Author: LH Johnson

Hello readers!

We’re all about the girls this week at TKAAR towers. I’ve picked out a mixture of new releases written by women and which celebrate everything great about being a girl. Whether your small readers are political activists, passionate readers, environmental warriors, or inventive young minds that won’t sit still, there’s a book here for them and their dreams. Who run the world? Girls! [insert Beyoncé  gif here…]

Help Wanted, Must Love Books by Janet Sumner Johnson, illustrations Courtney Dawson

Shailey loves her bedtime routine, but her dad’s new job is getting in the way – so she posts a Help Wanted sign! Some very familiar faces apply – but they all come with problems and none of them are as good as her dad. Soft, rich artwork underscores this fun look at daddy / daughter bonds (and also the unsuitability of giants for bedtime stories…).

Wood, Wire, Wings: Emma Lilian Todd Invents An Airplane by Kirsten W. Larson, illustrations Tracy Subisak

Meet Emma Lilian Todd, inventor. Her story towards inventing an airplane is told in this charming non-fiction biography. It gets bonus points for those intensely evocative illustrations, and also for telling the little-heard story of a remarkable woman. This is perfect for all your little inventors!

My Friend Earth by Patricia MacLachlan, illustrations by Francesca Sanna

Start your Earth Day 2020 (22nd April) preparation now with this love letter to our planet. It comes from the author of Sarah, Plain and Tall and the author / illustrator of The Journey, so that’s a great team to begin with. Coupled with the fact that it’s a beautiful read and beautifully produced, this is an absolute winner.

Fight of the Century: Alice Paul Battles Woodrow Wilson for the Vote by Barb Rosenstock, illustrations Sarah Green

Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Nineteenth Amendment with this potent, fierce book. It uses the metaphor of a boxing match to explore the battle for women’s suffrage – merging a vintage aesthetic with some pointed political commentary.

Yusra Swims by Julie Abery, illustrations Sally Deng

Yusra Mardini is a swimmer who competed in the 2016 Olympic Games as part of the Refugee Olympic Athletes Team after having to leave her home country of Syria. This is the story of that journey – and all it entailed. It’s told with restraint and eloquence in a series of rhyming couplets alongside some beautiful and moving artwork.

 

Okay, that’s all for this week! Don’t forget that you can say hello to me on social media @chaletfan. and also elsewhere on Book Riot co-hosting the biweekly litfic podcast Novel Gazing. And of course, I’ll always be found in the nearest book store accidentally on purpose buying something new to read.

Louise.

Hello readers!

This is the email when you get five minutes to dreamily stare at new releases from the world of children’s literature (is it your favorite email? it’s my favorite email to write). From stunning covers through to beautiful stories, my picks this week are lovely, lovely things. I hope you enjoy them!

Selena : Queen of Tejano Music by Silvia Lopez, illustrations Paola Escobar

Selena Quintanilla was told that she’d never make it in the male-dominated world of Tejano Music. She was determined to prove them wrong…

Selena pairs an eloquent text with beautiful artwork. It’s a stunning reminder to follow your dreams and believe in yourself.

Vote For Our Future! by Margaret McNamara and Micah Player

Politics can often seem removed from the playground, when in today’s climate they’re often closer than ever. And for the children of Stanton Elementary School, it’s very close – every two years, their school becomes a polling station. This quietly sensitive text explores just what that means and the importance of voting.

Born Curious : 20 Girls Who Grew Up To Be AWESOME SCIENTISTS by Martha Freeman, illustrated by Katy Wu

I think this one sells itself, right? Featuring a diverse and representative cast of real-life individuals, these are stories of girls who were born with questions – and then went out to find the answers. Women featured include Shirley Anne Jackson, Adriana Ocampo and more…

Birdie and Me by J. M. M. Nuanez

The debut title from Nuanez, this is the story of a girl called Jack and her gender creative little brother Birdie. Following the death of their mum, Jack and Birdie must find somewhere to call home – first with one of their Uncles and then the other…

A story of family, love, and understanding, this will break your heart and make it all over again.

 

Building a Home by Polly Faber
illustrated by Klas Fahlén

I am sneaking a UK release in here for you because a) it looks stunning and b) it’s about construction! How cool is that? I love what Polly Faber does, and this is a charming addition to her canon. It’s perfect for tiny builders (and bigger ones), and features some beautiful artwork alongside a gentle and restrained story. Here’s a link to the publisher for more info.

That’s it for this week, I think! Don’t forget that you can find me on social media @chaletfan. I’m really keen to spotlight smaller publishers of children’s literature – and in particular, people who are doing cool, innovative things – so please do say hello. You can also find me elsewhere on Book Riot co-hosting the biweekly litfic podcast Novel Gazing. And of course, you can always find me in the nearest library.

See you next time!

Louise.

Hello Readers!

There’s a bright golden haze in the meadow and the corn is as high as an elephant’s – wait, no, that’s from Oklahoma. What I meant to say is that it’s a lovely day here, and that means a walk around town and a trip to the bookstore. It’s one of the best ways to celebrate a lovely day that I know and, if you need an excuse to go, I’m happy to write you a note.

Here’s my pick of the things that should end up in our bags this week.

Cool Cuts by Mechal Renee Roe

“When the stars shine, the world is mine! I am born to be awesome! My hair is free, just like me! I am born to be awesome!”

Not a bad place to start right? This book is full of vibrant, positive and self esteem boosting representations of African-American boyhood. I particularly loved the page where the owner of the book can write their name in: “This book belongs to … who was born to be awesome”. It’s the book sibling to Happy Hair – a title I also recommend!

Mulan : Before The Sword by Grace Lin

If you’re waiting for the new Mulan with bated breath, this is a great pre-read from Grace Lin. Bringing together Chinese folklore, history, mythologies and legend, Before The Sword expands the world of Mulan and tells the story of her first quest – saving her sister…

(And now I’ve written that, I need to go and listen to the Mulan soundtrack again..)

 

Cyclops of Central Park by Madelyn Rosenberg, illustrated by Victoria Tentler-Krylov

Greek mythology retellings? Set in New York? YES PLEASE.

Cyclops has a missing sheep. (It’s Eugene – it’s always Eugene). It’s up to Cyclops to brave the city and bring him back. But the city can be a scary place… A fun story about facing your fears and realising the power of new experiences.

Middle School’s A Drag : You Better Werk! by Greg Howard

This is all about living life on your terms and being precisely who you’re born to be, whether you’re Mikey – an entrepreneurial 12-year-old boy setting up a talent agency, or Julian Vasquez / Coco Caliente, Mistress of Madness and Mayhem – the 13-year-old aspiring drag queen who’s about to become his first client…

 

The Proudest Blue : A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad, with SK Ali, art by Hatem Aly

Forgive me for sneaking this one into the list (I know it’s been out for a while) but every time I see that cover, I’m made breathless by it. And the rest of the book gives me that same feeling. A story of empowerment, strength and fierce beauty. I love it. I want more like it.

That’s all for this week! Before I go, I need to sneak in a mention for Book Marks. It’s our new reading tracker and journal, and comes complete with recommended reading lists from Book Riot (that’s us!). I think you’ll love it. I mean, what’s not to love about this sort of thing?

You can find me on social media @chaletfan (let’s talk about the wonders of bookish themed stationery) and also co-hosting the biweekly litfic podcast Novel Gazing. We have shows already recorded on defining litfic, translated litfic, and is Harry Potter litfic? – it would be lovely to have you join us.

See you next time!

Louise.

Hello readers!

I’m feeling a bit frustrated with things this week (the fact that Britain is leaving the European Union may have something to do with it..) so I’ve been turning to books to cheer myself up. The most successful one so far has been the The Moomin Craft Book which is a wonderful, wonderful thing and I recommend it to you wholeheartedly.

I also wholeheartedly recommend this week’s new releases picks. They are all stories of strength, togetherness and empowerment. I hope that, should you or your young ones be feeling similarly frustrated with life, that they bring joy.

Dictionary for a Better World: Poems, Quotes and Anecdotes from A to Z by Irene Latham and Charles Waters, illustrated by Mehrdokht Amini

Dictionary For A Better World offers a dictionary on how to make the world a better place. Each word comes with a poem, an inspirational quote, an anecdote from the authors, and an activity prompt. Amini, an exciting Iranian-British talent, delivers some beautiful artwork to accompany.

Ohana Means Family by Ilima Loomis, illustrated by Kenard Pak

I am running on a family / togetherness theme this week, and this is beautiful. Evocative of the This Is The House That Jack Built rhyme, Ohana Means Family celebrates Hawaian culture in a rich and gorgeous fashion. Pak’s artwork gives light, love and heart.

The Arabic Quilt : An Immigrant Story by Aya Khali, illustrated by Anait Semirdzhyan

Kanzi, an immigrant to America from Egypt, wants nothing more to fit in. But fitting is isn’t about forgetting, it’s about remembering… This is a lesson about cultural acceptance and togetherness, delivered softly and sympathetically.

The Legend of the Fire Princess by Gigi D.G, Noelle Stevenson and Paulina Ganucheau

Based on stories from showrunner Noelle Stevenson, this is the first She-Ra and the Princesses of Power graphic novel and it’s great. There’s a corrupted runestone demanding Adora’s attention – but she’s not the only one with her eyes on it..

 

Emily Writes : Emily Dickinson and Her Poetic Beginnings by Jane Yolen, illustrated by Christine Davenier

One of my key obsessions are stories of female writers and how they can inspire young creatives. This is a look at Emily Dickinson and the beginning of her creative work. As Emily reflects, she comes to realise that poems are the thing that lies between real and unreal: they are the in-between. A dreamy, exciting prospect.

 

That’s all for this week! As ever, you can find me on social media @chaletfan (I love to hear about what you’re reading!) and also co-hosting the biweekly litfic podcast Novel Gazing.

See you next time!

Louise.

Hello readers! It’s a bright-blue cold morning here in the United Kingdom, and I’ve managed to clear one of the increasingly wobbly book towers off my desk so I think that’s pretty much a win all round. And the fact that I get to tell you all about some lovely new releases coming your way makes that win all the more sweeter. Let’s talk books!

Welcoming Elijah : A Passover Tale with a Tail by Lesléa Newman

Here’s a charming title to get on your radar if you’re planning reading for Passover. A boy and his family are in the middle of their Seder meal and reach the point in the proceedings where they open the front door for the prophet Elijah. Little do they know that there’s a hungry and lonely cat just outside…

Confessions of a Dork Lord by Mike Johnston

Illustrated middle grade is a great space to be in, and this looks like a great addition. It’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid meets Despicable Me, as Wick – a warlock-in-training – struggles to deal with his destiny. He is the son of the Dark Lord and the destined leader of the Grim World. The only problem is that he’s more dork than dark…

 

Bird Hugs by Ged Adamson

(Honestly, look at that cover. What’s better than a full-body hug like that? My heart!)

Bernard is a bird with really long wings and they make it impossible to fly. What on earth are they good for? Turns out they might be pretty good at giving hugs… A story of celebrating the things that make you special – and the power of a good hug!

When You Trap A Tiger by Tae Keller

Lily’s family has moved in with her sick grandmother, and they’re not the only ones who have arrived. There’s a magical tiger there as well – and it’s ready to take something back from Lily’s Halmoni. A something that Halmoni stole from them a long, long time ago…

I’m very fond of tigers in children’s literature (thank you Judith Kerr and The Tiger Who Came To Tea) and Keller’s tiger is a magical, fascinating beast. This is a magical tale about families and stories that won’t stay bottled up…

The Sleepy Pebble and Other Stories by Professor Alice Gregory and Christy Kirkpatrick

Forgive me for sneaking in a book that’s already out but a) it’s really well done, b) it’s not been out long, and c) if you’re struggling with bedtimes, then you need to know about it! This is a collection of short stories and mindfulness exercises, all designed to help little people to go to sleep. And it’s not just the stories – every inch of this book, from the calming color palette through to the beautiful illustrations is intended to help that journey to the land of nod…

I think that’s it for this week! I’m going to go off now and try to deal with the last tower of books on my desk. If I can sort it out, I get to reward myself with some new books. I’m not sure that’s the best way to deal with it, but it works for me 🙂

I love to hear about what you’re reading, so please do say hello! I’m on social media @chaletfan, and can also be found elsewhere on BookRiot co-hosting the biweekly litfic podcast Novel Gazing.

See you next time!

Louise.

Hello readers! I write this sitting in the British Library, surrounded by girls’ comics from the 1950s. One day I want to be able to write this newsletter sitting in the kitchen sink (in tribute to I Capture The Castle by Dodie Smith) but in the meanwhile, this is a pretty good alternative. I mean, how can you resist a comic about how teenage Angela desperately wants to be a bank clerk? Amazing.

Here’s your new releases for the week of January 21, 2020 (and there’s one title that isn’t released this week but is something that I really want to get on your radar…)

Lawrence: The Bunny Who Wanted To Be Naked by Vern Kousky

The search for independence is a difficult thing, particularly if you’re a bun with a mom who insists on dressing you up in increasingly elaborate costumes whilst all the other bunnies are free to go naked. Charming, gentle and very, very cute, this is a lovely tale of learning to let your baby bunny go – in whatever they’re wearing. Or not wearing…

Althea Gibson: The Story of Tennis’ Fleet-of-Foot Girl by Megan Reid and Laura Freeman

I’m increasingly aware of the necessity to tell women’s history (and to do it well!) for each new generation of history makers. Althea Gibson was the first Black French and US open tennis champion, and the first ever Black person to win a trophy at Wimbledon. This is a vibrant, spirited look at her life and how she fought back against the impact of segregation and prejudice.

In a Jar by Deborah Marcero

(I seem to be on a bunny theme this week!). Llewellyn likes collecting – and one day he makes a friend called Evelyn. Together they collect wonderful things that remind them of their time together, until Evelyn comes with news: her family is moving away. How can a collection – and a friendship – survive? This is another very lovely picture book to add to your collection (sometimes I think picture books are the best of all the books…). Marcero’s artwork is divine; whimsical, distinct and deeply, deeply lovely.

Green Lantern : Legacy by Minh Lê and artist Andy Tong

This is the story of the first Asian American Green Lantern, thirteen year old Tai Pham who inherits his grandmother’s jade ring and a whole lot more besides. The dynamic and accessible art makes it perfect for middle grade readers, and Lê’s script also works to celebrates the heroes  found within our own homes.

 

The Highland Falcon Thief by MG Leonard and Sam Sedgman

I know I’m telling you about this one early (it’s released at the end of the month in the UK and on July 28 in the US) but it’s so. much. fun. Get it on your pre-orders now! Harrison Beck and Marlene Singh solve a mystery on a steam train – there’s royalty, a pack of adorable Samoyeds, and some incredibly thrilling train based exploits. It’s a really great classic mystery story and I loved it.

Alright, so there we are! I’m going to head back to the 1950s now to learn more about Judy who wishes to be a dancing teacher (“she has been attending classes in ballet since she was quite small”) and I’ll be back in touch with you next week with some more of my picks. In the meanwhile, you can catch up with me on Novel Gazing – a podcast devoted to literary fiction – or say hello online @chaletfan. Let me know what you’re reading!

Louise.

Hello readers!

Children’s books rock, don’t they? I was reminded of this the other day when I witnessed a small reader be so overwhelmed with love for a book that they couldn’t quite speak. Reader, they shone. I felt so privileged to have witnessed it.

Here’s hoping that some of today’s picks can help make that moment  happen for you and your readers.

The Power of Her Pen by Lesa Cline-Ransome and John Parra

It’s never too early to talk to children about media because as consumers and creators, we should all know about what goes into a story and the people who tell it. Ethel L. Payne is one such figure and this is a quietly confident biography of her journey all the way to reporting at the White House.

Go With The Flow by Lily Williams and Karen Schneeman.

A middle grade graphic novel dealing with menstruation, empowerment, and girls finding their voice? Yes please! Menstruation is still a rarely spoken about topic in children’s books (I keep a reading list of titles that do mention it and trust me, the references are rare!) and so I was thrilled to come across Go With The Flow with its palette of rich reds and promise of revolution. A good book. Period.

The Button Book by Sally Nicholls and Bethan Woollvin

I have a lot of time for what Sally Nicholls does and this is a treat. A group of animals have discovered a collection of buttons – and the only thing to do with a button is to press it! These buttons are for tickling, clapping, sleepy-time and so much more… Woollvin’s classy and delightfully individual illustrations complement the nicely judged text throughout.

Bedtime for Sweet Creatures by Nikki Grimes, pictures by Elizabeth Zunon

‘No! No!’

You beat the word like a drum the minute I say, ‘Come, sweet creature. It’s bedtime..

Mommy needs her baby boy to sleep, but he doesn’t want to. It’s down to her to make bedtime happen and Nikki Grimes makes it a beautiful and magical thing. Her poetry is rich, loving and frankly divine and  Elizabeth Zunon’s illustrations form an evocative counterpoint to the beautiful rhythm of this bedtime read. This is one to embed in your lives.

Just Like Me by Vanessa Brantley-Newton

This had me at that cover. It had me more when I discovered it’s a collection of poetry that celebrates girlhood in all her shapes and sizes. The artwork practically leaps off the page, and readers will be able to find a poem that resonates with themselves. This is a book that celebrates being who you are in whatever shape that may be.

And that’s a perfect note to end this newsletter on! I’ll be back next week with more picks for you. In the meantime, you can find me posting love letters to the Moomins on social media @chaletfan. Please say hi! I love to hear about what you and your kids are reading!

I’m also one of the hosts of Novel Gazing – a podcast devoted to the world of literary fiction. Our upcoming episode sees Mary Kay and I talk about whether Harry Potter can be considered literary fiction…

See you next time!

Louise.

Happy New Year! My name is Louise Johnson and I’m the new writer of this newsletter. I’m a blogger, researcher, and writer based in the United Kingdom and I specialize in children’s books so you’re in safe hands, I promise. I’ll be bringing you my weekly picks from the children’s book releases in the US, backlist shout-outs, and news of the occasional British children’s book release as well. Let’s get started!

A Voice Named Aretha by Katheryn Russell-Brown, illustrated by Laura Freeman

If I want this newsletter to share anything with you, it’s books that celebrate brilliant women and make their lives accessible to young readers. Where better to kick that off than with A Voice Named Aretha? It offers children a chance to find out more about this iconic woman and the years of work it took for Franklin to become famous. Look out in particular for the recurring motif of a crown throughout – you can just see it on the cover here.

Diana Princess of the Amazons by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illustrated by Victoria Ying

Graphic novels? Young Diana? Yes please! From a dynamic team involving NYT bestsellers and an artist with credits on Moana, Frozen, Tangled, and more, this story about the young Wonder Woman looks an absolute treat. Diana is the only child on her island, and decides to make herself a friend out of clay. The only problem is that her friend might actually be a monster…

A Girl, A Raccoon, and the Midnight Moon by Karen Romano Young, illustrated by Jessixa Bagley

When a New York City branch library faces possible closure, the daughter of the librarian decides to save the library. Pearl is supported in this by the library crew which involves literate raccoons, a constantly tap-dancing girl , and an older boy she has a crush on.  This had me at literate raccoons…

 

Dare to Dream Big by Lorna Guitterez, illustrated by Polly Noakes

Dare to dream! Dare to fly higher! Dare to do what hasn’t been done! Dare to be second to none! 

It’s never too early for little ones to be empowered, and this picture book is a gorgeous way to do it. Simple bold statements encourage children to live life on their terms and make their dreams come true.

It’s A No-Money Day by Kate Milner

I promised the occasional British title and here we are! It’s A No-Money Day was released in October in both the US and the UK, and deals with financial insecurity, social vulnerability, and the reality of a society with food banks. It sensitively introduces difficult topics to readers who may be experiencing them, and does so in a caring, gentle, and kind way. This is good, classy work done by somebody who knows what they’re doing.

I think that’s a good few titles to start the year off with, so we’ll wind things up there. You can find me on social media @chaletfan – let me know what you and your kids are reading! And, if you like your fiction literary and your podcasts podcasty, then please do come and join me and Mary Kay at Novel Gazing, a podcast devoted to the world of literary fiction.

See you next time!

Louise.