with Mykaell Blais 4 stars A sweet introduction to gender and stereotypes that encourages children to reflect on what they’ve been taught about self expression and interests. The book discusses the difference between sex and gender, explains gender identity, introduces common stereotypes regarding gender, and highlights famous people who have gone against those stereotypes and…
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Illustrated by Bev Johnson 3 stars Spinach spends her time at the animal shelter watching all the other kittens play and get adopted. But she’s stuck in her own cage. She has pectus excavatum, which means her rib cage is too small, making it hard for her to run and play like the others. But…
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by Laurel Snyder Illustrated by Dan Santat 3 stars Embark on a fairy tale adventure where you get to decide what happens next. Along the way, you’ll meet friends, foes, and the just plain weird. But beware and choose wisely. There are quite a few grisly endings. See how well you survive in a fairy…
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by Ann Hazzard and Vivianne Aponte Rivera Illustrated by Gloria Félix 3 stars A touching story about a young girl dealing with her father being taken to a detention center. One day Carmen’s father is arrested and taken away. Her mother explains that he doesn’t have the government papers he needs to stay. Through family…
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by Estela Juarez with Lissette Norman Illustrated by Teresa Martínez 5 stars A heartfelt story with a powerful message of hope, resilience, and using your voice to demand change. Estela lives happily with her family… until the government tells her mother she must return to the country she was born in. As part of coping…
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4 stars A beautiful collection of poetry celebrating the beauty of gardens, flowers, nature, and the seasons. While the collection focuses on gardens and nature, themes of death and love are also mixed in, rounding out the reading experience. The majority of the poets included are American as well as a few European poets and…
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Illustrated by Ebony Glenn 3 stars An adorable book celebrating the connection between cats and their humans. While the text tells you all about cat behavior, the illustrations show just how similar cats and children can be. Showcases all the things cats get up to from the sweet to the mischievous. Delightful rhymes. Sweet humor….
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Illustrated by Stephanie Laberis 5 stars Absolutely adorable. A fun retelling of Cinderella starring Cinderelliot, a talented baker who jumps at the chance to bake for the prince. Such a sweet book. Loved the baking-based humor. I also love that Cinderelliot was recognized for his baking talent. Cinderelliot got to showcase his baking while his…
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Illustrated by Markia Jenai 4 stars A nonfiction board books presenting the history of Juneteenth for young children. Includes important historical events such as the Civil War, the Emancipation Proclamation, and Juneteenth becoming a national holiday. Nice illustrations. Does include depictions of enslaved Africans in chains being taken on ships and enslaved people working in…
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Illustrated by Tabitha Brown 5 stars A joyful read celebrating Juneteenth. The rhyming text showcases different aspects of Juneteenth celebrations, from parades and picnics to supporting Black businesses. Sweet, colorful illustrations. Includes a note at the end explaining the history of Juneteenth and how it has been celebrated. Such a sweet book. Joyful, colorful, and…
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