Early Book Review: Constellation of the Deep by Benjamin Flouw

Constellation of the Deep is a picturebook written and illustrated by Benjamin Flouw that is currently scheduled for release on June 8 2021. Fox loves nature, and enjoys discovering strange and fascinating plants. He especially loves the seaside, and often walks the salty coastal trails with his cousin Wolf. One day, Seagull tells the two about an especially interesting underwater plant called the constellation of the deep. According to Seagull, it grows on the bottom of the ocean, but no one knows exactly where, and it glows in the dark. Before long, Fox has donned his diving equipment, including a wet suit, a snorkel, a diving mask, fins and more, and sets off on an underwater quest to find this incredible plant. Along the way, Fox observes many different kinds of ocean life, like crabs, starfish, algae and an amazing array of corals. He also comes across some underwater friends who try to help guide him to the elusive plant. But Fox despairs when he loses his camera -- even if he finds the constellation of the deep, how will he capture this amazing discovery?

Constellation of the Deep is a fun story of adventure and exploration that also delivers some interesting information about shoreline and marine life. I liked that the importance of the proper gear and safety measures were included in the story, as were the wonders and dangers of such a journey. I thought the depiction ad naming of a variety of plant and animal life was very well done in the context of the story, and think that some interested readers will go back after the first read through to get a better look at some of them. I think adults that have the chance to read this with the young people in their lives will enjoy it just as much as the younger readers.

Constellation of the Deep is a beautifully illustrated picturebook that just might inspire young readers to have a greater understanding and interest in nature, particularly ocean life. 

Early Book Review: Claude: The True Story of a White Alligator by Emma Bland Smith

Claude: The True Story of a White Alligator, written by Emma Bland Smith and illustrated by Jennifer M. Potter,  is currently scheduled for release on August 4 2020. Claude is a celebrity alligator and the mascot for San Francisco's California Academy of Sciences. His story started almost 25 years ago in Louisiana, where he hatched out of his egg to discover he looked different from the other hatchlings. They were green and Claude was white. The other hatchlings avoided him, and his color made him vulnerable to predators. So Claude went to a special zoo that cared for alligators where he lived in a pen by himself. Now he was safe--but alone. One day, scientists at the California Academy of Sciences heard about him and asked the zoo if he could come and live in the Academy's swamp. He made a 2,800 mile journey to his new home, where he had a surprise--he would share his swamp with Bonnie, an alligator who the scientists hoped would be a friend for Claude. Unfortunately, Bonnie didn't like Claude's differences either, so she was moved to another home. But then Claude was alone again--or was he? With Bonnie gone, Claude began to interact with the five enormous snapping turtles who shared his swamp. The turtles didn't mind at all that Claude was different! And neither do the millions of people who visit him every year. They know that Claude's differences are exactly what makes him special. 

Claude: The True Story of a White Alligator is more than a story about a cool albino alligator finding a happy home and being safe and cared for. I like that it does teach the facts about Claude's life, but it also shines a light on how animals (and people) tend to treat the different. While some enjoyed the spectacle and like to stare, others took the time to make sure he was safe and happy. I was glad that Claude and his turtle friends are happy together, and that he can play a part in education and research. I was very happy to see that the book includes back matter with answers to frequently asked questions about the famous alligator, including information about albinism in animals.

Claude: The True Story of a White Alligator is a well written story that might inspire kindness to animals, and people, regardless of possible differences.

Early Book Review: Run, Sea Turtle, Run: A Hatchling's Journey by Stephen R. Swinburne, Guillaume Feuillet

Run, Sea Turtle, Run: A Hatchling's Journey, written by Stephen R. Swinburne and with photography from Guillaume Feuillet, is a children's nonfiction book currently scheduled for release on March 3 2020. Follow a hatchling's treacherous journey from nest to sea in an engaging first-person narrative from the sea turtle's perspective. Photographs by Guillaume Feuillet capture the drama of the hatchlings' race to safety. Back matter includes information on the life cycle of leatherback sea turtles, tips for how readers can assist with sea turtle conservation, and recommended further reading.

Run, Sea Turtle, Run: A Hatchling's Journey is a visually enchanting book. I love the photography, especially some of the pictures of sand covered turtles making their way to the water. The text was simple and accessible. The color choices for page backgrounds and text were nice and made everything pleasing to the eye and easy to read. I really liked that there was backmatter offering further information on the topic and ways families can help, and resources for further reading. My only complaint is that while I know this is a children's book and we do not need to be freaking out young or sensitive readers with turtles dying, something actually acknowledging the dangers turtles face during the trip could have been mentioned. Why would kids reading think turtles need saving if there are no dangers towards them mentioned. Yes, that there are birds and crabs on the beach is mentioned- but no mention as to why that is important. As far as readers of this book know all turtles that hatch make it to the water, which is far from the case. Perhaps this could be used as a discussion starter for adults reading this with their young readers.

Book Review: The Book of Flying Machines by Neil Clark

The Book of Flying Machines by Neil Clark follows the robot dog Cogz, and his mice sidekicks, Nutty and Bolt. They are up in the sky, looking different flying machines. But how do they work? Discover all about forces, learn about wings, find out about the fastest planes in the world and more. The book covers STEM themes of engineering, physics, and inventions with a fun quiz to test the reader's knowledge.

The Book of Flying Machines is a colorfully illustrated book with a nice amount of information on a variety of flying machines. I think my favorite part of the book is the illustrations- they just captured my attention and imagination from the very start. I think the text was well written, accessible and appropriate for the lower elementary grades but perhaps too much for the preschool crowd.  The facts were interesting and will appeal to young readers that have an interest in the topic, or things that move in general. 

Book Review: Look Down and See Natural Wonders of the World: A Bird's Eye View of 12 of the World's Greatest Natural Wonders by Bethany Lord

Look Down and See Natural Wonders of the World: A Bird's Eye View of 12 of the World's Greatest Natural Wonders by Bethany Lord is a children's nonfiction book. It features illustrated versions of the Great Barrier Reef, Mount Everest, Victoria Falls, and other stunning geographic features look from a bird’s-eye view, which is close enough to see some detail but grants a new perspective to the viewer. Simple explanatory text introduces readers to each wonder, providing key facts and context as well as encouraging readers to take in the exciting visuals.

Look Down and See Natural Wonders of the World is an interesting book. I like that there are interactive parts of the pictures, inviting readers to find and count certain features. I really liked the informational text boxes that taught me things about each location. I found the facts to be very interesting and I learned more than a few things as I read. It was interesting to see an aerial view of the locations, and the illustrations were technically solid. I thought that they were be a little more realistic and less cartoony or stylized when I read the description of the book. The style did make it easier to find the items that readers are encouraged to count and was bold to hold the attention of younger readers, but I was a little disappointed.

Look Down and See Natural Wonders of the World is a great book for young readers that want to know more about the wider world, and who enjoy seek and find style challenges. 

Book Review: Greta and the Giants (Inspired by Greta Thunberg's stand to save the world) by Zoë Tucker, Zoe Persico

Greta and the Giants (Inspired by Greta Thunberg's stand to save the world) was written by Zoë Tucker and illustrated by Zoe Persico. Greta is a little girl who lives in a beautiful forest threatened by Giants. When the Giants first came to the forest, they chopped down trees to make houses. Then they chopped down more trees and made even bigger homes. The houses grew into towns and the towns grew into cities, until now there is hardly any forest left. Greta knows she has to help the animals who live in the forest, but how? Luckily, Greta has an idea. A section at the back explains that, in reality, the fight against the “giants” isn’t over and explains how you can help Greta in her fight.

Greta and the Giants is a lovely book. I have to admit that the first thing that drew me to the book were the colors and art style. I absolutely love the illustrations and bold colors that are used. I found myself paying more attention to the artwork and the details in it that the story during my first read through. In the first part of the book the text is almost lost in the corners, and easy to overlook. Once I slowed down and read the text I enjoyed the story, I only wish the giants in the real world were that easy to reach. The story is reminiscent of The Lorax for me, and I do not mean that in a bad way. My daughter loved The Lorax, and I could recite it for years after she stopped asking for it. The message that protecting nature is good, and that even if we are small and often overlooked we can effect change is something I have not problem telling and retelling. I liked that the story showed that we often have to come together just to get the attention necessary to be heard, but that it can be done. I love that the book included information in accessible terms about what is happening, and how anyone and everyone can do something to help not matter how small. I really enjoy the book as a whole and hope that it will reach the children (and adults) that need to hear the message. 

Greta and the Giants is a delightful story, and one that just might help continue the efforts towards protecting the environment. What makes this book even better is that it has been printed sustainably in the US on 100% recycled paper. By buying a copy of this book, you are making a donation of 3% of the cover price to 350.org. 

Early Book Review: The Boy Who Invented the Popsicle: The Cool Science Behind Frank Epperson's Famous Frozen Treat by Anne Renaud, Milan Pavlovic

The Boy Who Invented the Popsicle: The Cool Science Behind Frank Epperson's Famous Frozen Treat, written by Anne Renaud and illustrated by Milan Pavlovic, is currently scheduled for release on October 1 2019. Frank William Epperson is a curious boy who wants to be an inventor when he grows up. Since inventing begins with experimenting, Frank spends a lot of time in his “laboratory” (better known as his back porch) trying out his ideas, such as building a double-handled handcar that whizzes past the single-handled cars in his neighborhood. What Frank loves most, though, is experimenting with liquids. When he invents his own yummy flavored soda water drink, his friends love it! And this gets him to thinking: “I wonder what this drink would taste like frozen?” Though he doesn't yet realize it, his curiosity will lead to his best invention ever: the Popsicle!

The Boy Who Invented the Popsicle is a biographical picture book that shows young inventors and dreams that yes they can start experimenting early, but that it does not have to be all they do. I like that the book shows young Frank experimenting and questioning things- but it also shows him playing and doing other things.Too often I see books about great inventors or scientist only showing the person doing things involved in their subject matter- which can be daunting to young people that might want to follow a similar path. I also like that it shows Frank finding success, and having things go wrong. I love that there are experiments, with instructions, woven through the story that will allow readers to try some of Frank's experiments. The illustrations did a good job of capturing the mood and time of the story. I thought that the book was very well researched and love that the back matter includes a bibliography, historical notes, and photographs. 

The Boy Who Invented the Popsicle is a good read for young readers that have inquisitive minds and might want to experiment a bit on their own. This might just inspire some future inventors to keep trying new things.

Book Review: Wait, Rest, Pause: Dormancy in Nature by Marcie Flinchum Atkins

Wait, Rest, Pause: Dormancy in Nature by Marcie Flinchum Atkins is a non fiction picturebook. It is full of beautiful photos of animals accompanied by text about dormancy in nature. Featuring creatures like ladybugs, chickadees, squirrels, and even alligators, this book should not put curious kids to sleep!

Wait, Rest, Pause: Dormancy in Nature exceeded my expectation with the images used. The photographs were absolutely wonderful, and worth looking through the book for. I was also very excited by the additional information about types of dormancy, and suggestions for further reading- both with books and online. However, the heart of the book felt flat for me. The images were wonderful, and the placement and varied fonts for the text were very visually engaging. I found the text itself to be a little clunky, not that I expect or want all books for children to rhyme, but there should be a comfortable cadence for reading aloud.  I liked the intent of the book, and think the design was great, but the book just did not match my high expectations.

Wait, Rest, Pause: Dormancy in Nature is visually stunning, and has great endpages information, but did not wow me as a whole.

Early Book Review: There Was a Black Hole that Swallowed the Universe by Chris Ferrie, Susan Batori

There Was a Black Hole that Swallowed the Universe is a picture book written by Chris Ferrie and illustrated Susan Batori. This book uses the familiar rhythm of "There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly," follow along as the black hole swallows up the universe and everything that exists in it, from the biggest to the smallest pieces of matter. The silly, vibrant artwork is sure to make stargazers of all ages smile. Included in the book are instructions to create a craft to turn a cell phone camera light into a black light. Use this new invention to reveal the secret, invisible text and artwork that reverses the story from nothing to the scientific creation of everything! It is currently scheduled for release on September 3 2019.

There Was a Black Hole that Swallowed the Universe is a well illustrated story that can give young readers a good idea of the building blocks of the universe. Some of of the word choices struck me as odd, and the fact that we go from planets down to cells did not make sense to me, but I know in a picturebook brevity is an art form its own and choices need to be made. I liked the idea and the artwork very much, and thought that the black light story in reverse is a wonderful touch, even if my digital copy does not allow me to enjoy it. I think this is a fun and enlightening story that will please many young readers and their caregivers. 

Early Book Review: Glow in the Dark: Animals at Night by Katy Flint, Cornelia Li

Glow in the Dark: Animals at Night is a non fiction picture book written by Katy Flint and illustrated by Cornelia Li. Itis currently scheduled for release on July 16 2019.

Meet the animals that come out at night in this nocturnal adventure across the globe’s habitats, including a glow-in-the-dark poster of the deep sea.See the jaguar prowling the Amazon rain forest, spot the lion pride on the African savanna, and visit a turtle nesting beach under the stars. Then, turn off the lights to see the ocean creatures glow on the 24” × 11.5” tear-out poster. The book’s cover glows in the dark too! (Be sure to charge them in the light first.) 

Each spread features a different nighttime habitat animated by a description of the activities of its various creatures. Fact boxes name each of the creatures and tells a bit about what makes them special. Learn about the rain forest mammals called kinkajous, who slurp flower nectar by night and nest in tree hollows by day, and the rare and mysterious night parrots, who emerge after sunset in the Australian outback to feed on the seeds of spinifex bushes, among many other amazing nocturnal creatures. The habitats you’ll explore are: City, Rain forest, Beach, Australian outback, Woodland, Arctic, Mountains, Mangrove forest, Desert, Coral reef, and Savanna.

Glow in the Dark: Animals at Night is a beautifully illustrated look at the animals that come out after dark. The artwork does a great job of capturing the wonder of the creatures and their habitats. It is a pity that I was reading a digital copy so I missed the effects of the glow in the dark work, which considering the other artwork I suspect is quite lovely.  I thought that the text was well written and accessible to a wide range of ages and knowledge levels. I liked the tone used, it was very conversational and informative without being stuffy or condescending. I think this book will be a hit with animal or nature lovers as well as those who simply love a picturebook that is lovely to look at.  

Early Book Review: A Voice for the Spirit Bears: How One Boy Inspired Millions to Save a Rare Animal by Carmen Oliver

A Voice for the Spirit Bears: How One Boy Inspired Millions to Save a Rare Animal by Carmen Oliver is a children's book currently scheduled for release on May 7 2019. This book is based on the life and work of Simon Jackson, who found navigating the world of the school playground difficult. He felt most at home in the woodlands, learning about and photographing wildlife. As a teenager, he became fascinated with spirit bears, a rare subspecies of black bear with creamy white fur. These elusive creatures were losing their habitat to deforestation, and Simon knew he had to do something to protect them. He decided he would become the voice for the spirit bears. But first, he would have to find his own. Part of the CitizenKid collection, this book demonstrates how one child can be a voice for change. Simon's story is an excellent example of growth mindset at work, highlighting personal growth and overcoming obstacles through activism. This book can also be used to lead discussions about character education as it relates to courage, resilience and perseverance. In addition, it has strong science curriculum links to the environment, animal habitats and the effects of clear-cutting.

A Voice for the Spirit Bears is a biographical picturebook that can show young readers (and their adults) that young people can make a difference. I think that the fact that Simon had to battle a stutter, shyness, and bullying in order to spread the word about the bears and to work toward his goals is as inspiring as his dedication to his cause and fighting for the Spirit Bears. I think his dedication and perseverance might help young people find the courage to stand up and work for things they believe in as well, because if he can deal with all of those obstacles than why can't the rest of us? 

I liked the style of the artwork, and think it captured the feel and intent of the story as much as the text. The emotions of the people and the beauty of the landscapes and animals was very well done. Combined with the emotion and message of the story itself I found the book as a whole to be uplighting and inspiring. I also like that at the end of the book readers get a more detailed biography of Simon and his work, and a little bit of information on what readers might do to help make a difference in their own community or for their own cause. The only thing I was hoping for here was a list or other organizations or groups young readers might want to get involved with. 

A Voice for the Spirit Bears is a beautiful and inspiring read. I think it can be enjoyed and inspire a wide range of readers to step out of their comfort zones and to stand up for a cause of their own. 

Early Book Review: Flower Talk: How Plants Use Color to Communicate by Sara Levine, Masha D'yans

Flower Talk: How Plants Use Color to Communicate is a children's book written by Sara Levine and illustrated by Masha D'yans. It is currently scheduled for release on March 5 2019. This informational picturebook features a cantankerous talking cactus as a narrator, revealing to readers the significance of different colors of flowers in terms of which pollinators (bees, bats, birds, etc.) different colors "talk" to. 

Flower Talk is a fun and entertaining book that teachers readers a little something about plants and pollination. The cranky cactus presenting the information includes a few plant puns as he informs readers how the colors of a plants flower can attract certain pollinators, and why they use each particular color. While the text of the story does not go into tremendous detail, there is a deeper look at the information at the end of the book to help explain the process for those that want to know more. I liked the illustrations, and think the balance of fact and fun is close to perfect when you keep the target audience in mind. The only thing I would really have wanted was maybe a list of further resources to help interested readers and their parents or caregivers to explore further if so inclined. 

Book Review: Rattlesnake Rules by Conrad J. Storad, Nathabiel P. Jensen

Rattlesnake Rules by Conrad J. Storad is a children's non fiction picturebook. Rattlesnakes have rules?! If these babies shake their rattles, you had better pay attention! Misunderstood, rattlesnakes have gotten a bad rap over the years.  This book demystifies the world of rattlesnakes and introduces children to such topics as who, when, and what rattlesnakes eat. It shows readers why rattlesnakes have rattles and what it means if you hear one. You will learn how the snakes forked tongues help them survive. The delightful and colorful illustrations of Nathaniel P. Jensen help bring the story alive.

Rattlesnake Rules is a good introduction to rattlesnakes and their behavior. I like that it offers the rules rattlesnakes live by to survive, and the rules people should follow when exploring the outdoors. The illustrations are cute, and I like the realistic colors used in the snakes and the landscapes, but it did not wow me with detail work. The text of the story is told in rhyme, and is easy to understand and remember. My favorite aspect of the book is the additional information and resources included at the end of the book. There are some interesting facts that were new to me, and some activity and craft ideas for caregivers, parents, or teachers to take part in with young readers to get them more engaged and interested in the story and information. 

Rattlesnake Rules was an informative read, and I think it could be very useful in teaching young children how to behave in rattlesnake territory, and to understand rather than fear them. I found the story itself to be alright, but the picturebook portion did not stand out or wow me in any way.

Book Review: Around the World in 80 Ways: The Fabulous Inventions that Get Us From Here to There by DK, Katy Halford

Around the World in 80 Ways: The Fabulous Inventions that Get Us From Here to There from DK, with illustrations by Katy Halford is a children's non fiction book about different modes of transportation. Travel around the world by yacht, tram, train, unicycle, jetpack, camel... everything you can imagine! Each scene depicts various exciting things that go and provides a wealth of interesting information. The fun and charming illustrations will prompt discussion and the incredible facts on every page will amaze readers.

Around the World in 80 Ways: The Fabulous Inventions that Get Us From Here to There is a well illustrated book, using realistic but colorful depictions of everything from the dugout boats and horses that were among the first modes of travel people used, to the more unusual items like kiteboards and unicycles. Each invention or animal used for transportation has a brief explanation, offering some history of tidbit about comfort using that type of travel. Some items, like the car, hot air balloon, and camel have much more information than the rest. I can think of many young readers from my past elementary school library position that would have adored this book, and think it will be a favorite for some. 

Book Review: Anna at the Art Museum by Hazel Hutchins, Gail Herbert, Lil Crump

Anna at the Art Museum is a picturebook written by Hazel Hutchins and Gail Herbert, and illustrated by Lil Crump. Going to the art museum with her mom is no fun at all for Anna. Everything is old and boring and there are so many rules: Don’t Touch! Do Not Enter! Quiet! A vigilant guard keeps a close eye on the energetic little girl, but even so, Anna manages to set off an alarm and almost tip over a vase. A half-open door draws Anna’s attention, but the No Entry sign means yet again that it’s off-limits. This time, however, the guard surprises her by inviting her to go in. Here she finds a “secret workshop” where paintings are being cleaned and repaired. Staring out from one of the canvases is a girl who looks grumpy and bored—just like Anna herself. With the realization that art often imitates life, Anna discovers the sheer joy to be had from the paintings on the wall, especially those that reflect what is happening all around her.

Anna at the Art Museum is a picturebook that recognizes that things that can be fun do not always feel like it when our energy level and mood want more than the rules around us require. Following the rules in the art museum is hard for Anna, and honestly most children (and some adults). However, Anna is lucky enough to get a glimpse of things she might not otherwise see that allows her to enjoy the more sedate activities. I think this is important for children and parents alike, to see that if we can relate to the art or activity we are much more likely to enjoy the journey. That connection is what made following the rules and enjoying the museum possible for Anna, and much less stressful for her mother. I thought the illustrations captured the beauty and uniqueness of the art, and the mood and motion of Anna very well. The theme that life imitates art is easily noticed once you look at the illustrations, and see those commonalities. I also like that they show other children having a hard time in the museum, so Anna is not shown as bad or unusual in her struggles. I really enjoyed the additional information that is given at the end of the book about the real art that is featured in the story. I like that it is a fairly diverse selection of art. 

Anna at the Art Museum is a wonderful picturebook about art and how we can see the reflection of reality in it. This would be a great book to look at before introducing creating or appreciating art in school or at home, or to preface a trip of your own to an art museum. 

Early Book Review: The Vast Wonder of the World: Biologist Ernest Everett Just by Melina Mangal, Luisa Uribe

The Vast Wonder of the World: Biologist Ernest Everett Just is a picturebook biography written by Melina Mangal, and illustrated by Luisa Uribe. It is currently Scheduled for release on November 1 2018. Ernest was not like other scientists. He saw the whole, where others saw only parts. And he noticed details others failed to see. Through stunning illustrations and lyrical prose, this picture book presents the life and accomplishments of Ernest Everett Just, an African American biologist who made important discoveries about the cell in the 1930s. Through his careful observations and hard work, Ernest opened up the wonder of the universe to all of us, through a tiny egg cell.

The Vast Wonder of the World: Biologist Ernest Everett Just is a wonderful picturebook biography about a man that struggled against prejudice and never let anything get in the way of his search to understand the word around him. I like that he is described as an observer, because too many of our budding scientists today are observers as well, and often get hurried along rather than given the time they want to study the details of the world. Just's work and struggles are covered well here in the limits of the picturebook format, and the artwork does a wonderful job of complimenting the text, and the spirit of Just's work. 

I wish I had known more about this scientist and his work before now, and hope that this book will not only inspire young people to study the world around them, but for all readers to take some time and explore his life and work. I know I will be exploring the sources cited and information offered at the end of the book to better understand him, but to take it a step further and look into other scientists that do not get the respect and honor that they deserve. 

Book Review: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, I Know Exactly What You Are by Julia Kregenow

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, I Know Exactly What You Are by Julia Kregenow in a nonfiction picturebook. Do you know why stars twinkle? It’s time to find out! The text is written to match the classic melody of “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” by an expert in astrophysics. This book is an introduction to the real science behind the magic of stars. Discover how stars are created, what they’re made of, and even what makes them look like they’re twinkling. 

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, I Know Exactly What You Are is an accurate and factual rhyme to teach readers of all ages the truth and science surrounding stars. I think the rhyme are well done, and interesting. However, I have to admit that as an adult I lost focus partway through the second verse. I love the idea of teaching science in our bedtime reading, but thought that this was a little much. I know there are kids and parents out there that will love this book, and will have as a repeat read. I just found it to go on too long, the details about fusing atoms, atmospheric turbulence, and more was beyond what I would find myself singing.

Book Review: Skyward: the Story of Female Pilots in WWII by Sally Deng

Skyward: the Story of Female Pilots in WWII is a children's, informational picturebook written and illustrated by Sally Deng. The year is 1927, and in America, England and Russia, three young girls share the dream of becoming pilots. Against the odds, these ambitious young trailblazers follow their hearts, enrolling in pilot school (some in secret) and eventually flying for their countries in World War II. This book lets readers follow the adventures of these young female pioneers as they battle not only enemies in the skies but sexism and inequality in their own teams. It includes legends like Jackie "Speed Queen" Cochran. Risking their lives countless times in feats of incredible bravery, the female air pilots--WASPS--of the Second World War are honored in this beautiful story based on actual events, illustrated in Sally Deng's raw, dynamic style.

Skyward: the Story of Female Pilots in WWII is a fabulous fictional reimagining of what a few real female pilots might have felt and endured before, during, and after WWII. Like may females in fields typically dominated by men the three pilots Deng focus's on face more hurdles than simple mastering a skill set. They face the hardships of regular life during the war, but also breaking barriers that allow them to train and then use their talents for the greater good. they each faced different issues and challenges along the way, but young readers will be able to empathize with their needs to follow their dreams and fit in with their family and friends. I really like that the three pilots are from different backgrounds and face different reactions from their families. I also enjoyed the information on the day to day lives of the pilots during the war,m showing the hard work and comradery that was part of the journey.  It really shows the differences and similarities we all have underneath it all. I hope young readers come away from this book with that message, and determined to follow their dreams and support others along the way. 

Book Review: Starry Skies: Learn about the Constellations Above Us by Samantha Chagollan, Nila Aye

Starry Skies: Learn about the Constellations Above Us is a nonfiction picturebook written by Samantha Chagollan and illustrated by Nila Aye. Every night, the sky is filled with stars that tell a thousand tales. Brave warriors, regal queens, fierce beasts -- they all parade across the starry skies each night. 

Starry Skies is a very simple picturebook that show and names a series of well known constellations in a fun way. I like the way they frame the constellation in make believe play that young readers can connect with and enjoy. The artwork is adorable, and does a good job of outlining the vision of the constellation along with the stars and the framing stories. I also like that at the end a few of the constellations are shown in groups depending on if they appear in the spring or autumn sky and that its mentioned that which stars you see depend on where you live and the season. I though that there could have been a mention of which you are likely to see together, or maybe where to spot the most common depending on hemisphere. However, this is a basic introduction that just might inspire young readers to go out with their families and do some star gazing of their own. 

With brilliant illustrations by Nila Aye, you will see the shapes of each constellation, and imagine what they might look like when you look up into the dark sky above. This introduction to astronomy is all you need to start learning about stars, so get ready, star hunters, and look to the skies!

Book Review: Want to Know. The Bicycle by Lucas Arnoldussen & Marc Janssen

Want to Know. The Bicycle by Lucas Arnoldussen & Marc Janssen is a children's non fiction book that is really fit for all ages. Do you want to know all about the bicycle? What did the first bike look like? How many kinds of bikes are there? How can you chose the best bike for you? What kinds of cycling sports are there? Who are the most famous racing cyclists? Beyond the basic information about bicycles and those that ride them are rhymes, repair information, a mini quiz, a fold out page and more.

Want to Know. The Bicycle is an interesting and informative picturebook. While aimed at young readers, and worded so that everyone can understand the text, I found that I learned a few things as well. The illustrations and information are paired well, and I think it will capture and hold the interest of a wide range of readers. The fold out page of the bike shop was interesting, and I liked the information on the variety of bikes and some of the most famous bike riders- even the less than positive things about them. I think this is an all around well done non fiction picturebook that will appeal and capture the imagination and interest of a wide range of readers.