7 Days of Books, Day 6 Biography & Historical Nonfiction in Children's Picture Books

When I first read the biographical and historical nonfiction books for children that I'm sharing with you today, I knew they were all SPECIAL. Since then, a couple have recently received Major awards and Honors, and I suspect even more are coming. 

Parents, guardians, aunties, uncles, grandparents, librarians, teachers -- you won't want to miss out on sharing these books with the young readers in your life.

The Tower of Life. How Yaffa Eliach Rebuilt her Town in Stories and Photographs by Chana Stiefel, illustrated by Susan Gal (Scholastic Press 2022)

Tingles all over. That's what I felt upon reading this beautiful book, this story about a woman who survived the erasure of her town and then went on to resurrect its memory and reunite its extended families through photographs that had been taken by her mother. This WINNER of the Russel Freedman Award for Nonfiction for a Better World is utterly astounding and deeply touching. It's a must-read book for all readers as an inspiration for finding light from darkness and treasuring traditions, like stories and story-telling, which connect us to the places we call home.

Mister Rogers' Gift of Music by Donna Cangelosi, illustrated by Amanda Calatzis (Page Street Kids 2022). 

The beautiful and whimsical illustrations that paint some of the favorite verses of the songs Mr Rogers sang in his television show will captivate young readers along with the story about what his life as a child was like, and why he so earnestly believed in connecting with children everywhere. When I was little, I remember my younger brother shouting to my mother, "Mom! He's talking to ME!" We loved Mr. Rogers. This kind soul was and is an inspiration to all.

Just Wild Enough. Mireya Major, Primatologist by Marta Magellan, illustrated by Clementine Rocheron (Albert Whitman 2022). 

This remarkable story that breaks notions of scientists was among the very short list of titles being considered for the Prestigious Russell Freedman Award for Nonfiction for a Better World given by SCBWI. What is most surprising about this book is that it shows an interest in science can lie in everyone, including a girl with interests in dancing and ballet who worked as a Miami Dolphins cheerleader. A girl who went on to help establish nature preserves for rare and endangered lemurs in Madagascar and has gone on field assignment for National Geographic and makes TV programs about wild places and animals. This book is definitely one that ought to be shared with ALL readers, who will see life's goals and passions have no limits. 

Revolutionary Prudence Wright, Leading the Minute Women In the Fight for Independence by Beth Anderson, illustrated by Susan Reagan (Calkins Creek 2022). 

Having grown up in New England, where it seemed signs of colonial history could be found near every curve and corner, I was absolutely tickled when I discovered that Prudence Wright and I had grown up in the same area. We'd likely traveled the same dirt roads and fields, where the seeds for Prudence's independence had taken root. (I had a horse when I was tween, and the areas was quite rural.) However, this book will appeal to all kids, not just those in New England. The brings the history of events of the Revolutionary War to life, and sheds light on what the sparks for rebellion looked like in small towns. The additional information provided in the back matter from both the author and illustrator are also fantastic with additional insights on Prudence's story, such as the paper "love box" she made as a young girl and noted in the story. I highly recommend this book along with Beth's other new release CLOAKED IN COURAGE. UNCOVERING DEBORAH SAMPSON, PATRIOT SOLDIER.

Pizza! A Slice of History by Greg Pizzoli (Viking 2022). 

This origin story of pizza is packed with fascinating facts (like of Persian soldiers who baked shallow crusts on their shields) and subtle humor (like when the first pizza delivery may have occurred). Given the widespread popularity of this well-known meal, this book is bound to be a hit with young readers. 

Lola Out Loud, Inspired by the Childhood of Activist Delores Huerta by Jennifer Torres, illustrated by Sara Palcios (Little, Brown and Company 2022). 

The story shares insight into the childhood of activist Delores (Lola) Huerta during her days spent at the Hotel Delano, her family's business enterprise. Between her child-like distractions and watching the generosity of her mother extended to guests who couldn't afford to pay to stay at their hotel, Lola learns to show that same generation and protective arm to others who need it. One line from the story struck me with its empathy: "because Lola and her Mama kept more than clean towels at Hotel Delano."Lola's story shows young readers that "one small voice can make a difference," and "if you see a problem, fix it! . . . Don't pretend it isn't there." Lola Out Loud is a wonderful story of human kindness that kids can model.

Jump At the Sun. The True Life Tale of Unstoppable Storycatcher Zora Neale Hurston by Alicia D. Williams, illustrated by Jacqueline Alcantara (Athenum 2021). 

Just like the title promises, and just like her Mama told her to do - Jump at the sun, so that she might at least get off the ground - the passion that author Zora Neale Hurston had for telling tales ever since she was a young child, bounces from the pages. Despite the hardships she faced when her mother died, and her father sent her away, Zora dug deep to follow her dreams and persevere. The illustrations match what must have been her zeal for storytelling, and which continued in to her adulthood. With its strong voice-driven narrative written by Alicia D. Williams, this book would make a perfection companion with BRAINSTORM written by Rebecca Gardyn Levington for aspiring young creatives. That book was reviewed on Day 3 here. Jump at the Sun is another fabulous title for young book lovers everywhere.

Today's prizes for the raffle include:

1) a signed copy of THE TOWER OF LIFE from Chana Stiefel to US address

2) a PB manuscript critique from Donna Cangelosi

3) a copy of the ARC of JUST WILD ENOUGH  and PB critique from Marta Magellan to US address

4) a copy of REVOLUTIONARY PRUDENCE WRIGHT from Beth Anderson to US address

To earn your chance at winning one of these prizes offered for today's post, make a comment on this blog post. Are there any favorite works of NF or biography that you would like to share?

Then grab more entries with this rafflecopter.

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7 Days of Books, Day 3 Books to get Young Readers Moving, Thinking, Dancing

Here we are with Day 3, and I am so excited with the creativity behind these titles! So much so that they seemed to beg for a category of their own - one that slightly stood away from the traditional categories of Humor or SEL or STEM. I hope you'll find as much wonder sparked from these books as I did and be inspired to share them with the kiddos in your life. 

Take a ride on a Holiday train in Vancouver: https://604now.com/vancouver-christmas-trains-2018/

I'm also repeated pleased with the generosity of our kidlit community seen in authors and illustrators willing to give back and lift others on their journeys with their knowledge and experience. I hope you'll take advantage of the opportunities presented today and enter in the giveaway after reading about these wonderful and inspiring new titles. First, by commenting on this post and then by entering the rafflecopter.

Build an igloo as inspired by: https://www.treehugger.com/how-build-igloo-4852625

Are you ready? Here we go with our unique and fabulous batch of books!

Brainstorm by Rebecca Gardyn Levington, illustrated by Kate Kronreif (Sleeping Bear Press 2022). 

This rhyming lyrical story of a girl who feels lost of ideas on what to write for a class assignment slowly feels the excitement build for creativity as she's hit with one fun idea after another. Young readers will find delight in deciphering and chasing the ideas across the page along with the young writer-in-bloom. This book provides a great starting point in inspiring kids for their own creations, and this author heart absolutely LOVES it!

A free teacher's guide and activity pages for this book can be downloaded here: https://rebeccagardynlevington.com/books/brainstorm/

Ride, Roll, Run. Time for Fun by Valerie Bolling, illustrated Sabrina Khadija (Abrams Appleseed 2022). 

A new book that makes a GREAT companion to her previously published, Let's Dance, this rhythmic and rhyming story from Valerie Bolling, shows different activities that young kids can do together at the end of a school day, or throughout summer. The diverse cast of children and activities ranging from sports, to music, to sidewalk art will sure to connect with young readers and tap into feelings of JOY that can come from doing activities with others. 

Find more about this author's other books here: valeriebolling.com

Dot, Dot, Polka Dot by Morissa Rubin (POW! 2021).

This bright and cheery board book introduces young readers to the wide world of fabric designs, from round calico prints to blocks of kenke cloth to fancy batik. Personally, I wasn't introduced to such fabrics until adulthood when a friend brought me a batik print from Kenya and I fell in love with the artistry. It's wonderful that our smallest humans can be introduced to a range of patterns from different cultures around the globe!

A teacher's guide can be found here: morissarubindesign.com/books

Treasure Hunt by Stephanie Wildman, illustrated by Estefania Razo (Lawley Publishing 2022).

There aren't many kids who would say no to a treasure hunt, and this book will undoubtably inspire them to create their own treasure hunt with friends or siblings, and then create their own puppet show! I used to love making my own dolls and toys as a kid, and I hope that this book ignites a similar passion for creativity in youngsters, especially one that lies in resourcefulness in using items that can be repurposed, rather than trashed or recycled!

Find more about this author here: stephaniewildman.com

Come On In: There's a Party in this Book! by Jamie Michalak, illustrated by Sabine Timm (Hippo Park, Astra Publishing 2022). 

Read Brightly listed this book as one of the best picture books of 2022, and my creative-loving heart can see why. Kids will undoubtably be inspired to create their own characters for playtime, (hopefully, not entirely through lunch or snack time) given the unique illustrations of this story. But mostly, I suspect they'll enjoy the rhyming, bouncing text and read along with the refrain of, "Come on in!" as Lemon goes about trying to find the party. This utterly different book tickled my mind and soul!

Kiyoshi's Walk by Mark Karlins, illustrated by Nicole Wong (Lee & Low Books 2021). 

When a young boy watches his grandfather draw a haiku poem with Japanese script, he asks where poems come from. So his grandfather takes him for a walk through their city where he learns how to make observations to create haiku with things like an artful eye, and artful ear, and an artful mind. I absolutely love this book for showing how the beauty of nature can be found EVERYWHERE, along with the relationship between grandfather and grandson. 

Wonder Walkers by Micha Archer (Nancy Paulsen Books 2021). 

Having grown up with much of my time spent exploring the outdoors near my home, I adore books that inspire children to get outside and think about our natural world in new and wonderous ways. This book does exactly that. Additionally, it's sparse, yet mindful text, will plant the seeds for word recognition and independent reading. A win all around!

Atticus Caticus by Sarah Maizes, illustrated by Kara Kramer (Candlewick Press 2021). 

The lively alliteration and rhythm of this story will prompt young readers into clapping their hands, tapping their feet, and singing along with the text. Perhaps they'll be inspired to go on and make up their own fun songs about their own fur and non-fur friends.

The Astronaut Who Painted the Moon, The True Story of Alan Bean written by Dean Robbins, illustrated by Sean Rubin (Orchard Books, 2019).  This story is about a boy who grew up loving airplanes. Sparked by natural curiosity and wonder for the beauty he saw around him, after learning to fly with the navy, Alan Bean decided to take painting classes in order to share the beautiful sights he saw out the cockpit window. After walking on the moon with the Apollo 12 mission, he applied his artistic talents to creating paintings that not only shared what he saw in the moonscapes, but how he felt when experiencing them. Those feelings were expressed through use of color and also textures that were made from using tools he had used during his moon visit. I love this book for showing how scientists and artists don't necessary work in separate lanes -- that we can work in both, and that art is a wonderful way to express scientific discovery and learning. As someone who identifies as both a scientist and an author, I highly recommend this book for showing kids that both outlets can intersect seamlessly.

So You Want to Build a Library by Lindsay Leslie, illustrated by Aviel Basil (Capstone Press 2021). 

In a world made better by reading books, comes a book that will undoubtably tap-tap-tap at the imaginations of young readers by getting them to wonder about the ways that they might design their own library. With trained dragons? Handy giants? Tiny nooks for tiny fairies? The lively illustrations that nearly leap from the pages will inspire creativity and spring forth smiles in all ages.

From Here to There. Inventions that Changed the Way the World Moves by Vivian Kirkfield, illustrated by Gilbert Ford (Clarion Books 2021).

You won't want to miss this book for the inspiration and learning that comes from reading about interesting inventions with moving parts that got us, well, ... moving! I loved listening to stories like this at bedtime--short and interesting snippets that spark imagination and wonder. With my own family history rooted in the railroads, the story about the steam engine is a special favorite. No doubt this book will get young minds tinkering, which as a parent, teacher, and scientist at heart, is most certainly a wonderful thing! 

For a free teacher's guide, visit the authors website here: https://viviankirkfield.com/my-book/

Alphabreaths: The ABCs of Mindful Breathing by Christopher Willard, illustrated by Daniel Rechtschaffen (Sounds True 2022).

Yes, I've been blown away by videos on social media of itty bitty toddlers helping other toddlers move through strong emotions by showing them how to take deep breaths. Little kids get it, if they're introduced to it. This book was one I wised I had read as a youngster. Learning how to self-soothe is such an important life skill. I highly recommend this book for all ages!

Alphabedtime by Susanna Leonard Hill, illustrated by Betsy Snyder (Nancy Paulsen Books 2022). 

Singing and laughing before bedtime? Should that be a thing? Absolutely! I can't think of a better way to tuck a child in at night for sweet dreams than after having spent time smiling and giggling along with a book read together with family. Which most certainly will help them wake up on the right side of the bed in the morning. Basically, this book bustles with brilliance, and is not to be missed!

Duet by Eloise Broach, illustrated by Ziyue Chen (Chisty Ottaviano Books 2022). 

This unique middle grade mystery layered with music, history, and intriguing mystery is written from the perspective of a yellow songbird named Mirabelle who befriends a piano-playing boy bound for greatness. However, the boy refuses to play and his piano teacher's health is deteriorating. With a musical competition looming on the horizon, will Mirabelle and Micheal find a way to deliver a performance that will land a cash prize capable of saving his teacher's emotional health and home? This story will keep young readers turning the pages as it dips into art history, mystery, music, and suspense.

And now for the fabulous giveaways! I hope you will follow, connect with, and support these generous authors and illustrators! To grab your chance at winning one of these giveaways, please leave a comment on the blog and then get additional entries with the rafflecopter. Good luck!

Make holiday tags https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cNct5DqmXE

1) A 30-minute "Ask me Anything" session with author Rebecca Gardyn Levington of Brainstorm and other titles.

2) A 20-minute "Ask me Anything" session with author Valerie Bolling of Ride, Roll, Run and other titles

3) Winner's choice - picture book manuscript/illustration portfolio critique or Ask me Anything session with author/illustrator Morissa Rubin

4) A copy of Treasure Hunt to a US address from author Stephanie Wildman

ENTER the giveaway here, and comment below for the post! Share your own favorite titles!

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7 Days of Books, Day 1 Nature and Animals

Welcome! I am so excited to celebrate another #7DaysOfBooks of children's literature with recommendations, prizes, high-fives to wonderfully talented and generous authors and illustrators, and the feeling of joy that comes from sharing books with others. 

So many wonderful books are being published these days, and it is hard to get to them all. I can't think of a better gift at the holidays than a book. Or better yet, books!

Holiday lights in Georgia: https://www.exploregeorgia.org/things-to-do/article/georgias-signature-holiday-events

Yes, there are lots of wonderful things that come with the holidays, like spending time outdoors and indoors. Resting in order to recharge the soul. Connecting with friends and family whom we haven't seen a while. And catching up on a good story. Or a few!

Holiday lights in Oklahoma: https://www.travelok.com/articles/top-holiday-light-displays-in-oklahoma

I love to give and receive books, and I especially love gifting a book on a topic that I know is a perfect match for someone I love. I hope that you'll find that kind of match among the titles I'm sharing over the next seven days. Titles that I was lucky enough to have enjoyed during the last six months. 

I'll bet that you have your own favorites, too, so please go ahead and share those titles in the comments so that I and others can check them out.

Gift wrapping inspirations

Plus! There are some wonderful prize giveaways that you will have a chance to win! 

Just follow the steps in the DAILY rafflecopters in order to earn your chances for each day. Winners will be announced by the evening of December 10. 

And now, here we go! We'll be kicking off the #7DaysOfBooks event with books related to Nature and Animals that will inspire kids to discover and explore all that this beautiful planet--the one place in our universe that we call home--has to offer. 

Be sure to follow and support the wonderful authors who are donating for today's giveaways!

Count on Us! Climate Activists by Gabi Snyder, illustrated by Sarah Walsh (Barefoot Books 2022). 

This counting and ABC book highlights different actions that are being taken and can be taken to help ensure a better planet in the future. Short definitions of concepts on each page are insightful and understandable for young readers. What I love about this book is that its message isn't heavy-handed at all. It's seems like a perfect primer for caring about the world we live in, which kids will understand given their propensity to care about most anything from the get-go in their young and adorable lives. Visit the author at https://gabisnyder.com/

A River's Gifts. The Mighty Elwha River Reborn by Patricia Newman, illustrated by Natasha Donovan (Millbrook Press 2022). 

Readers are treated to the restoration of not only a river that was once blocked by dams, but the restoration of a fish population that can now return all the way to its upstream spawning sites, the restoration of an indigenous people's connection to the land, and the reestablishment of ecological relationships in an entire forest and watershed ecosystem. This story is important on so many levels for helping to show readers what is possible in being caretakers of natural resources and each other. 

It's no surprise that this book was listed as one of the BEST 100 picture books of 2022 by Kirkus Reviews. Find more info about the book and author here: https://www.patriciamnewman.com/books/a-rivers-gifts-the-mighty-elwha-river-reborn/. 

Also, a curriculum guide for teachers is here: https://www.patriciamnewman.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/A-Rivers-Gifts-Curriculum-Guide.pdf

Footprints Across the Planet by Jennifer Swanson (Reycraft Books 2022). 

This nonfiction book for young readers offers a sampling of different types of footprints that can be found on both our world and other places, like the moon and even Mars! From elephants to turtles to familiar animals like chickens, young readers are asked to consider their own impact on the world and the type of footprints they will leave behind. The stunning photographs and lyrical text are sure to engage thinking on deeper levels and insightful conversations. I loved this book and highly recommend it! See a stunning video trailer for the book here: https://youtu.be/RaHb8_M9Dr8. Also, visit the author at https://jenniferswansonbooks.com/

The Boy and the Sea written by Camille Andros, illustrated by Amy Bates (Abrams Books for Young Readers 2021).  

This lyrical picture book tells the story of a boy and his relationship with the sea, along with the boy's changing perspective of the world changes as he grows. At the same time, it seamlessly and quietly weaves in family relationships that span a lifetime. My favorite lines begin on the first illustrated spread and continue from there. I highly recommend this book for children who wonder about the sea and the world around them, and for the discussions that will spring forth.

The Adventures of Dr. Sloth. Rebecca Cliffe and Her Quest to Protect Sloths by Suzi Eszterhas (Millbrook Press 2022). 

This book introduces young reader to sloth biology, ecology, threats to their survival, and scientific research that is striving to save this animal from population decline and habitat loss. Some species of sloth are among the most critically endangered species in the world. What I love most about this book is that it shows two careers in action--that of the biologist Rebecca Cliffe, and that of the author, Suzi Eszterhas who photographed Dr. Cliffe as she worked in the wild. This is a wonderful book will nurture science identities in kids with interests in the natural world.

Tiny Dino by Deborah Freedman (Viking 2022). 

In this informational fiction book, a hummingbird enthusiastically shares her link to dinosaurs with her animal friends. Despite that each friend--from a turtle to a frog to a shrew--challenges the little hummingbird's claims, she carries on, spreading the news of her dinosaur links until she bumps into a cousin, who resembles a dinosaur (alligator), but isn't. Yet, they and all their friends come to recognize and celebrate the "tiny dino." Another great story for young readers that will spark discussions on our feathered, non-extinct dinosaurs that continue to roam our planet.

The Secret Life of the Sea Otter by Laurence Pringle, illustrated by Kate Garchinsky (Boyds Mills Press 2022).

This beautifully-illustrated, creative nonfiction story shares a world of interesting facts about sea otters through a series of interactions that an otter named Lutris has in her ocean home. The engaging text and energy-filled illustrations will draw readers into wanting to learn more about their watery world.

Caves by Nells Cross Beckerman, illustrated by Kalen Chock (Scholastic 2022). 

This book offers an absolutely fascinating tour of caves and the experiences and wonders that they offer around the world. As another book that was included on the 100 Best picture books of 2022 by Kirkus Reviews, this is definitely one you will want to get.

Luminous by Julia Kuo (Greystone Books 2022). 

As both a science teacher and a person who loves to explore the outdoors, I absolutely love this introduction to the fascinating feature of bioluminescence in surprisingly extraordinary creatures. Perfect sparking wonder and curiosity in young readers.

The Beekeepers by Dana L. Church (Scholastic 2022). Bees and Vikings? Yep! They're connected! This book is for those readers in your life that are ready for middle-grade books and above. Packed with interesting facts, this book is absolutely easy to read and accompanied by illustrations, such as maps that show the journey that bees took by boat in order to reach North America! This was something I never knew, and the learning went on from there. I highly recommend it for all readers.

And now for the giveaways! They are awesome!

1) A signed copy of Count On Us from Gabi Snyder (US address only)

2) A copy of A River's Gifts from Patricia Newman (US address only)

3) A 20-minute Ask-Me-Anything session with Patricia Newman

4) Winner choice of a 20-minute Ask-Me-Anything session with Jennifer Swanson or copy of the book to a US address.

Comment on this blog post to get a double entry (perhaps with your favorite book)

Then follow the Rafflecopter to earn more entries. 

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7 Days of Books for Children, Day 2 Books about Nature and Animals

Welcome back to #7DaysOfBooks! 

I grew up in what was once a very rural part of southern New Hampshire, and while it still holds quite a bit of its woods, lakes, wetlands, and hiking trails, much of the "wildness" I grew up running around in is now paved and developed. I'm not saying that's wrong, but what I'm most appreciative of from my youth was my access to nature right out the front door. 

My hopes for children today are that they find ways to connect with the natural world around them--that their curiosity about the wind, the rain, the soil, the plants, the wildlife, our pets, and everything that is beautiful or could be restored to what it once was, is piqued each day. 

For that reason, I'm constantly inspired by the books that allow for this type of connection. Books that provide reminders or introductions to all the various aspects of nature in our world today. Given our planet's changing climate and the peril that many wildlife and plant populations face, fostering connections between nature and today's youth is more important than ever. One surefire way to do that is through children's books. Another way is through pets and their proper care.

I hope you'll find the wide-range of today's books as important and timely as I do. From events that occur only every decade, to service animals that can save lives, to a mama bear tucking her young cub in for a long winter's sleep, each one of these different aspects of nature is profoundly insightful in the appreciation that can be gained. 

Toward that end, I share three quotes.

"If you truly love nature, you find beauty everywhere." - Laura Ingalls Wilder

"To forget how to dig the earth and tend to the soil is to forget ourselves." - Mahatma Ghandi 

"We don't inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children." - Native American proverb

With out further ado, here is today's list. I look forward to seeing what you share for your own favorites in this category. 

Remember to support local libraries and request these titles to be added to their collection. 

The Rafflecopter with 4 opportunities for giveaways follows below.

Happy reading!

Wake, Sleepy One written by Lisa Kerr, illustrated by Lisa Powell Braun (West Margin Books 2022).   I absolutely love this book. The lyrical prose and beautiful refrain that changes slightly on each illustrated page spread in order to match each stage of this yellow poppy's life cycle is exquisite. The extra facts about the flowers on each spread expertly deliver information that young readers will be able to understand. Although the super bloom happens with the yellow poppy in California, this story packs a global reach with flowering plants found most everywhere. Young readers might even go on to discover "super bloom events" in their own regions. Be sure to find yourself a copy. It's a wonderful addition to any collection.

I'm a Gluten-Sniffing Service Dog written by Michel Babay, illustrated by Ela Smietanka (Albert Whitman 2021).  

Told from the perspective of a dog that is going through training in order to help his girl, Annie, stay safe from gluten, this story is absolutely engaging and packed full of interesting details. I had no idea that gluten can be found in so many different kinds of foods, and I'm gluten-sensitive, so even as an adult I learned something! Young readers will be opened up to how much work goes into training service animals, especially dogs that can be easily distracted. I imagine that this story will even bring the training of a family pet and how much work it involves into perspective. The illustrations created by Ela's Smietanka are bright, cheerful, and full of playful energy, which makes re-reading this book a joy.

A perfect book for any kid that likes dogs, pets, and has ever been curious about what service animals can do (or what it takes to be one), Babay's and Smietanka's story earns an A+++!

This is the Boat That Ben Built written by Jen Lynn Bailey, illustrated by Maggie Zeng (Pajama Press 2022).  

Based on the classic nursery rhyme, this delightful story is a perfect introduction to animals that can be found in river systems of northern biomes. As a science teacher I especially love the back matter that dips into details of ecosystems, touching on both living and nonliving components. The illustrations are downright colorful and fun and will most certainly please kids during story time. This book is a great one to check out.

Out of the Blue written by Elizabeth Shreeve, illustrated by Fran Preston-Gannon (Candlewick Press 2021).

As a teacher of earth science, one of the things (among many) that I am most impressed with in this book is Shreeve's ability to tell the complex story of how life began on earth in a clear and engaging way that young readers will understand and enjoy listening to.

I grew up loving the both the ocean and the land for all the wonderous life forms that are found among the different habitats, and this book bridges the amazing connections between both worlds. With bright and colorful illustrations that complement the text, this book is perfect for all ages. I highly recommend it.

The Crab Ballet written by Rene LaTulippe, illustrated by Cecile Metzger (Cameron Kids 2022). 

This rhyming story introduces children to the rhythm and movements of ballet terms, along with some French ones, within a beautifully illustrated and almost surreal inter-tidal performance of a crustacean community. The soft colors of Metzger's illustrations are a perfect match for the "quiet" world that can be seen along the shoreline at low tide. Yet, although quiet, I know from experience that the tide pool ecosystems that can be explored at low tide are full of activity and life, just like this book! It's a wonderful way to bring arts into the exploration and enjoyment of the natural world.

Before the World Wakes written by Estelle Laure, illustrated by Paola Zakimi (Two Lions 2022).

This story about a special time shared between brother and sister who discover gentle moments of nature and themselves in the moments just before dawn will pull readers in with its gentle text, especially with metaphors like: Then the sky goes the color of a wish. It's just for us. 

What I love most about this book is the message of a special moment that shared between siblings. Reading this book is perfect way to spark conversation about what might be happening outdoors while the world is sleeping or what is going on in the moments just before waking up. 

Slow Down, Tumbleweed! written by Haven Iverson, illustrated by Rob Sayegh Jr. (Sounds True 2021).

What I love in this story about a tumbleweed who bounces from place to place on the wind is its many layers. Not only does it introduce young readers to different habitats and animals found within them, but it ultimately holds a message about the importance of slowing down to enjoy the quiet moments of nature around oneself. For that, this book seems like a perfect companion for Before the World Wakes. Set on the wide expanses of the western or southwestern United States, Slow Down Tumbleweed will draw readers in to gain an inherent appreciation of nature. 

Wildfire! written and illustrated by Ashley Wolff (Beach Lane Books 2021). 

When wildfire ignites in the forest, how do animals and humans respond? This story shows a forest and fire team's response to combatting wildfire, as well as the actions that different types of wildlife take to avoid harm. 

As alarming as the wildfires have been in the western United States from long-term drought, and also personally knowing a young woman who is a part of one of those fire-fighting forest crews, I found this book to be both informative and reassuring. It's a great introduction for discussion about forest ecology and management with young readers.

Over and Under the Canyon, written by Kate Messner, illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal (Chronicle Books 2021). 

Inspired by a trip taken by the author to Anza-Brego Desert State Park in Southern California, I found that the landscape, animals, and experiences shared for the young reader reflect my own memories of Southern Utah. Kids will delight in seeing the different types of animals that are highlighted in the illustrations and some of their interactions that can be found in the desert, both during that day and at night. 

Overall, this book is a beautiful addition to the Over/Under series, which provides a peek into different types of habitats.

Winter Lullaby written by Dianne White, illustrated by Ramona Kaulitski (Candlewick 2021). 

A baby bear questions why he must go to bed as he observes a series of animals in the forest around him, while mama bear explains how each of those animals is prepping to sleep through winter. Before long, both mama and baby are tucked in their own den. This seamlessly rhyming and lyrical text will soothe any young reader into the sweetest of dreams, while introducing them to woodland animals in winter.

One Tomato. A Garden Counting Book, written by Rebecca Mullin, illustrated by Anne Mullin (Rubber Ducky Press 2021). 

The colors and wonders of nature can capture even the youngest readers, which makes this board book a perfect introduction for what can be see in a backyard or patio garden, as well as what they might find on their plate at snack time or meal time. The bright illustrations and clear, rhyming text will captivate the youngest future readers. 

Snail Crossing written and illustrated by Corey R. Tabor (Balzar & Bray 2020). 

All that stands between snail and a yummy patch of cabbage is a road. How hard can it be for one snail to get to the other side? This endearing story about goals and new friends who find unexpected ways to arrive at new destinations--all told from the perspective of a snail's eye view--makes it quite unique and fun for young readers.

Enter the Rafflecopter below for a chance at one of 4 giveaways! All 4 giveaways are included in the Rafflecopter if you use the arrow at the top to scroll through.

1) A signed copy of WAKE, SLEEPY ONE from author Lisa Kerr

2) A free critique of a picture book manuscript (non-rhyming) from author Michal Babay

3) A free critique of a picture book manuscript from author Jen Lynn Bailey 

4) A signed copy of OUT OF THE BLUE from author Elizabeth Shreeve

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