Don’t Check Out This Book! by Kate Klise

Illustrated by M. Sarah Klise 5 stars Another fantastic read from the Klise team! Appleton Elementary prides itself on staying they same. When the new librarian, Rita B. Danjerous, comes along and introduces a “green dot” collection, not everyone is on board. Following written interactions between various characters, readers will embark on a journey to…

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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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Mama and Mommy and Me in the Middle by Nina LaCour

Illustrated by Kaylani Juanita 4 stars This is all around a touching and wholesome story. While Mommy leaves on a work trip, the main character stays home with Mama. They go about their daily routines, but things are a little different without Mommy. Works well for discussing missing someone and waiting for them to come…

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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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A Dreidel in Time: A New Spin on an Old Tale

by Marcia Berneger Illustrated by Beatriz Castro 3 stars A fun, quick read about the origins of Hanukkah complete with adventure and time travel. Reminiscent of the Magic Treehouse books. All Devorah and Benjamin want to do is open their Hanukkah presents. But they’re in for a surprise when their family gives them an old…

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Not He or She, I’m Me by A. M. Wild

Illustrated by Kah Yangni 3 stars A cute picture book following a child’s typical day – eating breakfast, going to school, and hanging out with friends. Throughout, there is a catchy refrain, affirming the child’s nonbinary identity and celebrating they/them pronouns. Simple and nice. The artwork is sweet with fun collage-style visuals and a mix…

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Disney Frozen Adventures: Snowy Stories

3 stars A fun collection of comics that combine adventure, mystery, and humor. The comics range from a single page to longer adventures. Plenty of fun with Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Sven, and Kristoff. Cute artwork. There are nice lessons throughout such as the value of helping others, taking time for yourself, and making new friends,…

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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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Molly’s Tuxedo by Vicki Johnson

Illustrated by Gillian Reid 3.5 stars It’s her very first picture day and Molly is excited. But when Mom reveals the dress she wants Molly to wear, all that excitement is gone. The dress has a weird collar and puffy parts and no pockets. It doesn’t feel like Molly at all. Now Molly has to…

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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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