Picture Book Review: All that Glimmers

Things in the world can be hard, but there are little things that make us smile and feel joy: glimmers.

I love the message of this book. It's important to see the little happy moments in life. It's important to celebrate success and happiness. I love that the characters are present in the moment and helping each other. The illustrations are soft and delightful. I love how they showcase the glimmers.

* A must have book for your library's collection

Picture Book Review: Here Come the Aunties

There are so many aunties with so many talents in this book.

I love how this book goes through the calendar year and showcases daily occurrences and special events occasions. I love how it highlights indigenous moments. This book really brings home the feeling and message of community and family.

* A must have picture book for any library collection

Picture Book Review: The Sweater

Hazel is heading out for a hike when she notices a little bird having some trouble. Instead of hiking, she goes to tell her friends that their new neighbor needs some help. They all pitch in. The next day, she drops off the present. It's a lovely present, but what's even better is what happens next.

What a wonderful story about community, sharing, and helping others. We really are stronger together. Connections do make all the difference. I loved this book. It carries such an important message that's desperately needed right now. 

* Must have book for your school and public library. 

Picture Book Wednesday: I'm So Happy You're Here

This book is perfect.

The illustrations are charming, bright, and delightful. The joy surrounding libraries comes through. The beginning of the book reminds me of a Todd Parr book (whom I also adore). I love the part about library cards being hte best thing ever and the fact the libraries are NOT just about books. We do lot of programs too. 

This is a magical read that everyone should read and every library should own.

Mychal with Sam (my co-worker) and I at a library conference in CT

Picture Book Review: You Can Sit with Me

This is a sweet story about kindness and being a friend. It's the perfect book to share. There aren't many words on the page, making this an accessible story. 

This is a must have book for your library's collection. 

Picture Book Review: Over and Under the Coral Reef

 

 A child and father take a swim in the ocean; the father points out all kinds of amazing things. 

They see so much under the water. There's so much to see; it seems like a magical day.  The illustrations here are beautiful; lovely to our over. There's an author note that talks about coral reefs and how to help protect them. There's a list in the back of the book about all the animals showcased in this book and tiny blurb of information on each one. There are also some suggestions for further reading. This is the 4th book in this Over and Under series and each of them is fantastic. Perfect for older readers.

A must have book for your school or public library collection.

Picture Book Review: I am Strong

Todd Parr has a new book out - and it's fantastic. With the signature bold colors, these books really stand out. The message is lovely - it's all about feeling your feelings and being brave enough to move forward. As always, there was a note from Todd. 

* Todd Parr is an author in our favorites bin at the library. 

** A must have book for your school and public library collections.

Picture Book Review: Juneteenth Alphabet

This is fantastic alphabet book that talks about the Blach history, Black culture, and how people celebrate the holiday today. 

This is a wonderfully informative book with a bright color palette making this a wonderful book for elementary school readers.

* A must have book for your school or public library's collection

Picture Book Review: My Lost Freedom

 

This might be a hard book for younger readers, but it's an important one. 

This is the story of George Takei and his time at the internment camps.

There's a lot to unpack. While this is terrible to read about - it's necessary to understand our past. There's some joy here as people tried to make the best of a terrible situation. It ends with hope.

There are author photos in the back from before the war, at the internment camp, and after the war. 

This book should be in every library. 

Picture Book Review: Raise Your Hand

 

Alice answers a question in class but gets the answer wrong. She's embarrassed and when the teacher asks the next question, she knows the answer. But she doesn't raise her hand. Other girls don't raise their hands and decides to come up with an idea. How can they make girls feel more confident?

This is such an important topic - girls not raising their hands in school and girls losing their confidence. I love the message that no one is right all the time. Everyone is wrong sometimes, but that doesn't mean that you stop trying. It's such an encouraging story. This is a must have book for your school or public library.

Picture Book Wednesday: Saturdays at Harlem Grown

* sequel to Harlem Grown

**Book sent for review

Mr. Tony and Nevaeh built a garden in an abandoned lot. Now that Spring has arrived again, it's time to get to work - but they need some help. They put up a sign asking for help. The neighborhood shows up. There's so much to do, but it's nice doing it together.

I really enjoyed this book. It talks about gardening steps but also the importance of being patient (which is hard.) Of course, I love the library part. I love how everyone came together to help and to celebrate. What a wonderful book about the power of community. 

This book also has an afterwards with how to create a community garden and a recipe for soup.

A must have book for school and public libraries! 

 

Picture Book Wednesday: The Reflection in Me

A person chats with themselves in the mirror - and they are VERY complimentary. They like themselves.

It's never too early to start practicing self-care. There's so much negativity in the world, that it's important to remember to be kind to yourself. Starting off every day with what you like about yourself is a perfect way to start the day. And of course, the illustrations are from the marvelous Peter H. Reynolds. This is a great book to share with everyone! 

* F&G sent for review