3 stars A lovely picture book that goes beyond Aretha Franklin’s career as a singer and delves into her activism and faith. Abdurraqib’s text is lyrical with some lovely images created. He focuses not just on Franklin’s most well-known song, but how it inspired others to act and its continued effect in bringing people together…
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3 stars A fun, fast-paced adventure, filled with giants, magic, humor, and even some culinary tips. I was instantly pulled in by this cast of characters. Claudette dreams of being a monster slayer and isn’t afraid to bend the rules. Her brother, Gaston, isn’t quite as brave, but has a real talent in the culinary…
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3 stars A fun follow-up in the fast-paced Chronicles of Claudette series. This one continues the overarching story, branching off into the reference to the escaped Calavera Island prisoner mentioned in the first one. I love how this book plays off of Giants Beware!. The characters continue to grow, their dynamics ever changing. Gaston has swore…
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5 stars A beautiful celebration of the similarities and differences that make us who we are. I loved the positive message of the story. At no point is the narrator upset that she has the eyes she has. She does not wish them to be a different shape or color. She loves them and their…
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3 stars Nice read for those who enjoy realistic fiction graphic novels. This one follows Maggie, who after begging for a pet for years, finds out she is allergic to fur and feathers. Based on the cover, I thought the dog would be more of a focus. I was actually a bit thrown off when…
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5 stars An absolutely phenomenal read. While Takei’s story is heartbreaking in its truth, the book is framed as a reminder to never forget our history so that we can learn from the mistakes of our past. The story itself was extremely powerful. It follows the Takei family through various struggles and what they endured…
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5 stars An absolutely fantastic read. Right from the start, the story begins with a powerful basis. One that is sadly relatable for many in America. When presented with an assignment to “trace your roots” and draw the flag of her ancestral land, the narrator is unable to do so. She goes to her grandmother…
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3 stars For me, this one was just okay. There’s no doubt the artwork is amazing. There is so much detail and emotion packed into the settings and characters. Each page pulls the reader in and really sets the mood. The story itself is very character-driven, rather than heavy on plot. There are a lot…
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4 stars A fast-paced adventure filled with action, mystery, family, and friendship. The next generation of superheroes for new readers and lifelong fans. There’s a great balance to the amount of action to growth and reflection in this book. The story moves along quickly but there is also plenty going on internally. Also, Tai’s relationship…
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3 stars A sweet story about the link between names and identity, and the love between a father and a son. Love the colorful illustrations. They tell a story of their own, strengthening the story and sometimes adding some humorous details. The words and illustrations blend together at times, making for a fun and engaging…
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