A Troop of Kangaroos: A Book of Animal Group Names by Lis Mundorff

A Troop of Kangaroos is a collective noun/animal group name books for the youngest readers and listeners. It features nine animals with six bonus animals at the end of the book. 

Thoughts: I've always been a fan of animal group names or collective nouns. To borrow a phrase from Anne Shirley, there's so much "scope for imagination" in collective nouns both for writing and drawing. I love that A Troop of Kangaroos is for the younger kids. The illustrations are colorful and detailed. There's so much to look at on the two-page spreads throughout the books. An easy writing and/or art activity would be to ask the kids to write a story or draw a picture of one of the bonus animal group names (hummingbirds, giraffes, wombats, narwhals, coyotes, and raccoons). The kids could also seek out other animal group names and write/draw about one that strikes their fancy. I highlighted collective nouns/animal group names during my summer program because the topic fit in so well with the CSLP theme of "Tails and Tales." You could pair A Troop of Kangaroos with An Ambush of Tigers: A Wild Gathering of Collective Nouns by Betsy R. Rosenthal, A Curious Menagerie by Carin Berger, or A Tower of Giraffes: Animals in Groups by Anna Wright for a fun lesson on animal group names. 

Themes: Animals, Collective Nouns, Elementary 

(Feiwel and Friends, 2021.)

Maybe... by Chris Haughton

Three little monkeys alone in a tree. The big monkey warned them not to go to the mango tree. There are tigers down there. But maybe...

Thoughts: Who know one little word could lead to such trouble? I know my storytime kids will enjoy looking for the tiger on all the pages. The illustrations are full color and saturated with bold, bright colors. I love the monkeys' faces and how the tigers are depicted. I'm getting definite Peter Rabbit vibes from the storyline. Pair Maybe... with Oh, No! by Candace Fleming and Fear the Bunny by Richard T. Morris. 

Themes: Monkeys, Jungle, Fruit 

 (Candlewick, 2021.) 

See the Dog: Three Stories About a Cat by David LaRochelle

Remember Dog from See the Cat: Three Stories about a Dog? Well, he's finally getting his own book. Wait a minute! That's a cat not a dog. Oh, I see. Cat's filling in for Dog. Sadly, the story was written for a dog not a cat. Will Cat survive all these doggish activities? 

Thoughts: Too funny! It was a joy to read the sequel to See the Cat. The text is short enough so I can use the book in storytime, but I'm also looking forward to sharing this See the Dog with first and second graders. The illustrations are bright and colorful. I like that several two-page spread illustrations are included to emphasize parts of the story. This is book two of a planned three book series. I can't wait to see what happens next. 

The author's website has a writing activity and a mixup activity to go along with the book. 

Themes: Dogs, Cats, Humorous Books, Elementary 

 (Illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka. Candlewick Press, 2021.)

Sheepish (Wolf Under Cover) by Helen Yoon

Wolf has a plan. He'll disguise himself as a sheep and once the sheep believe he's a sheep--dinnertime! But, wait. What if in the process of pretending to be a sheep, Wolf grows fond of the sheep? Will he still eat them? 

Thoughts: Too funny! I like how Wolf's plan ultimately backfires and he gains something more than dinner. The mixed media illustrations are colorful and engaging. I love both Wolf's and the sheep's facial expressions. This will be a fun book to use during storytime. Pair with Brenda Is a Sheep by Morag Hood and Wolfie the Bunny by Ame Dyckman. 

Themes: Wolves, Sheep, Disguises

(Candlewick, 2021.)

Norman Didn't Do It! (Yes, He Did.) by Ryan T. Higgins

Norman the Porcupine has a best friend. His best friend is Mildred the Tree. Things are great until one day another tree starts growing near Mildred. What's a porcupine to do? He has to save his friendship with Mildred. Hilarity ensues as Norman reflects on what friendship is. 

Thoughts: Ryan T. Higgins never disappoints! This book is funny and thoughtful. It made me think just like Norman does about what friendship is and what it means to be a friend. I enjoyed the combination of text/narration and speech bubbles. The illustrations are colorful and detailed. I think Norman Didn't Do It would pair well with Sophie's Squash by Pat Zietlow Miller. 

Themes: Porcupines, Trees, Forest Animals, Friendship 

 (Disney Hyperion, 2021.)

The Bruce Swap by Ryan T. Higgins

Through a mix-up with the mail, neither Bruce, the geese, or the mice know that Bruce's fun cousin Kevin is coming for a visit. The geese and mice also don't know that Bruce has gone fishing. The geese and mice are always wishing Bruce were more fun. That is, at least, until they spend the day with Kevin thinking he's Bruce. 

Thoughts: The Bruce books are some of my favorites. The Bruce Swap was great. All the characters are their usual selves with the exception of Kevin who is a brand new character. It's fun seeing how the geese and mice react to Kevin AKA Smiling, Fun Bruce. I love sharing the Bruce books with first and second graders when I visit the local schools. They are also fun for storytime. 

Themes: Bears, Bruce, Forest

Find activity sheets from the publisher here! 

Don't miss the other Bruce Books! 

• Mother Bruce
• Hotel Bruce 
• Be Quiet! 
• Bruce's Big Move 
• Santa Bruce 
• 1 Grumpy Bruce 
• Bruce's Big Fun Day
• Bruce's Big Storm 
• Peek-a-Bruce
• Spring Stinks
• Thanks for Nothing! 

 (Disney Hyperion, 2021.)

Snakes in Space by Kathryn Dennis

The snakes are off on a new adventure. This time they're taking a rocket into space. 

Thoughts: Simple text along with bright, colorful illustrations make Snakes in Space a great book to share with toddlers and preschoolers both one-on-one or in a storytime setting. Using two popular topics, snakes and outer space, make this book even more appealing to children. 

Themes: Snakes, Outer Space 

Don't miss the other books! 

Snakes on a Train

Snakes on the Job

Get an activity kit for Snakes on a Train for the publisher here. 

(Feiwel and Friends, 2021.)

The Crayons' Board Books

All written by Drew Daywalt and illustrated by Oliver Jeffers. 

The Crayons' Book of Numbers (Grosset & Dunlap, 2016.)

Counting with the Crayons! Features Purple, Green, Yellow, Orange, Beige, Pink, Blue, Red, Black, and Gray. Readers can count and identify colors in this board book. There's also many opportunities for creativity. Why not color a crocodile like Green Crayon? 

The Crayons' Book of Colors (Grosset & Dunlap, 2016.)

Can you name the Crayons' colors and what you might color with them? Features Red, Purple, Beige, Gray, White, Black, Green, Yellow, Orange, Blue, Pink, and Peach. Again there are opportunities for creativity within the book. Let's color use Pink Crayon to color a monster! 

The Crayons' Book of Feelings (Grosset & Dunlap, 2021.)

Explore feelings with the Crayons! Features the following feelings: Happy, Sad, Excited, Invisible, Scared, Grumpy, Brave, and Curious. Features Orange, Beige, Brown, White, Gray, Purple, Pea Green, and Peach. A great book for introducing feelings or emotions to the youngest children. 

Rainbows in Bloom: Discovering Colors with Flowers by Taylor Darroch Putnam & Michael Putman

Learn about colors through beautiful photographs of flowers. Seek and find items on every page. Once you know your colors, learn some flower names, too. 

Thoughts: Color books for the youngest children are nothing new. Colors are one of the concepts toddlers and preschoolers learn. Rainbows in Bloom is something new. Visually stunning with beautiful photographs of colorful flowers. The text invites readers to explore the flower collages on the foldout pages. I love the inclusion of the flower names throughout the book. The age group this book is aimed at (2-5) is notoriously inquisitive. I'm sure there are kids that the answer "It's a flower." won't satisfy their curiosity. This is a larger board book with foldout pages so I think I could easily use it for storytime especially if my group is small. Rainbows in Bloom will also be great for one-on-one sharing.

Themes: Colors, Flowers, Spring 

(Review copy provided by publisher. Phaidon, 2021.)

A Day So Gray by Marie Lamba

Two friends out for a walk on a wintry day disagree about the colors that surround them. Is gray just gray? 

Thoughts: Such a fun book that explores the many colors of winter. I love the optimistic friend's descriptions of the colors and the pessimistic friend's disgruntled responses. The illustrations are bright and colorful. My favorite is the cover illustration. Pair with Red Sings from the Treetops: A Year in Colors by Joyce Sidman, Cozy by Jan Brett, Bear is Awake! by Hannah E. Harrison, Winter is Here by Kevin Henkes, and "Menu for a Gray Day" from The Popcorn Astronauts and Other Biteable Rhymes by Deborah Ruddell. 

Download a Winter Scavenger Hunt for the Family here. 

Themes: Winter, Colors, Friendship

(Illustrated by Alea Marley. Clarion Books, 2019.)

The Truth About Parrots by Maxwell Eaton III

Everything you've ever wanted to know about parrots including some rather humorous asides from the birds themselves. 

Thoughts: From the very first I've loved this series! Great facts paired with colorful illustrations and tons of humor. It's a great way to get kids reading more nonfiction. I learned a lot from this book and look forward to sharing with with first and second grade students when I visit classrooms. 

Visit the author's website for some fun activities! 

Don't miss the other Truth About... Books

• The Truth About Hippos 
• The Truth About Bears 
• The Truth About Dolphins 
• The Truth About Elephants 
• The Truth About Crocodiles 
• The Truth About Hawks 
• The Truth About Butterflies 

Themes: Elementary 

(Roaring Brook Press, 2021.) 

Fourteen Monkeys: A Rain Forest Rhyme by Melissa Stewart

Discover which monkeys live in Manú, a national park in Peru. 

Thoughts: Such an informative book! I like that the actually text is short so I could potentially share Fourteen Monkeys with my storytime kids. The additional information on each page makes this a great book to share with older kids as well. I really could have made use of this book back in the summer when one of my weekly themes was Jungle (South America & Southeast Asia). Steve Jenkins's cut paper collage illustrations are stunning as always. My favorites are the pygmy marmosets and the Emperor tamarins. The included information at the end of the book is great for readers who want to know more. 

Themes: Rain forest, Monkeys

(Illustrated by Steve Jenkins. Beach Lane Books, 2021.) 

Those Are Not My Underpants! by Melissa Martin

Bear Cub finds a pair underpants. Who do they belong to? 

Thoughts: To funny! Underpants books are always a hit with the storytime crowd. My favorite parts were sparkly underpants for owls and long underwear for snakes. Pair with The Underpants Zoo by Brian Sendelbach, any of Claire Freedman's underpants books (Pirates Love Underpants, Monsters Love Underpants, Aliens Love Underpants), Monster's New Undies by Samantha Berger, Underwear by Jennifer Harney, or One Big Pair of Underwear by Laura Gehl. 

Themes: Forest Animals, Underpants 

(Illustrated by Troy Cummings. Random House, 2021.)

I Want a Boat by Liz Garton Scanlon

A girl has a box, but wants a boat. No problem! Just add a little imagination. 

Thoughts: Simple text with gorgeous illustrations. I love the girl's exuberant imagination. Would pair well with Not a Box by Antoinette Portis, Big Friends by Linda Sarah, Box: What Would You Do with a Box? by Min Flyte, and What To Do with a Box by Jane Yolen. 

Themes: Boxes, Boats, Imagination 

 (Illustrated by Kevan Atteberry. Neal Porter Books, 2021.) 

How to Apologize by David LaRochelle

When you make a mistake, you need to apologize. Here's how. 

Thoughts: Straightforward advice with a little humor thrown in. The illustrations are soft colored and details. I especially like all the animals' expressions. I think this book would pair well with Ten Rules of the Birthday Wish by Beth Ferry. 

Themes: Animals, Apologies, Mistakes, How To 

(Illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka. Candlewick Press, 2021.) 

Monet's Cat by Lily Murray

What would happen if Claude Monet's pottery cat Chika magically came to life? 

Thoughts: What a fun concept! A pottery cat who comes to life and runs through Monet's paintings. The illustrations are soft colored and inviting. Chika's expressions and personality come through wonderfully in the illustrations. Cameron does a masterful job depicting Monet's paintings. I think anyone who reads this book will want to know more about Monet. Would pair well with Where Is the Frog?: A Children's Book Inspired by Claude Monet by Géraldine Elschner. 

Themes: Art, Cats, Painting 

(Illustrated by Becky Cameron. Random House Studio, 2020.)

I'm On It! By Andrea Tsurumi

An Elephant & Piggie Like Reading Book 

Goat and Frog are playing a game. As it gets more involved, Frog isn't so sure he wants to keep playing. Can they still be friends? 

Thoughts: Too fun! I would not recommend replicating Goat and Frog's game at home. The illustrations are colorful and I love the expressions. Speech bubbles for the win. I love books that promote tandem reading--parent with child, grandparent with child, or sibling with sibling. 

Themes: Frogs, Goats, Friends, Games 

(Disney, 2021.) 

Stanley's Library by William Bee

A day in the life of Stanley the librarian. 

Thoughts: What a lovely tribute to libraries everywhere. I like that several different aspects of libraries were represented in the book--the physical library building, a mobile library, and storytime. This will be a great addition to a library themed storytime. The illustrations are colorful, realistic, and very appealing. The publisher has a series activity kit available here. 

Don't miss Stanley's other adventures! 

• Stanley's Garage 
• Stanley's Diner 
• Stanley the Builder 
• Stanley the Farmer 
• Stanley the Mailman 
• Stanley's Store
• Stanley's School 
• Stanley's Train 
• Stanley's Fire Engine 

Stanley's Board Books 

• Stanley's Shapes 
• Stanley's Paint Box 
• Stanley's Toolbox 
• Stanley's Numbers 
• Stanley's Opposites 
• Stanley's Colors 
• Stanley's Lunch Box 
• Stanley's Toy Box 

Themes: Libraries, Stanley 

 (Peachtree, 2021.)

100 Cats by Michael Whaite

So many cats to count! Can you count them all? 

Thoughts: Such a fun book! The text is fabulous--very rhythmic. You can also chant it. The illustrations are colorful and I love all the depictions of the cats. My favorite cats are art cat, lucky cat, cool cat, grin cay, lynx cat, tangled in your knitting cat, floppy cat, clock cat, stripe cat, and my cat. I think if I use this book in storytime, I'd read it first and then we'd go back and count the cats keeping a running total page by page. 

Themes: Cats, Counting

(Random House, 2019.)

Itty-Bitty Kitty Corn by Shannon Hale

Kitty thinks she's a unicorn. In fact, she's almost certain even though Parakeet and Gecko are always naysaying. But when a real unicorn shows up, Kitty is defeated. She's not a unicorn. But could she be a kitty corn? 

Thoughts: Such a fun book and a great addition to unicorn books. I look forward to adding this to my unicorn storytime. The illustrations are colorful and I love the expressions on all the characters' faces. Some great activity sheets are available here from the publisher. Several of them encourage children to use their imaginations as well as drawing and coloring skills. 

Themes: Cats, Unicorns, Imagination 

(Illustrated by LeUyen Pham. Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2021.)

Outside, Inside by LeUyen Pham

A look back at the changes the  COVID-19 pandemic brought to the world both outside and in. 

Thoughts: Such a timely book! Outside, Inside is a great way to start a discussion with the youngest children about the pandemic. Simple text is paired with lovely illustrations. The illustrations are so detailed I found my self going back to look at them several times. I often say that when we find ourselves on the other side of this pandemic (and we're not there yet) I think we need to have some way to remember what life was like then. This book definitely fits the bill. I could see myself sharing Outside, Inside at such an event where we share stories from the time and have a favorite mask show and tell. I know parents, grandparents, and teachers will find this book to be useful. 

(Roaring Brook Press, 2021.)

The Bookstore Cat by Cylin Busby

How would you describe the bookstore cat? Here are a few suggestions from A to Z! 

Thoughts: I love the inspiration for this book. I've never heard of the game The Minister's Cat, but I have played a similar one when hosting a Kit Kittredge Party. I think my storytime kids will enjoy this book, but I'm looking forward to sharing it with older kids and playing the game with them after we read the book. I may assign each child a letter and have them write down a few adjectives that start with their letter so we can play quickly. When I visit classrooms, I usually only have thirty minutes. 

Themes: Cats, Alphabet, Elementary 

(Illustrated by Charles Santoso. Balzer + Bray, 2020.)

Tea Time by Beth Ferry

Is it tea time or tee time? Homophones cause a slight confusion during Frannie's time with Grandy. 

Thoughts: Too funny! This will be a great addition to a tea storytime or a grandparents storytime. Explaining homophones to preschoolers should be fun. The illustrations are colorful and detailed. I like the golf terms defined at the end of the book. The ruined tea (hot tea, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and chocolate cake) and the tea at the clubhouse (hot tea, club sandwiches, and chocolate chip cookies) give me and possibly parents and grandparents ideas for extending the story. 

Themes: Tea, Grandparents 

 (Illustrated by Dana Wulfekotte. G. P. Putnam's Sons, 2021.)

The Capybaras by Alfredo Soderguit

The chicken coop is a great place to live. Peaceful with plenty of food. Then one day some unexpected visitors arrive--the capybaras. They don't fit in with the hen crowd. Can chickens and capybaras be friends? 

Thoughts: I think capybaras are the cutest and I've got to see some a zoos before. They look like gigantic guinea pigs. I like the friendship that develops between the chickens and the capybaras. The text is sparse and there are several two-page spreads that are wordless. The illustrations remind me of picture books from years ago. I like the detail Soderguit is able to convey in the animals' expressions and the limited color palette. I find it interesting you never really see the humans' faces. The ending vignette leaves the possibility for another book. Or if not, you can ask kids to write that story. 

Themes: Farm, Chickens, Capybaras, South America

(Review Copy Provided by Publisher. Translated by Elisa Amado. Greystone Kids, 2021. )

My Dog Banana by Roxane Brouillard

Just a boy walking his dog. Wait...that's a banana, isn't it? 

Thoughts: What a fun book! When I first saw the cover it immediately reminded me of Peanut by Lisa Alsenas. I think this book will make readers and listeners laugh out loud. I look forward to sharing this book with first and second graders. I think they'll understand the humor a bit more than my under five storytime kids. The illustrations are great. They remind me of illustrations from the 1970s and 1980s. The surprise ending is reminiscent of Bark, George by Jules Feiffer. Fruits and vegetables as pets or friends is an intriguing concept. I can only think of one other book and that is Sophie's Squash by Pat Zietlow Miller.

Themes: Unusual Pets, Dogs, Bananas, Fruit, Silly Books, Elementary 

(Review Copy Provided by Publisher. Illustrated by Giulia Sagramola. Greystone Kids, 2021.)

Ideas for Cybils 2021 Poetry Nominations Part 2

Poetry is back as a category for the 2021 Cybils and I wanted to share books that are eligible to be nominated. Part 2 is for books for seventh through twelfth grade. Part 1 was for books for kindergarten through sixth grade.

Collections for Grades 7-9
You Don’t Have to Be Everything: Poems for Girls Becoming Themselves edited by Diana Whitney

Verse Novels for Grades 7-9
Muted by Tami Charles
Home Is Not a County by Safia Elhillo
Your Heart, My Sky by Margarita Engle
Call Me Athena: Girl from Detroit by Colby Cedar Smith
Alma Presses Play by Tina Cane
The Girl Who Became a Tree by Joseph Coelho
 
Verse Novels for Grades 10-12
Chlorine Sky by Mahogany L. Browne
The Seventh Raven by David Elliott
Me (Moth) by Amber McBride
We Are the Ashes, We Are the Fire by Joy McCullough
Thirty Talks Weird Love by Alessandra Narváez Varela

If you're looking for ideas for other categories or if you have a book you'd like to be nominated but you've already used that category, look no further than the Cybils Idea Boards. Here's a link with all the details.  

Ideas for Cybils 2021 Poetry Nominations Part 1

Poetry is back as a category for the 2021 Cybils and I wanted to share books that are eligible to be nominated. Part 1 is for books from kindergarten through sixth grade. Part 2 will be books for seventh through twelfth grade. (Links are to my reviews of the titles.)

Collections for Kindergarten
The Dirt Book: Poems about Animals That Live Beneath Our Feet by David L. Harrison
Delicious: Poems Celebrating Street Food Around the World by Julie Larios
Beyond: Discoveries from the Outer Reaches of Space by Miranda Paul
Girls and Boys Come Out to Play by Tracey Campbell Pearson
An Emotional Menagerie: Feelings from A to Z edited by Alain de Bottom
Snow Birds by Kirsten Hall
 
Collections for Grades 1-2
Coyote’s Soundbite: A Poem for the Planet by John Agard
The Last Straw: Kids vs. Plastic by Susan Hood
Beautiful Day! Petite Poems for All Seasons by Rodoula Pappa
If You Go Down to the Woods Today by Rachel Piercey
Hello, Earth! By Joyce Sidman
My Words Flew Away Like Birds by Debora Pearson
What Are Little Girls Made of? By Jeanne Willis
 
Collections for Grades 2-3
For Every Little Thing: Poems and Prayers to Celebrate the Day edited by June Cotner and Nancy Tupper Ling
Hard-Boiled Bugs for Breakfast: And Other Tasty Poems byJack Prelutsky
Tiger, Tiger, Burning Bright!: An Animal Poem for Every Day of the Year edited by Fiona Waters
ICE! Poems about Polar Life by Douglas Florian
I Wish I Had a Wookiee by Ian Doescher
 
Collections for Grades 3-4
Spi-ku: A Clutter of Short Verse on Eight Legs by LeslieBulion
I Am Odd, I Am New by Benjamin Giroux
My Thoughts Are Clouds by Georgia Heard
The Book of Not Entirely Useful Advice by A. F. Harrold
The Best Ever Book of Funny Poems edited by Brian Moses
Dear Ugly Sisters: And Other Poems by Laura Mucha
 
Collections for Grades 4-6
They Only See Outside by Kalli Dakos
Legacy: Women Poets of the Harlem Renaissance by Nikki Grimes
The Little Mermaid by J. M. Farkas
Carry On: Poetry by Young Immigrants edited by Rogé Girard
Growing Up Trans: In Our Own Words edited by Lindsay Herriot and Kate Fry
37 Days at Sea: Aboard the M. S. St. Louis, 1939 by Barbara Krasner
New Royalty by Charles R. Smith, Jr.
What About Will? By Ellen Hopkins 

Verse Novels for Grades 3-4
Samira Surfs by Rukhsanna Guidroz
Reckless, Glorious, Girl by Ellen Hagan
The One Thing You’d Save by Linda Sue Park
Rez Dogs by Joseph Bruchac
The Deepest Breath by Meg Grehan
Love, Love by Victoria Chang
 
Verse Novels for Grades 4-6
The Magical Imperfect by Chris Baron
Unsettled by Reem Faruqi
Starfish by Lisa Fipps
Alone by Megan E. Freeman
Everywhere Blue by Joanne Rossmassler Fritz
Red, White, and Whole by Rajani LaRocca
D-39: A Robodog’s Journey by Irene Latham
Recipe for Disaster by Aimee Lucido
Amber and Clay by Laura Amy Schlitz
Miles from Motown by Lisa Sukenic
We Belong by Cookie Hiponia Everman
Ben Y and the Ghost in the Machine by K. A. Holt
The Lost Language by Claudia Mills 

If you're looking for ideas for other categories or if you have a book you'd like to be nominated but you've already used that category, look no further than the Cybils Idea Boards. Here's a link with all the details. 

I Hear You, Forest by Kallie George

A little girl visits the forest and quietly listens to what the forest has to say. 

Thoughts: Lyrical text blends perfectly with soft colored illustrations. I love that this book is about a child simply enjoying nature. Children who read this book will likely be inspired to go explore nature. The story has a repetitive quality that make it almost meditative. I think I Hear You, Forest would pair well with In the Woods by David Elliott and Forest Has a Song by Amy Ludwig VanDerwater. 

Themes: Forest 

(Review Copy Provided by Publisher. Illustrated by Carmen Mok. Greystone Kids, 2021.)

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.)

Rabbit! Rabbit! Rabbit! by Lorna Scobie

Being an only rabbit is the best...until it isn't. 

Thoughts: I love rabbits and the ones featured in this book are the cutest. The story is one I'm sure will resonate with children. Having time by yourself or one-on-one time with an adult is important even for only children. Older siblings will have much in common with the little gray rabbit. The illustrations (made with ink pens, watercolor, and colored pencils) are lovely. Colorful and the characters have such depth of expression. Loved the surprise ending with the fox. I won't ruin it for you, but I was astounded. 

Download an activity kit from the publisher here.

For a sibling themed storytime, pair with any of the following: Charlotte the Scientist Is Squished by Camille Andros, Lift by Minh Lê, Wolfie the Bunny by Ame Dyckman, Maple by Lori Nichols, One Special Day by Lola M. Schaefer, or Brand-New Baby Blues by Kathi Appelt.

For a fox themed storytime, pair with One Fox: A Counting Book Thriller by Kate Read, Rosie's Walk by Pat Hutchins, The Sky Is Falling! by Mark Teague, My Lucky Day by Keiko Kasza, Lousy Rotten Stinkin' Grapes by Margie Palatini, or That Is Not a Good Idea! by Mo Willems. 

Themes: Rabbits, Siblings, Foxes

(Henry Holt, 2020.)

The Longest Storm by Dan Yaccarino

When a storm comes, a family has to go inside. The storm is long. How will one parent, three kids, and a dog occupy themselves until the storm is over? 

Thoughts: So I had a definite sense of déjà vu when I read The Longest Storm. After glancing at the information sent by the publisher I realized that I was remembering  the shutdown of Spring 2020. While a long-lived storm isn't quite the same as a global pandemic, it does give you an avenue to start a conversation with kids about their experiences during that time. The depiction of the family not getting along after too much time together resonated with me as it reminds me of times in my childhood--endlessly rainy summer days when I and my siblings were cooped up inside. We almost always got into fights. That's what kids do when they're bored. The illustrations are great. Colorful and evocative. I love how the colors and style change to suit the mood of what's happening in the story. I think The Longest Storm would pair well with Blackout by John Rocco. Look for The Longest Storm in a bookstore near you on August 31st!

Themes: Rain, Family

(Review copy provided by publisher. minedition, 2021.)

Peek-A-Mood by Giuliano Ferri

Play peek-a-boo with monkeys in this book to discover what their faces look like when they're feeling different emotions. 

Thoughts: I have a toddler nephew and he often struggles to accurately express his emotions. I can't wait to share this book with him. Peek-A-Mood engages readers on multiple levels. The charming illustrations that are soft-colored, expressive, and realistic. I firmly believe everyone (adults included) enjoy lift the flap books. The mirror on the last page adds an interactive element to the story. This will be a nice addition to an emotions storytime. 

Themes: Emotions, Monkeys, Interactive

(Review copy provided by the publisher. Mine Edition, 2020.)

Cybils 2021: Call for Judges

It's time for the 2021 Cybils!!! Poetry is back this year and I am honored to be the Poetry Category Chair once again. 

The official Call for Judges has been announced and you have until Wednesday, September 1 at 11:59pm EDT to apply to be a panelist or judge. Read the Call for Judges here. Anyone who reads and reviews children's and young adult books via a social media platform (a blog, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, GoodReads, Twitter, TikTok, etc.) is eligible to apply. If you can't volunteer to be a judge, help spread the word about Cybils on social media and nominate your favorite books. Nominations open to the public on October 1.

I've served as a panelist 5 times...4 times in Poetry and 1 time in Elementary/Middle Grade Nonfiction. It's a fun process. You get to read lots of great books and discuss them with like minded people. I'm not going to lie: It's also a lot of work, but so rewarding. The beauty of Cybils is that nominations come from the public and the judges are a mix of teachers, librarians, parents, and book bloggers. I like the emphasis that is placed on kid appeal. Often I read major award winning books and I wonder about the amount of kid appeal (or lack thereof) that they have.

I'm going to list all the categories below, but forgive me for recommending my own category. Poetry is fun to read and discuss. It also usually has fewer nominations than the other categories. In 2019 Poetry had 43 nominations. I've been rounding up titles eligible in the Poetry category for 2021 (October 16, 2020-October 15, 2021). So far there are 64 if they all get nominated. 

Cybils Awards Categories

• Fiction Picture Books & Board Books 
• Easy Reader & Early Chapter Books
• Elementary/Middle Nonfiction 
• Middle Grade Fiction 
• Elementary/Middle Grade Speculative Fiction 
• Graphic Novels 
• High School Nonfiction 
• Poetry 
• Young Adult Speculative Fiction 
• Young Adult Fiction 

Find Cybils on Social Media

• Twitter
• Instagram
• Facebook
• GoodReads
• YouTube
• TikTok

Teatime Around the World by Denyse Waissbluth

Do you like tea? Let's travel around the world explore tea traditions from different countries and cultures. 

Thoughts: I was excited about Teatime Around the World for two reasons. First, I love tea and second, I'm always looking for books that explore multiple countries or cultures at the same time. The text of the book is simple enough to share with kids during storytime. The added information also makes this a great books to share with older kids. The illustrations are colorful and I think accurately portray the cultures they depict. For tea-tastic storytime, pair with any of the following: Tea Party Rules by Ame Dyckman, Tea Rex by Molly Idle, Tea with Oliver by Mika Song, Miss Spider's Tea Party by David Kirk, The Tiger Who Came to Tea by Judith Kerr, Alice in Wonderland: The Mad Hatter's Tea Party by Joe Rhatigan, Hattie Hippo by Christine Loomis, Brimsby's Hats by Andrew Prahin, The Tiny Baker by Hayley Barrett, and Tea Party Today: Poems to Sip and Savor by Irene Spinelli. 

Download a Companion Guide for Teachers and Parents here. 

Themes: Tea, Around the World, Food

(Illustrated by Chelsea O'Byrne. Greystone Books, 2020.)

Goldibooks and the Wee Bear by Troy Wilson

I'm sure you've heard the story. Young girl wandering in the woods. Visits the bears' house while they're out. Completely wrecks said house. Well, this story is a little bit different. Wee bear wandering in the woods looking for something to read. Visits the humans' house while they're out. Completely wrecks said house. Can this story have a happy ending? 

Thoughts: Too fun! This is my idea of a perfect book--a fairy tale that is ultimately all about books. The story is engaging and just familiar enough for readers to wonder what will happen next. The illustrations are colorful and detailed. My favorites are the bookshelves and the humans and bears reading together. For a Goldilocks storytime pair with Goldilocks and Just One Bear by Leigh Hodgkinson and Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs by Mo Willems. Looking for Goldilocks poetry? Try any of these: 

• Goldilocks page from Sleep Tight Snow White: 15 Bewitching Bedtime Rhymes by Jen Arena
• “Bears in the News” from Mirror Mirror: A Book of Reversible Verse by Marilyn Singer
• “Three Bears, Five Voices” and "Goldilocks Leaves a Letter Stuck in the Door” from Grumbles from the Forest: Fairy-Tale Voices with a Twist by Jane Yolen and Rebecca Kai Dotlich

Themes: Goldilocks, Bears, Fairy Tales, Fractured Fairy Tales 

(Illustrated by Edwardian Taylor. RP Books, 2021.)

Chicken Little and the Big Bad Wolf by Sam Wedelich

Chicken Little is not afraid of the Big Bad Wolf. Or is he? 

Thoughts: What a fun version of Chicken Little! The digital illustrations are colorful and detailed. I love the speech bubbles and the hand lettering. I didn't know there was another Chicken Little book by Sam Wedelich (Chicken Little: The Real and Totally True Tale) so I need to add it to my list to buy. Pair with The Sky is Falling! by Mark Teague and Chicken Little by Rebecca Emberley. 

Themes: Chicken Little, Farm Animals, Chickens, Fractured Fairy Tales 

(Scholastic Press, 2021.)

Ten Animals in Antarctica: A Counting Book by Moira Court

Count from one to ten and travel to Antarctica explore the animals you'll find there

Thoughts: Such a simple concept that is visually stunning. Court's printmaking and collage illustrations are fabulous. The contrast of colors is amazing and there's so much to see on each page. Though classified as a juvenile nonfiction book, the simplicity of the text makes Ten Animals in Antarctica a perfect book for storytime. The additional information at the end of the book about Antarctica and the animals is great. I have very inquisitive storytime kids who will want to know more. 

Themes: Polar Animals, South Pole/Antarctica, The Poles 

(Charlesbridge, 2021.)

I'm a Hare, So There! by Julie Rowan-Zoch

After being mistaken for a rabbit, Hare goes into a whole spiel about how he's a hare and how different they are from rabbits. 

Thoughts: Hilarious! This book will be so fun to share in storytime. I love the speech bubbles and the animals with their bold black outlines. The Similar But Not the Same section adds another element to the book as does the find these creatures page. I think this book will pair well with Be Quiet! by Ryan T. Higgins, Fear the Bunny by Richard T. Morris, and What About Worms!? also by Ryan T. Higgins. 

Pair with any of the following for a desert themed storytime: Over on a Desert: Somewhere in the World by Marianne Berkes, The 3 Little Dassies by Jan Brett, and Mañana Iguana by Ann Whitford Paul. 

Download activity sheets here. 

Themes: Hares/Rabbits, Desert Animals 

(Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2021.)

I've Got a Tail! Terrific Tails of the Animal World by Julie Murphy

Book #3 of the I've Got series by Julie Murphy and Hannah Tolson 

I've Got a Tail! is about twelve different animals and how they use their tails. 

Thoughts: Another hit from Murphy and Tolson! I love short, informative nonfiction books with bright. colorful illustrations. They are great for storytime. The animals included in the book are all wild animals you might see at a zoo or aquarium. I love that the ending asks readers to think about what their pets' tails can do. The map showing where the features animals live is great addition to the book. My favorite animals in the book are Anna's Hummingbird, Common Ringtail Possum, and Arctic Fox. My favorite illustrations are the Spinner Dolphin, Giraffe, and Spider-Tailed Horned Viper. 

Pair with What's This Tail Saying? by Carolyn Combs, Who Has This Tail? by Laura Hulbert, Heads and Tails by John Canty, and Tails by Matthew Van Fleet for an tail themed storytime. 

Pair with any of the following for an animal body parts storytime: This Is My Eye: A New York Story by Neela Vaswani, any of the I Spy books by Edward Gibbs (with My Little Eye, Under the Sea, Pets, on the Farm, in the Sky), The Eye Book by Theo LeSieg, Fish Eyes: A Book You Can Count On by Lois Ehlert, and Eye to Eye: How Animals See the World by Steve Jenkins, The Foot Book by Dr. Seuss, Who Has These Feet? by Laura Hulbert, I've Got Feet! Fantastical Feet of the Animal World and I've Got Eyes! Exceptional Eyes of the Animal World both by Julie Murphy, Creature Features: 25 Animals Explain Why They Look the Way They Do by Steve Jenkins, Butts are Everywhere by Jonathan Stutzman, Animals Brag about Their Bottoms by Maki Saito, and Chicken Cheeks by Michael Ian Black

Themes: Tails, Animal Body Parts, Animals 

(Illustrated by Hannah Tolson. Amicus Ink, 2020)

I've Got Eyes! Exceptional Eyes of the Animal World by Julie Murphy

A sequel to I've Got Feet! Fantastical Feet of the Animal World, this book is all about thirteen different animals and how they use their eyes. 

Thoughts: Great nonfiction for the youngest readers! I like the mixture of common and less common animals in the book. After reading the book, I had definitely learned something. My favorite animals in the book are the camel, four-eyed fish, goat. The illustrations are colorful and appealing. My favorite illustrations are the tarsier, chameleon, and camel. 

Pair with This Is My Eye: A New York Story by Neela Vaswani, any of the I Spy books by Edward Gibbs (with My Little Eye, Under the Sea, Pets, on the Farm, in the Sky), The Eye Book by Theo LeSieg, Fish Eyes: A Book You Can Count On by Lois Ehlert, and Eye to Eye: How Animals See the World by Steve Jenkins for an eye themed storytime. 

Pair with any of the following for an animal body parts storytime: What's This Tail Saying? by Carolyn Combs, Who Has This Tail? and Who Has These Feet? by Laura Hulbert, I've Got Feet! Fantastical Feet of the Animal World and I've Got a Tail! Terrific Tails of the Animal World both by Julie Murphy, Creature Features: 25 Animals Explain Why They Look the Way They Do by Steve Jenkins, Butts are Everywhere by Jonathan Stutzman, Animals Brag about Their Bottoms by Maki Saito, and Chicken Cheeks by Michael Ian Black

Themes: Animals, Eyes, Animal Body Parts 

 (Illustrated by Hannah Tolson. Amicus Ink, 2018.)