The Dog that Ate the World by Sandra Dieckmann

4 stars Another stunning picture book from Dieckmann. When a dog arrives in the peaceful valley and begins eating everything in sight, the other animals try to confront him. But when their efforts are in vain, they band together to create beauty in their own world. This fable-style story has a lovely emphasis on community…

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Dragon Noodle Party: A Story of Chinese Zodiac Animals

by Ying Chang Compestine Illustrated by Paula Pang 4 stars A sweet story about the animals of the Chinese zodiac preparing for a party. While the book is simple, it is a pleasure to read, especially for a young audience. The illustrations are delightful. Works well for discussing the Chinese zodiac, various animals, action labels,…

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Leaf by Sandra Dieckmann

4 stars A stunning picture book featuring a lost polar bear, some helpful crows, and the effects of climate change. When Leaf washes up on the shore of the wild wood, the other animals fear the large, strange, dangerous-looking creature. It isn’t until they talk to him that they learn the truth of his arrival….

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Shark Princess (Shark Princess #1) by Nidhi Chanani

3 stars A sweet story about two friendly sharks and their underwater adventures. A cute start to the series. Great for fans of the Narwal and Jelly series. The illustrations are absolutely adorable. Loved the color and details. The dialogue and story felt a bit disjointed and rushed in areas, but overall it was a…

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Haven: A Small Cat’s Big Adventure

by Megan Wagner Lloyd 3 stars A sweet story of one cat’s determination to help the human she loves. Told through three different perspectives, Haven tells the tale of a housecat traversing the wild, making new friends, encountering new enemies, and facing the odds in an unknown world. Perfect for readers who enjoy animals, nature,…

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Aster and the Mixed-Up Magic (Aster, #2) by Thom Pico

Illustrated by Karensac 5 stars A wonderful follow-up to Aster’s adventures in book one. This volume includes new perils, some familiar characters, and tons of adventure. As with the first book, this one is broken into two interconnected tales, each with magic, danger, and Aster’s quick-thinking. Karensac’s artwork is spectacular. Loved seeing new character designs…

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Primates

The Fearless Science of Jane Goodall, Dian Fossey, and Biruté Galdikas by Jim Ottaviani, Illustrated by Maris Wicks 2 stars I really wanted to love this book. The illustrations are great, often working in details that aren’t touched on in the text. I love the focus on women in science and their extraordinary passion. However,…

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Lily and the Night Creatures by Nick Lake

Illustrated by Emily Gravett 3 stars Dealing with her own chronic illness and feelings of inadequacy, Lily is not looking forward to the addition of a new baby in the house. But when she returns home to find a mom who is not quite her mother and a dad who is not quite her father,…

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The Big Worry Day: A Book About Conquering Fear

by K. A. Reynolds Illustrated by Chloe Dominique 4 stars A sweet story about facing anxiety, including different ways of staying calm such as yoga, deep breathing, and sharing your fears. Loved the connection between Bea and her human friend. The presentation really captures the relationship between a child and her dog. Delightful and warm…

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Hanukkah Bear by Eric A. Kimmel

Illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka 4 stars A humorous tale of mistaken identity. Bubba Brayna, a 97-year-old who makes the best potato latkes in the village, is preparing for a visit from the rabbi on Hanukkah. So when a guest arrives who looks like the rabbi, talks like the rabbi, and has the rabbi’s beard, Bubba…

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