Let's Hear It For the Birds... and Dinosaurs!

When was the last time you saw a dinosaur? Particularly a T-Rex? If you think  it was at a museum (fossils or reconstructions) or in animation or a book, you are probably not correct. That's my sideways introduction to the topic of the day. You probably HAVE seen a dinosaur in the last few days... if you've seen a bird! And that's surprising close to seeing T. Rex!

Several books about dinosaur-ancestor-links to modern birds have been hitting the shelves. Books for adults and young readers. I've been devouring many of those as research for a current nonfiction writing project. Books intended for adult and for youth audiences are equally revealing and remarkable. I generally use books from the library for such reading, since I lack both the funds and the floor space for the countless books I choose to read. But among the many gems on this topic, one was so impressive that I now own my own copy. 

WELBECK Children's Books. 2026
Hatchette Children's London

CHICKENS and OTHER DINOSAURS: How Dinosaurs Became the Birds We Know Today, is written by Ben Lerwill and illustrated by Sarah Edmonds. I wasn't aware of either of these creators and enjoyed exploring their websites. Lerwill is a nonfiction researcher and writer who says he writes "clear, readable pieces from in friendly, reliable text", and I agree! Edwards produces art with accuracy but also whimsical humor. Her site is grin-inducing.

Most of us, from preschool to elders, are familiar with the science evidence that linked birds to early evolutionary sources in dinosaurs. Many, if not most, of us, have concluded that the widely known flying dinosaurs, pterodactyls, were the likely great-great-great... originators of birds we see today.

This is where untrained "assumers" have been proven wrong by science investigators. Birds of today, from chickens to hummingbirds to ostriches, appear to be living remnants of the THERAPOD group of dinosaurs. Among those the most well-known is T. Rex, but they include those ancestors with three forward-facing toes, meat-eaters who ran very fast. Oldest fossil records begin about 230 million years ago, but fossil evidence of their smaller, faster, lighter therapod versions begins about 160 million years ago. So, when the author writes,

"When you are looking at a bird, you are looking at a living dinosaur,"

you must keep that time scale in mind. The generational changes that shaped monstrous T. Rex into the sparrow on your feeder are massive, and yet the changes were not simply a side branch on a family tree. That sparrow and all birds share a significantly similar DNA link directly to their theropod origins. 

This incredibly comprehensive and yet child-friendly book incorporates creative sidebar placements with informative illustrations, paleontology and social science evolution debates, along with a thoroughly accurate and exciting explanation of what makes a bird a bird: FEATHERS!

Not necessarily flight, since we know that not all birds fly. But flight certainly did aid in those evolving theropods who could travel to available food sources and habitats, to stay warm as the earth cooled, and to continue theropod survival into present day.

There's a terrific journey through dinosaur history (specifically theropods) including fossil evidence of varied feather-like formations, shifts to smaller, lighter skeletal frames, even evolving hollow bones and hardened beaks with residual teeth and varying arm and claw structures that became wings of one sort or another. Comparisons of fossil-inspired bird-like dinosaurs (none that are pterodactyls) to present day bird species are described in visual contrast and with bite-sized informational text that will stay with readers and bring them back to share facts with others. That's a good thing, because the contents are both detailed and enticing to explore, compare, and then observe in real life. This is a don't-miss nonfiction book for anyone who has ever seen a bird. That would be you, right?

Roaring Brook Press, 2026

While putting titles on hold, or ordering purchases, consider an informational fiction book to pair with the first. THE DINOSAUR AND THE BIRD: A TALE OF PREHISTORIC FRIENDSHIP is written by Richard Ho and illustrated by Jamie Green. Ho's website will reveal the many other appealing books he's written, and Green's website will lead you through an interactive discovery of her own making. This imagined tale about a dinosaur who is not welcomed by others of its species but finds company with a long-billed bird friend. In a modern-day fable of unlikely friendships (think of the lion and the mouse) these tentative, unlikely friends allow a wish to come true-- a wish for a friend. (And yes, some versions of modern birds lived at the same era as the dinosaurs we commonly recognize as such.) 

If this sounds like the end of the story, it would be fiction without the "informational" descriptor. The vibrant and abstractly-rendered backgrounds for each scene offer informational content as well as Disney-like appeal. Then, on a single page turn, the two friends witness a fireball falling from the sky. It is distant. Not an immediate threat. But in a compressed timeline, these two live through the ecological changes that darkened the earth, shifted a previously friendly climate, and reduced available food. 

The actual consequences over years are presented within a few pages about their lives, revealing the efforts and comforts of feathered, flying devotion. Attempts to support a starving, dying friend are tenderly conveyed. The ending suggests both the science underway and the fable at work, with hope and promise. 

Both books contain a wealth of material to think about and discuss, while taking entirely different approaches to their subject matter. Together, they should be in classrooms, libraries, and homes. especially in the hands of anyone of any age who never outgrows a love of dinosaurs, or birds!

CITY SUMMER, COUNTRY SUMMER: An Intimate Look At Ordinary Life

One of the more challenging things to help young writers learn is the power of writing "small moments". Early writers want to share adventures and magical tales, rockets and dragons. Those are fantastic topics and need more encouragement than they sometimes are given. Even so, few children are as emotionally affected by dragons as they are by small moments in their personal lives. Moments of joy or worry or loss or celebration. Reading and writing those stories from their own experiences provide insights and inner processing of the emotional landscape of daily life. 

During BLACK HISTORY MONTH, and beyond, many of the picture books that so wonderfully reveal major moments in our American history focus on "big" events and eras in our shared experiences. I've reviewed many of those, HERE, HERE, and HERE, for example. There is value in providing accessible stories that too often were untold or even denied. The BIG parts of history need to be shared and understood. 

KOKILA, 2025

 CITY SUMMER, COUNTRY SUMMER, written by Kiese Laymon and illustrated by Alexis Franklin, reveals a ubiquitous history of small summer moments with heart and joy. The faces on the cover only hint at the experiences of the boys portrayed, two local brothers in Mississippi and one New York City boy, all spending the summer next door to each other with relatives. 

Mississippi native Mildred D. Taylor's award-winning middle grade novels explored this multi-generational pattern often. After the Great Migration into Northern States, families would send children South during summers to visit and learn from extended family. This may not be the first picture book to examine this cultural pattern through a  contemporary Black lens, but I have not found others. 

The voice is a slightly reflective first person approach to the process of meeting, measuring, befriending, puzzling, and recognizing "safeness" in the others. Not safety, but safeness. A recognition of themselves in the others, for saying both "I love you" and "I am afraid" to the others without risking the spoken words. The vibrant colors, the glowing skin, the dense but nearly monstrous garden, the perspective of overhead smiling adult faces, hands spraying their bodies with water, the slides down a hillside all say what words dare not. 

Don't come to this thinking it is some kind of City Mouse/Country Mouse parallel, or that it is a series of "summer fun" antics, fun for the sake of fun. There are shadows of both, in this tentatively tender relationship story. But those elements only serve the bigger picture of young folks with dark skin who have lived in a world in which caution is an essential skill. The story and their adventures reveal the process of  exploring trust in a potentially hurtful world. 

Please read this. Experience the lively scenes and read the text several times. Find and feel the  layers of simple statements and underlying emotions and hopes. You will come away enriched.

And, perhaps, awakened.

Teacher friends who read this book will recognize wonderful mentor text for writing small moments.

IT'S PRESIDENT'S DAY: Celebrate with REVOLUTIONARY FRIENDS

What better day than PRESIDENTS' DAY to turn the spotlight on a nonfiction picture book, REVOLUTIONARY FRIENDS: General George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette, written by Selene Castrovilla and illustrated by Drazen Kozjan.

CALKINS CREEK, 2013

 This is a distinctly appealing account of the Washington/Lafayette relationship we've all heard about, if only in HAMILTON. This nonfiction picture book has a deeply touching heart. Lafyette is often portrayed as a young, flamboyant, even cavalier Frenchman (of minor royalty) whose attention to the American Revolutionary War seems more youthful bravado than commitment to a cause.

At least that's the way I have viewed him. In this case, we see Lafayette and Washington in the full relationship that arose between them, that of a mentor/father/son with and deep true affection. Washington's national stature was the earned success of a non-nobleman, a general, then a president. He was a generation older, stood a head taller, and exuded the solemnity and stability that counterbalanced the zeal and exuberance of young Layfayette. 

This account makes clear that Lafayette's idealism was deep-seated and spanned the Atlantic to embrace both continents. He viewed himself as fully French and yet devoted himself and risked his life (repeatedly) to support the cause of the rebellious colonies.

I'm a fan of the text, including the brief and well-chosen inserts from Lafayettte's own writing. The illustrations range from formal introductions and settings to tense moments of war and treatment of threatening injuries. While revealing the formality of a bygone time and military roles, portrays of their contacts, expressions, and postures reinforced their mutual respect thoroughly. 

The back matter provides the remaining stories that readers (at least this one) longed to discover, as well as life-line timelines for each. It's a worthy addition to what seems a well-worn era, and one that humanizes the costs to emotions and personal commitments to a high-minded cause- Democracy.

This is firm reminder of the force of big ideas, adherence to principles, and dedicated friendships. It would be accessible for younger readers but is especially valuable for use with older readers in integration with social studies and history. The material opens discussions about where borders and b outcries lie in relation to deep-seated principles. It also presents a wealth of enlivened scenes for considering the relaunching of democracy in a modern (at the time) society that had for centuries been configured on monarchies, power, and wealth. Highly recommended.

WORRIED? Let VICTOR Help (Victor, The Wolf With Worries)

 You don't need to be heading back to school, scheduling a job interview, joining a new club or social group, or otherwise anticipating your personal shortcomings to 

WORRY!

Most of us tend to worry on a daily basis, about anything and everything-- whether or not we are "good enough" for any and all events and affiliations. That comes from COMPARING, from seeing who others are, how they function, what they look like, and ways they interact  then viewing ourselves as lesser. Less strong, less attractive, less knowledgeable, less... you fill in the blanks. It's all well and good to assess ourselves objectively and set achievable goals. That can be motivating, instigating growth and positive change. 

BOXER BOOKS, 2023

But WORRY leads to becoming frozen, or self-isolating, or even misrepresenting ourselves as something we are not. Which brings us to this delightful and important picture book, VICTOR: THE WOLF WITH WORRIES. It's written and illustrated by Catherine Rayner, whose talent in both creative realms shines through. 

There is no shortage of kids who worry, and no shortage of picture books about worrying. Even so, please  share this one with anyone you know who worries, whether situationally or chronically. It's a gem.

Most litters of furry critters reveal distinct personalities within weeks. One might be noticeably affectionate, another clearly curious, while others either assertive or shy. Innate personalities are the natural templates on which learning builds and through which instincts emerge. In social groups like wolves (or classrooms) those personality differences are even more evident. And some WORRY.

Rayner's cover alone reveals how utterly irresistible VICTOR is. Somehow, that loose, mottled illustration style incorporates revealing elements that are expressive and appealing. Check the sharply-focused but somehow slightly wary eyes, the shoulder/head angle and flattened tail that suggest watchfulness and an element of simmering concern. The color tones and textures throughout underscore the wild and natural aspects of Victor and his pack, despite the very human emotional experiences, attitudes, conversations, and responses they convey. 

BOXER BOOKS: Title Page

Before you WORRY that this book is too downbeat, the title page shifts to glowing pastel tones and a much more confident view of Victor, promising potential resolution of his distress. 

It does not disappoint, and the journey to that resolution, that character growth, follows a friendship path between young (and worried) VICTOR and his little buddy PABLO. First, though, readers will note the kinds of things that make Victor worry. Each comes from his actual observation of the older group as well as his internal assessment that he doesn't measure up. He adds the very recognizable conclusion that unless he can match the others, he will not be welcomed, or even accepted.

His efforts to manage his inadequacies revolve around pretending. Not big enough, or fierce enough, or brave enough? Fake it till you make it, so to speak. But young Victor is a sharp wolf and realizes that pretending could invite others to believe he is all that, expecting him to prove himself actually big or brave or fierce. 

That thought pattern is set with a perfect balance of crisp text and revealing, appealing illustrations that invite attention to small, smile-inducing elements. Then, several pages in, Victor turns to his friend Pablo. 

Pablo does what a good friend does. He notices that something is wrong and asks about it. In the following pages, Pablo gently suggests ways Victor can diffuse  his worries, can self-regulate his chronic concerns. Telling a trusted friend your worries can lighten a load. Imagining your worry is in a bubble and blowing it gently away can relax your mind and heart. Running and frolicking can work out nervous energy. All of which allow Victor to  feel more "wolfish". (The illustration on that particular double spread is fantastic, and includes such a revealing perfect wolfish detail in Victor's grin. The conclusion is both satisfying and charmingly fun. 

The strategies suggested by Pablo are ones mentioned in other, more didactic "worry" books. Here, the visual and storytelling appeal make this so entertaining that littles will want to hear it again and again, likely imitating the two friends as they follow Victor through his growth. The changes are subtle and organic to the friendship and the plot, while the illustrations (with those subtle but revealing art details) make this a book I want to hug. Give it a look soon, and ask yourself how often you might be scrolling through social media and judging yourself as LESS THAN. Using this book in a discussion of that topic with older kids could be worthwhile. Maybe it would even soothe your own worries!

BLUE! A Powerful Portrait of Realism and Magic!

LITTLE, BROWN, and COMPANY, 2025

My own writing is currently toggling between fiction and nonfiction projects, with careful attention to when and how various aspects of each interact or affect the purpose of the particular writing. In the case of BLUE, written and illustrated by best-selling Suzanne Kaufman, I found myself considering those two sides of this remarkable and beautiful new release. It's grand example of how a seemingly simple fictional talecan provide elaborate informational content through visual detail and superb storytelling.

Although I'd love nothing more than to be a visual-arts creator, especially one of this calibre, such skills do carry with them the mixed blessing of having your amazing illustrations nearly overwhelm equally gorgeous text. That's especially true when the text has been honed to such excellence. Not a syllable or word or line is used more than necessary to enhance and ignite even further the jubilant scenes and storytelling of the visual narrative. 

A stripe-shirted, high-booted universal-ish child and an utterly authentic BLUE HERON engage in  displays and activities that reveal the nature and brilliance of both species. Readers splash right onto the page for an exuberant celebration of friendship and shared joy.

Only because i have lived on a waterfront with some nearly-tame herons would I imagine this is anything other than fantasy. Instead, I see it as magical realism, with depictions of authentic  encounters, images, interactions, posturing, and scenes that ultimately extend into fantastical imaginings. 

Within the cycle of a full day, the adventures resolve into a powerfully soothing, peace-filled bedtime conclusion.

As noted, the images alone provide that story, beautifully and naturally. Yet the superbly suited minimal text makes the experience even more engaging. Take time to appreciate the ways in which this talented artist structured a timeless story to voice to her imaginings. The perfect balance of eyes and ears, of action and mood, of excitement and calm are worthy of appreciation. I'll continue to wish for such artistic talent for myself, while feeling deeply grateful for those who have and share their art and storytelling with the rest of us. Don't miss this one.

HOPE Is a Thing With Wings... and Ears: RABBIT's FEAT

HIPPO PARK (Astra Books) 2025

Spring is the season of change, of hope, of... rabbits! Whether you welcome them or dread their nibbling intrusions in your gardens, rabbits are appealing and hard to resist. A new fiction picture book, RABBIT'S FEAT, created by author/illustrator Barney Saltzberg, is also appealing and utterly irresistible. (That sweet little title pun has a few punny partners within the text, but not enough to annoy the anti-pun-folks among us!)

This new book presents, on the cover, a simple but fantastic premise...Boulder is firmly anchored on a high ledge, not far from prickly Cactus that blooms only occasionally, as is often true for  cactus plants. The two have shared this exact desert space long enough to become "friends", and the text centers on their minimal dialogue. In only a few lines it's clear that boulder genuinely longs to get closer to witness those rare blooms more fully, and cactus dreams that would be possible. This central problem and ensuing discussions are  illustrated with warm, saturated desert-night colors. The text elicits empathy, even for inanimate, immovable objects.

 But wait...

A parallel VISUAL narrative is launched on the first page. Rabbit hears their conversation of friendship and longing, spring after spring, and understands that boulder and cactus are each incapable of moving. On that same opening spread is a butterfly, reappearing throughout each spread. Both the rabbit's awareness and the butterfly's presence symbolize that hope can be nurtured, even in seemingly hopeless situations. 

This essential wordless visual narrative is anything but stationary, revealing rabbit's attempts to move Boulder. Imagine that. Even with burtterfly's help, (imagine that, too) it seems a lost cause. But without evidence of movement, Boulder senses their efforts, imagines that a move just might be possible, that things might change.

Rabbit recruits support, and (spoiler) succeeds. The winners are kindness, team work, and science, and especially readers. 

Illustrations are a masterful blend of collage (using handmade papers) and soft-edged art with crisp rabbit character elements (eyes, nose, whiskers, claws) that enrich an appealing emotional story among the collaborators.

Harking back to my longtime soapbox, that the best of picture books offer value and meaning to readers of any age, this story made me think of so many current situations involving separation, longing, and seemingly hopeless situations. Throughout our country and in our own lives. Just sensing that someone, anyone, recognizes that longing, cares, and wants to help can make the struggle survivable, right? if those who want to help will recruit others, if they collaborate in creative thinking and energy, if even the slightest among them is valued and included, anything is possible.

Whether used intentionally as SEL text in support of dreams, hope, teamwork, empathy, and community, or as a fun intro to the power of levers and other simple machines, or simply to entertain and engage young audiences, RABBIT'S FEAT is a winner.

WILLOW AND BUNNY: A Story of Caring

TWO LIONS PUBLICATIONS, 2023

 WILLOW AND BUNNY is written by Anitra Rowe Schulte and illustrated by Caldecott Honor artist Christopher Denise. In a post earlier this year I wrote about a book with a similar title, Bunny and Tree, a wordless book illustrated by Balint Zsako. (Click the title to read about the reflections on HOME that it inspired in me.)

WILLOW AND BUNNY presents a more scrutable story, since picture books with text are, by definition, a bit more literal than wordless books might be. That certainly is the case when compared to BUNNY AND TREE. 

The two titles could serve well as material for a VENN diagram lesson/discussion. (Remember those VENN diagrams, now sometimes referred to insectionality?). 

Both involve a chance encounter between a bunny and a tree, both involve dangers and adventures, and both develop a powerful relationship between the animal and the tree. Both also are illustrated with rich detail and color. Even so, they are distinctly different, including in illustration style and media. WILLOW AND BUNNY uses a glowing balance of light and dark, striking a sort of impressionistic revelation of familiar natural scenes. I'd say luminous, but I tend to overuse that descriptor, although it suits these pages perfectly. The story, too, relies on near-realistic events and reactions, much more so than is the case in the previous book. While WILLOW, in this case, is deemed to have emotions and the implied ability to convey those emotions, most of the story feels close-to-real and is portrayed within limits of potential animal behaviors. 

That's a clear contrast with  BUNNY AND TREE, both of whom  achieve magical actions, communications, and experiences. 

The story line for BUNNY AND WILLOW conveys childlike emotional arcs (love of nature, sudden caution/fear, feeling lost, seeking safe harbor, longing for friendship, enjoying companionship, and friends sharing the reciprocity of support in hard times.) Its rich and satisfying resolution invites many reading repetitions, and welcomes even the youngest audiences to identify with and find comfort in the story. Spreads call on rich earth tones and green-gold glows to anchor a slightly magical story in familiar circumstances. Many spreads have the depth and appeal of framable art. Even if you don't get copies of both titles to do some compare/contrast of your own, I urge you to read this new offering. Its warmth and comfort will be worth the effort. 

BUNNY and TREE- Reflections on HOME

 This year's holiday gatherings have felt especially sweet. My recent move back to my home town (after MANY years away) find me taking part in big and small occasions with family and friends, most I  had rarely seen at this time of year. During the Fall, I enjoyed aa short visit to my longtime home to deal with multiple business matters. When my plane landed, a thought filled me- "I'm HOME!" Not many days later, as my return flight approached landing back in my hometown/new home, another thought overtook me, unsolicited: "You'll be HOME soon." Then, in a conscious, intentional thought, I compared those two reactions and I realized, to my deep joy, that I have TWO homes. Two places where I know my way around, where caring people who have been part of my life for a long time are near, and where I find joy and feel safe. We all require safe shelter and sustenance to survive, and will fail to thrive without relationships of love and trust.But HOME is immeasurably more than that.

Enchanted Lio0n Books, 2023

That's what brought me back to share this very special wordless picture book. BUNNY & TREE is a loving and moving debut endeavor by BALINT ZSAKO, A visual artist/photographer/filmaker, he was born into an artistic family in Budapest, Hungary but now is a resident of Canada.

This is an exceptionally impressive wordless book for many reasons, not the least of which is the quality of the art and the final product. Colorful, full-spread illustrations are expensive to produce for publishers, especially with the large page size, excellent paper, and surprising length of this offering.With a range of tones and colors, from glowing pastels to shadowed subtlety, each sprawling spread incorporates the gentleness or intensity needed to share a glorious field off flowers or a seethingly fierce wolf. The cover image here gives you a sense of the story, as does the title. The length of this book (184 pages) is beyond rare for such a publisher's financial commitment to storytelling and to art. This is a visual storytelling of escape, assistance, need, challenge, travel, hope, and the power of such emotional connections between friends. 

I receive picture books from authors and publishers (but with no promise of a review). I seek out most books I reveiw at my public library collaborative. (Cheers for those fabulous folks and facilities, at my prior home and now here!) I buy books as gifts and often reveiw those, since I curate actual purchases very cautiously. In this case, though, I learned about this July, 2023 release long before it became available, and I preordered. From my first "reading", through countless others since then, I have deferred writing a review because I felt inadequate to praise it. With SIX starred reviews (so far) and being named on "Best of Year" lists, I'll admit to a shift in my thinking. This is one of those phenomenal books that is getting outstanding support and will certainly be named among many medal and honor winners in the coming month. (All well-deserved.) I decided I would lend my small voice and limited blog posts to some other books that were still a step away from such glowing spotlights. Yet, these many months later, I have not shelved this book out of my line of sight. I keep it "at hand", because each time I examine it from front to back, retold its visual stories, I find more to love. New details or insights expand previous readings, and I continue to love it deeply. 

After my experiences reflecting on HOME and what it means, I picked this up again and found an even closer connection.

Throughout each reading, the short version of what happens is an epic journey, a nine-act story with prologue and epilogue. It seems both fanciful and familiar. RABBIT (with different-colored ears to foreshadow attention to color in images and impact) and its mates seek escape from a marauding wolf. Just as death is imminent, TREE reveals itself as having both empathy and unique abilities. Reshaping its trunks, branches, and limbs into the shape of a massive wolf head, TREE forces the predator to retreat. This is all in the the prologue. Each chapter reveals grateful RABBIT and caring TREE moving through helpful roles, balancing each other. All the while they discover places and experiences in a wider world that only bond them further in trust and awareness of the potential each offers. Their journey involves dangers and sacrifices, but this story provides the polar opposite of the Tree's sacrifice in THE GIVING TREE, a picture book both despised and cherished by readers of different opinions. 

I considered sharing an interior spread, or a short passage of my (latest) interpretation of the visual narrative in words, and choose not to do so. Whether you check it out of a library, gift it to someone you love, screen first by reading other reviews, or ask your local independent bookstore to show it to you, please "read" it. Many times, if you can. Over time. The meaning of HOME and FRIEND and COMMUNITY changes throughout each of our lives, as it does within the pages of this book. The magical accomplishment in this wordless marvel is the epilogue indicator that when we share journeys and emotions and understanding with others, nature itself may join the pro9cess in the most surprising ways.

HOPEFULLY THE SCARECROW: Stuffed With Picture Book Power

FLAMINGO BOOKS, 2023

HOPEFULLY THE SCARECROW is written by Michelle Houts and illustrated by Sara Palacios.

This seemingly simple story is elevated by its graceful, lyrical language, the sensitive empathy this scarecrow inspires, and the colorful, satisfying illustrations that are simple while subtly informative. This new picture book shines in its ability to portray a concrete, direct storytelling approach while revealing layers of  important themes: friendship, humor, the power of story, emotional connection, word play, and internalizing truths from books.

The opening lines land readers smack in the garden, introducing "a scarecrow", who immediately becomes the story's central character. The brief descriptions of his physical and internal traits are deftly described in the lilting but accessible language of the opening double spread.  One page turn brings an unnamed heroine into his life, "she". Her sense of the utilitarian role of scarecrows is evident in an early statement: "Hopefully, the scarecrow will keep birds away." Scarecrow's smile-worthy misunderstanding of her statement teaches him that his name is HOPEFULLY THE SCARECROW. Following spreads portray the attentive "she" reading aloud in the garden, instilling Scarecrow with the joy of story and the strength of facing challenges and adventures with bravery. From that point of view we see the life cycle of  Scarecrow's seasons and years unfold. It is not easy to write a compelling fiction picture book that spans years, but achieves that with effective page-turns and character shifts, testing Scarecrow's reliance on what he has learned from stories. The conclusion is utterly satisfying and uplifting, making this a must-have addition to home, classroom, and library collections. The trickiest challenge will be how to shelve it- with books about fall, or gardens, or friendships, or ... so many other important themes.

As mentor text for picture book writers, this is a marvelous example of a point-of-view approach that is rare indeed. The narration is in third person voice, but clearly close to the "heart" and "life" of Scarecrow. With that voice, Scarecrow is imbued with heart and is charmingly self-aware, but is not anthropomorphized or given a direct voice. The narration and dialog involving the  girl never suggests that she views Scarecrow as a living thing, and yet, from the successful and unique voice, they clearly connect and engage with each other. The balanced and believable "relationship" work especially well through the figurative expressions that convey Scarecrow's signals about passing time. I felt there was a strong sense that those hours of hearing books read aloud enhanced Scarecrow's vision of life and the world around it.

In a recent post I featured THE LITTLE HOUSE OF HOPE, which will pair beautifully with this title. It's fun to imagine the ways in which they can be compared and contrasted, from their contemporary settings, to their appealing characterizations, to the themes and purposes, to the powers of reading and writing in each. HOPEFULLY, you'll enjoy everything about both books, as I did, and share them often.

What's Wrong? Nothing! Well, Maybe Something!

 Books can be "stand-alones", sequels, companion books, trilogies, or series. In this case let's just call these a "pair" of picture books that will have kids giggling and asking you to read them again and again. Created by the same pair, author Jory John with illustrations by Erin Kraan, these characters/settings are likely to find themselves in future woodland animal adventures, complete with appealing subtitles. 

Farrar, Strauss, Giroux  2021

First came SOMETHING'S WRONG! A Bear, A Hare, and Some Underwear. The premise in this case (and the next) is simple. A sweet but ordinary moment happens while the character is safely at home. This alone is somewhat laughable, but as the story unfolds a persistent state of denial becomes the source of humor. Those increasingly insistent situations are giggle-worthy for even the youngest through illustrations, but will be elevated by an effective adult reader of the text. (Use those character voices, Big People!) This bear, stars in both books, has a significantly recognizable capacity to rationalize, explain, divert attention, and otherwise avoid admitting the truth. 

Kids a bit older than toddlers will recognize the futility and fun in this string of verbal efforts, while recognizing themselves in similar situations.This first book launches with the unlikely but surprisingly sweet JEFF the bear reciting his morning routines, with the added note that he had tried on his grandma's recent gift. From the cover you'll guess that this was a pair of "tidy whities", which his sleepy-bear self forgot to remove. Despite the feeling that something is wrong, Jeff heads out. When friends note this and try, tactfully, to ask if anything is wrong that day, Jeff insists  that everything is fine. His hare friend, ANDERS, is honest enough to speak directly about this situation, then takes the lead to avoid JEFF being teased by the other wood critters. 

Farrar, Strauss, Giroux, 2023

It's no surprise when the next title features these two friends as stars of NOTHING'S WRONG! A Hare, A Bear, and Some Pie to Share. In this case, though, Anders begins at home, making a surprise apple pie for their picnic using Grandma's best recipe. When the perfect pie, cooling on the window sill, is ruined by a storm, Anders hates to admit the truth. He tries denial. Along the way, with a silly make-up mix of foods stuffed in a yarn basket, JEFF senses something is wrong with Anders, using his Bear-bounty of verbal attempts to make everything all right. 

Kids of any age, but especially in this early age  group, struggle with admitting mistakes, acknowledging confusion, or feeling embarrassed. These feelings can result in what adults readily label "lying", when in fact it is a developing mind in full-blown denial, creating a truth they cling to, avoiding those uncomfortable feelings. That denial, the longer it goes, becomes more and more entrenched. A good friend (or caregiver, teacher, parent, or sibling) may step in and provide a bridge to get past the pain of such misery. These two books are great examples of such kindnesses, and also open the door to discussions of the feelings themselves.

This newer title, too, has an eventual happy ending that involves the woodland population of critters as a large group of friends. And, of course, PIE. Nothing's sweeter than that. Except, perhaps, the illustrations. Kraan has produced a cast of characters with the comic qualities of exaggerated physical features, especially expressive eyes, with gentle-toned spreads featuring limited black line and accent colors to draw the eye to the emotional state of the players. The backgrounds and some other stretches of pattern incorporate what might be assumed to be digital stamps but were produced with linocut prints and woodcuts, assembled digitally. The soft-edges of those compiled scenes add to the effectiveness of occasional art-created text, with texturized and blur-softened art where font appears, and adding depth to such elements as fur and shadow.

The success of both talented creators is no surprise, and might limit the number of new titles for this pair of characters in new situations, but young readers will be rooting for Anders and Jeff and their crew to star together in future picture books. 

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POETRY Picture Books: From the Ridiculous to the Sublime

Technically, these are not both poetry books. In an award category, the first would be considered a poetry collection by a single author. The second is a concept picture book in rhyme. Both are illustrated in ways that enhance the text, both are smile-inducing, and both will appeal to a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and can be shared for many purposes. 

CAMERON KIDS, 2023

ANIMALS IN PANTS is written by Suzy Levinson and illustrated by Kristen and Kevin Howdeshell This first picture book is, in case you had any doubt, the RIDICULOUS side of the title in the post. I spent many happy minutes simply imagining how the author/poet first explored that premise... What would I have to say about animals in pants? In poems? 

Well, the cover offers hints (and ha-ha's) to invite readers to open up and explore the poems and images inside. The front end papers pose the central question;

"WHAT? You've never seen an animal in pants?"

By the way, the closing end papers suggest there could be a sequel, with this question: "What? You've never seen animals in hats?" After reading this collection I'd happily enjoy that newer offering if it comes to pass.

Let me just say that the star of the title page is a bear in pants who reminds me of a lovable character in one of the earliest picture book collections of my childhood. So I was a fan from the start. Opposite that page are the dedications by the author (To Dan: I LOVE YOU MORE THAN LEGGINGS), and by the illustration pair, to their nieces and nephews (THANK YOU FOR WEARING PANTS). With a start like that, nothing could disappoint! 

An array of animals from the familiar (cats, dogs, squirrels, raccoons, etc.) to the exotic (snakes, antelopes, yaks) and concluding with a clever poem incorporating a surprise tailor.Each poem could become the favorite of a variety of readers of many ages, many lines are memorable enough to become memes, to spread smiles into grins, on to "let me read this to you" funny. So, this, dear readers, is my nominee as a ridiculously irresistible picture book of poems.

LITTLE BROWN & COMPANY, 2022

Next up, WHEN I'M WITH YOU, written by Pat Zietlow Miller and illustrated by Eliza Wheeler, lands squarely in the SUBLIME half of the title. I have come to expect the very best from either of these creators, regardless of their partners in picture book creating. But when they pair their talents the results are often magical. (If you've missed earlier comments about their work together, check HERE for my thoughts about WHEREVER YOU GO and HERE for BE BRAVE!) 

MIller's picture book success is indisputable, and she has also established a strong following for her workshops and webinars to support and coach other writers of picture book text. In those settings and in program presentations I've heard her say that she seldom writes in rhyme. I'll share my thought that when she does, though, she knocks it out of the park. In several of those titles, her rhymed text works perfectly for the purpose of the book, while actively developing the full narrative for the story arc as it unfolds, page by page. in this case, that is true, but it is also true that individual stanzas could stand alone as independent poems that might be memorized and recited by a delighted child who falls in love with the language and sense of those lines. 

An example of one stanza I adore (among many of these) is this:

"You're the numbers of my set,

all the suns I don't know yet.

But if one plus one makes two,

I'm the one who goes with you."

If you assume that every stanza repeats that line prompt, you underestimate the skill and craft that guides Miller's writing, and Wheeler's visual narrative that propel these charming and diverse characters, including a dog-buddy pair, through many life experiences. The ending is satisfying and inspired, making this a kid-friendly picture book that's also a brilliant choice for friends of any age. That might be a friend moving away, a mentor-mentee gift of thanks, a parent-child gift as relationships mature beyond dependence to friendships, or an end-of-school-year gift to a very special teacher. This, though, is why I call it sublime. Whoever the audience, whatever the purpose, this is a picture book you won't want to miss.

ONE SMALL THING: The Power of Kindness

BEAMING BOOKS, 2023

 On this post-holiday, quiet weekend, I bring you a "quiet book" that emanates power and grace. ONE SMALL THING is written by Marsha Diane Arnold and illustrated by Laura Watkins. The quotation marks around "quiet book" are intentional, in that they are so often written by various folks in the picture book business (and it IS a business) in declining submissions (isn't that a kinder word choice than rejection?) that do not involve some frantic or antic actions. "Quiet books" don't sell as strongly as, say, a book about robots or superheroes or magic. And yet, a quiet book in the hands of a "STORYMAGICIAN",  as Arnold's website subheading rightly tags her, can transform lives. I know of no greater superpower than that.

This latest offering from Arnold is launched by a tragedy--  Raccoon's home has burned. The comfort begins immediately, first in knowing that Raccoon is safe, has  supportive friends, and pet Cricket escaped, although is now lost. 

This opening alone would have hooked me, since there were more than a few students in my teaching career, of many ages, who had survived such a trauma. The ultimate "it's not so bad" sense of comfort among friends features as an inadequate way many of us address the immediate and lasting pain and loss of such an event. Would "shelter" of any kind ever feel as safe as it once did? Would the loss of keepsakes and photos and... just the capacity to return to a place of memories... ever ease? As the rest of the community observed their friend recovering, would the impulse to comfort dissolve into daily duties, assuming the one who was traumatized would be as "good as new"?

This seemingly simple story opens with sunny endpapers, suggesting such a casually happy ending. Minimal but marvelous text reveals that those comforting friends are buzzing about this sad occurrence. Each "thank goodness" informs readers of reasons to be grateful despite the losses. They also reveal Raccoon's personality, how he loved living along the river, how his feet were  burned "a bit", and that "silly" cricket jumped away to safety but now no one knows where it is. Who has a pet cricket anyway? 

The illustrator informs us, too, that these are heartfelt words of comfort among friends who ache for Raccoon's loss, but quickly console themselves that all is well and they can return to their own lives. These very appealing and authentic, familiar woodland animals display expressions that  even the very young will recognize and empathize with throughout, another powerful touch that allows such a special book to reach audiences from preverbal to teens and beyond. They also represent the typical range of reactions among friends, from the practical problem-solvers, to the overly sensitive, to those who expect someone else to help, to those who feel helpless, to the grumbler who sees this all as unnecessary fussing. As an adult reader I've witnessed (and experienced) such reactions to tragedy, cringing at the thought that these generally result in nothing being done. 

And that is precisely how Arnold proceeds, allowing each character to return to daily life with no updates on Raccoon, at first. First, in fact, we observe a series of double spreads in which we join each friend in their own own homes/gardens, rich with detail and interests and habits that invite us to linger, to examine closely how the individual has found safety,  comfort, and shelter from a sometimes harsh world outside. Each, in their own way, realizes that they cannot "fix" Raccoon's situation but is able to offer ONE SMALL THING that might be welcomed. Only as those conclusions are reached does Beaver find Raccoon soaking his burned feet in the river, leading him to a new home where the collected friends and their SMALL THINGS are no longer ONE. In fact, such individual acts create a new ONE-ness among them that satisfies thoroughly.

I am purposely not providing details of such small things they chose, not only to avoid spoiling the story (that couldn't happen) but to allow readers to realize how truly SMALL those decisions were but how enormously powerful each decision and action proved to be. 

Most importantly, these combined small things, though unplanned efforts, gave an immeasurably large result. Or at least, as Badger admits, "It was a little something." Only as this gratifying ending occurred and I closed the back cover did I realize that those end papers were not exactly "sunny". Such losses and pain are never gone from us. They are, in fact, revealed in the glow of the day that shows on the cover. I imagined that was the dawn of the day of the tragedy. Iinstead, after seeing the expressions of the friends and the lingering longing of Raccoon, I think those endpapers reflect a blend of dusk with honey and butter and safety and comfort, all of which wrap around a community to offer hope. 

Arnold has proven herself worthy of that STORYMAGICIAN title, as I observed in reviews of LIGHTS OUT, HERE, and LOST AND FOUND, HERE. Each is, in fact, a "quiet book", a blend of story and format and visual narrative that resonates at first reading, calls for return readings, echoing throughout succeeding days and years. My recent move is into an area that has very bright street lights, one of which is outside my living space. I noted that it is using energy-smart bulbs, but not before I noted that the fixtures are designed to cast light down to the streets, blocking it from lighting the sky. I'm aware of DARK SKY activists, and was concerned before reading LIGHTS OUT. Even so, my notice of that  fixture design led me to remember those animals and their journey with a smile on their behalf. Now that's power. 

Do one small thing, please. Begin by finding and reading this book. Then share it with someone. Then carry it forward in your mind and heart, turning kind thoughts and worry into actions for those in need, whether friend or stranger. KINDNESS is not a concept, it is verb.And it is NOT a small thing.

Another Remarkable Creative Team: The Steads!

My recent post featured a new picture book created by a talented pair whose collaboration produced an exciting and distinctive retelling of THE THREE BILLY GOATS GRUFF, HERE.  

"The Steads"  have together produced Caldecott-winner A SICK DAY FOR AMOS McGEE, along with many other titles that tap into gentle but moving relationships and characters. Click HERE to see some of their covers and anticipate an "AHA" recognition of favorites of your own.

NEAL PORTER BOOKS, 2022

THE SUN IS LATE AND SO IS THE FARMER is written by Philip Stead and illustrated by Erin E. Stead. This recent work offers some parallels to that earlier work with a feel that it may have found some roots in classic tales, too, but is entirely original. The animals are on a farm, not at the zoo, and the missing human, a central figure in both, is a farmer, not a zookeeper. 

In this case the animals note the absence of the sun, only then realizing that the farmer is also late, and their food has not been prepared for the day ahead. The three central figures are ideally partnered, a sort of animal Magi, watching the predawn sky for a sign of the new day. The mule, the milk cow, and the miniature horse are boon companions, kindred spirits. They share their worries, discuss possible next steps, sharing their progress through an effort to take action, to help in some way. Barn owl is consulted, since everyone knows how wise owls are. 

Owl's advice is seemingly simple, as is this entire story: subtle, reasonable, with some concerns but nothing terrifying. The pace, repetition, naturally expressive features and postures the farm animals all take readers on a steady, companionable adventure through the field of sheep, across the broken fence, into an acre of tall corn, past the farmhouse (with no lights on), to "the edge of the world". 

That's not to say there are no surprises, and the story allows time for readers to examine elements of each dimly-lit scene, each aptly chosen word, and experience each building emotion and final, satisfying resolution. The animals are not "named", just as is true for most farm animals. That in no way implies that they lack personality or character. Rather, they are each and together unforgettable. The same is true of this lovely picture book.

 I heard about this book when it released a few months ago, and I've looked forward to reading it closely. Now that I've had it in mom hands, I've returned to it, time after time. Each time I notice elements of the text and the images that add depth and sensitivity to a moving and gratifying story while providing those "things" we love in books for younger audiences: expanding vocabulary, awareness of social and emotional connections, gentle humor, all while treading the tender line between realism and fantasy. Read this and share it, soon.

Family/Friend Gatherings Amplify Joy: For Humans and For BATS

If you read this blog regularly you must have discovered that I am a fan of the talented writing and illustrations of Brian Lies (spelled like LIES but pronounced like CHEESE). I've reviewed many of his picture books, including one series feature a  colony of creative and distinctive bats (HERE). 

Several of his BAT titles are written in rhyme, but not all. In each, there is one little bat who, inexplicably, wears yellow floaties at the base of his wings. Little Bat often appears on the final page turn, snuggled against his mother's chest as she flies them home to sleep at dawn.

LITTLE BAT has garnered much attention over the years. Recently, LITTLE BAT IN NIGHT SCHOOL offered  Little Bat a starring role in his launch into night school, with a clever story told in prose. (Take this mention as a timely reminder for anyone preparing first-timers to school. The gentle humor and recognizably mixed emotions will open discussions and provide good-hearted reassurance.)

Clarion Books, 2022

Now, Little Bat is back in LITTLE BAT UP ALL DAY. Just a year or so older, he has grown bold and curious enough to defy his mother's warning to NOT go out in the daytime. Why? More noise, more animals, ones he has not met. Ones who sleep at night while bats are about.

But Little Bat feels compelled to know about them, to get answers to his questions, to find new friends. In each of the prior books, readers see that long nights are very busy (and exhausting), making daytime snoozes necessary. But Little Bat's curiosity overcomes his heavy eyelids, leading him through the louvres and into open daylight.

The blinding light, noises, and unfamiliar landscape confuse him, until his desperate chirp reveals an echo of his familiar home. With the confidence of knowing where he is, he begins his search for new friends. He mistakenly seeks the attention of a hawk, but Rusty squirrel saves the day. He sets Little Bat on a safe path to move about in daylight.

This friendship story is exhilarating and appealing, with delightful details in text, emotional expressions, and imaginative actions and locations. As Little Bat dozes off time after time, denying it time after time, he must finally admit that he is a nocturnal fella who needs to go to sleep. 

Thus, almost as if star-crossed lovers, they part with the sense that their friendship was "not meant to be", as we say. Even so, when Little Bat is out after dark he retraces their play trail, making a very satisfying discovering. 

I adore the character development and personalities in each of the bat characters, (or any animal character from any Lies picture book). In this bat series I especially appreciate the ways in which the illustration elements have a sort of Russian nesting doll quality, with bits from early pages appearing in some ways later in the story, layering rich connections and depth into the events and the individuals. The same is true from one book to the next. For example, Little Bat's foray into school builds the internal skills and tools he needs to make this latest book's resolution feel natural and irresistible. The pop-up book gingerbread house in BATS IN THE LIBRARY foreshadow the friendship setting of this current book, too.

Each time I read and share a book by Brian Lies, whether in rhyme or prose, written by others or by the illustrator, and starring familiar characters like Little Bat or a new cast (HERE), I urge readers to check them out and explore them thoroughly. Once again, please do just that. You won't be sorry, and I am guessing that you will immediately be thinking of a young audience for whom this book would be perfect.

* * *

 My brief hiatus involved travel and visiting with family. Then, more travel for a week in LA to celebrate a joyous wedding with family and friends, old and new. It was my first trip to that coast. As a lifelong midwesterner, I had routinely wondered aloud how anyone would choose to live with the looming dangers of earthquakes and mudslides and more. In only a week I began to understand the appeal of the climate, casual friendliness, and curiosities that would make each day there an adventure and a great place to live. Now, like Little Bat, I am safely home and settled into my midwest way of life. Even so, that exploration confirmed that I'll make it a point to reconnect with the coast again in the future! Here's wishing you joyous times with family and friends, and open eyes to search out new and exciting explorations!

Zack and Ike Love Being Alike! Don't We All?

Other than a few fashionistas I've known, most folks find it a fun affirmation to discover someone who is dressed quite similar to themselves, who enjoys the same things, or shares interests and traits that feel like their own. How comfortable it is to immediately recognize ourselves in others, to shortcut many of the "get to know you" strategies and quickly fail into familiar patterns with someone new.

That's a normal reaction. 

 But does it, SHOULD it, mean that those with evident differences from ourselves should be avoided? Might they even be treated as OTHERS? Is being "just alike" a requisite for being best friends?

ASTRA YOUNG READERS, 2022 

ZACK AND IKE ARE EXACTLY ALIKE, written and illustrated by award-winning Suzanne Bloom, offers a delightfully fun-filled picture book presenting that very dilemma. Filled with colorful and comic-style illustrations on white background, Zack and ike come to life with the vitality and appeal of kids down the street. They are quite similar, although readers of any age will note ways in which they aren't EXACTLY alike- their matching "wiggly hair" shows two different types of curliness, their skin color is different, but they see the many ways in which they are a matched pair: "google glasses, giggly grins, strong muscles, kind hearts, stripy shirts, and helmets." Young readers will note many ways they are alike that are not stated (missing front teeth, similar height and body types, etc.) as well as ways they are NOT. I appreciated that several of these relate to words/concepts/discussion points will offer young learners excellent development of basic vocabulary related to colors, shapes, sizes, and familiar nouns.

In fact, the fast-paced examples of activities, locations, and choices will have young audiences nodding along and eager to join them. That is likely to include recognition that even the closest of friends can have differences of opinions, such as whether to hike or head home when the bugs arrive. Advice to writers of books for this age includes the value of sudden twist or surprise, and this book offers that in two stages. First, they return to their shared hideout to note tracks and noises- A MONSTER!  When the intruder turns out to be something friendlier, the differences involve a naming debate, But just when the story might resolve, another surprise visit implies a potential loss, as well as a worrisome question of how to deal with someone new with NO apparent similarities to Ike and Zack. But a closer look and open minds are amply rewarded with the best possible prize-- more friendships!

There are so many things to like about this seemingly simple picture book and I'm very grateful to have received a copy for review from the publisher (with no promise of a positive review). The text is prose but is also rich with internal rhymes and appealing word choices. Those basic names are built on two "word chunks" that developing readers often use to gain independence (-ake and -ike). the many lines in which a variety of familiar words are from those "families" of words means that little ones will be reading along or even reading/retelling to themselves after only a few exposures. The illustrations are supportive in revealing simple but story-suited action images for the verbs/activity words. Both the literal story and those literal/visual elements off effective context for early reading development, but also contain gems that will pull kids back to laugh, explore, and enjoy again and again. The serpent swamp and secret hideout, as well as the results of their "maker" play are models of creativity and cleverness. The text is explicit about their strong hearts and muscles, but readers can easily recognize their similarly strong brain-power and artistry. 

All in all, this is going to be a hit for young readers with many returns to it over time. The value, then, is obvious. Even so, the theme and tone of friendships and similarities and other-ing and issue-resolving are so directly and warmly explored that I'd love to see many adults in today's world pay close attention, too. Whether it is PRIDE month or Black History Month or Hispanic Heritage Month or any other designated period in which to recognize and celebrate the value of particular races, ethnicities, or other identities, a book such as this asks us to focus on the innate ability of these boys to recognize themselves in each other, to build connections and friendships that make each and both lives better for their effort.