written by Tami Charles, illustrated by Bryan Collier; Orchard Books, 2020.
The books we choose to share with children can acknowledge feelings, convey options and paths for positive action, nurture, and initiate conversations based on common language. Books can offer kids affirmation, and from this comes agency, possibilities, and choice. A book such as All Because You Matter gives kids space to be heard, and gives educators an opportunity to listen.
by Linda Sue Park, illustrated by Debbie Ridpath Ohi; Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers; 2020.
Years in the making, the eagerly-anticipated Gurple and Preen picture book began with Debbie Ridpath Ohi’s blog, which features broken-crayon art and has grown to enjoy immense popularity. I’m pleased to celebrate the launch of Gurple and Preen, a collaborative effort between Debbie and Newbery Award and New York Times bestselling author Linda Sue Park, with an interview featuring both creators and plenty of ideas for sharing this picture book adventure with children!
by Dee Romito, illustrated by Marta Kissi; Aladdin Quix; 2020.
The Birthday Castle, the first of four titles planned for the Fort Builders, Inc. beginning chapter book series, centers on a resourceful group of friends who start a fort-building business. Their inaugural project is constructing a castle for a friend’s birthday celebration. A few changes of heart present a snag or two for the team. Nevertheless, Fort Builders, Inc. intends to make their customer’s dream a reality, because that’s what friends–and successful business people–do.
This month’s Children’s Book Corner blog post is dedicated to shining a light on outstanding children’s books by people of color and offering resources for sharing their books with readers.
by Leslie Connor; Katherine Tegen Books/HarperCollins, 2020.
A Home for Goddesses and Dogs is one of those stories that holds you in its capable arms and wraps you in its goodness. Books such as this one reinforce why I prefer reading stories meant for kids over those written for adults. This middle-grade novel is impeccably crafted; there’s such care in the writing, skill in the rendering of authentic characters, and art in the measured unspooling of their journey. A Home for Goddesses and Dogs is a joy to read and share.
by Daniel Bernstrom, illustrated by Shane W. Evans; HarperCollins Children’s Books, 2020.
Our young narrator is scared. He doesn’t want to go to school. Big Papa understands. He knows a thing or two about being scared, about being brave, and about love. Here, woven between and beyond the being scared is the tender story thoughtful caregiver Big Papa and the time machine (or his beloved car), and the wisdom he imparts to the boy in his care.