120. Lily to the Rescue

Lily to the Rescue (Lily to the Rescue #1) W. Bruce Cameron. 2020. 128 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: My name is Lily, and I have a lot of friends. My best friend of all, of course, is Maggie Rose. In the nighttime, I sleep on Maggie Rose's bed, pressed up against her warm legs. I get to lie there until Mom or Dad pokes a head in the doorway and says the word school. Maggie Rose will groan a little, and then she climbs slowly out of bed and puts on her clothes and goes into the kitchen for breakfast with her brothers. While she's changing clothes, I lie on the bed, missing her legs and trying to show her that we would all be happier if she just climbed back under the covers. But she never does that on days people say school. I don't know why. I think school must be a place....

Premise/plot: Lily, our dog protagonist, loves, loves, loves her life. At home she's surrounded by her people. At work she's surrounded by animals. Maggie Rose's mother is a veterinarian at an animal shelter. Lily helps out at the animal shelter...

In this first adventure, Lily is helping out a crow (named Casey) with a broken wing...

My thoughts: Animal fantasy is nothing new for young readers. But surely they can't all be as delightful as Lily to the Rescue????? I definitely enjoyed her voice and point of view. It was cute without being nauseatingly so. (At least in my opinion.) The book was just a joy to read from start to finish.

Highly recommended and no need to worry...even though there is a dog on the cover.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

119. Fitz and Cleo Get Creative

Fitz and Cleo Get Creative (Fitz and Cleo #2) Jonathan Stutzman and Heather Fox. 2022. [March] 80 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence:
Cleo: Grrr. Sigh.
Fitz: Don't like the book?
Cleo: No! I LOVE the book. That's the problem! The characters in them have so many awesome adventures! Daring escapes! Epic battles!
Fitz: What's the matter, then?
Cleo: Why can't I ever have adventures like these? I want to climb misty mountains! Find magical swords! Get cursed by witches and turned into a rat! Sail across great seas and battle mighty monsters! Where is MY fantastic adventure, Fitz?

Premise/plot: Fitz and Cleo are about to....wait for it, wait for it...get creative in their newest graphic novel early chapter book adventure. This one has dozens of little adventures leading to one big production....but the creative journey is anything but easy....

My thoughts: My absolute favorite story is WRITE NOW. I think it should be required reading for anyone who has ever thought--even for thirty minutes--that they want to be a writer. I also loved, loved, loved the story ONCE UPON A TIME. 

I enjoyed the friendship between these two ghost siblings. They are cute, adorable, sweet, and anything but scary. Mister Boo (the cat) is still around though not the star of the show in this second book.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

118. Marco Polo Brave Explorer

Marco Polo Brave Explorer (Book Buddies #2) Cynthia Lord. Illustrated by Stephanie Graegin. 2022. 80 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Marco Polo was a mouse Christmas ornament. He was small enough to fit in a pocket and made of soft felt. His tail and arms had wire inside and could be bent to hold things or curled to dangle from a finger or a coat hook.

Premise/plot: Ivy Lost and Found is the first book in this series. Librarian Anne is still offering book buddies to her young patrons. Children can check out stuffed animals and books from the library for two weeks at a time. Children are encouraged [strongly] to journal the adventures they share with their book buddy toy. Marco Polo may be super small and tiny, but he wants his chance. He seems to be well liked--at the library--but when it comes time for children to pick out what book buddy they want to take home, well, he's had so much disappointment. But Seth seems to be a little boy with possibility. Seth seems stubbornly set on MARCO POLO as his choice. Seth will be having his very first sleepover [with a kid his own age] and Seth wants Marco Polo to help him feel brave....

My thoughts: I love, love, love, love this book. I think I may like it even more than the first book. I loved the story from Marco's point of view but I also enjoyed the story from Seth's point of view. The book seems relatable and just fun.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

117. Baby Squeaks

Baby Squeaks. Anne Hunter. 2022. 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Baby Mouse was a quiet baby...at first.

Sometimes a pause speaks volumes. I love a good pause in a picture book. Baby Squeaks is fun new picture book. A Mama mouse is super, super, super, super, super excited and thrilled when her baby learns to speak. (The first word and the billionth word are the same--squeak.) Soon her quiet baby is anything but quiet. Mama misses the peace and quiet. But Baby Mouse left on his or her own, well, can be a little dangerous. [Or perceived to be dangerous.] Baby Mouse starts wandering around talking, talking, talking, talking to everyone. Can Mama Mouse find Baby Mouse? 

I liked this one. I'm torn between liked and really liked. [I'm not quite prepared to love it.] I'm genuinely torn between finding the illustrations expressionless and full of expression. I just can't make up my mind. I think the eyes can be very expressive on the animals. But there is also something very still about the illustrations. I do like the book. I do.

The book is predictable (which isn't a bad thing). 

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

116. Everything In Its Place: A Story of Books and Belonging

Everything In Its Place: A Story of Books and Belonging. Pauline David-Sax. Illustrated by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow. 2022. 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: The bell rings and I push open the library door.
The book-return bin is full.
Got your work cut out for you, Nicky, Ms. Gillam says.
I gather the books in my arms
and give them a hug.
Welcome home, I whisper.
I head down the rows of numbered shelves
to put them back where they belong.

Everything In Its Place is a picture book celebrating books and reading--obviously. But it also celebrates those subtle-brave moments where decisions are made. A shy, book-loving introvert is "forced" out of her comfort zone--the school library--when the librarian goes to a librarian conference for an entire week. That week she'll be "forced" to brave recess with her classmates. It isn't comfortable. But does it have to be as terrifying as it feels? Probably not. But sometimes how something feels to you is so very very very different from how something feels to others. Nicky--book of poems in hand--braves recess and in the process a tentative new friendship begins. (The potential friend likes poetry too.)

I am not 100% sure this one is supposed to be a poetry (a picture book that is a poem). But it feels like a poem so often. (Not always). 

I do love, love, love, love the end papers. The illustrations point to this being historical. How libraries and school libraries were in the past. (I can testify to that.) 

I did feel safest in my school library. It was a place I loved, loved, loved.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

115. Do Baby Elephants Suck Their Trunks

Do Baby Elephants Suck Their Trunks: Amazing Ways Animals Are Just Like Us. Ben Lerwill. Illustrated by Katherine McEwen. 2022. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: There are babies everywhere! Some babies can fly. Some babies can swim. And some babies can run faster than a fully grown person. Animal babies can be very different from people. But there are a lot of ways that we are the same. Especially as babies.

I love a good animal fact book. And this one was just a delight from cover to cover. To be fair, it had me from the title and cover. Who could not want to know the answer to that question...do baby elephants suck their trunks????? 

Each two-page spread asks a question:

Do you suck your thumb?
Has a grown-up carried you in their arms?
How do you like to explore?
Did you wobble when you started to walk?
What are some of your favorite toys?
How do you stay warm?
Do you drink a lot of milk?
How do grown-ups help you get clean?
Do you have any loose teeth?
How much do you sleep?

(Of course, there's an introductory and concluding spread that don't follow this pattern.) I love the question and answer format of this one. So many different kinds of animals are introduced. The facts are fun and informative.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

114. Board Book: This Is My Daddy

This Is My Daddy. Mies van Hout. 2020. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

 First sentence: Who is my Daddy?

This Is My Daddy is a board book that delighted me. The premise is super simple yet clever. On the left side of each spread, readers meet an animal--or is creature the right word???--asking one question: WHO IS MY DADDY? (Repetition can be such a good thing in picture books!) On the right side of each spread, readers see FOUR options. Readers are being asked to match the baby and daddy. 

The premise is fun and clever. Because sometimes babies and daddies do NOT look like one another. For example, like the tadpole and frog OR the caterpillar and butterfly. (Sometimes it is more obvious) It ends with a fun twist--a human child--asking the question. But the four options...well...you'll see when you pick this one up for yourself.

I'm not sure this is truly thirty-two pages. I read a board book of this one. I think there might be a picture book edition as well.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

113. Fitz and Cleo

Fitz and Cleo #1 Jonathan Stutzman. 2021. Illustrated by Heather Fox. 64 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: THUMP! Was that you? No, I'm right next to you. What do you think it is? I don't know. It sounds angry. 

Premise/plot: Fitz and Cleo are cute, adorable ghost siblings... This is the first in a new early reader graphic novel. In the first chapter, readers meet MISTER BOO an equally adorable [non-ghost] kitty-kitty-cat. Mister Boo loves, loves, loves his new friends. He especially loves to nap on Fitz's head!!! There are so many "little" adventures packed into this first book. Each story is short--yet fun. Not much happens, but it happens so joyfully I didn't mind.

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I had my doubts. I'm not the biggest for ghost protagonists. But Fitz and Cleo are so non-threatening, so non-scary, so cute, adorable, sweet...that I didn't mind a bit. But what really won me over was MISTER BOO. I love cats. I do. And Mister Boo is no exception. It was just a fun book cover to cover. 

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

112. The Great Biscuit Bake-Off

The Great Biscuit Bake-Off. (Aristokittens #2) Jennifer Castle. 2022. 128 pages. [Source: Library] 

First sentence: Toulouse looked up at the wide, empty canvas sitting on the easel in front of him. Then he closed his eyes and thought: which color should I start with?

Premise/plot: This is the second in a new Disney spin-off early chapter series starring the three kittens from Disney's Aristocats. Marie, Berlioz, and  Toulouse are having great fun with their creature cafe. But things aren't always all that equal between them when it comes to running the place. Toulouse, for one, would like to be move involved with decorating some of the treats. But his sister, Marie, is convinced otherwise. He has one job to do at that cafe and that should be enough. He may know art, but he doesn't know much of anything about baking or decorating. But then an opportunity arises....teams are formed...and a competition takes place. 

My thoughts: What I liked best about this one was seeing the country puppies come and visit. Lafayette's pup, Leon, and Napoleon's pup, Nadine. Napoleon and Lafayette offered great comic relief in the first film. True show-stealers, in my opinion. And it was fun to see these two make an appearance. Plus, they bring a bit of conflict--the conflict that leads to a biscuit bake-off.

I liked this one. I didn't love, love, love it. But I solidly liked it. 

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

111. Shelby & Watts #1 Tide Pool Troubles

Tide Pool Troubles (Shelby & Watts) Ashlyn Anstee. 2021. [September] 96 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: In the village of Valley Glen...

Premise/plot: Shelby and Watts are a detective team. In this first adventure they are helping a hermit crab [named Fred] find a new shell since he is quickly outgrowing his current shell. This mystery adventure takes them to the beach, and they'll have plenty of clues to investigate. 

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one so much. It was just a quick, fun read. It is an early reader/early chapter book mystery book. The text is relatively simple--all things are relative, aren't they? But the mystery is real enough. I like the 'sneaky' introduction of science-y facts. The illustrations are a delight. I loved how every character introduced is introduced properly. 

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

110. Endurance in Antarctica

Endurance in Antarctica (Survival Tails #2) Katrina Charman. 2018. 272 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Samson panted, trying to stay cool as he kept pace with the dogs at the front of the pack. Each dog was determined to stay one step ahead of the others, trying to prove himself.

Premise/plot: The second Survival Tail book stars the [sledding] dogs for the Antarctica expedition led by Ernest Shackleton. It is narrated primarily by two dogs--Samson and Bummer. A third dog, Sally, occasionally pops in with her point of view. The novel opens in 1914--but their journey will not be a quick one, a safe one, or even remotely go according to plan. The ship, Endurance, becomes trapped/bound in sea ice--for months if not a full year. Ultimately, the ship goes down--the men do not. But what is to become of man...and beast...without a ship? 

My thoughts: I have extremely mixed feelings on this one. I do. I've read up on Shackleton and the Endurance. And read up quite recently--a couple books this year alone. So I know very well what does happen to the dogs [and ship's cat]. It was not good...at all...especially from their point of view. So the author has had to lie for about eighty percent of this book. The focus is almost exclusively on the dogs. And so if you are curious about the human explorers...this isn't for you.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

109. Show and Tail

Show and Tail (Home for Meow #2) Reese Eschmann. 2022. 144 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Bubbles’s belly is huge! She waddles around the kiddie pool Mama filled with blankets for her. The pool is in the corner of our living room, right below the window that gets the best morning light.
“Kira, how many kittens do you think Bubbles is going to have?” asks my little brother, Ryan. We’re kneeling by the side of the kiddie pool. “I bet she’ll have at least eighteen.”

Premise/plot: Show and Tell is the second book in the super-adorable early chapter book series, Home for Meow. Kira, our protagonist, is super-super-super excited--along with her brother, Ryan--that one of their foster cats is PREGNANT. Kira thinks the cat will have six kittens because that's the number of stripes on her back. Ryan, however, who is dreaming of a cat army, is convinced that she'll have eighteen kittens. Though the kittens haven't been born yet, Kira is already trying to find homes for the new kittens. And she's trying to find out how many of her classmates do not have pets...yet.

My thoughts: This second book is again super adorable and sweet. Watching Mr. A and Dr. DJ of Kitten Academy (on YouTube) has spoiled me a bit. Their channel exists primarily to foster pregnant mom cats and find homes for the moms and kittens. Each birth of each momcat is archived. I wish the author would have watched a couple of births. I think 99.99% of readers will not think twice of any of the details--or lack thereof. But the mom cat going into labor is treated like a HUMAN going into labor. Still. Even though I found a couple of things a bit on the unrealistic side, I liked it overall. The writing works well for me. I've shared my favorite quote below.

Quote: 

Math makes less sense than a cat army going to the moon. I try to reword the math problem in terms I know.
Leo has 33 pieces of candy cats left over from Halloween. If he gives 14 pieces cats to Mark and 11 pieces cats to Anna, how many pieces cats does he have left?
I sigh. Changing candy to cats doesn’t make solving the problem any easier. My brain feels like egg whites that have been whipped for too long.

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

108. The Purrfect Show

The Purrfect Show (Home for Meow #1) Reese Eschmann. 2022. 128 pages. [Source: Library] 

First sentence: “I think this is my best idea yet.” Pepper purrs. She leans over the side of the mixing bowl and sniffs the batter inside. Then she licks the tip of her heart-shaped nose. That’s how I know this is a really good idea. I, Kira Parker, have a lot of ideas. Some of them are pretty good and some of them are really good. My little brother, Ryan, would probably tell you that my ideas are not so good, but I know he’s going to love this one. After all, who doesn’t love cupcakes and cats. Our family owns The Purrfect Cup, the best and only cat café in town. We live right upstairs, in an apartment with blue walls and yellow tiled floors. Mama runs the business and takes customers’ orders. Dad bakes the treats we sell. And I get to spend all day with the best friends a girl could have: the cats!

Premise/plot: Kira Parker's parents run the Purrfect Cup a cat cafe that features cats in need of adoption. (Though the family's own cat, Pepper, also is a regular.) She's wanting to find homes for the cats, so when she hears of an upcoming talent show--for dogs--she gets the idea that cats should participate too. But will all go like planned? Can the cats be trained to perform tricks? Will they behave at the talent show? Will people fall so in love with them that they find new forever homes?

My thoughts: I liked this one. I liked the writing. I was expecting this to be sugary-sweet perhaps with a side of cheese. So super adorable, of course, but not much else. It had more substance than I was expecting. I liked the family-and-friends-and-neighbors element. I also liked that things did NOT go according to her plan, but, that was okay too. Because sometimes great ideas don't work out in the end. I found the narrator relatable.

Quote: And then I get the best idea ever. Getting a great idea is like making cupcakes. It starts with thoughts sitting in separate bowls. Dogs. Tricks. Talk of the town. Then my thoughts mix together like flour, sugar, and eggs. I put the idea into my brain-oven and it grows, like scoops of cake batter puffing up into cupcakes.

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

107. Hattie Harmony

Hattie Harmony: Worry-Detective. Elizabeth Olsen and Robbie Arnett. Illustrated by Marissa Valdez. 2022. 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: The first day of school had finally arrived! Some kids were excited and a little worried. Luckily, Wildwood Elementary had Hattie Harmony, Worry Detective. Hattie had many tools up her sleeve, and she was ready to get to WORK! 

Premise/plot: Hattie Harmony is a cat who LOVES to help. It is the first day of school, and Hattie finds plenty of classmates who want/need her help with their worries. Hattie's got a solution for every worry. And she'll always willing to share her techniques. 

My thoughts: I liked this one. I was a bit skeptical. It is a celebrity author. It can tend to be didactic. But. I went into it with an open mind (aka low expectations). I liked Hattie. I did. She's a CAT which definitely helps me trust her. She's caring and compassionate. (Also helps me like her as a character). The worries seemed legitimate and age-appropriate. VERY age-appropriate actually. The advice you could take as either a) completely didactic or b) actually instructive. Your pick. Advice, like always, is not one size fits all. Far from it. These are general ways (from a humanistic perspective) to calm your body when you are stressed or anxious. (Think taking deep breaths. Or giving yourself a pep talk.) It does not tackle worry or stress from a spiritual perspective. (Just so you don't expect that.)

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

106. Nacho's Nachos

Nacho's Nachos: The Story Behind the World's Favorite Snack. Sandra Nickel. Illustrated by Oliver Dominguez. 2020. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: In 1895, a baby boy was born in northern Mexico. His name was Ignacio Anaya, and like a lot of Ignacios, he was called Nacho for short.

Premise/plot: What you see is exactly what you get. This picture book is the story of how nachos were 'invented.' It is the story of the man behind the super tasty snack. The magic happened in the Victory Club in 1940...

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. It was fun and informative. I liked the text and the illustrations. I personally have never thought of the origin of nachos. I took their deliciousness for granted. Surely, nachos have always been a thing, right? Wrong. I wouldn't mind more picture books like this.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

105. The Titanic (Survival Tails #1)

Survival Tails #1: The Titanic. Katrina Charman. Illustrated by Owen Richardson. 2018. 224 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: The rain fell softly, swirling around the small garden to land on Mutt's wiry, dull brown fur. It was the kind of rain that seemed barely there at all when you looked out from the dry comfort of indoors--little more than a mist on the wind. But when you had no choice but to be out in it, it was almost as wet as a full-pelt downpour.

Premise/plot: Animal fantasy set during the voyage of the Titanic in April 1912. That is the premise--short and sweet. This novel is narrated by two animals: Mutt (the dog) and Clara (the cat). Plenty of other animals star in this historical animal fantasy as well. (Three kittens and a rat). Mutt is distraught that Alice (his girl) and Master (Alice's father) are leaving for America and sailing on the Titanic. Distraught that he's being left behind. It doesn't seem fair--not to Alice and not to Mutt. So he decides to stowaway on the ship. But it isn't easy to sneak aboard, and this requires help from a brand new friend, a rat, King Leon. Clara, meanwhile, belongs to the Captain. (Or perhaps the Captain belongs to her.) She discovers three kittens on board. They are wanting/needing/mewing for their mother--who is nowhere to be found. Clara is not a mama cat--never has been, never will be--but she takes an interest in these three. Not forever, but just for a few days. Clara and Mutt (and King Leon and the three kittens, Violet, Jack, Cosmo) do meet eventually. But the Titanic, well, it isn't smooth sailing to say the least...will ANY of these animals survive????

My thoughts: Sensitive readers should go with their instincts. This one doesn't just feature one dog on the cover--whose life could be in peril--but a cat, three kittens, and a rat. Definitely animal fantasy. These animal characters know a LOT. Not just animal-y things that you could easily imagine but a wide spectrum of knowledge that will conveniently come in useful when the Titanic runs into big trouble. 

I definitely liked this one. I would have absolutely hated it as kid. But that would have been all pre-judgement on my part. I would have never picked this one up ever, ever, ever. I would have avoided it at all costs. 

The story flows well. The pace is great. Plenty of will-they-or-won't-they suspense--will these animals (whom you've come to love) survive?????  

I do think sensitive readers may be upset with how this one ends. But it isn't 100% happy or 100% tragic. It is a bittersweet ending that probably is about the best you can expect.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

104. Cornbread & Poppy at the Carnival

Cornbread and Poppy at the Carnival. (Cornbread and Poppy #2) Matthew Cordell. 2022. [May] 80 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Cornbread was hungry. His best friend, Poppy, was eleven minutes late for lunch. "Cornbread, I have the best news!" said Poppy, finally arriving at his door. Cornbread loved Poppy, but he always worried when she had "the best news." "Come in, Poppy," Cornbread said. "The last time you had the best news, we saw that terrible movie you wanted to see. I had nightmares for a week." Cornbread was afraid of monsters. "The time before that when you had the best news we ate that terrible runny cheese you wanted to eat. It upset my stomach for hours." Cornbread was afraid of runny cheese. "And the time before that when you had the best news, we explored the old Crawdad Caverns...and I fainted." Cornbread was afraid of the dark.

Premise/plot: Cornbread and Poppy are best, best, best, BEST FRIENDS. But the two are VERY different from one another. This book is about Poppy's BEST IDEA EVER which is for the two of them to go to the carnival together. The two have many adventures (and perhaps a misadventure) at the carnival....the day will be memorable!

My thoughts: I loved, loved, loved, loved, LOVED this early chapter book. I loved Poppy. I loved Cornbread. I am so glad these two have each other. (Yes, I know they are fictional.) I identify strongly with Cornbread!!! I definitely recommend this series.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

103. Waffles and Pancake

Waffles and Pancake: Planetary Yum (Waffles and Pancake #1) 2021. [October 26] 64 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Pancake, it's Saturday! Hooray! No school today, Waffles! Let's watch cartoons! Let's wear pajamas all day! 

Premise/plot: Waffles and Pancake are a brother-sister duo starring in Drew Brockington's graphic novel series for young readers. Dad-Cat has Waffles and Pancake for the weekend (or perhaps the week?) and he's decided that they will go to the science museum for the day. Many adventures and a few misadventures follow as these three spend the day at the museum. 

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I liked Waffles. I liked Pancake. I liked Dad-cat. It was a very fun, playful, and somewhat sweet read.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

102. Welcome to the Creature Cafe

Welcome to the Creature Cafe (The Aristokittens #1) Jennifer Castle. 2022. 128 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: On a bright, warm morning in Paris, inside a grand mansion on a cobblestone street, three kittens sat looking up at a big wooden door. Their tails swished nervously back and forth. 

Premise/plot: Welcome to the Creature Cafe is a sequel to Disney's The Aristocats. Marie, Toulouse and Berlioz star in this early [illustrated] chapter book for young readers. These three kittens are inspired to open, or re-open, the Creature Cafe. They stumble across an abandoned restaurant--the Creature Cafe--and learn its history. It is a restaurant for....you guessed it...animals. They want to re-open the restaurant (and rename it). But running a restaurant may not be as easy as they initially think....especially when you're a kitten.

My thoughts: I liked this one okay. BUT. I was disappointed primarily because I think my expectations were way too high. The Aristocats is one of my all-time favorite, favorite, favorite, favorite, favorite movies. Seriously. I love just about everything from the movie. (Almost everything. Not quite.) And so I wanted this sequel to be magical....or special. It didn't quite live up to the movie. But if you pick up the book with reasonable expectations or even low expectations, I think it could prove charming. And for the right readers, I think this could work.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

101. Bug Scouts: Out in the Wild!

Out in the Wild (Bug Scouts) Mike Lowery. 2022. 64 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Welcome to Bug Scouts! 

Premise/plot: A group of friends--bug friends--have fun in the scouts--bug scouts--in this graphic novel for very young readers. Doug, Abby, Josh, Luna, etc. are some of the bug friends young readers will "meet" in the text. They are at a meeting and on a quest to get a new badge. But getting badges isn't always as straightforward as it seems. Sometimes unexpected things hop up--literally. 

My thoughts: I liked this one okay. My favorite character was Josh a grumpy spider who does not want to actually be a bug scout. One of his badges is for EATING CHEESE. (His other badges are for being a great sitter and having the best frown.) I could relate to Josh--or at least I could have as a kid (and that is what matters). 

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers2

100. The Firefly Fix

The Firefly Fix (Trouble at Table 5 #3) Tom Watson. Illustrated by Marta Kissi. 2020. 96 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: IT WAS BEDTIME on Tuesday. But I wasn’t in bed. “Mom! Dad!” I called from the top of the stairs. “Yes, Molly?” Mom called back. “There’s a strange light outside!” I spoke loud enough to reach all the way to the living room. Mom and Dad like to read down there at night. “What’s strange about it?” Dad said loudly. “It’s like a long, straight beam of light,” I answered.

Premise/plot: Molly (and her friends) are back in a third adventure. This book centers around a science fair. But, of course, it opens with a "problem" that has become "stuck" in Molly's mind. That problem is a giant searchlight across town. Where did it come from? Why is there? How long will the lights be on? For better or worse, her parents drive Molly across town until they come across the glaring searchlight and she is able to go ask all her questions....

But as I mentioned, this book is about a SCIENCE FAIR at school. The book opens on Tuesday night. The students must have their topics on Wednesday. Thursday is for researching projects. And Friday are the presentations. Molly and her friends Simon and Rosie have a topic...in part inspired by the bright lights of the opening chapter...their topic is FIREFLIES. 

My thoughts: I can identify with Molly a good majority of the time. But the problem that got "stuck" on my mind was how unrealistic it was for a science fair project to be assigned on Tuesday and have to be presented on Friday. Molly's parents are also super super super enabling and indulgent. I'm not sure how realistic that is to drive around town--past bedtime, after everyone has gotten ready for bed--and look for a mystery light. But I do enjoy the series. I have every intention of reading the whole series. I'm just loving Molly.

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

99. Inspector Flytrap: The President's Mane is Missing

Inspector Flytrap: The President's Mane is Missing. (Inspector Flytrap #2) Tom Angleberger. Illustrated by Cece Bell. 2016. 112 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: My phone rang.“Hello,” I said. “Flytrap Detective Agency.”A slow voice started asking me questions. “Is this . . . Mr. Flytrap?” “My name,” I answered, “is INSPECTOR Flytrap. I am a detective. Do you have a THRILLING mystery for me to solve?”

Premise/plot: Inspector Flytrap and Nina the Goat are back for their second adventure in Angleberger's wonderfully wacky world. President Horse G. Horse is revealing a new statue of great importance...at least in his eyes...a giant statue of himself....but after Nina's unfortunate snacking...the town finds itself in great danger. Can Inspector Flytrap SOLVE the case as to why a GIANT VENUS FLY is tormenting the town???

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I did. It was fun. It was wacky, silly, whimsical, over the top. I love Nina the Goat. She's a scene stealer for sure. I do recommend this series. But you might want to read the Inspector Flytrap series first. If you've read the other books set in this universe, well, these first entries might be less satisfying. [Didi Dodo has three books and DJ Funkyfoot has three books.]

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

98. Wish

Wish. Barbara O'Connor. 2016. FSG. 240 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: I looked down at the paper on my desk. The "getting to know you" paper.

Premise/plot: Charlie Reese is a wish-maker. She's made the same wish--in hundreds of ways--for at least the past year. Her dad is in jail; her mom is checked out from reality; her oldest sister is staying with a friend. Charlie? She's moved to Colby to stay with an aunt and uncle she's never met. She's been assigned a backpack buddy named Howard, an easygoing friend with a large family. Adjusting to her new life will take time and courage, will Charlie's wish come true?

My thoughts: I want more Howard. I love him. I do. Maybe it's silly to get so attached to a fictional character, but seriously a Howard in real life would be a girl's dream come true. I love the book. I love the characters. Bertha and Gus, Howard, Wishbone, the whole Odom family. This is a middle grade novel with heart! No wonder the author is getting fan letters from kids saying that she's the best author ever!  

I first read this one in 2017. It was love. I reread it for the first time in 2022. I think I love it even more the second time around. This book is one of my absolute favorites.

Quotes:

I looked down at the paper on my desk.
The “Getting to Know You” paper.
At the top, Mrs. Willibey had written “Charlemagne Reese.”
I put a big X over Charlemagne and wrote “Charlie.”
My name is Charlie. Charlemagne is a dumb name for a girl and I have told my mama that about a gazillion times.

You are a blessing in this house, Charlie,” she said.
A blessing?
She should’ve called me mean and hateful and dumb and sorry, but she called me a blessing.
Then Gus stood up and said the perfect Gus thing.
“Let’s have some of that blackberry cobbler before supper.”

I have a list of all the ways there are to make a wish, like seeing a white horse or blowing a dandelion. Looking at a clock at exactly 11:11 is on my list. I’d learned that from some old man who owned the bait and tackle shop out by the lake where Scrappy and I used to go fishing. Now that I’d missed 11:11, I was going to have to find another way to get in my wish for the day. I hadn’t missed one single day of making my wish since the end of fourth grade, so I sure didn’t want to miss one now.

“I’ve made a wish every single day since fourth grade,” I said.
Howard bugged his eyes out at me. “You must want a lot of stuff.”
I shook my head. “No, just one thing,” I said. “I always wish for the same thing. Every single time.”
The minute I said that, I regretted it. I knew what he was going to say next and sure enough, he did.

Well, dang! I never would’ve guessed that! You’d think that a redheaded boy with glasses who was named Howard and had an up-down walk would have a lot more to wish for than being friends with me. But I admit I felt a smile on my face and hope in my heart, ’cause maybe wishes really do come true. Maybe some wishes just take longer than others.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

97. Daisy Dreamer and the Totally True Imaginary Friend

Daisy Dreamer and the Totally True Imaginary Friend. (Daisy Dreamer #1) Holly Anna. Illustrated by Genevieve Santos. 2017. 128 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: "Knock, knock!" "Who's there?" "Mom." "Mom who?" "Mom who's about to come get you out of bed if you don't wake up, Daisy Dreamer!" 

Daisy Dreamer and the Totally True Imaginary Friend is the first in an illustrated chapter book series by Holly Anna. Daisy is a dreamer. The book opens with her reluctantly-oh-so-reluctantly waking up (so she can go to school). Within a few pages, I knew Daisy and I might just have been kindred spirits (as kids anyway). 

Quote: "If I can't stay in bed, then I'll bring my bed with me!" I hide under my blanket and walk slowly down the hall. My blanket is actually a magical robe that makes me invisible. Now I can sleep and no one will see me." 

In this first adventure, Daisy doodles a drawing and that doodle comes to life. Posey is the "totally true imaginary friend" that has sprung to life. The book ends with Posey promising much adventure...

I liked this one. I absolutely loved the beginning. I enjoyed the rest of the novel but perhaps not so much as those first few pages. Still overall, it was a fun and entertaining read.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

96. A Perfect Fit

A Perfect Fit: How Lena "Lane" Bryant Changed the Shape of Fashion. Mara Rockliff. Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal. 2022. 32 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Lena's family was not as large as others in the village, but for her it was a perfect fit. Her grandfather taught her to read and write. Her grandmother taught her to drape and snip and stitch. Lena loved her grandparents. Still, life was hard. She dreamed of following her older sister to America. 

Mara Rockliff has written a picture book biography of Lena Himmelstein Bryant (aka "Lane" Bryant.) This was a picture book I never knew I needed...until I read it. It was LOVE from page one. Seriously. I loved, loved, loved the narrative. Such great storytelling! The text was absolutely lovely. I loved, loved, loved the illustrations. Together they create a story that was just fascinating and satisfying. I thought it was beautifully written--woven together splendidly. Not all picture book biographies feel cohesive. 

 I also loved the repeated use of the phrase, "perfect fit." It always fits perfectly (no pun intended honestly) in the story. It doesn't seem forced; it feels natural and just right. 

I think what I personally loved best was how her grandfather's advice shapes the story as a whole. He defined success--real success--as having [actually] helped another person. 

Quote:

Success! How would it look--as elegant as lace? How would it feel--as comfortable as silk? Certainly it wouldn't squeeze and pinch like being poor. Her grandfather smiled. If she could help another person, he told Lena, that would be real success.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

95. Mia Mayhem is a Superhero!

Mia Mayhem Is a Superhero! Kara West. Illustrated by Leeza Hernandez. 2018. 128 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Okay, I know this doesn't look good. It definitely seems like a tornado just blew through my house. I spilled a whole bag of flour, broke a window, ran through the screen door, was licked by a bunch of dogs, and even got my shoe stuck in a tree. But I have an excuse. Really, I do. It's been a super-exciting day.

Premise/plot: Mia Macarooney gets an unexpected letter at the opening of the book; it's a letter that will change everything. Turns out, she's a SUPERHERO, well, will be with a little training. Her parents are supers too. 

My thoughts: This early chapter book was delightful. I enjoyed it. Mia is a fun protagonist, a relatable one. I liked the chaos and mayhem of this one.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

94. Cat Ninja: The Silent Master of Kat Fu

Cat Ninja (book 1) The Silent Master of Kat Fu. Matthew Cody. Illustrated by Yehudi Mercado. 2020. 160 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Metro City. You may have found my secret lair, Cat Ninja, but you're too late! Your feeble feline brain is no match for Master Hamster!

Here we have another cat battling evil in Matthew Cody's Cat Ninja. As a kitten, Claude was trained as a ninja by a previous owner. Now Claude has a 'new' family. Marcie and Leon have no idea that their pets, Mr. Squeaks and Claude, have secret identities. Mr. Squeaks is EVIL Master Hamster, and Claude is battling evil as as Cat Ninja. So what will happen when their dad buys a dog????

The book contains several 'chapters' of adventures. Each is like an episode. 

The Great Hamster Heist
Le Chat Noir!
You Only Live 9 Times
The Life and Times of the Fury Roach
Family Squabbles

I had different reactions to each chapter. Some chapters I enjoyed. Some I really did not. I thought some chapters were delightful and fun. And others more drudgery? Though I think that is 100% subjective. I think there will be plenty of readers who will stay engaged the whole way through. I lost interest.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

93. Max Meow Cat Crusader

Cat Crusader (Max Meow #1) John Gallagher. 2020. 240 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Welcome to the furr-ociously cool city of Kittyopolis! 

Max Meow wasn't always the Cat Crusader. His super powers came to him AFTER a visit to his good friend Mindy's science lab. Now that he has powers, well, he's battling all sorts of evil in town. But sometimes it seems to get the best of him, and, well leads to humiliation and misunderstanding. Is having super powers a blessing or a curse?

Confession time: I have a hard time "reading" graphic novels or comic books. I think it takes a whole different set of skills. I've always thought I had good reading comprehension--for the most part--but graphic novels are hard. If my comprehension slips on even one panel, it can snowball into confusion. It can even be difficult to rewind (flip backwards) to see where exactly I went wrong. Thus was the case with this one. I was following the story for the most part...until....well I don't want to spoil this one. I liked it well enough. But I didn't love, love, love it.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

92. Who Was E.B. White?

Who Was E.B. White? Gail Herman. 2022. 112 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: It was spring 1926. 

Who Was E.B. White is a nonfiction biography for young readers. The branded title for the series is WHO HQ. (I personally call them the big head biographies.) It is a moderately illustrated (with black and white illustrations) biography. The biography mainly focuses on his life as a writer--as you'd expect--his three children's titles being Stuart Little, Charlotte's Web, and The Trumpet of the Swan. But mainly his work was for magazines.

I liked this one. I didn't love, love, love it. But that is probably because I really, really LOVED, LOVED, LOVED Some Writer: The Story of E.B. White by Melissa Sweet. That book was all kinds of amazing. Highly recommend that one. This one is probably comparable to other books in the WHO HQ series.

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

91. I Am Lucille Ball

I Am Lucille Ball. Brad Meltzer. Illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos. 2015. 40 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: I am Lucille Ball. When I was a little girl, my mother tried to dress me in ribbons and bows. But I was different from other girls. My idea of fun was horsing around with my dad. He used to throw me up to the ceiling, always catching me and making me laugh.

I Am Lucille Ball is a picture book biography by Brad Meltzer. What you see is what you get, this book celebrates everything Lucy. Well, almost everything. It isn't thorough and comprehensive covering every aspect of her life or even mentioning every single role on radio, television, or film. (But I wouldn't expect it to.) The book mainly focuses on her dream, her following her dream, and her being true to herself while following that dream. I'm not convinced every single [picture book] biography needs a moral. (Why can't you just learn about people without the moralizing?) But this one definitely feels didactic towards the end.

"I am Lucille Ball. I believe that humor can take on anything. We all need laughter--every single one of us. And for the best comedy, people have to believe in you. But for that to happen, you have to believe in yourself. I Love Lucy wasn't just the title of the show. It was my most important life lesson: In this world, the person you need to love most is you."

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

90. The Nightmare Formula (Duckscares #1)

Duckscares #1: The Nightmare Formula. Tommy Greenwald. 2021. 208 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence: The laboratory crackled and hissed as the light bulbs burned out one by one. Soon it would be completely dark except for the sparks shooting out from the torn wires. I could hear the mad scientist cackling over his loudspeaker. He bellowed in his evil voice. Don't even bother trying to run. You can't escape!

Premise/plot: Huey, Dewey, and Louie star in DUCKSCARES a new series by Tommy Greenwald. The three are selected for an exchange program and travel to Germany. It is in Germany where their misadventures begin. (Though they do make some cool new friends and have some fun adventures along the way.) But it is their experiences with a mad scientist (he doesn't advertise that he is mad or evil) that lead them into grave danger...for he has a master plot in mind...and no one is safe.

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I did grow up watching DuckTales here and there. Spooky, "eerie" reads aren't exactly my absolute favorite and best. But this one stays relatively light. Relatively. There's so much banter between Huey, Dewey, and Louie (all three narrate) that it isn't truly terrifying or scary. Plus since the book's characters are based on cartoon characters...it's hard to take the book *too* seriously. Overall, it's just a good dose of fun and games.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

89. Busted by Breakfast

Busted by Breakfast (Trouble at Table 5 #2) Tom Watson. 2020. 96 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: There are times when Simon just cannot be quiet. He has to talk. And there is no way he can stop until he's done telling us everything. That's what happened yesterday. In Mr. Willows' class. At Table 5. 

Premise/plot: Molly is still narrating events, but, the focus of this one shifts to their friend Simon. (The three friends are Simon, Rosie, and Molly.) Simon gets in trouble (for talking). He's going to have to tell his father (when he gets home) that he's gotten in trouble (again) for talking. But his dad is away on a trip (presumably business?) His mom will be tracking his progress on her phone. Simon has a plan for the day. He (and his friends) will wash his mom's car, clean out the garage, organize everything, and have it all done by the time his dad gets home. It will be a LOT of work. But the three of them working together as a team can do just about anything. Even when the plan begins to digress. (Like when people think they are having a garage SALE instead of just cleaning out the garage.) 

My thoughts: I liked this one. I am getting to know these three friends better. I think each book will just improve upon the characterization. I'll become more invested (or engaged) with each book in the series. I have absolutely NO idea if the author was trying to sneak in a couple of math lessons into her story, but, I got that impression--for better or worse. The book also illustrates that there are many ways to problem solve and many ways to organize.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

88. Ways to Share Joy

Ways to Share Joy. Renee Watson. 2022. [September] 208 pages. [Source: Review copy]

First sentence:  I am a girl in the middle. Stuck in between my older brother, Ray, and baby sister, Rose. Being in the middle means I have my brother bossing me around telling me to do this, do that. It means I am called on to help out with baby Rose when she needs to be rocked, fed, changed. 

Premise/plot: Ways to Share Joy is the third book in the series by Renee Watson. The first two books are Ways To Make Sunshine and Ways to Grow Love. (Both highly recommended). So Ryan, our WONDERFUL heroine is in fifth grade now. The book occurs between October and November of her fifth grade year. The book begins with a Halloween/harvest festival at church and ends with a lovely Thanksgiving celebration/birthday weekend. (Her grandma is having a big, super-surprise birthday). Time is divided between Ryan's life at home (with her immediate and extended family) and at school. 

My thoughts: I love, love, love, love, crazy love this series. I do. It would be awesome to sit down and read all three books back to back to back. (Like I used to do with the Ramona Quimby series by Beverly Cleary.) Ryan Hart has to be one of my all-time favorite heroines. I love Ryan's family. (Though Ray is quite a STINKER in this one.) I love seeing her and her family celebrate. The characterization is so well done in this one. Please let this series never end.

Quotes:

"How about, for every piece of chocolate, we have to tell something we're afraid of," Then I say, "You start," because I realize for the first time that I have no idea if Dad has any fears. He's always the one coming to the rescue. I don't know what makes his heart pound, his palms sweat. .... "I'm afraid moments like this won't happen as you get older." "What do you mean?" I ask. "I'll never say no to chocolate for breakfast." "No, what I mean is--well, you're in the fifth grade now. Next year, you'll be in middle school and I...I just hope you always remember that your daddy loves you. I know I'm missing out on a lot because of my work schedule, but, well, all this hard work is for you."

I can't believe Kiki doesn't like elephant ears [funnel cakes]. We've been friends our whole lives and somehow I didn't know know this. I guess there is always something to learn about a friend, even the friends you know really, really well.

In these photos, she is just a girl. Just a girl who doesn't know she will marry one day and have two daughters and that her grandchildren will love her more than the stars love to cling to the sky.

Joy is something deep, deep down. Joy isn't always based on how you feel, but what you know. And sometimes Joy is happening even when frustration and sadness is happening. So, that's why I said what I said. Today, I am reminded of how much this family loves me. And my heart is truly overjoyed.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

87. Didi Dodo Future Spy: Double-O Dodo

Double-O Dodo (Didi Dodo, Future Spy #3) Tom Angleberger. 2021. 128 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: My phone rang. “Hello, this is Koko Dodo’s Cookie Shop,” I said. “Koko Dodo speaking! Would you like to hear about today’s special cookie?” “KOKO!” quacked the phone. “THIS IS THE QUEEN!”

Premise/plot: Double-O Dodo is the third and final book in the Didi Dodo Future Spy series by Tom Angleberger. In this adventure, Koko and Didi team up once again to solve a problem. This time the QUEEN has been kidnapped...and not just kidnapped...but kidnapped by a mythical being...a HUMAN. Can Didi, Koko, and 3 chicks working as a team find the kidnapper and rescue the queen???

My thoughts: My sister told me this was the best book in the series. I was skeptical. I really loved the first two books. How could this one be even better or even greater? But I did laugh harder at this third book. I think adults may laugh harder than children? Maybe. You see the setting of this one is at an AMUSEMENT PARK. And Koko, Didi, and the three chicks (plus a lost baby zebra) are pretending to be a "real" family in order to blend in. The setting of the amusement park + the family dynamics just makes for a hilarious read.

Quotes:

“Are there any clues?” asked Didi.
“Only one,” I said. “The kidnapper was a human!”
“That’s ridiculous!” said three of my customers, a unicorn, a dragon, and a tree that grows dollar bills. “Humans don’t exist!”
“That’s what I tried to tell the Queen,” I said. “Oh, Didi, what are we going to do?”
“Why are you asking her?” asked the tree that grows dollar bills.
“She’s Didi Dodo, Future Spy,” I said. “She can do almost anything!”

“Do you see a human?!” yelled Didi Dodo.
“No!” I yelled back. “Do you?” “I have my eyes closed!” she yelled back.
“What are you telling me about closed eyes?” I screamed. “How can you steer with your eyes closed?”
“I can’t steer with them closed!” she yelled back. “But I can’t steer with them open, either. There’s no way to steer rocket pants!”
“UH-OH,” said the baby chicks.
“This plan was TOO DARING!” I yelled. “If you can’t steer, we’re going to run right into that statue!”
“What is it a statue of?”
“Johann Sebastian Bach,” said the first baby chick.
“No, that’s Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart,” said the second baby chick.
“I’m pretty sure it’s Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky,” said the third baby chick.
WHAM!
We smashed right into a statue of Ludwig van Beethoven.

“OK, birds,” said the wolf. “Tickets to Humanland cost $139.95 . . . each! Pay up!”

We’ll never find the Queen if we zoom around in rocket pants all day. We’ve got to sneak around. So we’ll go undercover as parents with four adorable children.”

“Who are the adorable children?” asked the three baby chicks and the baby zebra.

“You are, of course,” said Didi.

“WE’RE HUNGWEE!” yelled the first baby chick.

“BUY US STUFF!” screamed the second baby chick.

“WE WANT FOOD ON A STICK!” shrieked the third baby chick.

“AN WE WUNT IT NOW!” hollered the baby zebra.

“Remember your manners, children,” said Didi in a motherly voice. “How do you ask nicely?”

Oh my stars! Do you know how much corn dogs cost at the park? Nine dollars! And an extra dollar for the stick.
And there was a huge, long line. And the line was full of moms, dads, and kids, just like we were pretending to be.
“You were right, Didi,” I said. “These are great disguises.”
“Thanks,” said Didi. “But my sneaky plan isn’t working. We haven’t found the Queen or the mommy. And it’s impossible to tell who is in that Elvis costume.”

She pointed at a booth that had a big sign that said: Red Gloop with extra sugar $8
“YAY!”
“ME FIRST!”
“NO! ME FIRST!”
“WAHHH!”
“Do you want that in the special collector’s cup?” asked the fox who was selling the red gloop.
“YES!” yelled the zebra and the chicks.
“And do you want extra extra sugar?”
“YES!” yelled the zebra and the chicks.
“How about extra red color?”
“YES!” yelled the zebra and the chicks.

We saw a stand called Now Ear This. A lion was selling hats with foam human ears.
“Can I get that?” asked the first baby chick.
“No, you’d only wear it once and then it would just take up space,” said Didi.
“WAH!” cried the first baby chick.
Then we saw a cart where a cougar was using an airbrush to paint a picture of Leonardo da Vinci on a T-shirt.
Can I get that?” asked the second baby chick.
“No, you already have one at home and you never wear it,” said Didi.
“WAH!” cried the second baby chick.
Then we passed a tiger with a big bunch of balloons shaped like US presidents.
“Can I get an Eisenhower balloon?” asked the third baby chick.
“No, you’d let it go and then it would float away and you’d make a big fuss.”
“Probably true,” muttered the third baby chick.
Then we passed a gift shop where two bobcats were stacking drinking glasses that said “Humanland 1987!”
“Can I git zat?” asked the baby zebra.
“No, you’d only break it,” said Didi. 

Children!” yelled Didi. “Do you want to spend the rest of the day in time-out?”
Everybody glared at everybody.
I groaned.
“We’ve made a huge mess! We’ve spent all our money! And we’re all miserable and mad at each other!” I yelled. “This is terrible!”
“No, it’s perfect!” said Didi. “Just like a real family!”

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

86. Trouble at Table 5 #1 The Candy Caper

The Candy Caper (Trouble at Table 5 #1) Tom Watson. 96 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: I’M MOLLY. I get things stuck in my head sometimes. I’ll give you a few examples. This morning, I had Froot Loops for breakfast. Froot Loops come in six different colors—red, orange, yellow, green, purple, and blue. When I poured the dry cereal into my bowl, I took the purple and green ones out. That’s because purple and green remind me of grapes. And I don’t like grapes because they come in big bunches and it’s hard to tell how many are in a bunch. I like to know how many things there are. That’s just me. So, I only had red, blue, orange, and yellow Froot Loops in my bowl. I ate all the blue ones first. It’s kind of hard to get only blue Froot Loops on your spoon, but it’s worth it. When I only had red, orange, and yellow Froot Loops left, I just ate them all. They could be mixed up. That’s because red and yellow make orange, so those Froot Loops are allowed to be together.

Premise/plot: Molly, our heroine, has great friends, Rosie and Simon. (Together, I believe, they make up table five). In this first book in a series, Molly has a problem. Molly becomes obsessed with figuring out how many skittles are in a glass jar in the principal's office. For days Molly, Rosie, and Simon brainstorm a way for Molly to get to the truth of the matter. Even if their plan leads to a little trouble. 

My thoughts: I really loved this one. (Yes, I've read a handful of books this month already that I love.) I loved Molly. I love that Molly is understood and supported by her parents and by her friends. I love that she's not alone to deal with her mental health issues. To be fair, the book never once (at least to my recollection) ever uses the word "mental health" or "OCD" or "obsessive compulsive disorder." Perhaps this diagnosis is completely unfair...on my part. Maybe she's neuro atypical in another way. Maybe each reader can read into Molly's way-of-thinking (way-of-processing) whatever they want.

Her friends and family accept her 1000% for who she is. The conflict in this one isn't like most of the conflicts in other books. I found it relatable.

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

85. Charlie & Mouse Lost and Found

Charlie and Mouse: Lost and Found, (Charlie & Mouse #5) Laurel Snyder. Illustrated by Emily Hughes. 52 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: “Blanket is missing,” said Mouse after lunch.
“Oh no,” said Charlie. “Where did you leave him?”
“If I knew that,” said Mouse, “he would not be missing.”
“That is true,” said Charlie.
Mouse was very sad.
“Don’t be sad,” said Charlie. “Blanket is somewhere. He can’t be nowhere.”

Premise/plot: Lost and Found is the newest addition to the Charlie & Mouse early chapter book series by Laurel Snyder. These brothers are back for even more adventures in this one. Ther are four stories in this one: "Somewhere," "Errands," "Silly," and "Boop." In the first story, Mouse loses his blanket. (Will they find it???) In the second story, the boys go on an errand that doesn't start out all that exciting...but may hold a surprise. In the third story, the boys are loving their new "found" dog. But finders aren't always keepers--especially with lost pets. In the fourth story, the boys do "find" a dog they can keep forever. 

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one so much!!! I love Charlie. I love Mouse. I love their stories. The text falls into the just about perfect category. Just a true delight from cover to cover.

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

84. Doggo and Pupper

Doggo and Pupper (Doggo and Pupper #1) Katherine Applegate. Illustrated by Charlie Alder. 2021. 96 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Every night Cat asked, “How was your day, Doggo?”  Every night Doggo said, “Same old, same old.”  Then he would wink at the smiling moon and say, “Could have been worse.”

Premise/plot: Doggo and Pupper is an ADORABLE (heavily) illustrated chapter book for young readers. Doggo's life is turned upside down by the addition of a new puppy to the household. But over the course of several weeks (at least) the two come to be the best of friends.

My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I thought it was cute, adorable, sweet, fun, delightful. Yes, it is predictably all these things. The illustrations alone would make this a fun read (or read-aloud) for dog lovers (of all ages). I enjoyed everything about this one. 

 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

83. Didi Dodo Future Spy: Robo-Dodo Rumble

Robo-Dodo Rumble (Didi Dodo, Future Spy #2) Tom Angleberger. Illustrated by Jared Chapman. 2019. 128 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: My phone rang. “Hello, this is Koko Dodo’s Cookie Shop. Koko Dodo speaking! What are you telling me?” I said. “How-dee, neigh-bor,” said a robot voice. “Would you like to—” “Wait just a minute!” I interrupted. “Is this one of those robocalls?” “What is a ro-bo-call?” asked the robot voice. “You know! One of those awful calls where you answer the phone and all you hear is a recording and the recording wants to sell you something.”

Premise/plot: Koko Dodo our cookie chef has a BIG DEAL problem. Didi Dodo steps up (again) to help. The problem??? Well, a Robo-Dodo has opened up a cookie shop right next door. And all of Koko's regular customers are being swayed by the price. Robo-Dodo is luring customers with a gimmick. ALL YOU CAN EAT COOKIES for only one penny. The cookies, well, they don't taste good. But ALL YOU CAN EAT of something you can barely stomach for just ONE PENNY. It's proving irresistible...

Koko and Didi must team up to figure out what to do next....but another BIG DEAL problem may be heading their way...

My thoughts: This book was just a JOY to read. I loved it so much. I have loved both Didi Dodo books so much. There's just so much silliness.

Highly recommend this author. 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

82. Pizza and Taco: Too Cool for School

Pizza and Taco: Too Cool for School. (Pizza and Taco #4) Stephen Shashkan. 2022. [June] 72 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: Pizza! Pizza! Pizza! Wait up!

Premise/plot: Pizza and Taco are back for their fourth adventure. In this new graphic novel for young readers, Pizza and Taco are heading off to school. But both are struggling with this notion of "coolness." Pizza has a new backpack with his favorite, favorite TV character on it. But once he's at school among his classmates, IS THAT CHARACTER actually actually cool???? Or is that television show for babies? The theme of coolness continues throughout. It seems to be contagious among the class. But does being caught up in "being cool" keep you from having fun, living life, and being true to yourself?

My thoughts: I loved the second and third book of this series. I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED them. I didn't love this fourth book as much. But I still think the series is a fun and appealing.

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

81. Mindy Kim and the Yummy Seaweed Business

Mindy Kim and the Yummy Seaweed Business (Mindy Kim #1) Lyla Lee. Illustrated by Dung Ho. 2020. 96 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: My name is Mindy Kim. I’m seven and a half years old. That’s old enough to ride a bike around our street, but not old enough to have my own puppy—or at least that’s what my dad said.
I don’t really agree with him, but our old apartment in California wasn’t big enough for a puppy anyway. I looked it up, and the experts on the Internet say that puppies need lots of room to run outdoors.
Now that we’ve moved into a house with a big backyard, we can really get a puppy! I just have to convince my dad that it’s a good idea first. So far, no such luck. Dad wants me to prove that I can be “responsible” enough for a puppy first… and then he’ll “consider” getting me one.

Premise/plot: This is the first in a new illustrated [early] chapter book. Mindy Kim and her newly widowed father have recently moved from California to Florida. Now she'll be starting a new school and having to make new friends. On the first day of school, Mindy Kim "sticks out" perhaps not in a good way. She's teased for her lunch. But then something happens: she dares her classmates to *try* her lunch, namely her dried seaweed. Mindy Kim is not surprised, but readers may be, to discover that her classmates seem to LOVE her seaweed snacks. So much so that they'll trade just about anything and everything to get more of her yummy seaweed. 

Meanwhile, in other news, Mindy Kim wants a PUPPY. She is convinced that a puppy not only would make her super-super-super happy but also cheer up her grieving father.

My thoughts: I liked this one. Mindy Kim is not an excitable heroine. She's not Clementine or Ramona or Junie B Jones. She isn't a trouble-maker or attention-seeker. She isn't horribly misunderstood. She's not weird, quirky, or eccentric. All this to say I found her a bit more relatable. The conflict in this one is a bit understated. (Which I don't mind in a book most of the time.)  

I thought Mindy was nice and sweet. I liked getting to know her. I think she's someone I would like to know better. I'm probably a thousand times more likely to seek out the second book in this series than the second book in the Eerie Elementary series.

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

80. The Last Firehawk: The Ember Stone

The Ember Stone (The Last Firehawk #1) Katrina Charman. Illustrated by Jeremy Norton. 2017. 96 pages. [Source: Library]

First sentence: TA – RAAAA! A horn sounded through Valor Wood. Tag watched as owls of all sizes swooped down from the trees. Training time! Tag thought, excitement bubbling in his tummy.

Premise/plot: The Last Firehawk: The Ember Stone is the first in a new series for young readers. It is animal fantasy packed with plenty of action and adventure. Tag, our protagonist, is an owl who wants more than anything to become an Owl of Valor, a warrior. He wants to help battle against the evil Thorn, a vulture. And quite by accident Tag may have made quite a significant contribution...in an unexpected way. He happens upon an egg that hatches....wait for it, wait for it....the last firehawk. And it is this new friend who may make all the difference in the world. And it starts with the friends--Tag, the firehawk, and Skyla (a squirrel) searching for the Ember Stone. 

My thoughts: I liked this one just fine. I wasn't personally on the edge of my seat. But I wouldn't necessarily expect to be. Part of me wishes it wasn't an owl book. Again, that is just me. I do like animal fantasy in general. This is definitely that plus a good old-fashioned quest-to-save-the-world action packed novel. The first books in such series are rarely the best of the bunch--just a fact. 

There are illustrations on every page.

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers

79. The School Is Alive (Eerie Elementary #1)

Eerie Elementary: The School Is Alive. Jack Chabert. Illustrated by Sam Ricks. 2014. 96 pages. [Source: Library]
 

First sentence: “This is HORRIBLE!” said Sam Graves. He was holding up a shiny orange sash. “I can’t believe I have to wear this.” It was Monday morning, and Sam and his best friends Antonio and Lucy were standing in front of their lockers.

Premise/plot: Sam Graves was not thrilled to be named hall monitor even before he knew the job came with thrills and chills. But the custodian, Mr. Nekobi, has hand-picked him to be "the one." The magic, chosen one who can protect the students of Eerie Elementary from the school itself. As the title states out right, the school is alive...and the students are NOT safe. It will be up to Sam (and to a lesser degree his friends Antonio and Lucy) to save everyone. But first he'll have to survive it himself. 

My thoughts: Heavily illustrated chapter book for young readers. That is definitely one way to describe this one. It does offer "thrills and chills" for a young(er) audience. No adult who reads 'real' horror (for their own age group) is going to find this one too scary or daring. 

Horror, even horror lite, is not my favorite or best genre or subgenre. I can say that now as an adult. And I can remember back to my own childhood. This book wouldn't have been "for me" then either. I'd hate to think of how more terrifying my childhood could have been if the idea of METAL FOLDING CHAIRS COMING TO LIFE AND EATING PEOPLE had been introduced through a book. 

The book celebrates the absurd through a darker lens than say Tom Angleberger (who keeps things hilariously absurd....and way over the top.) 

I do think *some* kids will think this book and subsequent books in the series to be great fun. And any book that gets a child super-excited about reading, that keeps readers coming back for more, more, more has some value. 

I don't think every children's book should be the samey-same. I don't think children's books should be exclusively bunnies, unicorns, and ballerinas. 

© 2022 Becky Laney of Young Readers