I Want to Be...a Ballerina: Becky Davies

Our first readers can dream big, and the I Want to Be series from Random House can help visualize the accomplishment. I Want to be...a Ballerina illustrates and labels the journey of a young girl from getting ready for her first lesson to performing onstage as an adult. Vocabulary is rich and identifies clothing, steps, and parts of the studio and stage. 

Text is tight and Richard Merritt's flat, colorful illustrations pop but don't overwhelm. They carry the information in a creative way, even turning the layout for impact. 

You can help your own first reader into ballet with this board book. Whether a career ensues or not, they can dance with joy. 

For your teen readers, I, of course, recommend my own novel, On Pointe. 

I Want to Be...a Ballerina

by Becky Davies

illustrated by Richard Merritt

Random House, Little Tiger Press Ltd 2022 

Black Heroes, a Go Fish Card Game: Magali Attiogbé

Happy Black History Month! I ran across this most excellent Go Fish card game titled Black Heroes. It features 44 inspirational black figures throughout time. Your totz can group explorers, sports players, stars, activists, politicians, and artists. An accompanying booklet elaborates on each hero featured in the game. From Kamala Harris to Abu Bakr II, Queen Anna Nzinga to Chadwick Boseman, there is much to learn. So much inspiration awaits! 

Paintings by Magali Attiogbé are bold and bright. Text in the booklet is by Dr. Kimberly Brown Pellum. The game is recommended for 8 and up, but the cards could be used educationally for younger totz.  

Find this little gem and celebrate our Black Heroes. Go Fish!   

Black Heroes, a Go Fish Card Game

text by Dr. Kimberly Brown Pellum

illustrations by Magali Attiogbé

Lawence King, Orion Publishing Group Ltd.

Women in Art: Rachel Ignotofsky

 

Yay for each board book added in an effort to balance the shelves. Women in Art does so for our first readers, and it's now in a board book format. Diverse women through time are featured and celebrated.  

New York Times bestseller, Rachel Ignotofsky's stylized imagery of artists and their variety of mediums inspires along with its simple text. Find Maya Lin, Faith Ringgold, Yayoi Kusama and more.

As Ignotofsky says in the introduction: "Art is more than something beautiful. With each brushstroke, chisel of stone, and line drawn, these women artists used their talents to tell truths, to talk about injustice, and even to heal. Today, we celebrate their art and their stories."

Let's fill our shelves with quality board books such as those created by Rachel Ignotofsky. Brava! 

Women in Art

by Rachel Ignotofsky

Crown Books

Hot Cocoa Calm: Kira Willey

  

Cozy up this winter with Hot Cocoa Calm and your beloved readertotz. Author Kira Willey walks the reader through mindfulness exercises to help us regulate our emotions. What a perfect joining of winter chill; friendly, stylized animals illustrated by Anni Betts; and instructions nested around a warm, sweet drink that needs a little time to cool.  

Maybe we could all use a cup of cocoa and calm at the start of our new year. Happy reading in 2022 with peace and joy to you and yours!

Hot Cocoa Calm

Mindfulness Moments for Kids Series

by Kira Willey

illustrations by Anni Betts

Rodale Kids, 2021

Change Starts With Us: Sophie Beer

 

Beginning our new year, it's good to be reminded Change Starts With Us! With straightforward text, author/illustrator Sophie Beer illustrates how even the smallest hands can create change. We all can save water, pick up litter, and plant trees. We can recycle, save power, and shop local. 

Adorable, flat, vibrant illustrations bring youthfulness to the imagery as children assist adults and each other in affecting change. Together we can care for our beloved world. 

Happy new year to you and your readertotz! Happy reading and learning! 

Change Starts With Us

by Sophie Beer

Dial Books, 2021

More, more, more: On Wings of Words

On Wings of Words, the Extraordinary Life of Emily Dickinson is a beautiful presentation of the poet's life and words. Jennifer Berne captures Emily's experiences, and Becca Stadtlander's art sets a perfect tone for the setting. At times, illustrations are historically accurate, but the work flies even farther when she is free to render Emily's thoughts and emotions. 

The weaving of portions of poems with the author's text is organic and well-weighted: 

"But everywhere she looked,

she was told to obey without asking,

to believe without knowing why. 

  

        So she began to put her faith in

        what she could see and understand.

                    In the name of the Bee-

                    And of the Butterfly-

                    And of the Breeze-Amen!"

Add this tribute to our beloved poet to your library for your totz. 

"The World is sleeping...we must

be crowing cocks, and singing larks,

and a rising sun to awake her." 

On Wings of Words, The Extraordinary Life of Emily Dickinson

by Jennifer Berne

illustrated by Becca Stadtlander

Chronicle Books, 2020

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

 

More, more, more: Goodnight Ganesha

 

There is so much beauty in this work from Nadia Salomon, illustrated by Poonam Mistry. With a nod to Goodnight Moon, two children say goodnight to Ganesha, as they visit their grandparents in India. The evening includes stories and rituals which set a beautiful tone. 

Mistry's tapestry style artwork brings mystery, warmth, and awe. You can look long at the intricate patterns and stylizations which accompany Salomon's rhyming text. 

Goodnight, thali.

Goodnight, kumkum. 

Goodnight, deepam--and wafts of perfume. 

Visit this beauty with your totz before they drift to sleep. 

Goodnight Ganesha

by Nadia Salomon

illustrated by Poonam Mistry

Philomel Books, 2021

More, more, more: ABC of Feelings

How many of us could benefit from this new picture book? I can! Author/illustrator Bonnie Lui brings a range of emotions to young readers by walking through the alphabet. Short definitions and expressive illustrations aid in the teaching. A background painter for Dreamworks and WB, Lui has created beauty in another format for all to enjoy. 

A is for anxious. Anxious is feeling really worried about something. 

B is for brave. Brave is being nervous about something...and doing it anyway!

or

N is for needy. Needy is wanting someone you love to pay attention to you. 

O is for overwhelmed. Overwhelmed is having too many thoughts and feelings all at once. 

I can imagine reaching for this book over and over as your readertotz gain self-awareness and learn to identify emotions. Get ready to spot those feelings!

ABC of Feelings

by Bonnie Lui

Philomel, 2021

Celebrations: Margaret Wise Brown Board Book Award

 

It's official! Bank Street College of Education has decided to begin acknowledging and awarding board books! My editor just zipped me the press release as she and I talked about this need in 2010. The award will be named: the Margaret Wise Brown Board Book Award for excellence in literature for very young children. Wonderful!

Here is a press release excerpt: 

The first prize will be awarded in the spring of 2023 for board books published or picture books adapted to board book format in 2021 and 2022. The award will be given every two years to a board book for infants and toddlers (ages 0-3).

“Criteria for selection will include books that promote interplay and engagement, incorporate rich
language, demonstrate a consideration for childhood development, and are constructed to withstand multiple encounters with little hands,” said Dr. Cynthia Weill, Director, Center for Children’s Literature, Bank Street College of Education.

Joan Holub and I, both board book author/illustrators, have been calling for a recognition of the board book format since 2009. Our aim at the readertotz blog has always been to raise the profile of board books for our first readers. We make a call to authors, illustrators, and publishers to create the best possible works as they introduce reading to our youngest ones. 

We have envisioned the American Library Association creating the Dorothy Kunhardt Award for the Outstanding Board or Novelty Book. Click here to see our facebook page. We would love to see Dorothy named as the creator of the beloved, first novelty book still in print: Pat the Bunny. 

Joan and I are thrilled Bank Street College is lifting this important format for all to see! Here's to future award recipients, the wee ones who will hold the works, and Bank Street College for their efforts. Bravo! 

What is Fall? Genie Espinosa

 

What is Fall? gives a cut-out, shaped experience of the season nearly upon us. 

"The days are shorter. Summer is done.

Now FALL is here....

Let's have

SOME FUN!"

Rhymes continue to accompany author/illustrator Genie Espinosa's rounded illustrations created with a soft fall palette. You might need a scarf, or want an apple, or enjoy a bright sunflower this season. Readertotz can explore the cut shapes, be introduced to autumn, and anticipate the coming rhyme. This is a delightful addition to season books for first readers. 

What is Fall?

by Genie Espinosa

Random House, 2021

Grumpy Monkey's Little Book of Grumpiness: Suzanne Lang

Everyone tries to help Suzanne Lang's Grumpy Monkey lose the grumps. But no matter the offerings, from a rainbow to a flamingo, nothing helps. Grumpy Monkey moves through anger and sadness before finding a bit of happiness beside a friend. 

Emotions are illustrated boldly, vividly, and close-up to the reader at times. Max Lang's work pops off the page and illicits giggles from everyone. Yay for this character finding his way to the smallest hands. 

Gumpy Monkey's Little Book of Grumpiness

by Suzanne Lang

illustrated by Max Lang

Random House, 2020

Ganesha's Sweet Tooth: Sanjay Patel and Emily Haynes

With two authors, Sanjay Patel and Emily Haynes, creating text, and Sanjay illustrating, the Hindu legend of Ganesha and his sweet tooth comes to the board book format with energy and beauty. Already, an Ezra Jack Keats New Illustrator Honor book, an IRA Notable in picture book format from 2012, the tale is brought to size for first readers. 

When the Hindu god breaks his tusk on a laddoo, it is only Vyasa the poet who can offer a transforming solution. Ganesha can write with his tusk and record the Mahabharata with understanding. Forgetting sweets, and appearances, Ganesha writes the entire epic poem. 

The graphic illustrations pop with color and pattern. This work is a beauty. We hope you enjoy sharing the modified legend and illustrating to your readertotz how creativity can at times reframe our perceived realities.

Ganesha's Sweet Tooth

by Sanjay Patel and Emily Haynes

illustrated by Sanjay Patel

Chronicle Books, 2021

Unicorn's School Day: Lucy Golden

 

Unicorn's School Day is a fun burst of color and shapes from illustrator Sophie Beer. Author Lucy Golden's text takes Unicorn off to her lessons with friends and Ms. Llama. 

Spinning the wheels on each page will bring silly solutions. What does Unicorn paint, play with, or eat for lunch? Your first reader can decide and be introduced to the corresponding words. Which option is a number, which qualifies as a fruit or flower, and which can be flown? Giggles will be shared. 

The book concludes with the sparkly mural the students have created together. You can also look for Unicorn's Birthday. Let the party begin!

Unicorn's School Day

by Lucy Golden

illustrated by Sophie Beer

Random House, 2021

More, more, more: Three Little Engines

Empathy and compassion versus self-interest and personal success. Bob McKinnon's Three Little Engines brings a new perspective to The Little Engine That Could who has taught us for 90 years that the road to success is self belief. The journey isn't the same for all, and we can look about and help others forward as we have also been helped at times. 

Illustrations by Lou Fancher and Steve Johnson are unique while they echo the older picture book. Fun patterns can be found in flattened shapes in rolling landscapes. 

Three Little Engines has reached the New York Times Bestseller list! Watch the recent CBS Sunday Morning interview here. Your first readers will cheer for all the engines as they learn a life lesson in care. The illustrators dedicate the work so beautifully: 

For all people who act for greater equitable good and say, "I know we can..."

Three Little Engines 

by Bob McKinnon 

illustrated by Lou Fancher and Steve Johnson

Grosset & Dunlap, 2021

Sleep Tight, Polar Bear: Sabina Gibson

Sleep Tight, Polar Bear is a felted delight for bedtime. Artist Sabina Gibson's small, fuzzy creatures invite the reader to lean in and snuggle close. The text rhymes beautifully and provides the perfect framework for the illustrations. 

"Home is calling. The sun is setting low.

The moon is rising fast, and that means it's time to go."

Full, soft spreads bring all the animals to rest, from fox kits to narwhal who count fish and ask for one more lullaby. Only the owls wake to fly off and "search for prey." Throughout the book, the bears travel home to sleep in safety under the moon. 

Look for the entire series of Little Loves books for your readertotz' collection. Snuggle close and read. 

Sleep Tight, Polar Bear

by Sabina Gibson

Alfred A. Knopf, 2021

Women in Science: Rachel Ignotofsky

 

There's a new edition available of the New York Times bestseller, Women in Science, which has been adapted for your readertotz. The board book is perfect for little hands, and the content is aged for older toddlers. In a celebration of often overlooked scientists, the work shares facts and imagery of amazing women and their contributions throughout time. 

Beautiful muted pages feature scientists, a timeline, and lab tools. Included in the collection are Psychologist, Mamie Phipps Clark; Astronomer, Vera Rubin; and Volcanologist, Katia Krafft. The work closes with an encouragement to go out and make your own discoveries. 

Share these mighty women from ancient Greece to today, who worked through enormous obstacles for our lasting benefit. 

Women in Science

by Rachel Ignotofsky

Crown Books, June 2021