Spring Reading 2022 Keepunumuk: Weeachumun's Thanksgiving Story

 

Thanksgiving is a holiday that many of us can remember celebrating in school by making paper Pilgrim hats or eating pumpkin pie, turkey, and dressing in the cafeteria. In recent years teachers have begun to search for more information about the First Peoples and their role in helping the colonists survive until that first harvest. Author Danielle Greendeer is a citizen of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe and tells the story in the Wampanoag tradition, incorporating the Three Sisters of Corn, Beans, and Squash (shown on the cover with the forms of plants and humans). The story weaves in the figures of Ousamequin (Massasoit) and Tisquantum (Squanto), explaining how Tisquantum was sent to teach the colonists how to nurture the Three Sisters. 

The acrylic illustrations show the animals and plants of the Wampanoag tribal lands, the traditional dress worn by the First Peoples at that time, as well as the colonists in their English clothing. The narrative is framed within the conversation of a grandmother sharing the story with her grandchildren of that first Keepunumuk (harvest time) that the colonists and First Peoples held together. Rather than having a glossary in the back of the book, important words from the Wopanaak language are defined at the beginning. There is also a brief introduction to explain who the Wampanoag are and why the term First Peoples is used.

This is a welcome addition to the narrative that children are already acquainted with, bringing the perspective of the other half of the group present at that first celebration that some call Thanksgiving, but reminding us that it also has other names and traditions associated with it.

I read an advance copy provided by the publisher for review purposes. It is scheduled for publication on August 2, in plenty of time for use during holiday lessons this fall.

Spring Reading 2022 Dazzlin' Dolly: The Songwriting, Hit-Singing, Guitar-Picking Dolly Parton

 

Author Suzanne Slade has a way with picture book biographies, just look at some of her recent subjects - Katherine Johnson, Gwendolyn Brooks, June Alemida, and Jane Addams - to name a few. But this fall she has a book coming out that will be the delight of country music fans and residents of Tennessee, Dazzlin' Dolly! Throughout the book there are quotes from Dolly such as, "If you're gonna make a dream come true, you gotta work it. You can't just sit around." Those quotes help to bring Dolly's character to life for readers. The author also uses a writing style that works in familiar words and phrases from Dolly's mountain home: holler, plumb full, and tussle, for example. Readers will also come across locations from Dolly's life such as Knoxville and Nashville. The illustrator has done a wonderful job of including details that will be easily recognizable to Tennesseans like Miller's department store, the stage of the Grand Ole Opry, and the WIVK call-sign on the microphone Dolly sings into for her first radio performance. Back matter includes a two-page spread with "More about Dolly," a photo of Dolly from the time of her first gold album, a timeline, and a selected bibliography.  Whether readers are musical fans or doing research into famous Tennesseans for a school project, they will come away with a better understanding of the obstacles and challenges that Dolly overcame to make her dreams come true. 

I read an advance copy provided by the publisher for review purposes. The scheduled publication date is September 20, 2022 - so mark your calendars!

Spring Reading 2022 Kuma-Kuma Chan, the Little Bear

 

Kuma-Kuma Chan is the perfect storybook and bedtime companion. The narrator explains that his friend, the little bear, lives in a home in the mountains that is "far away and difficult to get to." The narrator imagines how Kuma-Kuma Chan fills his time. He might spend his days quietly eating salad made from vegetables fresh from his garden or cleaning his small house. He might visit the bookstore or dance to music on the radio.  He might even write "a long, long letter to a friend."

The charm of the Kuma-Kuma Chan books lies in their softly colored, uncluttered illustrations. If he is singing songs in the autumn, then readers see him sitting with his guitar and a couple of falling leaves are the sign of the season. Nap time shows him draped in his blue blanket. There are no extraneous details to make the scenes visually busy and hectic; everything is calm and spare. By the end of the book, the slow rhythm of basic tasks and simple joys like listening "to the sound of rain falling on the roof," will lull readers into their own peaceful state.  

"Takahashi's  illustrations embody kawaii—the quality of being cute and adorable, which is prominent in Japanese popular culture." (quote from publisher) Kuma-Kuma Chan is shown as a rather fluffy watercolor bear that all ages can appreciate. He seems to always be content and the only frown is one of concentration as he "pours milk to make beautiful drawings in his cup of coffee." Who wouldn't want to share a book about such a cute and cuddly bear?

Spring Reading 2022 Heroes & Harbingers (Secret of Pantheons, Book One)

I finished this book in huge gulps, barely coming up for air. The premise of a world very much like ours, only with magic a part of everyday life, is one that many fantasy readers wish were true. Unlike in Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, and similar series, these characters move within a society where the gifted and mundane alike accept magic and magical creatures. The fact that societal ills from our own world still exist (prejudice, lack of access to quality education, etc.) makes the setting more believable. The idea of magnet schools that specialize in magical education will probably have readers asking, "Where do I enter my name in the lottery?"

Along with the setting, the characters themselves earn reader sympathy. A sirin who is a harbinger of death and feels that her family is disappointed by her calling; a legendary warrior forced to be a teacher as a punishment; a young girl trying to get the best education possible to secure a better future for her family - they all have burdens to carry and need each other, whether they will admit it or not. The fact that this world is ruled by the Council of Pantheons, so that deities and mythic figures from many different cultures can interact, will be a huge draw to readers who enjoy stories that mix in folklore and traditional characters from around the world.

The motivations of the characters are complex. The action is fast-paced. And there is the possibility of sequels. All excellent reasons to read it now, and then eagerly wait for a follow-up adventure. Publication date set for June 11, 2022 , so you don't have long to wait.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 

Winter Reading 2022 Melody Lifts Her Voice

Gr 1-3--The title character in this "Step Into Reading" book was first introduced in 2016 as part of the American Girl collection. Melody is part of a close-knit Black family, church, and community in 1964 Detroit, MI. After their pastor encourages the congregation to consider how they can change things for the better in their community, Melody joins her parents in boycotting a store with discriminatory practices. She also works to clean up the neighborhood park. Melody's grandfather tells her, "Gardens and good works keep going, but both need tending." Illustrations include a range of Black skin tones and hairstyles. Details such as fashions, protest sign slogans, and the musical groups Melody enjoys all ground the story in the correct time period. Historical topics are handled in an age-appropriate way, and illustrations support the text for independent reading. VERDICT An enjoyable historical fiction picture book for beginning readers sure to please American Girl fans; this is also a possibility for teachers looking for books about the Civil Rights movement suitable for young readers.

My review originally appeared in School Library Journal (Volume 68, Issue 3, p. 92). 

Fall Reading 2021 Cornbread and Poppy

K-Gr 3--Best friends Cornbread and Poppy, two mice, are an odd couple. Cornbread is carefully preparing for winter, but Poppy is "not one to worry." In events reminiscent of Aesop's "The Ants and the Grasshopper" fable, Poppy decides to forage for supplies too late. The friends visit all their neighbors, but there is nothing left, so they decide to brave the dangers of Holler Mountain. Although the trip is dangerous, Poppy and Cornbread draw courage from their closeness. Each scene reveals more of the character's personalities; Cornbread's careful planning (complete with clipboard) is contrasted with Poppy's breezy, procrastinating attitude. Cordell's charming pen-and-ink illustrations with watercolor lend a feeling of coziness to this tale of friends who are different. Their facial expressions range from delighted smiles as they enjoy bike rides together to wide-eyed shrieks of terror as they confront the dangers of the mountain. A sense of suspense moves readers from one chapter to the next, as does the thrill of a winged shadow looming over the duo, or the delight when they discover an old acquaintance. Short sentences and repetition of key phrases make the story easy to follow for those transitioning to early chapter books, while the art clearly captures the emotional tone. VERDICT A perfect choice for fans of Jacqueline Davies's "Sydney and Taylor" series, and other dynamic duos.

My review originally appeared in School Library Journal (Volume 68, issue 2, p. 72).

The Golden Quest: Your Journey to a Rich Life Virtual Book Tour

The Golden Quest: Book Giveaway

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a copy of The Golden Quest!

Four (4) winners receive:

A copy of The Golden Quest: Your Journey to a Rich Life

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Golden Quest: Your Journey to a Rich Life

Written by David Delisle

Illustrated by Travis Hanson

Ages 5-18 | 108 Pages

Publisher: David Delisle | ISBN-13: 9781777718909

Publisher’s Synopsis: The Golden Quest is an illustrated adventure about a young boy who embarks on a Hero’s Journey with his dog Shelby to discover the Golden Rules of Money. Along the way, he encounters a dragon, flies on an airship, spots an elusive stone whale, saves an alien, and learns the secret to living a rich life.

The lessons taught are universal and will help children of all ages, from 5 to 95, achieve financial freedom through Money Mindfulness. And don’t worry, there’s no math, budgeting, or complicated charts. Your journey has just begun…

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/3MqjfPe

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781777718909

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-golden-quest-david-delisle/1140871022

MY REVIEW

Imagine receiving a treasure map for your birthday - a map that will lead you on a quest to find a “treasure that will make you richer than you could ever imagine.” Our hero, accompanied by his dog Shelby, sets out to learn the Golden Rules of Money. By traveling to the Temple of the White Mountains or visiting the Dragon of the Crystal Caverns, he will learn important lessons such as saving first and making the money you earn work for you. The lessons are explained with examples that are easy for young readers to grasp - such as spending all your pocket money on delicious cookies. The illustrations show the incredible locations he visits (an area of floating islands that seems like something from the movie “Avatar”), the people he meets (a professor who seems to be Einstein’s twin), and dangers such as wormholes in space. Parents who are looking for an enjoyable way to introduce financial concepts such as saving and giving to charity should find a copy of this book and share it with their children. The Five Golden Rules presented by various characters in the story can be the basis for a discussion about responsibility with money and the benefits of planning ahead. After all, it is no coincidence that the protagonist is given the map by his father and then passes it on to his own daughter at the end of the book. Skills and values such as those included in the book can become family traditions.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

David Delisle is the author of The Golden Quest, a graphic novel that teaches kids about money based on the simple idea of “only buying the awesome stuff” and creating the freedom for what’s most important to YOU. His goal is to teach an entire generation of kids how to live a rich life and he’d love to have you join him in this journey.

You can learn more and order the book at, www.theawesomestuff.com.

https://www.facebook.com/OnlyBuyTheAwesomeStuff/

https://twitter.com/rulesofmoney

TOUR SCHEDULE

Tuesday, May 24, 2022 The Children’s Book Review A book review of The Golden Quest: Your Journey to a Rich Life

Wednesday, May 25, 2022 The Fairview Review A book review of The Golden Quest: Your Journey to a Rich Life

Thursday, May 26, 2022 The Momma Spot A book review of The Golden Quest: Your Journey to a Rich Life

Friday, May 27, 2022 J.R.s Book Reviews A book review of The Golden Quest: Your Journey to a Rich Life

Monday, May 30, 2022 Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers An article by author David Delisle: Why Does Teaching Money Mindfulness to Kids Matter?

Wednesday, June 1, 2022 icefairy’s Treasure Chest A book review of The Golden Quest: Your Journey to a Rich Life

Thursday, June 2, 2022 Tales of a Wannabe Superhero Mom A book activity paired with The Golden Quest: Your Journey to a Rich Life

Friday, June 3, 2022 Life Is What It’s Called An interview with author David Delisle

Monday, June 6, 2022 Lisa’s Reading A book review of The Golden Quest: Your Journey to a Rich Life

Tuesday, June 7, 2022 Crafty Moms Share A book review of The Golden Quest: Your Journey to a Rich Life

Wednesday, June 8, 2022 Ravenz Reviews A book review of The Golden Quest: Your Journey to a Rich Life

Virtual tour in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and David Delisle.

Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants Virtual Book Tour

 

Dash and Zoom: Book Giveaway

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a signed hardcover copy of Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants and a Dash and Zoom metal lunchbox

One (1) winner receives:

A copy of Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants, signed by Susan R. Stoltz and Paw-tographed by Dash and Zoom

A Dash and Zoom metal lunchbox

Two (2) winners receive:

A copy of Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants, signed by Susan R. Stoltz and Paw-tographed by Dash and Zoom

ABOUT THE BOOK

Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants

Written by Susan R. Stoltz

Illustrated by Melissa Bailey

Ages 1-5 | 32 Pages

Publisher: Lyric & Stone Publishing | ISBN-13: 978-1733759861

Publisher’s Synopsis: Dash and Zoom are really good friends. But when Dash takes things that don’t belong to her, even Zoom’s ball, there’s a problem to be solved because not only is Dash taking things that don’t belong to her, but she’s also hurting Zoom’s feelings.

Kids often have a difficult time understanding that they shouldn’t take things that don’t belong to them. When we don’t rescue kids from mistakes and instead focus on the solution, it’s an opportunity to help them learn to make good choices. The illustrations are extremely engaging and it’s always fun to see how many things you can find under that precarious chair.

Dash And Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants is written for young children who are learning social norms. It exemplifies good decision-making and helps kids solve problems rather than being ‘in trouble’ for making a mistake. If children are approached with the opportunity to fix what is wrong without fear of anger it often contributes to good decision-making skills all throughout their lives. These two dogs are so engaging that children will want to read the book again and again.

PURCHASE LINK

https://amzn.to/3MOOC64

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781733759861

MY REVIEW

Anyone who has been around Jack Russells or other high-spirited dogs is very familiar 

with how much mischief they can get into. I had a Cocker Spaniel who loved to “sort” the laundry and would always carry off stray socks. A friend of mine had a Jack Russell who felt it was her life’s mission to bite holes in all the squeaky toys so that they were silenced. Neither of us would be at all surprised at Dash’s determination to round up everything within reach and make a pile of treasures to enjoy. And those of us who work or live with small children know that they often do the same thing. If they see something they like, they claim it. A bedroom, backpack, or cubby may look a lot like Dash’s pile of goodies - with everyone else in the family or classroom searching for their missing items. Talking about the behavior of the cute puppy in the story is a non-threatening way to discuss boundaries of ownership and how to respect others and their belongings. The illustrations capture Dash with stolen socks on feet, ears, and tail, reveling in these delightful “toys.” The expressions on the face of poor Zoom, especially when Dash steals Zoom’s ball, show disbelief, exasperation, and even dismay at being robbed of a favorite plaything. Readers of all ages will laugh at the silly antics, the gentle questioning by Zoom that leads Dash to reconsider, and the final spread of Zoom peacefully napping and Dash once again eyeing a sock.

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Susan Stoltz is a Jack Russell mom and author of 13 children’s books. An avid gardener and stained glass artist, she spends most early mornings in the garden. When she’s not writing, she’s either caring for and playing with her well-trained and highly energetic dogs, creating mosaics and stained glass, reading, and teaching. She occasionally cleans the kitchen!

Susan lives in Arizona with Dash and Zoom and is well known for eating chocolate cake for breakfast.

For more information, visit susanrstoltz.com.

https://www.instagram.com/susanrstoltz_author/

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Melissa Bailey is owned by two poodles and is an award-winning illustrator of over 50 children’s books. She’s also an author and loves dreaming up story ideas while being walked by Biscuit and Archie. They are training her to take them on 3 or more walks a day!

Melissa lives with her family in rural Michigan, which is perfect for walking.

For more information, visit mbaileyart.com.

https://www.instagram.com/mbaileyart/

TOUR SCHEDULE

Wednesday, May 11, 2022 The Children’s Book Review A book review of Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants

Thursday, May 12, 2022 Life Is What It’s Called An interview with author Susan R. Stoltz

Friday, May 13, 2022 The Momma Spot A book review of Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants

Monday, May 16, 2022 Me Two Books A Dash and Zoom book activity

Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Crafty Moms Share A book review of Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants

Wednesday, May 18, 2022 Lisa’s Reading A book review of Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants

Thursday, May 19, 2022 J.R.s Book Reviews A book review of Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants

Friday, May 20, 2022 Book Bug CA A book review of Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants

Monday, May 23, 2022 The Fairview Review A book review of Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants

Tuesday, May 24, 2022 icefairy’s Treasure Chest A book review of Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants

Wednesday, May 25, 2022 Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers An article by author Susan R. Stoltz

Thursday, May 26, 2022 Confessions of a Book Addict A book giveaway of Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants

Friday, May 27, 2022 Because I Said So A book review of Dash and Zoom: Little Miss Sneakypants

Virtual tour in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Susan R. Stoltz.