Category: The Kids Are All Right

Hi Kid Lit Friends,

With primary elections happening all over the United States in the next few months, I’ve been getting a lot of questions from my kids about voting. We’ve been reading some books about the topic to get a better understanding about voting history and why it’s so important to be engaged in the political process. There are so many great new books about this topic!

Vote for Me! by Ben Clanton (author of the Narwhal and Jelly series!) is a funny book about the two-party political system. Donkey wants your vote, but so does the elephant. And each will do just about anything to win your support. Brag? Sure! Flatter? Absolutely! Exaggerate, name-call, make silly promises and generally act childish? Yes, yes, yes and yes. Soon, the tension mounts, and these two quarrelsome candidates resort to slinging mud (literally) and flinging insults.

Lillian’s Right to Vote by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Shane W. Evans, is about Lillian, a one-hundred-year-old African American woman, who makes a “long haul up a steep hill” to her polling place. Along the way, she sees more than trees and sky—she sees her family’s history. She sees the passage of the Fifteenth Amendment and her great-grandfather voting for the first time. She sees her parents trying to register to vote. And she sees herself marching in a protest from Selma to Montgomery.

Granddaddy’s Turn: A Journey to the Ballot Box by Michael S. Bandy and Eric Stein, illustrated by James E. Ransome, begins with a young boy working on the farm with his Granddaddy. But life on the farm is not just work; Granddaddy always makes time for play, especially fishing trips. One morning, when Granddaddy heads into town in his fancy suit, Michael knows that something very special must be happening—and sure enough, everyone is lined up at the town hall! For the very first time, Granddaddy is allowed to vote, and he couldn’t be more proud. But can Michael be patient when it seems that justice just can’t come soon enough?

Elizabeth Leads the Way: Elizabeth Cady Stanton and the Right to Vote by Tanya Lee Stone, illustrated by Rebecca Gibbon is a book about an extraordinary woman who fought for the right for women to vote. From an early age, Elizabeth Cady Stanton knew that women were not given rights equal to men. But rather than accept her lesser status, Elizabeth went to college and later gathered other like-minded women to challenge the right to vote.Here is the inspiring story of an extraordinary woman who changed America forever because she wouldn’t take “no” for an answer.

Suffragette: The Battle for Equality by David Roberts is a new book that explores the suffragette movement in both the United Kingdom and the United States. Women in both of these countries experienced imprisonment and hunger strikes for decades. I really enjoyed both the information provided as well as the marvelous illustrations in this book. Roberts presents the stories of Millicent Garrett Fawcett, Emmeline Pankhurst, Ida B. Wells, Susan B. Anthony, and many more heroic women and men.

The Next President by Kate Messner, illustrated by Adam Rex (3/31/20, Chronicle), is a great picture book that gives context to that mysterious presidential figure and makes us remember that presidents are normal people, too. It describes how when George Washington became the first president of the United States, there were nine future presidents already alive in America, doing things like practicing law or studying medicine. And when JFK became the thirty-fifth president, there were 10 future presidents already alive in America, doing things like hosting TV shows and learning the saxophone. Furthermore, today there are at least 10 future presidents alive in America. They could be playing basketball, like Barack Obama, or helping in the garden, like Dwight D. Eisenhower. They could be solving math problems or reading books. They could be making art—or already making change.

Finally, You Call This Democracy? How to Fix Our Government and Deliver Power to the People by Elizabeth Rusch (3/31/20, HMH Books for Young Readers) is a great book for older readers (recommended for readers twelve and older). This book looks at flaws in the system, with each chapter breaings down a different problem plaguing American democracy, exploring how it’s undemocratic, offering possible solutions (with examples of real-life teens who have already started working toward them), and suggesting ways to effect change.

 

Around the web…

The Lasting Magic of The Snowy Day, via Book Riot

Dan Brown to Make His Picture Book Debut, via Publisher’s Weekly

Joni Mitchell’s ‘Life Illusions’ Recalled in Selina Alko Picture Book, via Publisher’s Weekly

 

What are you reading these days? Let me know! Find me on Twitter at @KarinaYanGlaser, on Instagram at @KarinaIsReadingAndWriting, or email me at KarinaBookRiot@gmail.com.

Until next time!
Karina

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery. Thank you!*

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.

Hi Kid Lit Friends!

I am currently reading Lauren’s Wolk’s new middle grade novel, Echo Mountain (April 21, 2020, Dutton Books for Young Readers) out loud to my ten-year-old daughter every night before she goes to bed. The cover is beautiful: a collection of jars containing all sort of natural treasures, like a pinecone, a pair of bumblebees, a feather, a trio of fish, a handful of leaves, and stars. I’ve spent a lot of time looking at this cover, and the jars made me think about other books that have some reference to jars or bottles.

A lovely picture book about friendship and loss is Juna’s Jar by Jane Bahk, illustrated by Felicia Hoshino. Juna and her best friend, Hector, have many adventures together, and June loves to collect things in empty kimchi jars that her mother saves for her. When Hector unexpectedly moves away without having a chance to say good-bye. Juna is heartbroken uses her jars to find connection with Hector wherever he might be.

The Heart and the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers is another picture book about loss. When a young girl loses her grandfather, she puts her heart safely in a bottle where it is protected. She grows up, her heart safe from heartbreak, until she meets a young girl who teaches her to remember the wonder that her grandfather taught her. Can she embrace that wonder and risk her heart again?

The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi is one of my favorite picture books. Unhei is the new kid in school, having just moved from Korea. Anxious that American kids won’t be able to pronounce her name, she tells the class that she will choose a name by the following week. Her new classmates decide to help out by filling a glass jar with names for her to pick from. But while Unhei practices being a Suzy, Laura, or Amanda, one of her classmates comes to her neighborhood and discovers her real name and its special meaning. On the day of her name choosing, the name jar has mysteriously disappeared. Encouraged by her new friends, Unhei chooses her own Korean name and helps everyone pronounce it.

Shouting at the Rain, a new middle grade novel by Lynda Mullaly Hunt (author of One for the Murphys and Fish in a Tree), has a beautiful cover with a jar and a storm. Delsie loves tracking the weather–lately, though, it seems the squalls are in her own life. She’s always lived with her kindhearted Grammy, but now she’s looking at their life with new eyes and wishing she could have a “regular family.” Delsie observes other changes in the air, too–the most painful being a friend who’s outgrown her. Luckily, she has neighbors with strong shoulders to support her, and Ronan, a new friend who is caring and courageous but also troubled by the losses he’s endured. As Ronan and Delsie traipse around Cape Cod on their adventures, they both learn what it means to be angry versus sad, broken versus whole, and abandoned versus loved.

Donavan’s Word Jar, a chapter book by Monalisa DeGross, illustrated by Cheryl Hanna, is about a young boy who collects words—big words, little words, soft words, and silly words. Whenever Donavan finds a new word, he writes it on a slip of paper and puts it in his word jar. But one day, Donavan discovers that his word jar is full. He can’t put any new words in without taking some of the old words out—and he wants to keep all his words. Thankfully, Donavan’s grandmother has the perfect solution…

I have one last picture book to share with you: The Hard-Times Jar by Ethel Footman Smothers, illustrated by John Holyfield. The Turners are migrant workers and money is tight, which means that Emma can’t have the new books that she desperately wants. Emma has a plan, though – she’s going to save all the money she earns picking apples and put it in Mama’s hard-times jar. Then there will surely be enough for extras. But when Mama tells Emma that this year she has to go to school instead of to work, it spoils everything. Now she will never own a store-bought book! But school turns out to have a wonderful surprise in store for Emma.

 

Around the web…

Understanding My Child’s Needs Through Books, via Book Riot

‘Hair Love’ Wins Oscar for Best Animated Short, via Publisher’s Weekly

On Writing Books for Real Kids… And Telling the Truth by Kate Messner, via Nerdy Book Club

 

What are you reading these days? Let me know! Find me on Twitter at @KarinaYanGlaser, on Instagram at @KarinaIsReadingAndWriting, or email me at KarinaBookRiot@gmail.com.

Until next time!
Karina

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery. Thank you!*

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.

Hi, Kid Lit Friends!

It’s African American History Month, and I love that picture books give us an opportunity to celebrate and learn of the incredible achievements of African Americans. Here are some newly released books that I loved and think you should put on your reading list!

One of my favorite books published last year is Ashley Bryan’s memoir, Infinite Hope: A Black Artist’s Journey from World War II to Peace. This stunning collection of photographs, sketches, drawings, painting, and writing give voice to Ashley’s experience as a soldier. In 1943, at nineteen years old, Ashley was drafted out of art school and into World War II. For years he faced the injustices specific to Black soldiers in a segregated army, and for decades after that he told no one about what he had experienced. I appreciated this memoir so much and loved hearing more about how this celebrated children’s book author and illustrator found hope in the midst of darkness.

Music is an incredible part of African American history, and I loved A Voice Named Aretha by Katheryn Russell-Brown, illustrated by Laura Freeman. This terrific biography traces Aretha’s upbringing in a house full of talking and singing to a church choir in Detroit to stages across the world. Aretha was the first woman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and her famous song Respect, which she wrote and performed in the 1960s, prevails decades later as the anthem for women all over the world.

Caldecott Honor winner Oge Mora is one of my absolute favorite illustrators, and I just adore her art for Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read, written by Rita Lorraine Hubbard. This is a story about Mary Walker, who in 1848 was born into slavery. She was freed at age 15, got married and had her first child at 20, and by age 68 she had worked numerous jobs, including cooking, cleaning, babysitting, and selling sandwiches to raise money for her church. At 114, she was the last remaining member of her family. And at 116, she learned to read. This perfect pairing of story and visual bring life to Mary Walker and her incredible life.

In The Power of Her Pen: The Story of Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne, author Lesa Cline-Ransome and illustrator John Parra tell Ethel Payne’s story. Seeking truth, justice, and equality, Ethel followed stories from her school newspaper in Chicago to Japan during World War II. She broke barriers by working in the White House briefing room as the only black female journalist. Ethel wasn’t afraid to ask the tough questions of presidents, elected officials, or anyone else in charge, earning her the title, “First Lady of the Black Press.” Fearless and determined, Ethel Payne shined a light on the darkest moments in history, and her ear for stories sought answers to the questions that mattered most in the fight for Civil Rights.

I had not known much about architect Philip Freelon until I read Dream Builder: The Story of Architect Philip Freelon by Kelly Starling Lyons and illustrated by Laura Freeman. Phil grew up with a beautiful family history: his father was an acclaimed painter of the Harlem Renaissance and his dad participated in the March on Washington in 1963. Phil decided to attend architecture school and afterwards he made schools, libraries, and museums. In 2009, Phil’s team won a commission that let him use his personal history in service to the country’s: the extraordinary Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. This is a great book to read before or after visiting the museum. Also, listen to this Book Riot Kidlit These Days episode we did about artifacts and the Museum of African American History and Culture.

 

What are you reading these days? Let me know! Find me on Twitter at @KarinaYanGlaser, on Instagram at @KarinaIsReadingAndWriting, or email me at KarinaBookRiot@gmail.com.

Until next time!
Karina

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery. Thank you!*

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, friends!

Wow, I was so excited to see the ALA Youth Media Awards announced this morning. So many of my favorites – most of them discussed in this newsletter or on the Book Riot Kidlit These Days podcast – were among the chosen books! The whole list is here, but here are my some of my favorites…

New Kid by Jerry Craft, Newbery Medal, Coretta Scott King Author Award

Oh, how I loved this book so much! It’s about a middle schooler starting at a private school for the first time. It’s so funny and does a great job at depicting the transition from a diverse, neighborhood public school to an expensive, mostly white private school. Craft deals with the topic with humor and honesty, and I am so thrilled this won the Newbery Medal. (It’s the first time in history that a graphic novel has won the Newbery Medal!)

Other Words from Home by Jasmine Warga, Newbery Honor

This lovely novel-in-verse tells the story of a young girl who leaves her home in Syria for America. She travels with her mom and leaves her dad and brother behind, and the transition is anything but easy. She has to adjust to a new culture, new language, and new school, all while worrying about her family back home. Along the way, she meets new friends and discovers new passions. I loved this book!

Genesis Begins Again by Alicia D. Williams, Newbery Honor

I’ve talked about this book a lot, and I interviewed Alicia for the Book Riot kid lit podcast. You can listen to it here! This story is about a young girl who is struggling to fit in at the various middle schools she attends. Her family experiences constant housing insecurity with her father being in and out of work.

 

The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander, illustrated by Kadir Nelson (Newbery Honor, Caldecott Medal, Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award

How has Kadir Nelson not won a Caldecott before? His paintings are so rich in detail and beauty. You probably remember me raving about the new covers he did for Mildred D. Taylor’s Logan series. This book is so gorgeous and inspiring and thoughtful and compelling.

¡Vamos! Let’s Go to the Market by Raul the Third, Belpré Illustrator Honor

This book is so detailed and beautiful, with gorgeous spreads that draw the eye. Readers are introduced to both English and Spanish words as they follow Little Lobo and his dog Bernabe as they deliver supplies to a variety of vendors, selling everything from sweets to sombreros, portraits to piñatas, carved masks to comic books!

Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré by Anika Aldamuy Denise, illustrated by Paola Escobar, Belpré Author Honor

I loved this book since it came out over a year ago, and I was thrilled to see it recognized by the Belpré committee. This story follows the life of librarian Pura Belpré and her fantastic passion for books and her career as a librarian at the New York Public Library. A must read!

Stargazing by Jen Wang, Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature

Oh, I was hoping that this book would get an award! I interviewed Jen for the Book Riot kidlit podcast, and you can listen to it here. This story follows Christine, a young girl who gets a new neighbor, Moon. Moon is everything Christine isn’t. She’s confident, impulsive, artistic . . . and though they both grew up in the same Chinese-American suburb, Moon is somehow unlike anyone Christine has ever known. But after Moon moves in next door, these unlikely friends are soon best friends, sharing their favorite music videos and painting their toenails when Christine’s strict parents aren’t around.

I loved so many of the winning books (that photo is of all the books I pulled from my bookshelves as the winners were being called out) but don’t have the time to talk them all up here! Was there a book on the list you were really excited about? Let me know! Find me on Twitter at @KarinaYanGlaser, on Instagram at @KarinaIsReadingAndWriting, or email me at KarinaBookRiot@gmail.com.

Until next time!
Karina

*If this e-mail was forwarded to you, follow this link to subscribe to “The Kids Are All Right” newsletter and other fabulous Book Riot newsletters for your own customized e-mail delivery. Thank you!*

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.

Hey Kid Lit Friends,

I’m sure a lot of you have been following the fires in Australia. After months of burning, recent rainstorms have created some relief but also a lot of damage with golf ball sized hail. Despite the rainstorms, there are over eighty blazes still going that have been aggravated with strong winds.

I know a lot of us have been supporting causes to help Australia. For those of us who want to help our kids learn more about this beautiful country, check out the books listed below and then check out the recent news to see what’s happening. I found this visual guide by the BBC helpful to look at, as well as this Q&A that responds to some frequently asked questions about the fires.

Wombat Walkabout by Carol Diggory Shields, illustrated by Sophie Blackall

Early one morning when the sun came out, Six woolly wombats went walkabout.

This whimsical counting poem follows six brave little wombats on walkabout in the Australian outback. But the wilderness is bound to bring more excitement than an innocent counting game. Soon enough, the curious wombats learn to beware the hungry dingo!

Birrarung Wilam: A Story from Aboriginal Australia by Murphy Aunty Joy Kelly Andrew, illustrated by Lisa Kennedy (8/4/20, Candlewick)

Yarra Riverkeeper Andrew Kelly and Aboriginal Elder of the Wurundjeri people Aunty Joy Murphy join to tell the Indigenous and geographical story of Melbourne’s beautiful Yarra River — from its source to its mouth and from its prehistory to the present day. The writing dazzles with poetic descriptions of the trees, plants, and wildlife that thrive in harmony along the iconic waterway. Lush and vibrant acrylic paintings from Indigenous illustrator Lisa Kennedy make the mighty Yarra come to life — coursing under a starry sky, drawing people to its sunny shores, mirroring a searing orange sunset.

Dreamtime: Aboriginal Stories by Oodgeroo Nunukul, illustrated by Bronwyn Bancroft

Australia’s most famous Aboriginal writer offers reminiscences of her childhood on Stradboke Island off the Queensland coast, communicating her pride in her heritage, and presents a collection of traditional Aboriginal folklore.

 

Edward the Emu by Sheena Knowles, illustrated by Rod Clement

Tired of his life as an emu, Edward decides to try being something else for a change. He tries swimming with the seals, he spends a day lounging with the lions, and even slithers with the snakes. But Edward soon discovers that being an emu may be the best thing after all.

 

Welcome to Country: A Traditional Aboriginal Ceremony by Murphy Aunty Joy Kelly Andrew, illustrated by Lisa Kennedy

Welcome to the lands of the Wurundjeri people. The people are part of the land, and the land is a part of them. Aboriginal communities across Australia have boundaries that are defined by mountain ranges and waterways. Traditionally, to cross these boundaries, permission is required. Each community has its own way of greeting, but the practice shares a common name: a Welcome to Country. Aunty Joy Murphy Wandin, the senior Aboriginal elder of the Wurundjeri people, channels her passion for storytelling into a remarkable and utterly unique picture book that invites readers to discover some of the history and traditions of her people. Indigenous artist Lisa Kennedy gives the Wurundjeri Welcome to Country form in beautiful paintings rich with blues and browns, as full of wonder and history as the tradition they depict.

Stories from the Billabong by James Vance Marshall, illustrated by Francis Firebrace

From the author of Walkabout come ten of Australia’s ancient aboriginal legends, authentically and elegantly retold. Here you can discover how Great Mother Snake created and peopled the world with plants and creatures, what makes Frogs croak, why Kangaroo has a pouch, and just what it is that makes Platypus so special.

The Australian Animal Atlas by Leonard Cronin and Marion Westmacott

Come on a journey into the world of Australia’s wildlife, exploring all the different habitats, from parched deserts to lush rainforests. Disocver the mammals, birds, reptiles, fish and insects that live there. Search for the animals hidden in each habitat scene. Find out about the fish that walks; the sixth sense of the platypus; the deadly venom of the desert death adder; the strange table manners of the sea star.

Outback: The Amazing Animals of Australia by Dan Kainen and Ella Morton

Using Photicular® technology that’s like a 3-D movie on the page, OUTBACK whisks you to the vast, remote world of wild Australia, where heat waves dance forever and animals, isolated by the vagaries of continental drift, are unlike those found anywhere else on Earth.
Each moving image delivers a rich, immersive visual experience—and the result is breathtaking. The kangaroo hops. A wombat waddles. The frilled lizard races on two legs across the desert floor. A peacock spider dances and shows off its vibrant colors. Experience it for yourself!

Pouch! by David Ezra Stein

Caldecott Honor winner David Ezra Stein’s delightful tale of a baby kangaroo’s first hops toward independence is perfect for board book audiences. Joey wants to go exploring, but at first he isn’t sure he’s ready to leave Mama’s safe, warm pouch. Touching on a universal childhood experience, this sweet tale celebrates trying new things.

Diary of a Wombat by Jackie French, illustrated by Bruce Whatley

Wombats are cuddly-looking, slow-moving Australian animals. Their favorite activities are eating, sleeping, and digging holes. Here, in the words of one unusually articulate wombat, is the tongue-in-cheek account of a busy week; eating, sleeping, digging holes . . . and training its new neighbors, a family of humans, to produce treats on demand.

This is Australia by Miroslav Sasek

Like the other Sasek classics, these are facsimile editions of his original books. The brilliant, vibrant illustrations have been meticulously preserved, remaining true to his vision more than forty years later and, where applicable, facts have been updated for the twenty-first century, appearing on a “This is . . . Today” page at the back of each book. The stylish, charming illustrations, coupled with Sasek’s witty, playful narrative, make these books a perfect souvenir that will delight both children and their parents, many of whom will remember them from their own childhood. In This is Australia, first published in 1970, Sasek swings down under, winging his readers into Sydney, with its famous bridge and space-age Opera House; bustling, modern Melbourne; colonial Adelaide; semitropical Brisbane; the garden city of Canberra; mineral-rich Perth; and Alice Springs, Australia’s most famous outback town.

Twig by Aura Parker

Heidi is a stick insect, tall and long like the twig of a tree. It’s her first day at a busy bug school, where she hopes to learn and make new friends. But finding friends isn’t easy when no one can find you!

 

 

A River by Marc Martin

So begins the imaginary journey of a child inspired by the view outside her bedroom window: a vast river winding through a towering city. A small boat with a single white sail floats down the river and takes her from factories to farmlands, freeways to forests, out to the stormy and teeming depths of the ocean, and finally back to the comforts—and inspirations—of home. This lush, immersive book by award-winning picture book creator Marc Martin will delight readers of all ages by taking them on a transcendent and aspirational journey through an imaginative landscape.

 

Around the web…

There’s a new video series for 8 to 12-year-olds by author Danielle David called This Writer’s Life. Check it out!

Celebrating Awards Season at the Library, via Book Riot

33 of the Top Middle Grade Books on Goodreads, via Book Riot

 

What are you reading these days? I want to know! Find me on Twitter at @KarinaYanGlaser, on Instagram at @KarinaIsReadingAndWriting, or email me at KarinaBookRiot@gmail.com.

Until next time!
Karina

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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.