by Sam Ricks. 2014. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
80. The Ember Stone (The Last Firehawk #1) Katrina Charman. Illustrated by Jeremy Norton. 2017. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
81. Mindy Kim and the Yummy Seaweed Business (Mindy Kim #1) Lyla Lee. Illustrated by Dung Ho. 2020. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
82. Pizza and Taco: Too Cool for School. (Pizza and Taco #4) Stephen Shashkan. 2022. [June] 72 pages. [Source: Library]
83. Robo-Dodo Rumble (Didi Dodo, Future Spy #2) Tom Angleberger. Illustrated by Jared Chapman. 2019. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
84. Doggo and Pupper (Doggo and Pupper #1) Katherine Applegate. Illustrated by Charlie Alder. 2021. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
85. Charlie and Mouse: Lost and Found, (Charlie & Mouse #5) Laurel Snyder. Illustrated by Emily Hughes. 52 pages. [Source: Library]
86. The Candy Caper (Trouble at Table 5 #1) Tom Watson. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
87. Double-O Dodo (Didi Dodo, Future Spy #3) Tom Angleberger. 2021. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
88. Ways to Share Joy. Renee Watson. 2022. [September] 208 pages. [Source: Review copy]
89. Busted by Breakfast (Trouble at Table 5 #2) Tom Watson. 2020. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
90. Duckscares #1: The Nightmare Formula. Tommy Greenwald. 2021. 208 pages. [Source: Review copy]
91. I Am Lucille Ball. Brad Meltzer. Illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos. 2015. 40 pages. [Source: Library]
92. Who Was E.B. White? Gail Herman. 2022. 112 pages. [Source: Library]
93. Cat Crusader (Max Meow #1) John Gallagher. 2020. 240 pages. [Source: Library]
94. Cat Ninja (book 1) The Silent Master of Kat Fu. Matthew Cody. Illustrated by Yehudi Mercado. 2020. 160 pages. [Source: Library]
95. Mia Mayhem Is a Superhero! Kara West. Illustrated by Leeza Hernandez. 2018. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
96. A Perfect Fit: How Lena "Lane" Bryant Changed the Shape of Fashion. Mara Rockliff. Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal. 2022. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
97. Daisy Dreamer and the Totally True Imaginary Friend. (Daisy Dreamer #1) Holly Anna. Illustrated by Genevieve Santos. 2017. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
98. Wish. Barbara O'Connor. 2016. FSG. 240 pages. [Source: Library]
99. Inspector Flytrap: The President's Mane is Missing. (Inspector Flytrap #2) Tom Angleberger. Illustrated by Cece Bell. 2016. 112 pages. [Source: Library]
100. The Firefly Fix (Trouble at Table 5 #3) Tom Watson. Illustrated by Marta Kissi. 2020. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
101. Out in the Wild (Bug Scouts) Mike Lowery. 2022. 64 pages. [Source: Library]
102. Welcome to the Creature Cafe (The Aristokittens #1) Jennifer Castle. 2022. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
103. Waffles and Pancake: Planetary Yum (Waffles and Pancake #1) 2021. [October 26] 64 pages. [Source: Library]
104. Cornbread and Poppy at the Carnival. (Cornbread and Poppy #2) Matthew Cordell. 2022. [May] 80 pages. [Source: Library]
105. Survival Tails #1: The Titanic. Katrina Charman. Illustrated by Owen Richardson. 2018. 224 pages. [Source: Library]
106. Nacho's Nachos: The Story Behind the World's Favorite Snack. Sandra Nickel. Illustrated by Oliver Dominguez. 2020. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
107. Hattie Harmony: Worry-Detective. Elizabeth Olsen and Robbie Arnett. Illustrated by Marissa Valdez. 2022. 40 pages. [Source: Library]
108. The Purrfect Show (Home for Meow #1) Reese Eschmann. 2022. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
109. Show and Tail (Home for Meow #2) Reese Eschmann. 2022. 144 pages. [Source: Library]
110. Endurance in Antarctica (Survival Tails #2) Katrina Charman. 2018. 272 pages. [Source: Library]
111. Tide Pool Troubles (Shelby & Watts) Ashlyn Anstee. 2021. [September] 96 pages. [Source: Library]
112. The Great Biscuit Bake-Off. (Aristokittens #2) Jennifer Castle. 2022. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
113. Fitz and Cleo #1 Jonathan Stutzman. 2021. Illustrated by Heather Fox. 64 pages. [Source: Library]
114. This Is My Daddy. Mies van Hout. 2020. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
115. Do Baby Elephants Suck Their Trunks: Amazing Ways Animals Are Just Like Us. Ben Lerwill. Illustrated by Katherine McEwen. 2022. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
116. Everything In Its Place: A Story of Books and Belonging. Pauline David-Sax. Illustrated by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow. 2022. 40 pages. [Source: Library]
117. Baby Squeaks. Anne Hunter. 2022. 40 pages. [Source: Library]
118. Marco Polo Brave Explorer (Book Buddies #2) Cynthia Lord. Illustrated by Stephanie Graegin. 2022. 80 pages. [Source: Library]
119. Fitz and Cleo Get Creative (Fitz and Cleo #2) Jonathan Stutzman and Heather Fox. 2022. [March] 80 pages. [Source: Library]
120. Lily to the Rescue (Lily to the Rescue #1) W. Bruce Cameron. 2020. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
121. Sloth Sleuth. Cyndi Marko. 2022. 192 pages. 192 pages. [Source: Library]
122. The Puppy Problem (The Daily Bark #1) Laura James. Illustrated by Charlie Alder. 2022. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
123. Hello, World. A High Contrast Book for Babies. Amelia Hepworth. Illustrated by Cani Chen. 2022. [January] 10 pages. [Source: Library]
124. Hello, Farm! High Contrast Book for Babies. Amelia Hepworth. Illustrated by Cani Chen. 2022. [January] 10 pages. [Source: Library]
125. Why, Daddy? Why? Tamara Girardi. Illustrated by Nichola Cowdery. 2022. [May] 16 pages. [Source: Library]
126. Richard Scarry's 5 Minute Stories. Richard Scarry. 2022. [May] 160 pages. [Source: Library]
127. Balto (Animals to the Rescue #1) Emma Carlson Berne. Illustrated by Francesca Rosa. 2022. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
128. My Life Begins. Patricia MacLachlan. 2022. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
129. Doggie. Nancy Armo. 2022. 40 pages. [Source: Library]
130. School's In Crabby. Jonathan Fenske. 2022. [June] 48 pages. [Source: Library]
131. Captain Pug (Adventures of Pug #1) Laura James. 2017. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
132. I Can't Feel My Feet (Trouble at Table 5 #4) Tom Watson. 2020. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
133. Charlie and Mouse Outdoors. (Charlie and Mouse #4) Laurel Snyder. 2020. 48 pages. [Source: Library]
134. Word Travelers and the Taj Mahal Mystery. Raj Haldar. Illustrated by Neha Rawat. 2022. 112 pages. [Source: Library]
135. The Button Box. Bridget Hodder and Fawzia Gilani-Williams. Illustrated by Harshad Marathe. 2022. 152 pages. [Source: Library]
136. Mister Rogers' Gift of Music. Donna Cangelosi. Illustrated by Amanda Calatzis. 2022. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
137. Lily's Story (A Puppy Tale) W. Bruce Cameron. 2019. 224 pages. [Source: Library]
138. Lily to the Rescue: Two Little Piggies (Lily #2) W. Bruce Cameron. 2020. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
139. Trouble to the Max (Trouble at Table 5 #5) Tom Watson. 2021. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
140. Just Right Jillian. Nicole D. Collier. 2022. [February] 224 pages. [Source: Review copy]
141. Our Little Mushroom: A Story of Franz Schubert and His Friends. Emily Arnold McCully. 2022. [August] 40 pages. [Source: Library]
142. Francine Poulet Meets the Ghost Raccoon. Kate DiCamillo. Illustrated by Chris Van Dusen. 2015. 98 pages. [Source: Library]
143. The Sisters Grimm: The Fairy-Tale Detectives. Michael Buckley. Illustrated by Peter Ferguson. 2005. 284 pages. [Source: Library]
144. Fenway and Hattie. Victoria J. Coe. 2016. [February] 176 pages. [Source: Library]
145. Next Door to Happy. Allison Weiser Strout. 2022. [July] 192 pages. [Source: Library]
146. Haylee and Comet: A Trip Around the Sun. Deborah Marcero. 2022. [January] 72 pages. [Source: Library]
147. The Year of Miss Agnes. Kirkpatrick Hill. 2000/2020. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
148. Measuring a Year: A Rosh Hashanah Story. Linda Elovitz Marshall. Illustrated by Zara Gonzalez Hoang. 2022. 32 pages. [Source: Review copy]
149. Charlie and Mouse are Magic (Charlie and Mouse #6) Laurel Snyder. Illustrated by Emily Hughes. 2022. [August] 48 pages. [Source: Library]
150. Chester Van Chime Who Forgot How To Rhyme. Avery Monsen. 2022. [March] 40 pages. [Source: Library]
151. Pizza! A Slice of History. Greg Pizzoli. 2022. [August] 56 pages. [Source: Library]
152. I Survived the Wellington Avalanche, 1910. (I Survived #22) Lauren Tarshis. 2022. 144 pages. [Source: Library]
153. The Sisters Grimm: The Unusual Suspects. Michael Buckley. Illustrated by Peter Ferguson. 2005. 292 pages. [Source: Library]
154. How To Build An Orchestra. Mary Auld. Illustrated by Elisa Paganelli. 2020. [October] 48 pages. [Source: Library]
155. Sometimes I Grumblesquinch. Rachel Vail. Illustrated by Hyewon Yum. 2022. [August] 40 pages. [Source: Library]
156. Ben Yokoyama and the Cookie Thief (Cookie Chronicles #4) Matthew Swanson. Illustrated by Robbi Behr. 2022. [September]  304 pages. [Source: Library]
157. Violet and Jobie In the Wild. Lynne Rae Perkins. 2022. [September] 240 pages. [Source: Library]
158. Ballet Bruce (World of Reading, Level 1) Ryan T. Higgins. 2022. [July] 32 pages. [Source: Library]
159. Snail's Silly Adventures. Mary Peterson. 2020. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
160. Even Robots Can Be Thankful. Jan Thomas. 2022. 64 pages. [Source: Library]
161. How Kind! (Board Book) Mary Murphy. 2022. 24 pages. [Source: Library]
162. Hey, Bruce! An Interactive Book. Ryan T. Higgins. 2022. 48 pages. [Source: Library]
163. Haylee and Comet: Over the Moon (Haylee and Comet #3) Deborah Marcero. 2022. 72 pages. [Source: Library]
164. The Area 51 Files. Julie Buxbaum. 2022. [September] 304 pages. [Source: Library]
165. Race to Fire Mountain (Future Hero #1) Remi Blackwood. 2022. [August] 144 pages. [Source: Library]
166. Ruby Finley vs. the Interstellar Invasion. K. Tempest Bradford. 2022. 208 pages. [Source: Library]
167. Just Harriet. Elana K. Arnold. 2022. 208 pages. [Source: Library]
168. Two-Headed Chicken. Tom Angleberger. 2022. [September] 208 pages. [Source: Library]
169. Ballewiena. Rebecca Bender. 2022. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
170. Doggo and Pupper Save The World (Doggo and Pupper #2) Katherine Applegate. Illustrated by Charlie Alder. 2022. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
171. Who Was A Daring Pioneer of the Skies? Amelia Earhart. Melanie Gillman. 2022. [August] 64 pages. [Source: Library]
172. The Three Billy Goats Gruff. Mac Barnett. Illustrated by Jon Klassen. 2022. [October 18] 48 pages. [Source: Library]
173. Creepy Crayon! Aaron Reynolds. Illustrated by Peter Brown. 2022. [August] 48 pages. [Source: Library]
174. A Very Mercy Christmas. Kate DiCamillo. Illustrated by Chris Van Dusen. 2022. [September] 32 pages. [Source: Library]
175. Max Can Read. Rosemary Wells. 2022. [October] 32 pages. [Source: Library]
176. Odder. Katherine Applegate. Illustrated by Charles Santoso. 2022. 288 pages. [Source: Library]
177. The Not So Stinky Skunk (Lily to the Rescue #3) W. Bruce Cameron. 2020. 144 pages. [Source: Library]
178. Thanks for Nothing. Ryan T. Higgins. 2021. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
179. Farmhouse. Sophie Blackall. 2022. [September] 48 pages. [Source: Library]
180. Our Friend Hedgehog: The Story of Us. Lauren Castillo. 2020. 128 pages. [Source: Library]
181. Our Friend Hedgehog: A Place to Call Home. Lauren Castillo. 2022. [October 18] 80 pages. [Source: Library]
182. Hairy, Hairy Poodle. Marilyn Singer. Illustrated by Abigail Tompkins. 2022. [May] 32 pages. [Source: Library]
183. Click, Clack Rainy Day. Doreen Cronin. Illustrated by Betsy Lewin. 2022. [May] 32 pages. [Source: Library]
184. Esme's Birthday Conga Line. Lourdes Heuer. Illustrated by Marissa Valdez. 2022. [May] 76 pages. [Source: Library]
185. Away with Words! Wise and Witty Poems for Language Lovers. Mary Ann Hoberman. 2022. 64 pages. [Source: Library]
186. Under the Christmas Tree. Nikki Grimes. Illustrated by Kadir Nelson. 2002. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
187. The First Notes: The Story of Do, Re, Mi. Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton. Illustrated by Chiara Fedele. 2022. [November] 48 pages. [Source: Library]
188. The Good Guys Agency #1: Kind Like Fred. 2022. [July] 96 pages. [Source: Library]
189. Walter Had a Best Friend. Deborah Underwood. Illustrated by Sergia Ruzzier. 2022. [October 18] 40 pages. [Source: Library]
190. The Last Last-Day-Of-Summer. (Legendary Alston Boys #1) Lamar Giles. 2019. 304 pages. [Source: Library]
191. Autumnblings. Douglas Florian. 2003. 48 pages. [Source: Library]
192. Thanks a Million. Nikki Grimes. Illustrated by Cozbi A. Cabrera. 2006. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
193. Bravo, Bucket Head! Helen Lester. Illustrated by Lynn Munsinger. 2022. [September] 32 pages. [Source: Library]
194. Pete the Cat Plays Hide and Seek. James and Kimberly Dean. 2022. [September] 40 pages. [Source: Library]
195. Creepy Carrots! Aaron Reynolds. Illustrated by Peter Brown. 2012. 32 pages. [Source: Library]
196. Too Many Pigs and One Big Bad Wolf: A Counting Story. Davide Calì. Illustrated by Marianna Balducci. 2022. [September] 36 pages. [Source: Library]
197. The Wondrous Wonders by Camille Jourdy. 2019/2022. 160 pages. [Source: Library]
198. Loud Mouse: How A Little Mouse Found Her Big Voice. Cara Mentzel and Idina Menzel. Illustrated by Jaclyn Sinquett. 2022. [September] 48 pages. [Source: Library]
199. Busy Betty. Reese Witherspoon. Illustrated by Xindi Yan. 2022. [October 4] 40 pages. [Source: Library]
200. Green is for Christmas. Drew Daywalt. Illustrated by Oliver Jeffers. 2022. [October 18] 32 pages. [Source: Library]
201. If You Believe In Me. Rosemary Wells. 2022. 28 pages. [Source: Library]
202. Waffles and Pancake #2: Flight or Fright. Drew Brockington. 2022. 64 pages. [Source: Library]
203. PAWS #1: Gabby Gets It Together. Nathan Fairbairn. Illustrated by Michele Assarasakorn. 2022. [March] 176 pages. [Source: Library]
204. Teeny Houdini: The Super-Secret Valentine. (Teeny Houdini #1) Katrina Moore. Illustrated by Zoe Si. 2022. [January] 112 pages. [Source: Library]
205. The Giant Panda Plan (Teeny Houdini #3). Katrina Moore. Illustrated by Zoe Si. 2022. [June] 144 pages. [Source: Library]
206. Lily to the Rescue: Dog, Dog, Goose. W. Bruce Cameron. 2020. 144 pages. [Source: Library]
207. Board book: Moo, Baa, Fa la la la la! Sandra Boynton. 2022. [September] 16 pages. [Source: Library]
208. The Sour Grape. Jory John. Illustrated by Pete Oswald. 2022. [November] 40 pages. [Source: Library]
209. Mihi Ever After (Mihi Ever After #1) Tae Keller. 2022. [November] 240 pages. [Source: Library]
210. What is the Story of Ebenezer Scrooge? Sheila Keenan. Illustrated by Andrew Thomson. 2022. 112 pages. [Source: Library]
211. Maybe Maybe Marisol Rainey. Erin Entrada Kelly. 2021. 160 pages. [Source: Library]
212. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Barbara Robinson. 1972. HarperCollins. 128 pages. [Source: Bought]
213. Surely Surely Marisol Rainey. Erin Entrada Kelly. 2022. 160 pages. [Source: Library]
214. Dog Squad (Dog Squad #1) Chris Grabenstein. 2021. 336 pages. [Source: Library]

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

185. Jan Brett's The Nutcracker

The Nutcracker. Jan Brett. 2021. [November] 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: "Sounds like Christmas, smells like Christmas, it is Christmas!" Marie laughed. "Thumps and bumps and jingling bells--I'm ready!" whooped her brother, Fritz.

Premise/plot: Jan Brett has adapted the Nutcracker and illustrated it as only she can. For fans of Jan Brett, this one would be a wonderful addition to a large collection of books--many with a wintry feel. 

Jan Brett has set her Nutcracker story in Russia. Marie does go on a magical adventure of sorts--a dream, perhaps?! She enters through a cabinet and finds a wonderful, marvelous world full of animals--mainly if not exclusively. 

My thoughts: Jan Brett's The Nutcracker is neither the original-original Nutcracker story (that many fans of the ballet may be more unfamiliar with) nor the traditional story of the ballet. Don't expect ANY dances, performances, and the like. It has been a few days since I read the book. I do remember animals playing musical instruments. I don't recall if there were any dancing animals. But definitely no ballet-dancing animals. Nor human ballet dancers. This picture book is as far removed as possible from the world of ballet dancing.

It is very wintry. And it has its own look and feel to it--it is all very Jan Brett-ish. 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

184. Motor Mouse and Valentino

Motor Mouse and Valentino. Cynthia Rylant. Illustrated by Arthur Howard. 2021. [November] 64 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Motor Mouse was a very good driver and this was a good thing since he took deliveries all over town.

Motor Mouse and Valentino is the third in the new early reader series by Cynthia Rylant. (I reviewed a few weeks ago). There are three stories in this early reader: "The Flight of Uncertainty," "A Scooter of One's Own" and "Assorted Amusements and Prizes." 

In all three stories Motor Mouse is spending time with his brother, Valentino. In the first story, they go up in a hot air balloon. In the second story, Motor Mouse tries to convince his brother to get a car all the while Valentino is trying to interest Motor Mouse in a scooter! In the third story, the two go to a fair together. 

I liked this one. I did. But I didn't like it as much as the first book. Still am enjoying the characters though.

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

183. Sister, Brother, Family

Sister, Brother, Family: An American Childhood in Music. Willie Nelson, Bobbie Nelson, and Chris Barton. Illustrated by Kyun Eun Han. 2021. [September] 32 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: Long before our bus began to roar down this highway--before there even was a highway--we were just a sister and brother. A girl who fell in love with the sound of a piano. A boy who fell for the guitar. We loved music. Music loved us back. It provided for us and protected us and supported our family's soul. It still does. Soon, people will arrive for our show. Soon, Bobbie and I will start making music. Just like we always have.

Premise/plot: Sister, Brother, Family is a picture book biography of Willie (and Bobbie) Nelson. The narrative is told in alternating poems, alternating perspectives. Willie and Bobbie take turns narrating their early years and the role of FAMILY, faith, and music.

My thoughts: To be honest, I have never been a fan of Willie Nelson's music. But I have a good, strong interest in picture book biographies. Sometimes I am amazed at HOW FAR we've come in terms of quality and quantity when it comes to picture book biographies and nonfiction books for children (in general).

I love that this narrative nonfiction book is told in verse. It seems appropriate for a musician's story to be told in this format! I also loved the dual perspectives which emphasizes the deep bond of family.

But what impacted me most as a reader was the role of FAITH. I shouldn't be surprised; I really shouldn't. When you read biographies of country musicians from this time period in history, time and time and time and time again, there's a close correspondence between faith and music. You see the role of "church music" (gospel, hymns, revival songs) in the home and in the church. Cherished memories of families singing together and being closely bound together by their faith as expressed in music. I absolutely loved to see the theme of faith unfold in their narratives.

I also loved the celebration of FAMILY. Despite any difficulties and hardships, LOVE can persevere and triumph.

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

182. Charlotte and the Nutcracker

Charlotte and the Nutcracker. Charlotte Nebres.WITH SARAH WARREN. 2021. 40 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: It isn't quite Christmas--not yet. But Charlotte gets the best gift she can imagine: her first ballet class.

Premise/plot: Charlotte and the Nutcracker is a new picture book based on the true story of Charlotte Nebres, the first Black girl to play the role of Marie in New York City's production of George Balanchine's The Nutcracker. The book focuses on the many, many years of hard work and dedicated practice that went into her being chosen to play Marie. 

The book provides with a (small) behind-the-scenes glimpse of the production of The Nutcracker. If you are looking for a book that retells the story of the ballet, this is not that book. This book doesn't focus so much on the plot of the story of The Nutcracker as it seeks to capture what it is like for a young dancer to be a part of this 'magical' stage production--the stuff of dreams.

My thoughts: I love, love, love The Nutcracker. To be honest George Balanchine's The Nutcracker is not my favorite Nutcracker. I really enjoyed watching Charlotte's story [among others] in the documentary series On Pointe. (The picture book did not provide a better behind the scenes glimpse than the series. But there are plenty of people who have not seen and will not get a chance to see On Pointe.) I liked this picture book. 

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

181. Pilgrim Cat

Pilgrim Cat. Carol Antoinette Peacock. Illustrated by Doris Ettlinger. 2004. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

 First sentence: On a breezy September morning in 1620, a stray cat prowled on the decks, hunting his breakfast.

Premise/plot: Can the presence of a cat save this Thanksgiving-themed picture book? (I'll answer that in 'my thoughts.') Faith Barrett finds a lifelong friend in Pounce, the 'pilgrim' cat of the title. The book essentially is a history lesson about the Mayflower and the Plymouth settlement. It is a history lesson thinly veiled through the perspective of a cat-loving little girl, Faith. 

My thoughts: The answer to the question is NO, not really. Garfield's Thanksgiving is one of my favorite, favorite, favorite, favorite holiday specials. It's incredibly quotable and just GOOD fun. In that special, Jon puts his "date" (Garfield's vet) to sleep with his history lesson. (All the while Jon's Grandma is saving their dinner in the kitchen.) This book reminded me of Jon's history lesson. Pounce is a lovely cat. I'm glad she has kittens. I'm glad she brings so much joy and happiness to Faith. But the book is a little too boring for me to recommend. Though if you *have* to read a Thanksgiving themed book, I suppose having one with a cat could be a bonus.

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

180. Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree

Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree. Robert E. Barry. 1963. Random House. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

Mr. Willowby's Christmas tree came by special delivery. Full and fresh and glistening green--the biggest tree he had ever seen. He dashed downstairs to open the door--This was the moment he'd waited for.

I loved, loved, loved Mr. Willowby's Christmas Tree. It celebrates giving in a fun and playful way. Mr. Willowby starts off a long chain of giving when he chops off the top of his too-tall Christmas tree. A tree that is splendid in every other way. He gives the tree-top to the upstairs maid. She's delighted. Very delighted. How thoughtful! How cheery! But the tree is too-tall for her small room. The top must go! Chances are you can predict at this point how the story will go. But that doesn't mean it is in any way less delightful. This little tree-top gets passed down and re-trimmed again and again and again and again and again. And it's just WONDERFUL to see how much happiness and cheer it brings to others.

I loved the premise. I loved the writing. The rhyming was delightful. It worked very well for me! I think this one would make a great read-aloud. I also loved how uplifting it is. (After reading Baboushka and the Three Kings, I needed a cheery story!)

Why didn't someone tell me about this wonderful and charming picture book?! Why?! Well, I am glad to have discovered it now!

Which Christmas books would you consider classic? Which would you recommend?

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

179. Motor Mouse

Motor Mouse. Cynthia Rylant. Illustrated by Arthur Howard. 2019. 62 pages. [Source: Library]

 First sentence: Motor Mouse and his friend Telly loved cake.

 Premise/plot: Motor Mouse is a new early reader series by Cynthia Rylant. It has three stories all starring Motor Mouse and his friends. The three stories are "Friday Cake Day," "Going for a Look About," and "Front Row at the Picture Show."

My thoughts: I really enjoyed this one! My absolute favorite of the three was "Friday Cake Day." The two friends always, always, always have cake together on Friday. But what happens when there is NO CAKE. As Telly laments, "What is the point of it all without cake?" Still, these two friends find a bit of joy when a new friend introduces them to the goodness of PIE. 

The other two stories were fun as well. In the final story, Motor Mouse and his brother, Valentino, go to the picture show...and some sibling quibbling results. Does Valentino really HOG all the popcorn? Does Motor Mouse really mind all that much??? 

Overall, I thought this was a strong (solid) selection of stories. I'd definitely recommend it to parents and teachers. 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

178. Mustache Baby Christmas

The Mustache Baby Christmas. Bridget Heos. Illustrated by Joy Ang. 2019. 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: You know that Baby Billy was born with a mustache. And that Baby Javier was born with a beard. But did you know that on Christmas Eve, Javier’s beard...that made him Santa’s #1 helper, Santa Baby!

Premise/plot: Mustache Baby (Baby Billy) is Back and starring in his fourth picture book. In this holiday adventure, these two friends become Santa’s helpers. Javier becomes Santa Baby and Baby Billy becomes an elf. A toy-making elf. But toys are made to be given away, right?!?! Will Billy want to give away the toys that he has made?! Or will he want to keep them ALL?! Will he be on Santa’s naughty or nice list?!

My thoughts: I really enjoyed this one! It’s a cute and clever holiday read aloud just about perfect for families. It is definitely full of puns. These puns may get old after the fiftieth time or so, but I definitely think it’s an again again read aloud to bring out season after season. 

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

177. You Are My Sparkly Mermaid

You Are My Sparkly Mermaid. Joyce Wan. 2021. [June] 14 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Swim and dive
soar and thrive
sparkle and glow.

Premise/plot: The illustrations (and title) reveal that this 'motivational' board book is mermaid-themed. The text is a poem--of sorts. It sure doesn't read like prose!

My thoughts: What a disappointment! I will say that Joyce Wan's YOU ARE MY CUPCAKE is without a doubt the best, best, best, best board book of all time. But this one is a dud. In my opinion. The book's strength is the artwork. If cutesy, precious artwork is your thing and you also happen to love mermaids, this will prove a super satisfying read--albeit a light read. 

The poem is frothy. At first I was convinced that most of the poem is a fractured sentence, incomplete, a string of words. Upon reading it a couple of times, I'm changing my mind and thinking that it is written in second person, with an inferred "you." But I still am not a fan.

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

176. Pepper and Boo: Puddle Trouble

Pepper & Boo: Puddle Trouble. Charise Mericle Harper. 2021. [October 19] 64 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Twelve paws like to play outside. Four paws belong to Pepper. Four paws belong to Boo. Four paws belong to the Cat. The Cat has a message.

Premise/plot: This second book in the Pepper & Boo series focuses on a rainy day. The two dogs, Pepper and Boo, STILL want to play outside--despite the rain. The Cat, on the other hand, would rather stay inside the house to play. The rain isn't her idea of fun. Meanwhile, the two dogs have an argument of sorts about what kind of 'coat' is best for playing in the rain. 

My thoughts: I liked this one. I didn't love it as much as the first book. Don't get me wrong, I still love the characters. I do. But the story--at least for me as an adult--was less entertaining. Perhaps because the first book had to do with NAPPING and the second book has to deal with PLAYING in the rain and playing in puddles...but I would still easily recommend the series as a whole.

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

175. Pepper & Boo: A Cat Surprise

Pepper & Boo: A Cat Surprise. Charise Mericle Harper. 2020. [September] 64 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Twelve paws are in this house. Four paws belong to Pepper. Four paws belong to Boo. Four paws belong to the Cat. The cat has something to say.

Premise/plot: This beginning reader/early reader focuses on three friends--Pepper, Boo, and Cat. Cat not only has something to say, she has a LOT to say. Readers get to see what THE GOOD LIFE looks like--if you're a cat. And the good life, well, the good life definitely has napping in it. A lot of naps! But what happens when Cat decides to nap in Boo's bed?!?!?!

My thoughts: I really LOVED this one. It was such a great read. I loved all three characters. I loved the relationships. I loved the story. It had plenty of humor. I would have loved, loved, loved this one as a kid. (Hint: I still love it now as an adult.)

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

174. Music, Music for Everyone

Music, Music for Everyone. (The Rosa Books #3) Vera B. Williams. 1984. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Our big chair often sits in our living room empty now.

Premise/plot: Rosa's grandmother is sick. Rosa forms a band with her friends--remember she got a musical instrument in Something Special for Me--to help raise money for the family.

My thoughts: This is the third book in the series. The focus is on family, friends, community. I liked it.

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

173. Something Special for Me

Something Special for Me. (The Rosa Books #2) Vera B. Williams. 1983. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Our new chair has cocoa on one arm now.

Premise/plot: Rosa and her family have kept adding money to their jar. They were able to buy their chair--a chair for her mother (and grandmother). But now the jar is almost full again and Rosa's birthday is days away! The coins this time will go towards Rosa's birthday present. But HOW is a girl ever to choose what she MOST wants. She wants the present to not only be special--for herself--but bring some joy and happiness to the others in her family as well.

My thoughts: I had NO IDEA that A Chair For My Mother had sequels. This is the first sequel. In this one, Rosa picks out a musical instrument--an accordion, I believe. I definitely enjoyed spending more time with this family. I could relate 100% to her indecisiveness.

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

172. A Chair for My Mother

A Chair for My Mother (Rosa Books #1) Vera B. Williams. 1982. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: My mother works as a waitress in the Blue Tile Diner. After school sometimes I go to meet her there. Then her boss, Josephine, gives me a job too. I wash the salts and peppers and fill the ketchups. One time I peeled all the onions for the onion soup. When I finish, Josephine says, "Good work, honey," and pays me. And every time, I put half of my money into the jar.

Premise/plot: Rosa and her family (mother, grandmother) save up their coins in a jar so they can buy a chair. I believe this is after a previous fire destroyed their home.

My thoughts: I remember--vaguely--A Chair For My Mother being a Reading Rainbow book. I'm not sure when I first read it for myself. But every now and then I'll be in a mood to seek out the story again.

In many ways, it is a simple story. The family is hard-working and patient. Filling the jar will not be quick and easy. Every day the family looks ahead to the goal--the day the jar will have enough money so they can go together and pick out a chair. The mindset in some ways is so different from the "modern" or "contemporary" [entitled] outlook of if I want it, I'll buy it NOW. And this is something that is actively encouraged, buy it TODAY, pay for it later. It is always refreshing to pick this one up. 

I also love the subtle [and simple] celebration of family.

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

171. Cat Dog

Cat Dog. Mem Fox. Illustrated by Mark Teague. 2021. 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: So there was a scary dog, right? No! But there was a cat, right? Yes! And thew dog was wide awake, right? No! But the cat saw a mouse right? Yes! And the dog knew something was up, right? No!

Premise/plot: Cat Dog is Mem Fox's newest picture book. It stars a cat, a dog, and a mouse. But what is the *real* story?

My thoughts: The illustrations and narration sometimes clash in this call and response picture book. I thought it was funny. I think it would probably work best one on one--a parent and child. I think as a read aloud for a larger group of children, it would be harder to see all the details of the illustrations. And most of the story is told through the illustrations.

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

170. I Don't Want To Read This Book

I Don't Want To Read This Book. Max Greenfield. Illustrated by Mike Lowery. 2021. [November] 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: I don't want to read this book. I know it happens to be the title of this book, but let me make myself very clear. I really don't want to read it. I meany why would I read this book?

Premise/plot: The narrator--a reluctant reader--does NOT want to read this book. There are plenty of reasons WHY.

My thoughts: I loved, loved, loved this book. I did. I thought it was so much fun and definitely relatable. I wouldn't ever classify myself as a reluctant reader--not really. But I was reluctant to read most things attached to school assignments. I remember one time writing in an actual assignment that I chose to read this book--I believe it was a biography of Sam Houston???--because it had LARGE PRINT and pictures.
But back to the book in hand, I loved this one because the narrative was GREAT.

I think my favorite quote was, "I don't want to read any book that has a paragraph in it. Paragraphs belong in chapter books, and chapter books are for people with nothing better to do."

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

169. The Smart Cookie

The Smart Cookie. Jory John. Illustrated by Pete Oswald. 2021. [November] 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Greetings, I'm a cookie. I live in a bakery on a street corner near a river.

Premise/plot: The Smart Cookie is a motivational speech disguised as a children's story book. The narrator, a cookie, is a SMART cookie. But this cookie didn't always feel smart. There was a time this cookie felt anything and everything but smart.

My thoughts: There wasn't much there besides a motivational speech. I guess the message is a good one, a necessary one. But The Smart Cookie is FAR from Leo the Late Bloomer. There just wasn't much story or development beyond the didactic, motivational speech.

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

168. Interrupting Chicken: Cookies for Breakfast

Interrupting Chicken: Cookies for Breakfast (Interrupting Chicken #3) David Ezra Stein. 2021. [October 26] 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: It was bright and early for the little red chicken. "Good morning, Papa!" said the little red chicken. "Oog," said Papa. "Wake up!" "Chickennn," groaned Papa. "I don't want to wake up yet. It's Saturday!" "But look! I brought us breakfast in bed." "Really?" said Papa.

Premise/plot: LITTLE Chicken--our INTERRUPTING chicken--has brought his Papa breakfast in bed!!! Three guess as to what he's serving!!! But will Papa go for this? Will he really allow them to eat cookies....for breakfast???? This amusing exchange results in some stories...and some interrupting. Cookie may just find their way into some classic Mother Goose rhymes.

My thoughts: I really LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this one. I do recommend the other two books in the series. Though I don't think you'd have to read them first to enjoy this one. I love these two characters. I love the stories. I love the interruptions. I love Little Chick's one track mind!

I think my favorite dialogue is this,

"Cookies are healthy! They have lots of vitamins."
"What vitamins?"
"Vitamin C for Cookie!"
"Let's just read, okay?"
"Okay, Papa."

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

167. Little Red and the Cat Who Loved Cake

Little Red and the Cat Who Loved Cake. Barbara Lehman. 2021. [November] 64 pages. [Source: Library]

Little Red and the Cat Who Loved Cake is a wordless picture book. Mostly. There are technically words in this narrative free picture book, but the words are on signs, shirts, etc. It appears to be set in a fractured fairy tale world where all fairy tale characters mix and mingle. Little Red is delivering a cake to Grandma. But Little Red's CAT comes along--secretly or not so secretly. The cat is fairly insistent to be included in any eating of cake.

If I had known BEFORE borrowing from the library that it was a wordless picture book, I would have not checked it out. To be honest, I need words in my stories. It isn't that it is impossible for stories to be told without words, but all the best of the best stories have words. Even if the text is super-simple and just a few words per page--think of Max's communication skills in Max and Ruby--I need words.

But I was drawn to this one because of the word CAT in the title.

I thought the super-playful and "sneaky" cat was cute. Is the cat trying to steal cake enough of a gimmick to make me love a wordless picture book???? Probably not.
 

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers.

166. The Welcome Chair

The Welcome Chair. Rosemary Wells. Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney. 2021. 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: In the year 1807, Sam Seigbert is born in the kingdom of Bavaria.

Premise/plot: An immigrant, Sam Seigbert, crafts a wooden rocking chair and engraves it with the word 'welcome.' (Technically WILLKOMMEN) Through the years, the word 'welcome' is engraved in a handful of different languages. The picture book provides a glimpse into almost two hundred years' worth of immigration stories. (Not that there is a story for every year--or even decade. But the book allows for readers to see how immigration and immigrants has been viewed. The first story taking place circa 1820s.) 

My thoughts: I went into this one wanting to love it or at the very least like it. It has at least three starred reviews (Booklist, BookPage, Kirkus). It is on a timely subject--immigration. The fact that the author was inspired by a family diary from a hundred years ago, it made me want to love it. 

But it just didn't work for me. I thought the story linking all these immigration stories together into one bigger story was weak. The individual stories had merit--I just didn't see the need to link them all together by using a physical chair. I didn't see how one chair could find its way about so many families, so many generations, so many places. 

The author's note reveals that some of the earlier stories were from her own family tree, but she felt the need to tack on other immigration stories from other decades to bring the story to the present day. And the other stories do feel tacked on. Yes, that's just my opinion. Yes, I'm just one person. There are many, many, many people who seem to love and adore this one just as is. But for me it just didn't work. 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

165. The Cat on the Dovrefell

The Cat on the Dovrefell: A Christmas Tale. Illustrated by Tomie dePaola. Translated by George Webbe Dasent. 1979/2021. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Once upon a time, in the faraway land of Finnmark, a man caught a great white bear. "This bear will be a great gift for the king of Denmark," he said. So he set off.

Premise/plot: A picture book retelling of a traditional fairy tale from Norway. A man (and his bear) take refuge in a couple's home. But the couple are fleeing from their home because of TROLLS that come every year to eat their Christmas feast. The man (and his bear) are welcome to stay, however. They do. The trolls come...and well...let's just say it might be their last time to come visiting this particular house.

My thoughts: What a strange, strange book. I knew absolutely nothing when I picked it up at the library. I was expecting, well, I was expecting an ACTUAL CAT. If you've read the story, you know there isn't really a CAT to be found in the story. I wasn't expecting a traditional folk tale that has been translated (multiple times) into English. I was definitely NOT expecting trolls. So the book caught me off guard as far as what I was expecting versus what I got. That being said, if you weren't reading the book looking for an adorable little kitty kitty, then you probably would end up enjoying it more than I did!

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers

164. Dragon's Merry Christmas

Dragon's Merry Christmas. Dav Pilkey. 1993. 48 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: One cold morning Dragon went out to find the perfect Christmas tree.

Premise/plot: Dav Pilkey's Dragon stars in FOUR stories in Dragon's Merry Christmas. The stories in this Christmas-themed collection are: "The Perfect Christmas Tree," "The Candy Wreath," "Mittens," and "Merry Christmas, Dragon." The stories all take place during the holidays, but aren't directly connected to one another. (Perhaps with the exception of Mittens and Merry Christmas, Dragon.) Dragon's personality (to know him is to love him) shines through in all the stories.

My thoughts: I haven't read ALL the Dragon books. I've read three. I can honestly say that I do love and adore Dragon. My personal favorite in this collection is THE CANDY WREATH. I know people overuse the word awesome. Yet, I'm tempted to use it when gushing about this story! I think it will appeal to children and adults alike. In The Candy Wreath, Dragon makes a wreath out of candy. But when he hangs it on his wall, a few pieces fall off. OOPS. What's a dragon to do? He must eat the candy, of course!!! The following pages are PURE DELIGHT as readers learn the fate of the wreath. All the stories are enjoyable.

 

© 2021 Becky Laney of Young Readers