Readertotz Read Aloud: The Beatryce Prophecy

For the older siblings of your readertotz, you might read aloud Kate DiCamillo's latest work: The Beatryce Prophecy. Every time I begin a work of Kate's, I get first-page chills. You know you are taking her hand and journeying into a narrative, lyrical circle which will weave a community together through the eyes of an endearing, strong protagonist. You and yours will love Beatryce, Answelica the goat, Brother Edik, and Jack Dory. 

Sophie Blackall's pencil drawings illuminate the text throughout. She brings half-page images, flourishes, and spot illustrations to the reader. The two time Caldecott Medalist dedicates her work to Kate, herself.  

Listen in to NPR's Talking Volumes, 2021, interview of Kate about this new classic taking its place on our shelves and in our hearts. 

"That is not a book I would care to read. 

As if she could read.

As if such a thing were possible.

Which, of course, it was not.

But still, a shiver of wonder and fear went through him at the possibility of a girl who could read." 

The Beatryce Prophecy

by Kate DiCamillo

illustrated by Sophie Blackall

Candlewick Press, 2021

More, more, more: When We Say Black Lives Matter

Here is a must find, must purchase, must share! When We Say Black Lives Matter is the poetic, spot-on answer for our readertotz when they ask, "What does Black Lives Matter mean?" 

Maxine Beneba Clarke's direct, compassionate beauty fills this picture book as black parents speak to their black child. Clarke's watercolor pencil and collage resembles chalk drawings which glow like stained glass over the large format. Verbs illuminate what this powerful statement means, whether it is screamed, danced, or laughed. 

"When we smile

Black Lives Matter,

we're raising our spirits high.

We're saying

we are here,

and we are enough.

Black-beautiful-brave, 

my child."

Let Clarke, who is speaking to her own beloved family around the world, fill your home with affirmations of truth and joy. Black Lives Matter. 

When We Say Black Lives Matter

by Maxine Beneba Clarke

Candlewick Press, 2021

Happy Halloween from The Very Busy Spider: Eric Carle

Get Halloween ready with the Very Busy Spider who is looking for all of her friends. Your totz can solve riddles and lift the flaps to help her. 

"Who does she see

smiling up at the moon

hoping to join his friends

very soon? 

A kind fox!"

Of course she has to find the Very Hungry Caterpillar munching inside a pumpkin. Once everyone is gathered, it's time for fun. Trick or treat! 

Thank you, Eric Carle.  We miss you dearly! <3

Happy Halloween from the Very Busy Spider

by Eric Carle

World of Eric Carle, Illustrated Edition, 2020

The Wheels on the Bus at Halloween: Sarah Kieley

Just in time for Halloween, your totz can sing "The Wheels on the Bus" for magical creatures who happen to need a ride. Beginning with a map of the upcoming journey, Sarah Kieley's vivid illustration pops across the board book double spread as we anticipate who will ride the bus on Halloween. 

Riders include witches, bats, ghosts, candies, and more. 

The pumpkins on the bus go "Trick or treat!

Trick or treat! 

Trick or treat!"

The pumpkins on the bus go, "Trick or treat!"

on a spooky Halloween!

When everyone's gathered on the bus, of course the next stop is your house! Enjoy this joy-packed take on "The Wheels on the Bus!" 

The Wheels on the Bus at Halloween

by Sarah Kieley

Doubleday Books for Young Readers, 2021