Early Book Review: Shine Bright: A Color, Draw & Dream Book for a Beautiful Life by Lindsay Hopkins

Shine Bright: A Color, Draw & Dream Book for a Beautiful Life by Lindsay Hopkins is an activity book that is currently scheduled for release on February 14 2020.  This book is intended to build creativity and confidence. This book focuses on all of the awesome traits that make each reader special! Each chapter features patterns to color, fun drawing lessons, and ideas for writing about hopes and dreams. 

Shine Bright is a inspiring activity book for middle grade and older readers. It offers encouragement for readers to be themselves, be brave, and keep moving forward. I liked the stress put on the fact that no one is perfect, no one can do something perfectly the first time, and that bravery is really about doing the things you love and want to try even though you might be scared. The activities including coloring, drawing, and writing lists and ideas related to the chapter subject. Often times I find books with this intent to be a little cloying, but I really like the way it was done here. It was not all "hip hip hooray you are perfect!", but rather takes notice of the fact that we all get scared and make mistakes and encourages readers to keep trying and to be kind to others because they are doing the best they can too.  I think many young readers will enjoy exploring this book, and will hopefully come away from it with more confidence than before. 

Book Review: The Paper Bag Princess (40th anniversary edition) by Robert Munsch

The Paper Bag Princess is a classic picturebook and I was excited to see as a 40th anniversary edition by Robert Munsch being released on February 4 2020. 40 years. 7 million copies. 1 kick-ass princess who has inspired four generations of readers to stand up for themselves. How do you celebrate an occasion as special as 40 years in print for a book as beloved as The Paper Bag Princess? You track down some of the most poignant commentary about the story; you share behind-the-scenes insights from the author and his partner; and you present it all in a beautiful package that showcases the story like never before.

The Paper Bag Princess is a story that has always resonated with me. Elizabeth is a princess, with all the riches and trappings. When a dragon steals away her equally perfect princely fiance she sets about rescuing him. She is resourceful and smart- but her prince chides her for being unladylike just before she tells him off and goes on her merry way. Elizabeth's determination, intelligence, and independence have inspired many from my generation, and those after us. As happy as I am to see more books every year encouraging kids to be themselves and help others, this book will always be the benchmark by which I measure newer books with similar messages. Frankly, while some come cose, none have ever surpassed this book in my heart. I loved this new addition, and enjoyed reading about the inspiration of the book and how others have felt about it over the years. I think readers of all ages can still appreciate the charming art style, and the heartfelt message of this book. It will appeal to new readers, and those of us basking in nostalgia alike. 

The Paper Bag Princess is a book I am glad to see re released with additional artwork and commentary.  I think a copy of this edition is going to be added to my already overcrowded shelves.

Early Book Review: I Don’t Like to Eat Ants by JTK Belle, Sabine Mielke

I Don’t Like to Eat Ants is a picturebook written by JTK Belle and illustrated by Sabine Mielke. It is currently scheduled for release on August 1 2019. This story follows Anteater One and Anteater Two’s debate over their current diet of ants. Anteater One doesn’t like to eat ants and wants Anteater Two to try new foods, while Anteater Two believes it’s their nature to only eat ants and nothing else. Together, Anteater One and Anteater Two adventure off to the Peanut Butter and Jelly Deli, where they discover that it’s important to try new things, because you’ll never know if you like something unless you’re willing to give it a chance. 

I Don’t Like to Eat Ants is a fun book about anteaters arguing about what they should be eating. One anteater is sick of ants and would much prefer cake and rolls while the other is insisting that eating ants is part of their nature, and included in their name. I liked their banter and the way they finally find a common ground. I found the illustrations to be pretty much perfect, illustrating the spirit of the story and having details that made for additional humor. I especially enjoyed the side conversations by the ants throughout the story, I almost missed them, and only noticed them part way through the book so I had to go back and look again. I think this book will stand for multiple re reads and might become a favorite book for some young readers.

I Don’t Like to Eat Ants is a cute story about trying new things and not being tied down by names or expectations. I think this book is well suited for storytimes, sharing one on one, and for emerging readers to read on their own.

Book Review: Ella May Does It Her Way by Mick Jackson, Andrea Stegmaier

Ella May Does It Her Way is a picturebook written by Mick Jackson and illustrated by Andrea Stegmaier. Meet Ella May, the girl who likes to do things her way. In the first of this brilliant new series all about an imaginative, strong-willed girl character with her own ideas, Ella May tries walking backward, just to see how it feels. In her bedroom she tries reading her books backward, and after dinner she goes backward up to the bathroom and climbs backward into bed. When Ella goes backward up the slide and backward over the castle, Ella’s mum decides to turn around and walk backward next to Ella, to make it easier for them to talk. Pretty soon, half the town is walking backward in a giant, backward-walking procession. Where will it end?

Ella May Does It Her Way is a fun story about a smart young lady told that it is good to try new things, but then takes it up a notch. I like that it all starts will Ella May trying a new food, that she rather likes, so starts trying walking backwards to see if she likes that as well. I like that Ella May works out ways to try her new way of walking safely, her creativity and inventiveness made me smile. I have to admit that as soon as everyone else started walking backwards too I new it was going to stop- because I have a spunky daughter of my own that would stop something at the same point as Ella May. I really enjoy that she continues to try new things, and encourages her mother (and everyone else) to keep trying new things too. I thought the art work was very well done, and added a great deal to the story. THe little details and colors kept the eyes moving and the interest high throughout the read.

Ella May Does It Her Way is a great read for storytimes, sharing one on one, and emerging readers to read on their own. The story is fun and relatable- and offers the encouragement to all readers to keep trying new things.

Early Book Review: Unicorn Day by Diana Murray, Luke Flowers

Unicorn Day is a picturebook written by Diana Murray and illustrated by Luke Flowers. The book tells the story of what happens to an impostor horse who tries to crash the most glittery day of the year, Unicorn Day. It is currently scheduled for release on June 4 2019. 

Unicorn Day is a cute and fun picturebook. It is colorful with bold illustrations that are just as sweet and cute as the story. I liked the story, a horse joining in the unicorn festivities, and how fun and friendship were much more important to the characters than the fake horn the horse was wearing. I enjoyed the read and art, but I have to saw that I was not really wowed by it. It was a good, but not amazing read for me.

Book Review: Slothilda: Living the Sloth Life by Dante Fabiero

Slothilda: Living the Sloth Life is a collection of comics by Dante Fabiero. Are you a fan of carbs, the internet, and naps? Slothilda is your spirit animal! From former Simpsons animator Dante Fabiero comes this all-too-real comic series about an adorable little sloth who's driven by her desire for self-improvement. Slothilda explores an inner conflict we can all relate to―the desire to succeed and grow, while paradoxically dealing with the ever present temptation to sloth. With themes related to work, fitness, food, shopping, and pets―this book shows that you're not the only sloth at heart.

Living the Sloth Life is a cute, fun read. I had not seen the comics from the blog previously, so it was all new to me. I related to some of the images and thoughts, but not all, which  is usually the case with collections. However, I really like the artwork, I thought Slothilda was very cute. I liked the inherent honest the author has in sharing the desire we all have to eat and rest as often as we want, and the over exaggeration of the lack of motivation made it funny while making the reader feel better about the things they do and their choices. I am feeling much more accomplished with the amount of work, cleaning, and reasonably healthy eating I do after seeing the sloth version of such activities.

Book Review: Midnight Reynolds and the Agency of Spectral Protection by Catherine Holt

Midnight Reynolds and the Agency of Spectral Protection by Catherine Holt is the second book in the Midnight Reynolds series. I do recommend reading the series in order, as it will help explain some of the connections and background. Although I do think a determined reader could catch on. 

Twelve-year-old Midnight Reynolds has a huge secret—she’s a spectral protector, someone who helps ghosts cross over into the afterlife. Alongside her best friend Tabitha, Midnight is busy juggling the wilds of middle school with her undercover ghost-hunting job. When mysterious and dangerous robberies start happening in their small town, all signs point to some sort of spectral manipulation, and Midnight’s boss asks her to take over the investigation. Can Midnight find the culprit and stop them before the spectral energy endangers their town?

Midnight Reynolds and the Agency of Spectral Protection is a mystery and coming of age story that works well as part of a series. Midnight is still trying to find her balance, working to solve the mysteries of the spectral enhanced robberies while her mother plans a wedding, her sister dates a new guy, and her own social life continues to become more complicated. I like how the social and personal growth for Midnight and her family is just as important as the mystery of who is staging the robberies. Nothing is in story as filler, it is all important to the growth of the characters and the forward movement of the story. While I do not know any kids running around dealing with spectral energy, but I do know many that are (or have) gone through the struggles of balancing different parts of their lives and wanting to be perfect in every separate moment. I really enjoyed the ride, and while I had my suspicions with the mystery, I loved the way it played out and how the characters dealt with all of the challenges they faced. 

Midnight Reynolds and the Agency of Spectral Protection  is a wonderful follow up to the first book in this series. I cannot wait to see what Midnight and crew get involved in next. 

Book Review: The Marvelous Adventures of Gwendolyn Gray by B. A. Williamson

The Marvelous Adventures of Gwendolyn Gray by B. A. Williamson is a middle grade novel. Gwendolyn Gray faces an overwhelming battle every day: keeping her imagination under control. It’s a struggle for a dreamer like Gwendolyn, in a city of identical gray skyscrapers, clouds that never clear, and grown-ups who never understand. But when her daydreams come alive and run amok in The City, the struggle to control them becomes as real as the furry creatures infesting her bedroom. Worse yet, she’s drawn the attention of the Faceless Gentlemen, who want to preserve order in The City by erasing Gwendolyn and her troublesome creations. With the help of two explorers from another world, Gwendolyn escapes and finds herself in a land of clockwork inventions and colorful creations. Now Gwendolyn must harness her powers and, with a gang of airship pirates, stop the Faceless Gentlemen from destroying the new world she loves and the home that never wanted her—before every world becomes gray and dull.

The Marvelous Adventures of Gwendolyn Gray is a wonderful story about the power of imagination and being yourself. Gwendolyn is often lost in her daydreams, and just wants to be accepted for who she is. Her world is one of strict conformity, but the issues of bullies and being mistreated for being different is not exactly a strange concept for readers of all ages. I love that her imagination, her spark, is her true strength. I think that our differences are often our strengths, but also the weak points that bullies and people in power use against us. I think that Gwen is a well developed character, and her relationship with her parents is very well done, I think that it was realistic on many levels, and that many readers will be able to relate. I think the world and character building is very well paced, and Sparrow and Starling were my favorites through the entirety of the book. I think the adventure and danger elements were well spread out through the book as well, giving Gwen and the readers time to take everything in and think about everything for a moment before the next wave of trouble hit. Some of the surprises and twists along the way I expected, but many still had me surprised in the reveal or the consequences of that information or feelings. I loved the sheer creativity and bravery of Gwen, particularly when she did not feel like she would met the challenge. I think this is an enjoyable read and could really speak to or inspire readers to embrace their own creativity or differences.

The Marvelous Adventures of Gwendolyn Gray is a wonderful start to a series, with a nearly perfect balance of closure and wonder about what will happen next. I fully expect to continue reading this series. 

Book Review: Ellie Engineer: The Next Level by Jackson Pearce

Ellie Engineer: The Next Level is the second book in the series by Jackson Pearce. While the first book explains the friendship and skills of the three main characters of the book, I think newcomers to the series will be able to catch up quickly.

After Ellie's first elevator build goes terribly wrong, her parents decide her "punishment" is to assist an elderly neighbor, Mrs. Curran, around the house. Ellie and her friends Kit and Toby are really only supposed to help with little things, but Ellie can't turn down the opportunity to use her engineering skills here and there where she sees a need--because that's what engineers do! It's no fun, though, when Mrs. Curran always gives Toby the credit for all the ingenious projects, and acts like Kit and Ellie were just helping him. Can Ellie come up with another great build to elevate Mrs. Curran's ideas about this girl engineer?

The Next Level is just as much fun as the first book of the series, and continues to look at stereotypes and assumptions. I like that Ellie's family supports her interest in engineering and make the effort to support her and teach her to be safe. I find the friendship between three very different kids to be fantastic, and think it shows young readers that differences are good, and help us find new ideas and solutions. Having Mrs. Curran be very different from expected but still thinking that others will fit in the expected roles was very realistic, since too often I find this is true in the real world as well. None of us want to fit in the expected mold, but still expect others too to a certain degree. I loved the problem solving and honesty in the story. As a parent I also love that the relationships between the kids and their parents include actual conversation and support- which is not all that common in children's literature. As an added bonus I love the information about simple machines included at the end of the book. I look forward to this series continuing for a long run.

The Next Level is a great read, and I love that it encourages looking past appearances, trying new things, and following your passions. 

Book Review: This is a Whoopsie by Andrew Cangelose, Josh Shipley

This is a Whoopsie is a picturebook written by Andrew Cangelose and illustrated by Josh Shipley. It is supposed to be a book about all the different things moose can do, like leaping and jumping and being really tall. But maybe Whoopsie isn't the right moose for the job. You might want to pick a different moose for this book. Maybe instead we can do a book about falling down a lot? Yeah! Whoopsie would be great at that. 

This is a Whoopsie is from the same team that gave up This is a Taco, a book about a squirrel with a love for unexpected food. Just like the previous book, there is a good amount of factual information so readers do learn a bit about moose. There is also plenty of laughs, as Whoopsie the moose trips his way through the book. However, there is also a lesson in being yourself and finding value in the things that make you different without making the readers feel like they are being lectured. The illustrations do a great job of enhancing the story and the important lesson it teaches with upping the humor another notch. I liked the little Taco cameo, and think that this picturebook should find its way into relevant library collections, and will be a repeat read if it makes its way into a home library. 

Book Review: Beatrice Zinker Upside Down Thinker: Incognito by Shelley Johannes

Beatrice Zinker Upside Down Thinker: Incognito is the second book about Beatrice by Shelley Johannes. I do recommend reading the series in order to understand some of friendships and particularities of the main characters.  

Beatrice Zinker's top-secret plan, Operation Upside, is finally in full swing! And she's REALLY EXCITED ABOUT IT! But when Beatrice impulsively awards her teacher, Mrs. Tamarack, an UPSIDE of her own-with the words Most Strict lettered in gold-the team has to put the entire mission on hold to avoid suspicion. Lying low isn't exactly Beatrice's strong suit and her classmate Wes desperately needs to be recognized. When Wes's certificate falls into the wrong hands, Beatrice and her best friend, Lenny, must find a way once again, to save Operation Upside-and themselves-from big trouble.

Incognito is a  fast fun read. I like that Beatrice is a sweet girl that is struggling to be herself even when the world seems to disagree. Being true to her ideals and helping others is not always easy, and her impulsive nature tends to get Beatrice into trouble. I like that she makes mistakes, and sometimes takes time to own her mistakes. This made her more real to me, and more relatable for readers of all ages. However, at the heart of it Beatrice is trying to do the right thing, trying to be a good friend, and trying to make others feel good about themselves for their differences and I found that to be admirable. The read is fun, and as I have a daughter who is very much an individual, but not an upside down thinker, I liked seeing the world through a different set of eyes to help me understand more of what it is like being in school when you do not fit in. Not that I ever fit in, but my elementary school days are long ago and I have blocked most of them from memory. I think parents and teachers can get just as much from reading this series as the students that will love it. 

Incognito is a delightful follow up to the first book in the series. I was a little disappointed by how dependent it was on the set up in the first book, and think that publishing a boxed set or bound collection when the series is complete would be awesome. For those that read the first book, and plan on continue I think this is a great read about building each other up and finding a way to be kind is wonderful.

Book Review: More Than a Princess by E.D. Baker

More Than a Princess is the first book in a new series by E.D. Baker. Aislin of Eliasind is more than just a princess, she's half-fairy and half-pedrasi, with magical gifts from each side of her heritage! One day, as Aislin is venturing through the woods, she is alarmed to hear a band of humans coming through. How did they get past the guarded magical passageway that leads to her hidden kingdom? Mistaken for a human herself, Aislin is captured, and soon realizes she's in even bigger trouble. She is being used as a pawn to help the king of this nearby kingdom, Morrain, find a secret passageway to the warring land of Scarmander so that he can capture his enemies by surprise. Aislin must find a way to break free, while also minding the beautiful human princess and ladies-in-waiting she now shares a castle with, who are all too ready to point out her differences. Thankfully, Aislin's inner strength goes beyond her magical qualities. And with a few loyal friends by her side, she's ready to stand up for herself and her kingdom once and for all.

More Than a Princess is a good start to a new series, with a few secondary characters that I think I might have seen mentioned in previous series by Baker- but not many familiar locations or characters so new comers will not feel left out or lost. Aislin is a smart and independent princess that feels less than or other than the majority of her family because her skills are different than theirs. I like that she is willing to take risks to protect others, but at the same time does not blindly make dangerous choices without forethought. This book introduces a new cast of secondary characters that will be important in Aislin's journey as it continues through the series, and I think the most important are very well fleshed out and made complex and interesting in their own right. I am a little over the hints for a future romantic relationship. I think it is more important for the middle grade set to see valuable friendships work regardless of gender, and not go right for the love match every time a boy and girl work together for a common goal. It is well done here, subtle with a will they/ wont they kind of feel- but I just want them to be a team without that feeling like a couple. It might not go that route- but I get the feeling that it will here. I enjoyed the journey and I think there were some great twists in the story and some significant danger and secrets conquered. There is nothing in the book that I could point to that made me unhappy, Baker did exactly what I have come to expect with their middle grade fantasy, however I still felt rather meh about the whole thing. Maybe it is just because I read it shortly after finishing the latest entry in the Frog Princess series, but I did not love it as much as I had hoped.

More Than a Princess is a book that fans of Baker will want to pick up, as it follows the themes and feel of what I have seen from them thus far. It did not feel as fresh and new to me as some of the earlier books, but I think this was more because of how soon I read it after another of their books rather than because of anything lacking or wrong with the book itself. 

Early Book Review: A Valentine for Frankenstein by Leslie Kimmelman, Timothy Banks

A Valentine for Frankenstein is a picturebook written by Leslie Kimmelman and illustrated by Timothy Banks. It is currently Scheduled for release on November 1 2018. Frankenstein isn't your typical monster. For starters, he only has one head, just two eyes, and no tail. And worst of all, he's sort of nice! Frankenstein quickly realizes his friendly behavior is out of place at the Valentine's Day Bash. There's one monster, though, who likes that Frankenstein is different. Can Frankenstein figure out the identity of his secret valentine? And can the other monsters finally accept Frankenstein for the monster that he is?

A Valentine for Frankenstein is a cute picturebook about being who you are, and accepting others for who they are. Frankenstein might be different, and generally teased by others- but he does not let that change how he acts or who he is. He keeps on being the best person he can, his way. I like that it was his differences that made Belcher like him, rather than anything else. I also like that his difference is kindness, which is something all the characters do appreciate once they stop to think about it. We could all stand for a little more kindness, right? The illustrations are bright and colorful with a whimsical feel. It worked with the story, but was not my favorite style. However, I think it will appeal to many young readers. 

Early Book Review: Game Changer by Rachel Reid

Game Changer by Rachel Reid is currently scheduled for release on October 22 2018. Pro hockey star Scott Hunter knows a good thing when he sees it. So, when a smoothie made by juice bar barista Kip Grady precedes Scott breaking his on-ice slump, he’s desperate to recreate the magic...and to get to know the sexy, funny guy behind the counter. Kip knew there was more to Scott’s frequent visits than blended fruit, but he never let himself imagine being invited back to Scott’s penthouse. Or kissed with reckless abandon, never mind touched everywhere all at once. When it happens it’s red-hot, incredible and frequent, but also only on Scott’s terms and always behind his closed apartment doors. Scott needs Kip in his life, but with playoff season approaching, the spotlight on him is suddenly brighter than ever. He can’t afford to do anything that might derail his career…like introducing the world to his boyfriend. Kip is ready to go all-in with Scott—but how much longer will he have to remain a secret?

Game Changer is not just a romance, it is also about being comfortable in your own skin and in how the world sees you. Kip is not exactly living his dream. He has great friends and family, but is not using the degree he is still paying off and feels adrift. When he connects with Scott, who is certainly living his dream, neither is prepared for the relationship that develops. The only problem is that Scott is still firmly in the closet, and being famous that means staying under the radar. I thought the emotional and personal issues that the pair need to face are very well written and had me alternating between cheering the pair on and getting frustrated with them. It was so real and relatable- the worries and fears that they face in a relationship and in the bigger picture. I also loved that the romance and related issues were the focus of the book, each of the characters had separate conflicts and questions to deal with that had nothing directly to do with the relationship. The problems were all things that can and do happen, and I felt like all of the characters are people I could meet, and would love to join for a drink or a meal. 

Game Changer is an emotionally engaging story, and I enjoyed the read. It is about more than just two people falling in love, that that is still the heart of the tale.

Book Review: The Bone Thief by Alyson Noel

The Bone Thief by Alyson Noel is a middle grade fantasy novel. Compared to other more ordinary towns, Quiver Hollows is a very strange, very curious place. It is also home to longtime friends Grimsly, Ollie, Ming, and Penelope. In a town where everyone is spectacularly abnormal, Grimsly feels bad about being terribly, unforgivably normal, as the town's pet funeral director. So when a series of strange and disturbing mundane occurrences begins plaguing Quiver Hollows, well, Grimsly fears his growing celebrity just might be to blame since everyone knows that the things you focus on the most have an uncanny way of shaping your world. The group of friends also learn that the bones in the pet cemetery are thought to be the source of the strange magic that binds the town of Quiver Hollows. With the bones now gone, the town's magic is quickly dissipating. Will it ultimately become as common and ordinary as everywhere else? 

The Bone Thief is a solid adventure with plenty of character growth and magic. Grimsly has wanted nothing more than to be magical like his friends, but he has his own role to play. I like that Grimsly thought his pet funerals were nothing unusual when compared to magical abilities, feathers, or scales. I also like that even when he was facing danger he was scared and faced his fears rather than just ignoring the danger at hand. Too often in fantasy the hero just ignores the danger and jumps in, thinking they will deal with the consequences later. Grimsly thinks things through and weighs options and how he can do the best for the greater good. I did wish I had more information or growth with the secondary characters, both in Quiver Hollows and when Grimsly is facing danger in the outside world. I enjoyed the world building and the story as a whole, but it just never grabbed me so much that I had trouble putting down the book. Maybe I just was not in the mood for fantasy when I finally picked it up, it had been sitting in my Netgalley queue for far too long. It was still a solid, enjoyable read.

The Bone Thief is an engaging middle grade coming of age novel with plenty of magic and character growth. I can think of many elementary and middle school students that will love this read. 

Book Review: The Waking Land by Callie Bates

The Waking Land by Callie Bates is the first book in a series by the same name. Lady Elanna Valtai is fiercely devoted to the King who raised her like a daughter. But when he dies under mysterious circumstances, Elanna is accused of his murder and must flee for her life. Returning to the homeland of magical legends she has forsaken, Elanna is forced to reckon with her despised, estranged father, branded a traitor long ago. Feeling a strange, deep connection to the natural world, she also must face the truth about the forces she has always denied or disdained as superstition powers that suddenly stir within her. But an all-too-human threat is drawing near, determined to exact vengeance. Now Elanna has no choice but to lead a rebellion against the kingdom to which she once gave her allegiance. Trapped between divided loyalties, she must summon the courage to confront a destiny that could tear her apart. 

The Waking Land is a well built fantasy story with world and character development paced just about perfectly. Elanna is still a little niave- even after being kidnapped and raised in a corrupt court. She is a flawed character, but doing her best in the positions she finds herself in. My only issue with her was that she tended to be reactive rather than making her own choices. There are instances where that changes, but for the most par she is forced into action, which bothered me and made her a weaker lead in my eyes. I did think that the magic and political conflicts were very well handled, and twisted and complicated enough to keep interest, but not so complicated that I could not keep it all straight. I highly enjoyed the efforts of the secondary characters, and in some cases found them to be more interesting and strong willed than Elanna and her love interest. I think the romance was unnecessary- and I would have enjoyed more time with Rhia, Sophie, and Victorie- the secondary characters that really stole the show for me. I wanted to love the story, but bits of it just felt off or made me uncomfortable (like marrying the land) and Elanna's personality. The premise had real promise, and there is much that I can see in the author's voice that I like, but this book left me a little disappointed.

The Waking Land is an okay fantasy following the 'chosen one' trope. I think there is a market for it, but readers looking for something on par with Tamara Pierce will be left wanting. However, I see promise in the author's voice and will be willing to pick up a different series from Bates once this one is finished.

Book Review: Sloth at the Zoom by Helaine Becker, Orbie

Sloth at the Zoom is a picturebook written by Helaine Becker and illustrated by Orbie.  One day, a sloth accidentally gets delivered to the Zoom! She was supposed to be dropped off at the Zzzzzoo, a much more laid-back, slow-paced place. She had been looking forward to long, languorous naps while the sun gently warmed her belly. But at the Zoom, the zebras gallop so fast they leave their stripes in puddles. The monkeys climb so fast they forget to stop at the treetops. And the parrots fly so fast their tails draw rainbows across the sky. When the sloth tries to make friends, nobody has any time--until the sloth meets a creature who's a little more her speed, and everyone stops to notice. 

Sloth at the Zoom is a fun picturebook about slowing down. No one at the Zoom is willing to slow down to make friends with the sloth. Her slow pace seems silly to the busy animals zooming around. I like that the sloth never gives up, but keeps trying to convince others to slow down and take tea with her, or simply to take a moment and chat. It is only when the sloth ad a snail connect, and take some time to enjoy each other's company that anyone else seems to notice. However, once they stop and join in the quiet moment they all seem to relax and enjoy it. I like that the story shows very different creatures slowing down to enjoy some time together, and that they can all use some down time. The illustrations are great, capturing the speed of the fast animals as well as the humor used to exaggerate that speed.

Sloth at the Zoom was fun and cute, and I am a sucker for a sloth. It was good, and I enjoyed it, but it did not wow me. I think something about the ending fell flat for me, but I cannot put my finger on what I wanted to be different. 

Book Review: Lulu is a Rhinoceros by Jason Flom, Allison Flom, Sophie Corrigan

Lulu is a Rhinoceros is a picturebook written by Jason Flom and Allison Flom and illustrated by Sophie Corrigan. Everyone thinks Lulu is a bulldog, but she knows that can't be true, because Lulu is a Rhinoceros. That is what she sees staring back at her when she looks in the mirror. But sometimes, being yourself can be a difficult road to walk. And just when all hope seems lost, Lulu finds a small friend that makes a big difference in her life when she realizes that the courage to be herself has been inside of her all along.

Lulu is a Rhinoceros is a story about a bulldog that feels like a rhino. Lulu has fur, rather than the gray skin she thinks she should, so everyone thinks she is a dog. She hunts for something that will help others see her as the rhino she is- a horn! She has quite the adventure, and in the end finds a friend that helps her feel like her true self. I love the feel of the story and the illustrations are charming and sweet. I enjoyed the read and think animal lovers will enjoy the read. One of my favorite things about about this book is that part of the proceeds will be donated to the African Wildlife Foundation to help protect Africa's endangered wildlife.

Early Book Review: Born to Dance: Celebrating Moments of Joy, from Toddler to Teen by Jordan Matter

Born to Dance: Celebrating Moments of Joy, from Toddler to Teen by Jordan Matter is a celebration of what it means to be young and full of possibility. The book is full of lovely color photographs of young dancers (ages 4-17) by Dancers Among Us photographer Jordan Matter, along with Jordan's personal observations and quotes from some of the dancers about joy, life, dance, and family.

Born to Dance: Celebrating Moments of Joy, from Toddler to Teen is a lovely and stunning collection of images of young dancers caught in motion. I love the fact that these are individuals that are out in the world, not in studios and in traditional dance attire. They are all different, utilizing different styles, of different builds, races, ages, genders, and many are in unconventional moments that might not seem like dance on the surface- while others are much more traditional. I like the wide variety of subjects, motions, and backgrounds. Dancers, those that dream about dancing, and those that have always enjoyed watching the beauty of dance will be thrilled with this collection. 

Book Review: One for the Rogue (Studies in Scandal) by Manda Collins

One for the Rogue is the fourth book in the Studies in Scandal series by Manda Collins. I have not read the previous books, and think that the romance stands well on its own. However, I think that those that read the series in order will enjoy it more than newcomers because of the knowledge of the characters, setting, and circumstances. 

Geologist Gemma Hastings has no interest in pursuing romance, and no patience for Lord Cameron Lisle- an esteemed fossil hunter who has a way of always honing in on her territory. But when a shocking attack puts Gemma in very real danger, she may have to accept Lisle’s offers of protection. Even if that means entering into a dangerous flirtation. Lisle was once amused by Gemma’s dedication to her work. But now that he understands how much he’s underestimated her—a woman whose beauty is matched only by her genius—Lisle is desperate to prove his respect and prove himself worthy of her. But is he too late? A bitter rival, desperate to steal Gemma’s scientific findings, is still at-large. Can Lisle help uncover the culprit and keep her safe—forever, in his loving arms?

One for the Rogue is aq fast, fun romance with a dash of enemies turn lover in the mix. Gemma and Cameron have been at odds since the first met. However, Cam is a better man than he might have appeared and is much more respectful towards the intelligence and accomplishments of the women around him than his peers. Unfortunately, he is only made aware of how far he has to go in this vein when he hears his colleagues belittle Gemma and other women he respects. Gemma is proud, and wants her work and discoveries to get the credit they deserve, which is near impossible in her field and time. When greed and conspiracy puts everything at risk Can and Gemma end up working together, and becoming friends.  I loved watching the two dance around each other, respect, friendship, and attracting making things both easier and more difficult as they try to solve the mystery of murder and theft. I like that both characters have faults, and need to work through them. I really enjoyed watching them work together, and get frustrated with each other and the secondary characters that offered either frustrating interruptions or substantial dangers. There was a nice balance of humor and suspense, with a nice dash of  extremely intelligent characters. 

One for the Rogue is a fun and engaging read that has me curious about the previous books in the series. I just might go back and start the series from the start, when I find the time.