They’re So Flamboyant by Michael Genhart

Illustrated by Tony Neal 3.5 stars An adorable picture book about inclusion, acceptance, and not making assumptions about others. When a flamboyance of flamingos moves into the neighborhood, the other birds are upset by their bright colors and bold appearances. Finally, they decide to confront them. But when they arrive, they see their new neighborhoods…

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My Bunkmate Hates Puppies (Camp Lil’Vills #1) by Sam Hay

Illustrated by Ria Maria Lee 2 stars Welcome to Lilliputian Villages Summer Camp a.k.a. Camp Lil’Vills where there are plenty of magical surprises in store for the campers. Bloom, the daughter of an ex-evil sorcerer, helps new campers settle in. But when she meets her new bunkmate, Cruella, she’s unsure if camp is the right…

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Comics for a Strange World (Poorly Drawn Lines #2)

by Reza Farazmand 4 stars Another hilarious collection of comics from the Poorly Drawn Lines universe, complete with some classic characters and new faces. I really enjoy Farazmand’s blend of snark, oddity, and humor. Weird in the best of ways. Definitely a fun read. Goodreads

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Mother of Sharks by Melissa Cristina Márquez

Illustrated by Devin Elle Kurtz 3 stars A beautiful example of the power of representation and the joy of doing what you love. This book is an interesting mashup of a semi-autobiographical story mixed with magic and time travel. Meli loves exploring the waters of la Playita del Condado, especially the tidal pools. When she…

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Rez Dogs by Joseph Bruchac

3 stars A sweet novel-in-verse about family, perseverance, and the bond between a girl and her dog. Malian is visiting her grandparents on a Wabanaki reservation when the COVID-19 shelter in place order is enacted. Together with Malsum, the mysterious rez dog who adopted her, and her grandparent’s stories, Malian finds the strength to overcome…

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The Walrus and the Caribou by Maika Harper

Illustrated by Marcus Cutler 3 stars A humorous rendition of Inuit folklore showing that you don’t always get it right on the first try. During the creation of the world, Guk breathes life into two animals. A walrus whom she gives a large pair of antlers and a caribou with a set of long tusks….

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The Race by Édouard Manceau

Translated by Sarah Quinn 3 stars A strange but entertaining read. Manceau describes a race between caribou from an outsider’s perspective who knows nothing about races. This leads to some humorous descriptions and interpretations (the finish line, the starting pistol, the lineup at the start of the race). The pictures are fun and give a…

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I Am Stuck by Julia Mills

5 stars An absolutely adorable book. Turtle is stuck. Various animals pass by, offering advice. But it isn’t until a friend comes along to weather the storm with him that Turtle sees what he needed all along. I loved the message that even if your friends can’t fix your problem directly, having them around can…

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The Magic of Forests: A Fascinating Guide to Forests Around the World

by Vicky Woodgate 4 stars Join feline explorer, Mimi, on a journey through the forests of the world. In this book, you’ll discover what makes a forest, types of forests and habitats within them, and the many ways forests and trees benefit humans, other plants, animals, and the planet. The book includes maps, biographies, timelines,…

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