Bookstagram: Kiss Me in New York

It's that time of year again, when I want to be tucked up with hot chocolate reading holiday stories like this one.

 

Picture Book Wednesday: Books about Emotions

 

I'm talking about Emotions and Mindfulness today. Lately at the library, we've been working on a big project. We have our picture books separated into categories. But we're working on diving those categories even further. 

For example: we have a Growing Up section. But now all the books on Potty Training, Emotions, and Death & Grief will be together (along with a few other categories). It's been a long process, but we're getting there.

This alphabet book is all about growth and knowing that things take work, but that work will pay off. While the text is longer than most alphabet books, the sentiment is fantastic. The illustrations are bright and cheerful with diverse characters. There are pages at the end of the book for adults that further the growth mindset. 

Emma desperately wants to be a part of Carly's Cartwheel Club. It takes her weeks of trying, but she finally makes it. But once she's a part of the club, Emma discovers she doesn't like all the rules. Emma's determination and discovery that Carly is a bully will have readers cheering when she forms her own inclusive club. This is a great book to start discussions about bullying, frenemies, and true friendship. 

* sent for review

Lucy worries a lot - about everything. Even things that could never happen. Lucy wants to take part in play her school is putting on, even though she's worried about it. Luckily, her teacher asks her an important question, "Can you be courageous?" And the answer is yes. This is a good book to talk about worrying, anxiety, and being brace despite worrying.

* sent for review

Tomorrow is always rushing toward the next thing, not taking any time to see what's in front of her. But when a boy constantly is in her way, Tomorrow begins to slow down and take a look around. This book is a nice reminder to slow down and explore the possibilities. 

* sent for review

Pedro is moving in a few days and he is sad and anxious. Together with his mother and his friend, he explores different areas of mindfulness.  While there is a story here, there are plenty of tools to help guide children through their own process and find the technique that works best for them.

Feminist Read: Michigan Vs The Boys

When the girl's school hockey team is cut due to lack of funding, Michigan isn't sure what to do. She's busted her butt for years.  She doesn't want to stop playing but she's not sure about any other options. Even though the high school cut the team, Michigan's still hopes to play in college. But when a crazy idea occurs to her - to try out for the boy's team - she goes for it.

And she makes it.

But she never thought about what would happen after she made it.
She never thought about the coach's sexist behavior. She never thought about the harassment and pranks her fellow teammates would play on her. And she never imagined she's be the star of the team.

But what happens when everything becomes so much worse than she imagined? At what point should Michigan speak up?

My Thoughts: I loved this book but it also made me seethe with anger. I Hated the boys on the hockey team. I hated the coach. I wanted justice and revenge so very badly. My heart broke for Michigan and all that she went through. The ending was nicely done. I loved the idea of the girl's hockey team with friends supporting each other. I enjoyed Michigan's relationship with Jack. I really loved Trent (her brother) and their relationship. I loved Meghan and how she looked up to Michigan. I couldn't put this book down, I Had to find out what happened and if those boys would get what they deserved. I want another book about Michigan STAT! 

And this is a debut. I'm excited to see Carrie S. Allen writes next.

Cover Thoughts: Awesome
Source: My library
Library Recommendation: A must have book for school and public libraries.

Picture Book Review: Squiggly Story

One boy wants to write a story, but he's not sure where to start. Luckily for him, his supportive sister has some ideas.

 A really cute story about writing. It's not always easy and this boy gets help from both his sister and his classmates. But he also has a mind of his own and doesn't always take their suggestions. A great book for creativity and writing with fun pictures. Perfect for inspiring other writers.