Book Review Roundup #9
October 11, 2024
Balderdash! John Newberry and The Boisterous Birth of Children’s Books by Michelle Markel, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter
Balderdash! by Michelle Markel is a whimsical picture book biography about John Newbery, the father of children's literature. With engaging, cartoonish illustrations and playful text, the book tells the story of how Newbery transformed publishing by creating books specifically for children—full of fun, adventure, and even toys. His books became beloved treasures, read and reread, proving that children's books could be both profitable and a moral good, cementing his lasting legacy.
Alfred Hitchcock and The Three Investigators in The Secret of Terror Castle by Robert Arthur
It is Alfred Hitchcock, the famous movie director, who reluctantly gives the three boys of The Three Investigators Detective Agency their first case: they are tasked with finding a truly haunted house for Hitchcock to use as a setting to film his upcoming movie. The boys discover a deserted mansion called Terror Castle, “located in a narrow little canyon up above Hollywood, called Black Canyon.” And they proceed to investigate to see if the castle is really haunted by the ghost of Stephen Terrill, a star of horror pictures from the silent film era.
Books By Horseback: A Librarian’s Brave Journey to Deliver Books to Children by Emma Carlson Berne
Books By Horseback: A Librarian’s Brave Journey to Deliver Books to Children by Emma Carlson Berne is a historical picture book about the courageous Pack Horse Librarians. Set in Depression-era Kentucky, it tells the story of librarian Mary, who delivers books to children in remote areas, overcoming harsh terrain and weather. With vibrant illustrations and engaging text, this book highlights the transformative power of literacy and the perseverance of those who bring books to underserved communities.
Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré by Anika Aldamuy Denise
Planting Stories is a delightful picture book that celebrates the life of Pura Teresa Belpré, the first Puerto Rican librarian in New York City. Born in Cidra, Puerto Rico, in 1899, Pura grew up surrounded by stories that inspired her to share her cultural heritage. Anika Aldamuy Denise’s lyrical bilingual prose, paired with Paola Escobar’s vibrant illustrations, captures Pura’s journey from factory worker to librarian. Later, Pura traveled with her musician husband, planting “story seeds” across the country and fostering a love for Puerto Rican folklore. This enchanting biography highlights the power of storytelling and the immigrant experience.
Out and About: A First Book of Poems by Shirley Hughes
Out and About is a collection of poems for each of the seasons, spring, summer, fall, and winter. Katie and her baby brother, Ollie, explore nature in the poems and pictures that fill this little 42 page picture book brimful to overflowing. The book begins with a poem called “Out and About” and a picture of Katie walking down the garden path while her baby brother stands in the doorway and watches her. The laundry is flapping in the breeze on the clothesline, birds are flying about, and it looks like an altogether lovely day to be outdoors. In some of the other poems Katie tells us why and how she likes mud and water and sand and wind. The entire book is an ode to nature and the changing seasons, and it would be a great addition to a nature study time or a poetry tea or any read aloud time with younger children.
Out and About is one of the many books added to the new expanded edition of Picture Book Preschool.
The Shy Stegosaurus of Indian Springs by Evelyn Sibley Lampman
The Shy Stegosaurus of Indian Springs by Evelyn Sibley Lampman is the sequel to The Shy Stegosaurus of Cricket Creek. It follows Huck, a Klickitat boy, who befriends George, a shy stegosaurus. As Huck introduces George to his friends, tensions arise when the tribe’s chief wants to relocate Huck’s grandfather. George becomes the key to solving the conflict at the Huckleberry Festival, where the story touches on themes of adventure, friendship, and cultural dynamics.
The Box With Red Wheels by Maud and Miska Petersham
In The Box With Red Wheels by Maud and Miska Petersham, curious barnyard animals explore a mysterious box with red wheels in the garden. As they peek inside, they discover a baby smiling back at them. Mama soon shoos the animals away, but she eventually relents, allowing the animals to play with the baby. This heartwarming tale celebrates curiosity, innocence, and unexpected friendships, beautifully illustrated with vibrant scenes that capture the joy of connection.
The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman by Gennifer Choldenko
Middle grade fiction, published in 2024.
A week ago, Hank’s single mom left him in charge of three year old sister Boo in an apartment with very little food or money. Hank has taken care of himself and Boo so far with no major errors, but now they are completely out of food and money. And the apartment manager is threatening to evict them. With no family to turn to and no idea where his mom could be, Hank takes Boo across town to the home of a stranger that his mom once mentioned. It may be a level 10 mistake, but what else can he do?
The Sailor Who Captured the Sea by Deborah Nourse Lattimore
The Sailor Who Captured the Sea by Deborah Nourse Lattimore is inspired by the creation of the Book of Kells. The story follows three brothers, two of whom find refuge in a monastery during Viking attacks and help create a manuscript. The youngest brother, a sailor, struggles to find his place but eventually helps in a time of crisis. While the story is simple, the illustrations are praised for capturing the intricate artistry of ancient manuscripts. The book serves as a visual introduction to the Book of Kells.
This Book of Mine by Sarah Stewart and illustrated by David Small
This Book of Mine by Sarah Stewart, illustrated by David Small, is a poetic tribute to the magic of books. With gentle, heartfelt lines, each spread captures how books can be friends, adventures, and sources of comfort and inspiration. David Small’s soft watercolor and pencil illustrations, with their serene purple palette and vibrant pops of color, beautifully enhance the story, making this small, charming book a perfect read for young readers.
Going Places by Aileen Fisher
A new book added to the
Expanded Edition of Picture Book Preschool.
Poet and author Aileen Fisher wrote over a hundred children’s books, and all of those that I have seen are delightful. Her poems are easy to read and accessible, mostly about animals and the natural world. Going Places is a poem in picture book format, illustrated by Midge Quenell.
“How do you travel, bird in the sky?
Sometimes I glide, but mostly I fly.
How do you travel. fish in the sea?
Swimming is always in fashion with me.”
Invincible Louisa by Cornelia Meigs
Invincible Louisa by Cornelia Meigs is a children’s biography of Louisa May Alcott, highlighting her determination to support her family despite hardships. Meigs emphasizes Louisa’s strong will, love for her family, and dedication to writing, even as they faced poverty and frequent relocations. The book provides a balanced portrayal of Alcott, acknowledging her struggles while celebrating her resilience. It serves as an accessible introduction to Alcott’s life for young readers, portraying her as an admirable role model.
Tomas and the Library Lady by Pat Mora and illustrated by Raul Colón
Tomas and the Library Lady tells the true story of a young migrant worker who discovers a library in Iowa. With the librarian’s help, Tomas learns English, explores the joy of storytelling, and shares his new tales with his family. This experience sparks a lifelong love for reading, leading Tomas to become a university leader. Raul Colon’s warm illustrations beautifully enhance Pat Mora’s inspiring narrative.
Sparrow Being Sparrow by Gail Donovan
Sparrow Robinson is a nine year old Dennis the Menace or Ramona Quimby. She likes to dance and move and leap and play. She loves all of the cats that belong to Mrs. LaRose next door. Sparrow and her parents have just moved to a new house in a new town, and she has lots to say and lots of questions to ask. And she sometimes “gets carried away”, as her parents put it.
When Sparrow and Mrs. LaRose get carried way, dancing like butterflies, and Mrs. LaRose falls and breaks her hip, Sparrow is sure that it’s all her fault. The only thing she can do to try to make up for the fall is to take care of Mrs. LaRose’s cats, as she promised. But taking care of the cats, seven of them in all, leads to more complications, a few accidents, and even a big lie. How can Sparrow learn to control her actions and her tongue and make friends in this new place?
Across a Dark and Wild Sea by Don Brown
Across a Dark and Wild Sea by Don Brown tells the story of Columcille (St. Columba), a 6th-century Irish monk. After a dispute over copying a rare book leads to a battle, Columcille sails to Scotland, where he and his companions found a monastery on Iona. There, they copy books and spread Christianity. The book’s artwork complements the historical narrative, though the illustrations may not appeal to everyone. It offers a unique look into monastic life and bookmaking during this era.
Is This You? by Ruth Krauss and Crockett Johnson
Is This You? by Ruth Krauss and Crockett Johnson is an engaging book that invites young readers to become part of the story. Each spread asks a fun question, paired with whimsical illustrations, sparking laughter and imagination. Children are prompted to draw their own answers on paper, eventually creating their own personalized book. It’s a creative blend of storytelling and interactive play, ideal for young children.
The Cuckoo's Calling by Robert Galbraith
Definitely not for everybody. Robert Galbraith’s (J.K. Rowling’s) first book in her crime series about private detective Cormoran Strike is gritty and contains quite a bit of bad language, mostly F-bombs. (By the way, I really like that name, Cormoran Strike. It feels quirky and detective-like and memorable.) I wish Rowling could have toned down the language, but I must admit that in the world of celebrities and super-models where this particular mystery takes place, the dialog probably accurately reflects the characters and their common everyday use of language.
A Walk in Wolf Wood by Mary Stewart
In A Walk in Wolf Wood by Mary Stewart, two English children on holiday in Germany are drawn into a magical adventure when they venture beyond a fallen tree. They discover a kingdom threatened by an enchanter and must help a victim of enchantment, a werewolf. The story emphasizes themes of bravery, trust, and the importance of doing what is right, culminating in a wholesome resolution where trust prevails.
Jennifer and Josephine by Bill Peet
Jennifer and Josephine by Bill Peet tells the story of Jennifer, an old car, and Josephine, a stray cat. Stuck in a junkyard, they form an unlikely friendship. When a traveling salesman buys Jennifer, Josephine hides in the back, and the two embark on a bumpy journey. After a storm sends them off-road, Josephine bravely finds help, leading a boy to rescue her friend. Peet’s lively illustrations and heartwarming tale celebrate courage, loyalty, and the magic of unexpected friendships.
The Strange Intruder by Arthur Catherall
In The Strange Intruder, a thrilling tale by Arthur Catherall, set on Mykines in the Faroe Islands, a polar bear becomes a terrifying threat after being washed ashore during a storm. The story unfolds as local men, drawn away by a whale sighting, leave behind a 16-year-old boy named Sven and a few elderly men to defend their village from the hungry bear. This fast-paced narrative highlights themes of courage and community as they face both the bear and the challenges of survival.
When Winter Comes by Nancy Van Laan
When Winter Comes is a charming picture book that takes readers on a delightful winter walk with a curious family. As they explore their snowy surroundings, they ponder thoughtful questions about the fate of various creatures—like where caterpillars and songbirds go during winter and what happens to the fish in the pond. Nancy Van Laan’s engaging prose, paired with Susan Gaber’s stunning illustrations, beautifully captures the magic of nature’s transformation, making this a perfect seasonal read for families.
Nurses Who Led the Way by Adele and Cateau de Leeuw
Nurses That Led the Way by Adele and Cateau De Leeuw is a compelling nonfiction book that chronicles the lives of influential nurses who transformed the profession. Covering historical figures like Florence Nightingale and Clara Barton, it dives into their dedication to healthcare and their bravery in challenging conditions. The book inspires readers by spotlighting how these trailblazers overcame adversity, reshaping the field of nursing and making an indelible impact on patient care.