Book Review: The Evil Wizard Smallbone by Delia Sherman

The Evil Wizard Smallbone by Delia Sherman is a middle grade novel. When twelve-year-old Nick runs away from his uncle’s in the middle of a blizzard, he stumbles onto a very opinionated bookstore. He also meets its guardian, the self-proclaimed Evil Wizard Smallbone, who calls Nick his apprentice and won’t let him leave, but won’t teach him magic, either. It’s a good thing the bookstore takes Nick’s magical education in hand, because Smallbone’s nemesis—the Evil Wizard Fidelou—and his pack of shape-shifting bikers are howling at the borders. Smallbone might call himself evil, but compared to Fidelou, he’s practically a puppy. And he can’t handle Fidelou alone. 

The Evil Wizard Smallbone has complex characters and situations that kept me guessing for a bit, even with the amount of science fiction, fantasy, and mythology i have read. Nick has finally escaped a abusive house only to stumble into the care of the evil wizard Smallbone. He is made an apprentice and put to work doing all the menial tasks you might expect. However, there is much more the the wizard he works for than any might expect. the small town he lords over, and all its inhabitants are in his debt- but no one remembers why. Secrets and magic at at the heart of it all- including the wolves, coyotes, and bikers that want to destroy it all. Nick is not a simple boy, nor is Smallbones a simple wizard. They are much more than the stereotypical figures one might expect after the classic set up, and the other characters that play large roles in the excitement are all multidimensional as well. This includes the villagers, the bad guys, and even the pets and farm animals kept by Smallbones. I enjoyed the use of several creatures and ideas from mythology and fairy tales were used with different twists than normally seen. I also liked that I was genuinely surprised at a twist or two, but even when I expected an outcome it was done in a way that was completely enjoyable and worth the read.

The Evil Wizard Smallbone was so much more than I expected. The time between requesting a book from Netgalley and me reading it is sometimes long enough that I remember nothing of the initial blurb when I start to read, and this was the case here. I was very happy to discover a middle grade novel with complex characters, plot twists, and adventure. I can think of many readers, including reluctant readers that I will gladly recommend it too. I was so impressed with the character and world building that I am not ready to let go of this story at all. I am inspired to go back and read the previous books by the author. 

Book Review: Kudzu for Christmas by Emilie Eklin Khair

Kudzu for Christmas is a picturebook by Emilie Eklin Khair.  The Kudzu game was created during a long drive to school, but now everyone wants to play. Join Sam and Andy and the rest of the gang as they search for cool creatures, friendly beasts, and even their favorite pets in the twisted Kudzu vines. And when winter weather takes the green away, maybe the crazy creatures YOU find will end up hiding in your OWN Christmas tree!

Kudzu for Christmas is an interesting picture book. Kudzu is a vine that is very invasive and grows quickly. While the vines climb trees, utility poles, and buildings they create shapes and shadows that can frighten, or become part of shape finding games. When the winter months come the vines disappear from the normal spots and are missed by those that have included the vines in their games and routines. However, their mother has saves some of the greens and created Christmas ornaments to continue the games in the tree. A sweet and interesting story, but one that I think children that have the vine, or a similar one, in their area will understand most. It was a good story, with artwork to match, but I think it was just okay. 

Book Review: Curse of the Were-Hyena by Bruce Hale

Curse of the Were-Hyena is the first book in the Monstertown Mystery series by Bruce Hale. Mr. Chu, the coolest teacher ever, has developed some very unusual habits, like laughing hysterically for no reason, sniffing people's homework, and chasing chickens. When best friends Carlos and Benny decide to find out what's happening to him, they get caught up in some moonlight madness. And it looks like just the beginning of the weirdness that has arrived in the town of Monterrosa.

Curse of the Were-Hyena is an entertaining read that will appeal to a wide audience. Carlos and Benny each get into a good amount of trouble as they do their best to save their teacher, unravel the mystery, and not become were-anything in the process. I like that they are fully aware of what they are doing and that the adults are not foolish. The adults might miss some things, but are not the clueless cutouts that are often found in children's books. Carlos' family is facing big changes, which gives the story an undercurrent of him trying to find his place in light of a younger sister with big things going on. Benny might be a little to reliable for the goofy option, but I still know people that think like his, so i still found his character to be realistic. The family dynamics play a role, and change as the story continues, which adds an extra dimension to the story. The mystery and supernatural elements kept me on my toes, and held a couple surprises for me. I was pleased to actually have some of the final twists to be unexpected, and in some cases completely so. While not a perfect story, it was well worth the read and I think  it will become a favorite series for many reluctant readers.

Curse of the Were-Hyena is a fast and fun story that will be a hit with middle grade readers. I think this is a series that might encourage more reluctant readers in that age range to follow the series and explore reading a little more.

Book Review: Dojo Surprise by Chris Tougas

Dojo Surprise is a picturebook written and illustrated by Chris Tougas. The six little ninjas of Dojo Daycare and Dojo Daytrip are back for a third adventure. Here they are planning a surprise birthday party for their master. Stealthy as ever, the ninja girls and  boys tiptoe around without a noise (or so they think) as they prepare for the celebration. Meanwhile, the master is spooked by the noises and shadows he senses around him. Is there a dragon over there? It’s a total dojo scare!

Dojo Surprise is another fun and boldly illustrated picturebook for every little ninja. The students are trying to be stealthy in their party prep, but keep startling their master, although he is still not aware to what exactly is going on. I am rarely a fan of the 'unaware adult" that seems so prevalent in children's books, I would like to hope that here it is because the little ninjas are so well trained, but I do not quite buy it. However, I do think that it will highly entertain in a storytime or any read aloud settling. The artwork and thoughtfulness of the ninja students does overtake some of my misgivings- it is still a fun read that will make many young readers smile.

Dojo Surprise is a fun rhyming book for a good laugh and quick read. 

Early Book Review: To Burp or Not to Burp by Dr Dave Willians, Loredana Cunti, Theodore Key

To Burp or Not to Burp: A Guide to Your Body in Space by Dr Dave Willians and Loredana Cunti, with illustrations by Theodore Key is a children's nonfiction book currently scheduled for release on October 11 2016. Of all the questions astronauts are asked by kids, the most frequent one is “How do you go to the toilet in space?” This book answers that question, but many others about the effect of zero gravity on the human body like; How do you brush your hair in space? What happens when you sweat? What does food taste like? The best thing is that the answers are provided by Dr. Dave Williams, a NASA astronaut who speaks from first-hand experience. Written for kids ages 7 to 10, this book uses age-appropriate language to explain the different phenomena that astronauts encounter during a mission. The bright, colorful pages, short blocks of text accompanied by photos and humorous illustrations make this a very attractive choice for young readers. The opening message from Dr. Dave empowers kids to follow his example by believing in themselves and following their dreams.

To Burp or Not to Burp is a perfect book for readers that love space, and those that like to tell joke or learn about bodily functions- and most kinds fit into at least one of these categories. I am not surprised that the most common question asked of astronauts pertains to bodily functions, and am glad that I can answer these questions (or offer the book) when my kids or library patrons ask. There are cartoons and photographs to illustrate the information in the book, and the text is well organized and written in a conversational manner with humor and fun little tidbits I never thought about before. I think readers will enjoy the fact that the book was written with reference to first hand knowledge, rather than in a more textbook style. at no point does the text talk down to readers, in fact it encourages them to work hard and work toward achieving their dreams. The read was fun and highly informative. I think many reluctant readers might use this book as a jumping off point to explore more books about science and the astronauts mentioned in the book.

To Burp or Not to Burp is a book that balances the weird aspects of human biology and the wonders of space travel. well organized facts, humor, and a tone that entertains but does not talk down to readers will keep readers interested. Well down all around. 

Book Review: Baba Yaga by An Leysen

Baba Yaga is a picturebook that was written and illustrated by An Leysen. Once upon a time, in a land far away from here, lived a girl named Olga. Olga lived with her father in a beautiful house, and they were very happy together. Until Olga’s father one day fell in love again but his new wife was cruel and mean. And her sister Baba Yaga, who lived in a dark forest, was even meaner. Baba Yaga was a real witch! There was a rumor she was fond of children on her plate! One day Olga’s stepmother sent her to Baba Yaga. What was she supposed to do now?

Baba Yaga is a retelling of the classic Slavonic myth. Olga is a sweet girl put in a bad situation, a common start to fairy tales world wide. I have heard different tales about Baba Yaga over the years, and I found this version to be simple enough to share with younger readers than most of the versions I have read. The illustrations are lovely and add a great deal to the atmosphere of the story, and included details that enrich the story. This would be a wonderful addition to a classroom unit of fairytales and legends, or just for sharing. It is a little text heavy, which is necessary to tell the story, so I would label this an older picturebook or one to share.

Baba Yaga is a wonderful version of this classic tale. I think the illustrations are what really sold it to me, with their soft ethereal feel. A delightful book for sharing a fairy tale that some might not be familiar with.

Early Book Review: Happy Mamas by Kathleen T. Pelley, Ruth E Harper

Happy Mamas is a picture book written by Kathleen T. Pelley and illustrated by Ruth E Harper. It is currently scheduled for release on October 10 2016. This book is intended as a read aloud that pays tribute to mothering in the animal and human kingdoms. It depicts activities that bring joy to a mama and her baby over the course of a day: feeding her little ones, teaching  playing peek-a- boo; watching her little ones fly from the nest; singing a serenade to the man in the moon; or crooning owly lullabies through the deep dark woods. But as the moon glows and the stars shine, what is it that makes all mamas - from desert to jungle, from forest to field, from land to sea, happiest by far? 

Happy Mamas is a sweet book, combining the things that make parents happy regardless of species. Feeding their children, playing with them, teaching them things they need to know, and snuggling at bedtime. I felt like some off the text felt a little forced, and while the story all worked it did not impress me.Some of the illustrations were beautiful and charming, and I like that the humans included were not all generic caucasians, I felt like some of the detail work was less than I expected. None of it was bad, it just did not wow me. I have seen so many picture books, good and bad, and while this might fit the bill for occasional bedtime reading I do not think it will be a requested read or one that parents will have to read over and over.  

Early Book Review: The Truest Heart (Fairy-Tale Matchmaker) by E.D. Baker

The Truest Heart is the third book in the Fairy-Tale Matchmaker series for middle grade readers by E.D. Baker. It is currently scheduled for release on October 11 2016.I highly recommend reading the series in order, I think picking up the story here will leave readers frustrated and confused. Start with Fairy Tale Matchmaker and then The Perfect Match before reading this installment. They are all quick, fun reads, so it is worth the effort.

Born to be a tooth fairy, Cory Feathering has been busy proving there's another life meant for her, one of matchmaking! She's already helped Marjorie Muffet and Goldilocks find true love, and now it's Mary Lambkin's turn. When Cory has a vision of Mary with one particular boy, Cory knows exactly what to do. But it's Cory's own personal life that needs help. The Fairy Guilds are constantly hounding her, furious that she's abandoned the guild she was born into in favor of choosing her own path. They won't stop until justice has been served. As Cory prepares to fight for what she believes in, she must decide once and for all if she's prepared to take on the responsibility of her biggest role yet, one that will change her destiny forever.

The Truest Heart is a quick, fun read that ties up many of the loose ends of the series, while still leaving me wondering where our characters might do next. The trial between Cory and the guilds is underway and their shady efforts to scare her are ramping up. Meanwhile Cory is just trying to live her life- playing in her band and matchmaking as needed. As the danger ramps up Blue and his friends help protect Cory, and we meet a wider variety of fairy tale creatures. I liked the combination of Cory struggling to do the right thing along the discovery that some of the creatures involved are no as they seem.

The Truest Heart is a fun and heart warming addition to the Matchmaker series. There is plenty of resolution for the larger story arcs that have moved the series along, but enough room for more to come. A perfect balance to make readers satisfied but still eager for more.

E. D. Baker is the author of the Tales of the Frog Princess series, The Wide-Awake Princess series, The Fairy-Tale Matchmaker series, and many other delightful books for young readers, including A Question of Magic, Fairy Wings, and Fairy Lies. The Frog Princess was the inspiration for Disney’s hit movie The Princess and the Frog. She lives with her family and their many animals in Churchville, Maryland. 

Early Book Review: A Guide to the Other Side (Beyond Baylor) by Robert Imfeld

A Guide to the Other Side is the first book in the Beyond Baylor series by Robert Imfeld. It is currently scheduled for release on October 4 2016. There are a few things you should know about Baylor Bosco: He’s thirteen-years-old, he has a twin sister, and he really does NOT like ghosts…which is problematic because he’s a medium and sees ghosts everywhere. Oh, and his twin sister, Kristina? She’s a ghost too. They’ve been working as a pair for years, expertly relaying messages from ghosts to their still-living loved ones. Baylor’s even managed to come up with an introductory phrase—one that he has to use far too often. But when a strange ghost shows up close to Halloween, a grown man, covered in a sheet, with only his black leather shoes showing from the bottom, Baylor starts to wonder if something else has taken notice of him. And when his sister goes missing, somehow ghost-napped, he’s forced to figure out the truth about the Sheet Man and his sister’s disappearance, all without his usual ghostly ambassador.

A Guide to the Other Side is the story of a very special middle grade boy that has the ability to see and speak to ghosts. While dealing with the inopportune requests from the other side he still needs to get through school and family life without constantly freaking out other people with his abilities. The added complication of a ghostly twin acting as his companion, confidant, and protector make things more complicated. By the time readers join Baylor on his adventure he is well versed on blending in and feels fairly confident in his skills and place as messenger for the dead. However, things are about to get harder and Baylor needs to face his responsibilities and learn more all aspects of the world around him. I like that he has both scary moments, and some very emotional issues to face. While the mystery of the sheet man and the danger Baylor faces is a huge part of the story, I really love that his emotional growth and understanding- including empathy for his family and friends- is just as important to the story. This is not just a paranormal adventure full of mischief and mayhem, it is also a heartfelt coming of age story, I also enjoyed the fact that while the adults in Baylor’s life dogged upset with him for putting himself in harm’s way and breaking rules, they are also aware and intelligent characters rather than the bumbling adults that seem to frequent children’s fiction. 

A Guide to the Other Side is a wonderful middle grade novel with plenty of heart, excitement, and wonder for readers. I am very glad I read it and can think of many I would recommend it to. 

Early Book Review: The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold by Maureen Fergus

The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold by Maureen Fergus is a picturebook currently scheduled for release on October 11 2016.  Santa has a problem. This kid? Harold? Santa doesn't think he's real. He WANTS to believe in Harold--after all, Harold is one of the most magical parts of Christmas.  But Santa's just not sure. Some of his friends are telling him they think Harold's not real. And the Harold that sat on his knee last Christmas looked AWFULLY different. Santa comes up with a plan to find out once and for all if Harold really exists, with hilarious consequences.

The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold handles the questions many children face when they start hearing whispers of the more magical parts of childhood being less than real. Classmates, siblings, cousins, television shows and any number of sources could have a child wondering if Santa and the other magical forces that inhabit childhood are real. By twisting the narrative so that it is Santa not fully believing in a particular child makes the story fun and more engaging to young readers. I think this is a fun and helpful read for families wanting to keep the belief alive a little longer. 

The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold is a delightful picture book for dealing with declining faith in the wonders of Santa, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy and the like. A wonderful read for families and particularly children that still want to believe. 

Book Review: Farm Animals and Wild Animals (Animal Bites) from Animal Planet

Farm Animals is part of the Animal Bites series from Animal Planet. This is a children’s non fiction book with more than 200  animal photos of cows, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, llamas, and others. It includes a habitat-by-habitat guide that offers young readers a bite-sized view of their favorite farm animals. The book is divided by theme, including animal behavior and family relationships, animal bodies, baby animals, food, play time, conservation and more. There are Quick Bites sidebars with cool animal facts, simple infographics, and illustrated maps of life in on the farm and at the petting zoo.

Wild Animals is part of the Animal Bites series from Animal Planet, like Farm Animals. This book the same abundance of photography of lions, giraffes, ibexes, flamingos, hippopotamuses, and many others as well as the habitat-by-habitat guide of  wild animals. Arranged thematically with focus on animal behavior and family relationships, young readers will explore sections about animal bodies, baby animals, food, play time, conservation and more. Special book features designed for this age group include Quick Bites sidebars with cool animal facts, simple infographics, and illustrated maps of life in the African Savannah and Amazon rain forest.

It looks like this entire series would be a nice addition to any library, including personal  collections. The photograph are crisp, bright, and sometimes beautiful. I think the photography work alone will capture the attention of young readers. The information, especially the Animal Bites in the sidebars are well worded and organized to keep the interest of young readers while still being very informative. I think animal lovers will quickly take to this book, and not want to giver it up. I think Animal Planet found the perfect combination of fun and information to keep readers of all ages interested own the book and wanting to revisit it time and again. As a bonus to those buying these books, a portion of the proceeds will benefit Animal Planet's R.O.A.R. (Reach Out. Act. Respond.) campaign that partners with leading animal organization to make the world a better place for domestic and wild animals.

Book Review: Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale by David Kudler

Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale by David Kudler is the first book in the Seasons of the Sword series. Though Japan has been devastated by a century of civil war, Kano Murasaki, called Risuko (Squirrel) is more comfortable climbing trees than down on the ground. Growing up far from the battlefields and court intrigues, the fatherless girl finds herself pulled into a plot that may reunite Japan, or may destroy it. She is torn from her home and what is left of her family, but finds new friends at a school that may not be what it seems. Historical adventure fiction appropriate for young adult and middle-grade readers.

Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale was a nice surprise. I am a big fan of Japanese culture and mythology, and the classic coming of age quest  story, so I was drawn to the book and needed to give it a chance. I greatly enjoyed the character building for Risuko, she is a growing, dynamic character that is very observant of the world around her. While the reader only knows what Risuko see and hear, sometimes we can understand more than she does and enjoy the realization as it comes. Because of her uncertainty and struggles the readers get to see and understand more than they might with a different narrator. I like that there seem to be no assumptions on the authors part about how much or Japanese history or folklore the reader knows, or does not know. The world building is solid but subtle, so at no point does ignorance of a certain word, story, or event turn off a reader. Additionally there is a collection of related information at the end of the book to sooth the eager minds of any reader that seeks to understand more about anything they might not have fully understood while reading. I found myself so wrapped up in Risuko's story, that I finished the book in less than a day, begrudging the menial tasks that took me from the read, like making meals for my family and eating.

Risuko: A Kunoichi Tale is a wonderful read for middle grade, young adult, and older readers. I think anyone that enjoys historical fiction or the  coming of age combined with a quest that seems to be most common in fantasy. I think this will be a wonderful surprise for any reader that gives it a chance. I cannot recommend this read highly enough.

Early Book Review: The Fox Who Ate Books by Franziska Bierman

The Fox Who Ate Books is a picturebook by Franziska Bierman which is currently scheduled for release on October 11 2016. Meet Mr. Fox, who loves books so much that every time he finishes one, he eats it! His appetite drives him to seek more and more books, until one day, he discovers the local library, where he can “devour” books to his heart’s content. Eventually, the librarian catches him “sampling” from the collection and bans him from the library. Down on his luck, the crafty Mr. Fox must find other ways to satisfy his cravings. However, his attempt to rob the local bookstore ends badly. Mr. Fox lands in jail, where he discovers a surprising way to satisfy his literary cravings (and become rich and famous).

The Fox Who Ate Books is a funny look at how much people can love reading. While the fox who literally devours his books takes it a bit too far, I can understand the desire to collect and not return books that strike you as special. However, I have never licked, bitten, or otherwise ingested any reading material, though I might have sniffed an old book or two in my day. I really like how the fox turns his love of words into something bigger and better than just devouring books, he shares the words inside him by writing them down for others to devour. Every writer I know started as a reader, and I think this a fun story that might encourage some children to attempt to read more, I think it will have a bigger impact on those who already love books and reading by encouraging them to write some stories of their own. 

Early Book Review: Narwhal: The Unicorn of the Sea by Ben Clanton

Narwhal: The Unicorn of the Sea by Ben Clanton is an early graphic novel that is currently scheduled for release on October 4 2016. Narwhal is a happy-go-lucky narwhal. Jelly is a no-nonsense jellyfish. The two might not have a lot in common, but they do they love waffles, parties and adventures. Join Narwhal and Jelly as they discover the whole wide ocean together is three silly and simply awesome adventures. First, Jelly learns that Narwhal is a really good friend. Then Narwhal and Jelly form their own pod of awesomeness with their ocean friends. And finally, Narwhal and Jelly read the best book ever, even though it doesn't have any words or pictures!

Narwhal: The Unicorn of the Sea is tremendous fun. At first I almost called this an easy reader- mainly because it had the feel of fun and friendship I get when enjoying an Elephant and Piggie book from Mo Willems, or the more recent Ballet Cat from Bob Shea. However, this book is about a narwhal- who does not love a narwhal? Particularly when one is so enthusiastically happy and willing to try just about anything, particularly if it will make his friend jelly happy. The three adventures are fun, and show the importance of friendship and trying new things, and imagination, just as much as they make readers of all ages laugh. As a bonus, there are some interesting bits of information about real narwhals tossed in with all the fun.

Narwhal: The Unicorn of the Sea is a great book to introduce young readers to graphic novels. However, if you are against graphic novels for some reason, just call it a picturebook or easy reader- because it could fit those descriptors easily as well. A delightfully fun book that will make fans of Bob Shea and Mo Willems very happy.

Book Review: The Pinkaboos: Bitterly and the Giant Problem by Laura Gosselin, Jake Gosselin, and, Billy Kelly

The Pinkaboos: Bitterly and the Giant Problem is a transitional chapter book written by Laura Gosselin and Jake Gosselin, and illustrated by Billy Kelly. It is the first book in a new series, with the second book, Belladonna and the Nightmare Academy, released this month. 

This is going to be the best year ever for best friends Bitterly, Abyssma and Belladonna as they are starting a new school year at Fright School! But when Bitterly, the most promising fright, is faced with a school bully and some nightmares of her own, she finds help from the last place she expected—the little girl whom she has sworn to protect.

The Pinkaboos: Bitterly and the Giant Problem is the start of a new series that is about facing fears, dealing with bullies, and finding your place and talents. I like that our main characters are those who should be scary, but are dealing with school pressures and self doubts like their readers. These young frights are in school to learn how to help their assigned human to deal with nightmares in fears. In the process of figuring out how to help her girl, Bitterly figures out how to handle her own fears and worries. I think this is a great new series for readers just venturing into chapter books. This book is right up my daughters alley and I think there are many other readers that will enjoy it as well. 

The Pinkaboos: Bitterly and the Giant Problem is an empowering  series for young readers that presents the challenges of childhood through a magical world filled with not so scary frights. 

Early Book Review: Lila and the Crow by Gabrielle Grimard

Lila and the Crow is a picturebook by Gabrielle Grimard which is currently scheduled for release on October 11 2016. Lila has just moved to a new town and can't wait to make friends at school. On the first day, a boy points at her and shouts: “A crow! A crow! The new girl's hair is black like a crow!” The others whisper and laugh, and Lila's heart grows as heavy. The next day, Lila covers her hair. But this time, the boy points at her dark skin. When she covers her face, he mocks her dark eyes. Now every day at school, Lila hides under her turtleneck, dark glasses, and hat. And every day when she goes home, she sees a crow who seems to want to tell her something. Lila ignores the bird and even throws rocks at it, but it won't go away. Meanwhile, the great autumn festival is approaching. While the other kids prepare their costumes, Lila is sadder and lonelier than ever. At her lowest point of despair, a special encounter with the crow opens Lila's eyes to the beauty of being different, and gives her the courage to proudly embrace her true self.

Lila and the Crow is a heartfelt look at how it feels to be different, picked on, and self conscious. Lila is new, and just wants to make friends. she is teased just because she looks different, not because of her actions or personality. While only one person is doing the teasing, no one stands up for her which only makes her heart heavier. It is only when she embraces, in fact flaunts, what makes her different that the words of others no longer have power over her.

While most people, regardless of age, have felt this way at some point, it is important to show your children that if they are feeling bad about being different for any reason, they are not alone. the story shows those that feel left out that they are not alone. It can be used to start discussions on what makes everyone different and why we should embrace those characteristics rather than try to hide them. It could also be used to show how a fellow classmate or two standing up and not joining in the laughter or offering to play might have stopped Lila from being so sad and lonely for the majority of the book. There are so many wonderful ways to use this book to start important discussions as a family, in a classroom, or in a storytime stetting that I think it is a must read. 

Early Book Review: Isabella Girl in Charge by Jennifer Fosberry

Isabella Girl in Charge is a picture book (and more) by Jennifer Fosberry. It is currently scheduled for release on October 4 2016. A big event has Isabella ready to leave home at the crack of dawn, but that’s a motion her parents are not likely to pass. After a two-to-one vote, it’s decided that some things need to happen before Isabella can leave the house, like eating breakfast and brushing her teeth! If her house is going to work like a democracy, Isabella knows what she has to do; call an assembly and campaign her way out the door! Isabella celebrates the women who were first to hold public offices. And if Isabella can get her parents out the door, she might just witness the first woman voted into the highest position of all.

Isabella Girl in Charge is a fun and informative book. As Isabella tries to get out to attend a grand event with her parents she changes names and imagined identities to take on the roles of some of the most important women in history. At the end of the book each of those women and their accomplishments are described in detail. In the end the family does get to their destination, to see a woman elected president (no, she looks nothing like Hillary or Jill). I like that while democracy and women breaking barriers is covered, were are no political lines drawn in the sand. It is not about policy or issues, but the fact that women are perfectly capable to doing such difficult jobs.

Isabella Girl in Charge is a great way to encourage girls to shoot for the stars, and to remind them that women can do anything. I really thought the information on the variety of women that are covered in the book was a crucial and interesting part of the book. Reading about women that decided the odds to be the first governor, mayor, and the like might just inspire a young reader to do something amazing. 

Early Book Review: The Night the Stars Went Out by Suz Hughs

The Night the Stars Went Out by Suz Hughs is a picturebook that is currently scheduled for release on October 1 2016. Alien is the star controller for the entire galaxy, which was a big job for a very little alien. He is so busy polishing the stars that he has no time for fun or friends. One night something disastrous happens, and Alien faces the biggest problem of his life. Will Alien be able to fix the stars?

The Night the Stars Went Out is a bright and boldly colored picturebook, which fits the story and characters perfectly. Alien is dedicated to his job, he has no friends or fun because he spends all his time polishing the stars. However, one night all the stars go out despite all his hard work. The only solution is some special star polish that is only available on Earth. Once there Alien has a few surprises, like the fact that he floats on Earth and making friends with a boy. I like that it is in finding a friend, and discoving the fun and importance of friendship, is what actually restore the stars. The adventures the fiends have, and the way the keep in touch, keep the heart of the story strong. 

The Night the Stars Went Out is a delightfully fun book about making friends, and making time for fun. While doing our duty and meeting our responsibilities is important, it is also important to take time out to enjoy life.

About the Author: Suz Hughes’s work has been published in a number of books. She studied art and design with a main focus in children’s illustration, which has served her well. Suz likes to mix imagination with everyday life in her work, hoping to make her readers smile. Suz grew up in Wales and currently lives in Manchester.

Early Book Review: Madeline Finn and the Library Dog by Lisa Papp

Madeline Finn and the Library Dog by Lisa Papp is a picture book that is currently scheduled for release on October 1 2016. Madeline Finn DOES NOT like to read. Not books. Not magazines. Not even the menu on the ice cream truck. Fortunately, Madeline Finn meets Bonnie, a library dog. Reading out loud to Bonnie isn't so bad. When Madeline Finn gets stuck, Bonnie doesn't mind. Madeline Finn can pet her until she figures the word out. As it turns out, it's fun to read when you're not afraid of making mistakes. Bonnie teaches Madeline Finn that it's okay to go slow. And to keep trying. And to get support from a friend.

Madeline Finn and the Library Dog is a beautifully illustrated picturebook that tells the story of one young girl that does not like reading, mainly because it is a struggle for her and she does not want to be laughed at. The desire to do everything we try well, and to fit in, is universal. When Madeline gets the chance to read to a therapy dog at the library she learns that she can do it, she just has to be patient and kind to herself as her furry reading companion.A supportive audience make everything easier, and pretending to be reading to the library dog Bonnie helps Madeline conquer her fears at school. I think children can relate to Madeline even if they do not struggle with reading, but struggle instead with math, sports, or anything else.

Madeline Finn and the Library Dog is a wonderful way of showing struggling readers that they are not alone, and that they really can do it. It can also help other kids have more understanding for those that might be struggling. It would also be a good read for introducing a similar program the library. We had a dog program that was briefly a hit at our library, and would have been a long term winner if not for particular issues that had nothing to do with reading. 

Book Review: Grumpy Cat’s All About Miserable Me: A Doodle Journal for Everything Awful by Jimi Bonogofsky-Gronseth

Grumpy Cat’s All About Miserable Me: A Doodle Journal for Everything Awful by Jimi Bonogofsky-Gronseth is an activity  book for all ages. Grumpy Cat wants to know about you, and here's your chance to tell everything! Nobody cares about your complaints, except Grumpy Cat! This book gives everyone's favorite cranky feline the chance to make suggestions for revealing your pet peeves. Grumpy will encourage you to draw the ugliest sweater, make a list of the grossest foods, draw three people you sorta kinda like (love is a strong word), and gripe to your heart's content.

Grumpy Cat’s All About Miserable Me is a book that can entertain doodlers of all ages, and anyone that likes the guru,py but cute little face of this famous feline. While definitely taking advantage of the fame and a niche market, this book will make anyone that falls into the target audience happy. In fact, I ordered a copy that I intend to give to my almost ten year old son, because he loves to draw and enjoys activity books and things that let him be creative, however I expect to order a second copy for my daughter who is not a big fan of sitting still long enough to write or draw, but loves anything animal related. I think adults will enjoy the book too, but I think it will be more eagerly completed and enjoyed by children old enough to understand sarcasm.