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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Except When They Don’t by Laura Gehl

Illustrated by Joshua Heinsz 4 stars An engaging and fun way to talk about gender stereotypes. Told through rhythm and rhyme, a group of children show how fun it is to play how you want instead of worrying about how girls and boys are expected to play. I loved seeing the creativity of the children…

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The Baby Who Stayed Awake Forever by Sandra Salsbury

4 stars A humorous tale of a baby who just won’t go to sleep. Mama, Papa, and Sister have all said good night and are ready for bed, but this baby has no plans of sleeping. Instead, join her adventures complete with a dance party, laughing at her own jokes, singing, climbing, and more. Great…

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Beto’s Berry Treasure by Jenny Lacika

Illustrated by Addy Rivera Sonda 3 stars A cute story. Beto wants to have a tea party, but his sister Cora longs for a pirate adventure. To get her to attend his party, Beto makes Cora a treasure map. But he soon learns there is more to a map than a start and a finish…

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My Little Pony: Trixie and the Razzle-Dazzle Ruse (My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic #10) by G. M. Berrow

4 stars Another fantastic pony adventure. Follow Trixie as she creates an eye-catching new trick in hopes of joining the illustrious Starmane Society of Magicians. Suspenseful and well-written. Berrow’s perfectly matches the tone of the show. Such a fun adventure that nicely blends action, humor, magic, and friendship. Includes themes of patience, admitting mistakes, and…

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Oh Deer! by Phaea Crede

Illustrated by Erica J. Chen 4 stars A delightful and humorous story about finding balance between social and alone time. Jasper the introverted Sasquatch is looking for a hobby. He thinks turnip gardening will be a great way to keep busy. What he doesn’t anticipate is the battle against the group of deer that wants…

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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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No One Owns the Color by Gianna Davy

Illustrated by Brenda Rodriguez 3 stars Loved the messaging. The book showcases all the colors in your life, from the colors you choose (clothing, favorite colors) to the colors that are part of you (skin, eyes). I initially enjoyed the rhythm, rhyme, and repetition, but they aren’t consistent. This had so much potential to be…

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Honey, I Love and Other Love Poems by Eloise Greenfield

Illustrated by Diane and Leo Dillon 5 stars A fantastic collection of poetry. Covering topics such as music, death, play, siblings, and history, the poems are paired with expressive illustrations. A perfect balance of joy and relatable issues that are relevant to young readers. I started listing some of my favorites, but honestly each poem…

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Library Wars: Love & War, Vol. 4 by Kiiro Yumi

Original Concept by Hiro Arikawa Translated by Kinami Watabe 4 stars Another fantastic volume. Picks up right where the last one left off with the resolution of the kidnapping of Commander Inamine and Iku. Plenty of action as well as some insight into the characters. In this one we get to meet Iku’s parents and…

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