Cat Problems by Jory John

The author/illustrator team that brought you Penguin Problems and Giraffe Problems are back! This time they're tackling Cat Problems. 

Thoughts: Too funny! All the problem books are hilarious. I love sharing them with slightly older kids (usually first and second graders) when I visit schools. I always read the inside flap on these books because it gives you a little taste of how the main character will be. Cat Problems is just as entertaining as the first two books. I'm not a cat person, but I've observed enough to say that the cat's internal monologue is spot on. My one complaint is that we aren't told the cat's name. The illustrations are detailed and expressive. I love all the cat's expressions as well as those of the other cat. 

Themes: Cats, Elementary 

 (Illustrated by Lane Smith. Random House Studio, 2021.)

Mr. Lion's New Hair! by Britta Teckentrup

 

Mr. Lion has twigs and leaves in his mane. His friend Monkey wants to give him a new hairdo. What will suit Mr. Lion best? 

Thoughts: Hilarious! I can't wait to use this board book in storytime. I'm glad it's slightly larger than the average board book size. The cutout is a simple concept but so effective. The illustrations are colorful and effective. I love all the different hairstyles and Monkey's expressions. 

Themes: Lions, Jungle Animals, Hair

(Twirl, 2021.)

Blueberry Cake by Sarah Dillard

A bear cub wants blueberry cake. Mama Bear can't make a blueberry cake without blueberries. Bear Cub heads off with his bucket. Will he come home with blueberries? 

Thoughts: An almost wordless book that accurately describes the day in the life of a bear cub or even a child. I loved the twist in the story as well as the author's note at the end and the recipe for blueberry cake. The illustrations are colorful and I especially like all the Mama Bear and Bear Cub expressions. This will be a great addition to a bear or berry storytime and will go well with the Jamberry Chant created by Jbrary. 

Themes: Bears, Berries 

(Aladdin, 2021.)