The Boy Who Tried to Shrink His Name by Sandhya Parappukkaran

Illustrated by Michelle Pereira 4 stars A sweet picture book about practice, confidence, identity, and friendship. Zimdalamashkermishkada is starting a new school and is worried about his long name. He tries to shrink it down to make it easier for his classmates and teacher to say. But through practice and repetition, a new friend helps…

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Repeat After Me: Big Things to Say Every Day

by Jazmyn Simon and Dulé Hill Illustrated by Shamar Knight-Justice 5 stars Short and sweet review because this book has me smiling so big. A stunning picture book filled with positive affirmations to repeat every day. Each spread contains a daily affirmation along with a poem that expands on it. The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous….

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Bera the One-Headed Troll by Eric Orchard

5 stars A reluctant hero, a lost baby, and a witch who will do anything to find them. I loved everything about this. Wonderful artwork with a perfect blend of weird, sweet, spooky, and beautiful. Bera is a pumpkin farmer who lives on an island with her loyal owl friend, Winslowe. After rescuing a human…

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Burt the Beetle Lives Here! (Burt the Beetle #2)

by Ashley Spires 4 stars Burt’s used to sheltering under leaves, but when he sees the cool homes other insects create, he sets out to find the perfect one for himself. Will he find shelter in time? An engaging story that works in interesting nonfiction information. Learn about why insects need homes in the first…

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A Garden in My Hands by Meera Sriram

Illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat 4 stars It’s the day before a wedding and a young girl patiently waits as her mother applies henna designs to her hands. While she does, she shares stories and memories to pass the time. Rich, lush illustrations and a heartwarming story of celebration, spending time together, and sharing family history….

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Fairest of all (Whatever After #1) by Sarah Mlynowski

2 stars The mirror in the basement is not all it seems. After knocking on the mirror three times, Abby and her brother, Jonah, are transported into a fairy tale realm. While trying to help a young girl, they realize they’ve changed the ending of her story. Now they must set things right and find…

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The Worry Balloon by Mónica Mancillas

Illustrated by Betty C. Tang 4 stars The first day of school has arrived, but with it comes Isla’s worries. With her Mami by her side, Isla practices mindfulness, visualization, and positive thinking to battle her anxiety and blow the worry balloon away. Beautiful illustrations. Nice visual representations of how Isla’s feelings influence how she…

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