Book Review: Astronaut Annie by Suzanne Slade, Nicole Tadgell

Astronaut Annie is a picturebook written by Suzanne Slade and illustrated by Nicole Tadgell. Career Day is approaching, and Annie can’t wait to show her family what she’s planning to be when she grows up. But, she must keep it a secret until Friday! So curious family members each ask Annie for a clue. Convinced that she’ll be a news reporter like he once was, Grandpop gives her his old camera and notebook to use for her presentation. Grandma is sure Annie wants to be a champion baker like her, so she offers a mixing bowl and oven mitts to Annie. Hopeful she'll become the mountain climber he aspired to be, Dad gives Annie an old backpack. Mom presents Annie with a pair of high-top sneakers to pursue Mom's favorite sport in high school -- basketball. Grateful for each gift, Annie cleverly finds a way to use them all to create her Career Day costume. When the big day arrives, Annie finally reveals her out-of-this-world dream to everyone.

Astronaut Annie is a picturebook that embraces and expresses the idea that you can be anything you want to be when you grow up. Anne has her  own dream, but has not shared it. I love the variety of options her family encourages her to follow, and hopes for her. I found the little hints (as if the title was not enough to give it away to readers) about what she really wants to be.The illustrations are lively, and add a great deal to the story.  I love that there are no limits placed on her, and while each of the people on her family have their own ideas of what her choice may be- they only offer support not pushes to follow the path they had in mind. I found the additional information in the endpapers about real women in NASA and the moon to be helpful for readers that are interested in learning about people and things involved in the dream of being and astronaut. I also liked that the sources and information for further research is also included.

Early Book Review: Red Sky at Night by Elly MacKay

Red Sky at Night is a picturebook written and illustrated by Elly MacKay. It is currently scheduled for release on May 1 2018. Red sky at night, sailor's delight. And, the next morning, when the dew is on the grass, no rain will come to pass. These are the perfect conditions for a grandfather to take his grandchildren out on a fishing trip. Especially since, as the saying goes, when the wind is from the West, then the fishes bite the best. The family takes a boat out on the lake, fishing and swimming and eventually camping out on a nearby island, taking full advantage of the gorgeous weather. But the next day, red sky in the morning, sailors take warning! The family ventures back home just in time to avoid a rainstorm. But not to worry -- the more rain, the more rest. Fair weather's not always best.

Red Sky at Night is more than a collection of weather related folklore, and more than a story about a family on a fishing trip. I like the way this book combines the two, and includes weather saying s that I have known all my life, and taught me some I had never heard before. I like the way the The illustrations were lovely, and captured the family's emotions, that the weather at hand, and the hints of weather to come. I thought the animals in the background spoke to the wildness of nature, and how changeable and untameable it is. I also liked the information on the sayings, their background, the truthfulness of reliability of the sayings, and how they have changed. I love a picturebook that tells a story and teaches something interesting and fun, without losing the charm of a story- and this book does it admirably. 

Book Review: Erik the Lone Wolf by Sarah Finan

Erik the Lone Wolf is a picturebook written and illustrated by Sarah Finan. Being a wolf means sticking with the pack. Everyone knows that – except for Erik, one little wolf cub who dreams of setting off on his own adventure all by himself!  But will life as a lone wolf be everything he hoped, or will he miss the rough and tumble of the pack?

Erik the Lone Wolf is a picturebook that shows the importance of family and a support system. Erik is tired of following everyone else's rules and just wants to do his own thing. We have all been there, no matter our age. However, he discovers that it is not always the best idea and that he does need the help and support of his pack. The story was cute, as were the illustrations. However, I wanted more. I think that Erik and his pack could have gotten to the ending with a little more learned, like Erik getting a little more independence from his family while still enjoying their closeness. The idea that going it alone is danger and disaster makes for people unwilling to take risks, if the lesson were more about being smart about those risks, and actually learning something from it and finding balance I would appreciate the book more. 

Early Book Review: Hedgehog by Ashlyn Anstee

Hedgehog by Ashlyn Anstee is a picturebook currently scheduled for release on May 8 2018. Hedgehog is hogging the hedge and won't let the other animals live there. Winter is coming, and the animals need homes. The worms move in with the groundhogs, the possums share a burrow with the foxes, the birds and the squirrels stay in the oak tree together, but the hedgehog lives in the hedge all by himself. When other animals come looking for a place to stay, he's NOT interested; it's HIS hedge and everyone else can STAY OUT. He gets busy making signs, putting locks on his door and even building a fence. All he cares about is keeping the other animals out but he's making a huge mistake. Will the other animals find a home in time?

Hedgehog is a story about sharing, cooperation, and more. It has its humorous moments, but is mainly a political allegory.  The illustrations were cute, but felt a little unpolished to me, although the did show the moods and ideas of the story well. The book is good, and the story does a good job of imparting the intended lesson. However it just did not wow me, it fell a little flat for me.

Early Book Review: Nothing Happens In This Book by Judy Ann Sadler, Vigg

Nothing Happens In This Book is a picturebook written by Judy Ann Sadler and illustrated by Vigg. It is currently scheduled for release on May 1 2018. The narrator of this picturebook warns us:Reader, don't waste your time with this book. “You might as well stick it back on the shelf,”“Or toss it under your bed. You don't need to read it because it looks like nothing happens in this book.” But, wait, he's spotted something. There's a trumpet without a trumpeter. And there's a tiny car without a driver. And a baton without a twirler. Maybe if you keep turning the pages, you'll find out who is missing these items. Maybe they are all together, getting ready to do something awesome. Maybe something amazing does happen in this book after all! The text and visual narrative work hand in hand in this playful, page-turning meta picture book, encouraging children to join in on the quest to find the seemingly missing story.

Nothing Happens In This Book is a fun interactive picturebook that leads readers on a hunt to see what might happen. There are clues on each page, and as out character discovers missing objects and moves forwards young readers are encouraged to imagine what might be coming. I thought the text and pictures were playfully paired, with a subtle humor and a hunt that encourages listener and reader participation. While I had a digital copy, the paper edition includes a gatefold spread to reveal the busy parade that completes the story and solves the mystery of just who lost all the wacky items, and what their plan was. This book would make a wonderful read a loud, one on one or in a library or classroom setting. It can also be used to start a discussion on story writing, telling, or building for an older audience. 

Early Book Review: Old Misery by James Sage, Russell Ayto

Old Misery is a picturebook written by James Sage and illustrated by Russell Ayto. It is currently scheduled for release on May 1 2018. Poor Old Misery. She and her old cat, Rutterkin, “ain't got two pennies to rub together.” And the one thing of value she does have ---a tree, filled with good eating apples --- is regularly ransacked by humans and animals of all kinds who make off with armloads of apples! So, one day, when a surprise visitor grants her a wish, Old Misery tells him, “There's but one wish for me, mister, and it's this here: whoever I catch stealing apples off my tree will get stuck to it until I decide to let them go!” At first, it seems like her wish was a terrific idea, as she catches all the apple thieves and sends them on their way for good. But then Old Misery decides to use her new power on another surprise visitor. And she learns what may be the most miserable lesson of all: be careful what you wish for!

Old Misery is a slightly macabre story about why misery will always be here. Old Misery is poor, with only a cat and an apple tree to call her own. She uses the wish from one surprise visitor to protect her tree, and then to trap another surprise visitor- gaining herself immortality with a steep price to pay. I like that the artwork by Ayto is reminiscent of the art of Gris Grimly and Edward Gorey, which made me happy. I liked the clean style, and it matched the story very well. The voice of the story is unique, and tells a story that includes trickery, death, and more. It might be a little dark for some young readers, but I think it will appeal to many.

Early Book Review: Trampoline Boy by Nan Forler, Marion Arbona

Trampoline Boy is a picturebook written by Nan Forler and illustrated by Marion Arbona. It is currently scheduled for release on March 6 2018. In this story readers see the world through the eyes of a character we only know as Trampoline Boy. His favorite thing to do is jump up and down, up and down on his trampoline. Kids walk by and tease him, but he remains steadfast and calm. One day, a quietly exuberant girl, Peaches, is fascinated by his jumping. Trampoline Boy wordlessly invites her to jump with him, and by spending this time with him, Peaches and readers get to see how important and valuable different perspectives are.

Trampoline Boy is a sweet and visually lovely, picturebook. The images are stylized, and brightly colored. The main character is a boy fully engaged in his favorite activity and ignoring those that mock him for being different. Peaches watches him, fascinated by his jumping, and how much he loves it. She wants to see, to understand, and he is willing to share. I love the story, because it is about doing what you love. However, it is also about not just being willing to explore someone else's perspective, but being excited about it. It is also about being willing to share that view. Reaching out a hand to those others might exclude or mock, and taking the time to know and understand is so important and something we all need to take the time to do. What a sweet and inspiring story, that is also a lovely read both visually in in the lyric text.

Book Review: Tilly and Tank by Jay Fleck

Tilly and Tank is a picturebook by Jay Fleck.  Tilly the elephant is taking her morning stroll when she notices something strange on the horizon. Is it another elephant? The newcomer has a trunk and tail, but he's a very curious shade of green. Tank, on the other hand, notices an odd-looking creature approaching. It has a barrel and a turret, like Tank, but is a curious shade of blue. Is it a new enemy tank? Tank's alarm sounds and he goes BOOM, scaring Tilly off. But when Tilly returns with a flower, Tank begins to understand that she might not be an enemy at all.

Tilly and Tank is a nice story about understanding, assumptions, and friendship. I think it speaks to the way many kids and adults make assumptions about others based on their own personality and experiences rather than taking the time to learn about the new things and people they encounter in the world. The illustrations are charming and do a good job of telling the story and giving life to the characters. This is an all around good read, with a lesson about prejudice, peace, and friendship. I think it is an important message, and one handled well here, in a way that is not so in your face that readers of all ages cannot enjoy the read. 

Early Book Review: Petra by Marianna Coppo

Petra is a picture book by Marianna Coppo which is currently scheduled for release on February 6 2018. Petra is a little rock who believes she is a mighty mountain, until a dog fetches her for its owner, and she is tossed into a bird's nest. A mountain? No, Petra is now an egg! An egg of the world in a world of possibility. Until she's flung into a pond, and becomes an amazing island and, eventually, a little girl's pet rock. What will she be tomorrow? Who knows? But she's a rock, and this is how she rolls!

Petra is a cute picturebook about a rock with grand ideas about herself. She thinks highly of herself, and even when she is proven wrong by circumstance she continues to adjust and adapt, making the best of every situation. This is a great reminder for kids and adults alike, that even if thing do not go the way you want or your self perception changes there is still good and possibilities ahead. I loved Petra's good nature, and thought the illustrations were fun and charming. I enjoyed the picturebook greatly, and think it will be a favorite for many.  

Book Review: I am Bat by Morag Hood

I am Bat by Morag Hood is a picturebook about a bat who is a little grumpy, and very protective of his cherries. When they start going missing the bat searches for the thief, even blaming the reader. As he searches he discovers that cherries are not the only delicious fruit available. 

I am Bat is a cute picturebook about a grumpy little bat afraid that his favorite foods will disappear. When he finds cherries gone he is desperate to find the cherries, and the culprit. I loved his reluctant admission that he likes pears too, when that option appears. The art is simply but bold, and reminds me of the art on Gravett's picturebooks (which is a good thing). It is a short, simply, fun read that plays well for a short read aloud while being simple enough for independent reading for the littles as well. 

Early Book Review: Tricky by Kari Rust

Tricky by Kari Rust is a picturebook about the Duke and his dog, Tricky. It is currently scheduled for release on October 15 2017. This pair spend their days making trouble. They cheat, steal, and play pranks on their neighbors, just for fun. But one day, somebody new comes to town and gives Tricky a treat that melts his mischievous heart, and sets him thinking about the effect his actions have on others. Inspired to change his ways, Tricky decides to set things right the only way he knows how with tricks! Tricky’s ploy might just lead The Duke to reconsider his ways.

Tricky is a great picturebook that shows Tricky and his master playing tricks on just about everyone. When someone shows Tricky kindness he starts to question what he has been doing. I like that The Duke shows that while he likes to play tricks he does not respond well to being on the other side, and Tricky learns not to play mean tricks of others. My favorite thing about this book is that it is the act of someone else being kind, rather than a harsh consequence, that helps Tricky see the error of his ways. Readers, even the youngest, will see that sometimes offering a simple kindness to others can make a big difference. They also get to see that more often than not, people that are being unkind can change or will often move on when things change in their lives. The stylized artwork and bold colors make the story pop off the page and feel a little more alive to the audience. I greatly enjoyed the read, and think it is both a fun read and one with a great message to share.

Early Book Review: Cinderella and the Furry Slippers by Davide Cali, Raphaelle Barbanegre

Cinderella and the Furry Slippers is a picturebook written by Davide Cali and illustrated by Raphaelle Barbanegre. It is currently scheduled for release on October 10 2017.

Cinderella is dying to go to the ball. She's seen pictures of the fancy castle and the handsome prince, she's heard the fairy tales about true love, she's found the perfect dress in Princess magazine and she's even found an ad for a Fairy Godmother. She's all set. Except the fairy godmother doesn't look like the one in the ad. And the castle doesn't look like the picture. And the prince well, Cinderella decides her fairy-tale ending is going to look different--and be a whole lot more fun.

Cinderella and the Furry Slippers is a fun take on the Cinderella story, and shows kids that getting what you want is not always the answer. Cinderella wants to go to the ball and dance with the prince, but nothing goes quite like she expects. Furry slippers and a less than ideal prince show her that the grass is not always greener. I liked Cinderella's willingness to change things up when they do not go as planned, and the way the fractured fairy tale changes the story. It was fun and entertaining. The artwork was a little cartoony for my preferences, but I think it matches the story and many will love this read. 

Early Book Review: Tobor by Guido van Genechten

Tobor is a picturebook by Guido van Genechten that is currently scheduled for publication on October 11 2017.  Ben receives a very special present for his fifth birthday. Unlike Ben's stuffed animals who can't move on their own or talk, Tobor is different; with a press of his square nose, Tobor comes alive, suggesting and playing games, talking and asking questions and soon he becomes Ben's best friend. Sometimes friendship develops where you least expect it.

Tobor is a delightful picturebook with artwork that captured my attention right away. Ben plays with and interacts with his stuffed animals the way many imaginative children do, as if they are alive. However, when he is gifted with Tobor- a toy that can actually talk and play rather than one that can only do these things in his imagination, he is as obsessed as anyone would expect a child to be. I loved the adventures and interaction the pair have. I liked that Ben got tired of Tobor's constant desire to play. More than anything, I liked that Ben came to see that a toy that walks and talks is great, he also sees the importance and fun that can be found with a little more variety. I think could be a good classroom or family discussion starter about new friends and how different people play different ways, and that we can all come together and find a happy medium. 

Early Book Review: Stinker by David Zeltser, Julia Patton

Stinker is a picturebook written by David Zeltser and illustrated by Julia Patton which is currently scheduled for release on September 1 2017.  Stinker is a puppy stuck in the pound. He's playful and loving and wants more than anything to be adopted. Unfortunately, little Stinker is always making big smells. As family after family return the ever-patient pooch back to the shelter, even he begins to lose hope. That is, until Stinker meets a snarky tomcat who can wriggle his way out of any situation. Together they stage a great escape in order to find just the right home, where Stinker will be loved in spite of his smells.

Stinker is a fun story about a dog with a serious flatulence problem. All he wants is a home and to be loved, but most people cannot get past the stink. I loved that the narrator of the little stinker's tale is a snarky cat who promises a happy ending. The cat tells about the failed adoption, and then Stinker's search outside the pound. I liked that the failed opportunities are told, not just the final solution, which is charming. This makes the story not just about accepting others despite faults and accepting yourself, but also about persistence and that failing is part of the process. This is an all around cute and engaging story that will bring on the giggles and perhaps teach a lesson or two along the way.

Early Book Review: Santa Please Bring Me a Gnome by An Swerts, Eline Lindenhuizen

Santa Please Bring Me a Gnome is a picturebook written by An Swerts and illustrated by Eline Lindenhuizen. It is currently scheduled for release on September 1 2017. This year Tess does not want toys, instead she wants a gnome. A real, living gnome to be her friend to take everywhere and share everything with. She gets everything ready for her new friend, including little furniture and bedding. When Christmas comes will she get her wish? 

Santa Please Bring Me a Gnome is a sweet and delightful picturebook. I loved the illustrations, they really brought Tess's plans and hopes to life, and I loved how helpful Tess's grandparents were through her endeavor to get ready for Santa to deliver her friend. I think the conclusion, with note from Santa and all, was a perfect answer and one that parents, caregivers, and children will enjoy on different levels. This might be a Christmas book, but I fully expect some will be requesting this book year round. 

Early Book Review: How to Catch a Monster by Adam Wallace

How to Catch a Monster by Adam Wallace is a picturebook currently scheduled for release on September 1 2017. The book is about a young boy emboldened by his karate class and ready to face the monster in his closet. He plans on trapping and scaring the monster that has scared him so many times. However, once he succeeds he discovers that the monster's intentions are not what he expected.

How to Catch a Monster is a book that encourages young readers to face their fears head on, and shows them that things they do not understand might be scary, but are not always worthy of fear. Once our character captures his monster he discovers that the monster just wanted a friend- and it is hard to play with someone who is asleep. So, all the scary wake ups were simply attempts to be friends. Once he gets to know the monster, and his family, he is no longer afraid and has a new friend. I think this is valuable lesson both in learning about the unknown and facing fears. Taking the time to understand things that scare you often makes them less scary, and sometimes valuable friends of resources. The artwork is fun and bright, but not quite as polished as I would like. However, it is still a wonderful book.

Book Review: Violet by Tania Duprey Stehlik, Vanja Vuleta Jovanic

Violet is a picturebook written by Tania Duprey Stehlik and illustrated by Vanja Vuleta Jovanic. Violet is happy that her father has come to pick her up after her first day at a new school. But as she races over to meet him, one of the other kids asks, How come your Dad is blue and you're not?" Violet has never even thought about this before. Her mother is red, and her father is blue -- so why isn't she red or blue? Why is she purple? Upset and confused, Violet goes to her mother. Using paints, her mother shows her that when you combine red and blue, you get violet! Like many people in the world, Violet is a beautiful mix of colors. But color isn't really that important. After all, it is what's inside us that counts.

Violet is a delightful picturebook that explores race and being different. Violet is different, her mom is red and her father is blue- but she she is violet. She is worried about being different and faces questions from classmates. I liked how her mom calmly and simply explained, and the author is able to express the idea that people are people. It is not color (or race, religion, ability, or anything else) that define us- it is what is inside us that makes us who we are. The illustrations are wonderfully colorful and quirky, making the story more endearing. I really enjoyed the book and think it is an important one. This could be a great tool for families and classrooms, in fact I think everyone should read books like this- because understanding each other how simple the solution (if only everyone could live it) is important for us all. But most importantly, everyone should be able to see themselves in the books they read, and this gives so many children a chance to see themselves (and their families) in print.

Early Book Review: A Loud Winters Nap by Katy Hudson

A Loud Winters Nap by Katy Hudson is a charming picturebook. Every year Tortoise sleeps through winter. He assumes he isn't missing much. However, his friends are determined to prove otherwise! Will Tortoise sleep through another winter, or will his friends convince him to stay awake and experience the frosty fun of winter? Best-selling author Katy Hudson's charming picture book will have everyone excited for winter.

A Loud Winters Nap is a fun story about a tortoise that just wants to hibernate. He thinks winter is nothing but cold and snow, but in his attempts to find a quiet place to sleep his friends show him some of the fun to be had in the winter months. I like that tortoise and his friends have fun together, and that none of the waking tortoise is done maliciously or teasingly, rather it is by accident or with good intent. However, as someone that sleeps little and never gets to nap when I want- I do rather wish that his friends would respect his wishes and let him have his rest. However, then there would be no story. 

Book Review: A Horse Named Steve by Kelly Collier

A Horse Named Steve is a picturebook by Kelly Collier  about a horse named Steve who is a fine horse, but who longs to be more. When Steve finds a gold horn in the forest and attaches it to his head, ta-da! Exceptional! His friends are so impressed, they, too, attach objects to their own heads, in an effort to be as exceptional as Steve. So when Steve suddenly realizes his horn has gone missing, he’s devastated! He won’t be exceptional without his horn! Or will he?

A Horse Named Steve is a charming story about a horse wanting to be special, or more special than he already is. This is something everyone can relate to- especially young readers who are still trying to figure out just who they are. I like that Steve did learn the lesson that he is still special with or without the horn, but he still likes to have a special something. This shows him as not perfect, and more relatable to young readers, and makes the story more fun which will keep readers interested and entertain by the story after it is over. The illustrations are as fun and quirky as the story and made me love the book even more.

Book Review: Zoo Zen: A Yoga Story for Kids by Kristen Fischer, Susi Schaefer

Zoo Zen: A Yoga Story for Kids is a picturebook written by Kristen Fischer and illustrated by Susi Schaefer.  What could be more fun for kids than to hop like a frog, slither like a snake, and roar like a lion--all while learning an empowering, healthy life skill? This book is a pose-along adventure for young children, taking them on an adventure with Lyla as she learns ten yoga poses from her friends at the zoo, receiving helpful tips along the way from each animal she encounters. Rhyming and counting are used to make memorization easier, and fun. 

Zoo Zen: A Yoga Story for Kids is a simple and fun introduction to yoga poses for young readers. Those that are interested in yoga, and animals will enjoy the read. I thought it was well done, unfortunately it did not blow mew away as particularly better that the books and videos that I have seen doing similar things- although I found the illustrations charming and  the animal connection one that will speak strongly to some readers.