Pinkie Pie: Big Baking Bonanza! by Tallulah May

Illustrated by Zoe Persico 5 stars Absolutely adorable. A sweet story with a touch of humor. Pinkie Pie is invited to compete in the Best Baker’s Big Baking Bonanza competition. But when she forgets her trusty cookbook, she isn’t sure she has what it takes to win. She’ll have to come up with some creative…

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Plain Jane and the Mermaid by Vera Brosgol

5 stars Absolutely fantastic. Easily one of my new favorite books of all time. I wish I had this book as a kid. Jane has learned to accept her plainness. But after her parents’ death, her cousin is set to inherit everything including the house she lives in. Her only chance is to find someone…

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My Little Golden Book About Pride by Kyle Lukoff

Illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan 5 stars A sweet picture book that introduces readers to pride celebrations and what the different colors on the rainbow pride flag represent (life, healing, sunlight, nature, serenity, spirit). Includes information on the Stonewall rebellion, the first Pride flag, and phrases like “coming out of the closet”. Adorable illustrations filled…

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The People Remember by Ibi Zoboi

Illustrated by Loveis Wise 5 stars A fantastic book that blends the principles of Kwanzaa, Black history, poetry, and breathtaking artwork. Through moving verse, Zoboi takes the reader though time, recounting significant events in American history. The book remembers the joyful and freeing times as well as the dark and violent ones. From the Transatlantic…

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Juneteenth Is by Natasha Iripplett

Illustrated by Daniel J. O’Brien 5 stars A heartfelt story, fantastically told. This joyful picture book depicts the celebration of Juneteenth, highlights the symbolism used, and emphasizes Juneteenth’s historical significance. Well-written, heartwarming, and hopeful. Join a family on a sensory experience as they come together to celebrate Juneteenth and remember their history. The story highlights…

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Love of the Half-Eaten Peach by Lee Wing

Illustrated by Jieting Chen 5 stars A stunning fictionalized depiction of the story of Yuan, Duke Ling of Wei, and Mi Zi Xia. This gorgeous story showcases their love in China in 500 B.C.E. Yuan is told he must strive to be perfect in his rule. But since nothing is perfect, how can he possible…

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Adventures with My Daddies by Gareth Peter

Illustrated by Garry Parsons 5 stars Absolutely adorable. This is such a cute book and a pleasure to read. Join a family on their bedtime adventures as they read stories and let their imaginations run wild. Sweet rhymes, action-packed illustrations, and wonderful messages about what makes a family. This rhythmic picture book is perfect for…

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The Girl from the Other Side: Siúil, A Rún, Vol. 9

by Nagabe Translated by Adrienne Beck 5 stars Fantastic. Absolutely fantastic. Haunting artwork. Fascinating backstory. Did not want to stop reading. After the failed ceremony, Shiva remains locked away in the Inside where she is visited by a mysterious stranger who reveals some of the Inside’s history. The bulk of this volume follows the king…

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Chang’e on the Moon (Everlasting Tales #1) by Katrina Moore

Illustrated by Cornelia Li 5 stars A gorgeous retelling of the story of Chang’e and how she became the moon goddess. The story focuses on Chang’e’s courage, kindness, and love of the Earth, and her relationship with her husband, Hou Yi. Well-told. The book wonderfully presents the tale’s action, romance, and lessons of kindness, selflessness,…

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