Strange Houses by Uketsu (Strange Houses #1)

Translated by Jim Rion 5 stars Who knew looking at floor plans could be so unsettling? What starts as an author asked a fairly innocent question soon unravels into a conspiracy of strange architecture, dark secrets, and murder. This was definitely a weird one but so enjoyable to read. The story was delightfully creepy and…

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Harper Becomes a Big Sister by Seamus Kirst

Illustrated by Karen Bunting 4 stars Such a sweet story. Harper is excited about being a big sister, but from the moment baby Wyatt arrives, everything is different. Wyatt can’t do the fun things Harper enjoys and Dad and Daddy are always too tired or busy with Wyatt. Maybe being a big sister isn’t all…

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Dad and Daddy’s Big Big Family by Seamus Kirst

Illustrated by Karen Bunting 3 stars A sweet picture book following Harper’s first family reunion. There she connects with family members she already knows and meets those she hadn’t met before. She learns about different types of families and how people can look different and even have different last names but still be family. The…

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Miles Comes Home by Sarah S. Brannen

Illustrated by Forrest Burdett 5 stars Sweet, comforting, cozy, and adorable. Follow along with Miles as he settles into his new home and spends time with his adoptive dads and sister. This was such a sweet book. Absolutely adorable. I loved watching Miles learn new things, spend time with his new family, and share what…

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The Healing Hippo of Hinode Park by Michiko Aoyama

Translated by Takami Nieda 4 stars A wonderfully cozy read. Rumor has it that the hippo ride at Hinode Park has magical powers. Rub a body part on Kabahiko the healing hippo and it will heal the same part on you. Follow various neighbors as they seek Kabahiko’s healing powers, only to discover what they…

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Mama Car by Lucy Catchpole

Illustrated by Karen George 5 stars Absolutely adorable! The narration perfectly captures a child’s perspective as she introduces her mother’s wheelchair, aka Mama Car, and the various expeditions they go on together. The artwork is so sweet. Lovely representations of wheelchair use and limb differences. This book was so cute. Feel-good and cozy with wonderful…

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Millie of the Manor by Karina Evans

Illustrated by Andrea Bell 5 stars A sweet and engaging story about friendship, social anxiety, and pushing yourself to take risks. Amy loves mysteries. But when she’s invited to a murder mystery-themed birthday party, she’s conflicted. While she wants to solve the mystery, she worries her social anxiety will draw unwanted attention. Will she be…

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Missing Violet by Kelly Swemba

Illustrated by Fabiana Faiallo 5 stars A sweet picture book for helping children cope with the death of a friend or classmate. Violet is Mia’s best friend. She brings sunshine to every day. But after Violet dies, everything changes. With the help of others, Mia is able to learn ways to remember, grieve, and say…

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Huda F Wants to Know? (Huda #3) by Huda Fahmy

5 stars Another hilarious, touching, and insightful story based on Huda Fahmy’s high school experiences. Huda has her whole junior year figured out. At least, she thinks she does. Until her parents announce they’re getting a divorce. Now she’s having a hard time dealing with her grades, her sisters, her parents, and her best friend….

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Where Are the Eggs? (Storytelling Math) by Grace Lin

4 stars Another fantastic math-based story. Mei walks through her yard, looking for where her chickens have laid their eggs. She points out the location of each egg, using prepositions and spatial relationships such as under, on, and next to. The straightforward narration and simple story are perfect for the intended audience. Adorable illustrations. The…

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