It’s time for another kidlit grab bag! This is the space where I tell you about the wonderful books I’ve read that don’t fit in with my usual spooky fare. The reviews may be a bit briefer than my typical reviews, but that in no way reflects any lack of enthusiasm for these incredible titles. These are all 4.5- or 5-star reads (not coffins like I usually give out!), so I hope you find some titles you’d like to check out. Today is all about picture books, so let’s get started!
Pugtato Finds a Thing
Synopsis
When Pugtato digs up a strange object in his garden, he enlists his best “spuddies” to help figure out just what this Thing is. (They are more clever than he is, after all.)
Pugtato’s simple, quiet life becomes a SCRATCHING, GNAWING, CHEWING, MOOOOING search for answers.
Tweetroot is certain Thing is a new egg for her nest. Tomatoad is quite sure Thing is a toy just for him. Purrsnip simply won’t stop scratching Thing!
Luckily, Pugtato has another very special spuddy to ask…
Details
- Title: Pugtato Finds a Thing
- Author/Illustrator: Sophie Corrigan
- Cover Artist: Sophie Corrigan
- Publisher: Zonderkidz
- ISBN: 0310767814
- Publication Date: August 4, 2020
- For Ages: 4-8
- Category: Picture Book
I’d like to thank Zonderkidz for providing a copy via NetGalley in exchange for review consideration.
Review
This adorable, hilariously punny book celebrates the power of friendship and the importance of believing in yourself. With bouncy rhymes and illustrations that are just as cute as they are funny, this joyful picture book is sure to be a favorite.
Water-Walking, Sidewinding, and Other Remarkable Reptile Adaptations
Synopsis
Why does the green basilisk lizard run on the surface of water? What does the sidewinder snake do to earn its name? In Water-Walking, Sidewinding, and Other Remarkable Reptile Adaptations, children ages 5 to 8 dive into the fascinating world of reptile adaptations with accurate, vivid illustrations, layered text, a hands-on activity, and plentiful back matter. Perfect as a read aloud or early reader for science-curious kids!
Details
- Title: Water-Walking, Sidewinding, and Other Remarkable Reptile Adaptations
- Series: Picture Book Science
- Author: Laura Perdew
- Illustrator: Katie Mazeika
- Cover Artist: Katie Mazeika
- Publisher: Nomad Press
- ISBN: 1619309483
- Publication Date: August 13, 2020
- For Ages: 5-8
- Category: Picture Book
I’d like to thank Nomad Press for providing a copy via Edelweiss+ in exchange for review consideration.
Review
This fascinating, kid-friendly look at the science behind reptile adaptations is a terrific way to encourage young readers to explore the world around them. Warm, dynamic illustrations and informative, conversational text make this book a pleasure to read, and activities in the back promote critical and creative thinking. Kids will learn to embrace their intellectual curiosity and appreciate the incredible wonders of the natural world.
The Day of Your Arrival
Synopsis
We had waited for you for so long. We did not know when you would come.
We did not know what your name was, or if your eyes were brown or blue.
One day, finally, you arrived.
A unique and tender story about the adoption process and the arrival of a long-awaited child.
Details
- Title: The Day of Your Arrival
- Author: Dolores Brown
- Illustrator: Reza Dalvand
- Cover Artist: Reza Dalvand
- Publisher: NubeOcho
- ISBN: 8417673024
- Publication Date: October 8, 2019
- For Ages: 4-9
- Category: Picture Book
I’d like to thank NubeOcho for providing a copy via Edelweiss+ in exchange for review consideration.
Review
This tender and thoughtful story about adoption soars with sweet minimalist prose and gorgeous Fauvist illustrations. The Day of Your Arrival is a striking, beautiful book to share with adopted children to let them know how loved and wanted they are. This is an outstanding work of art.
A Drop of the Sea
Synopsis
Ali lives with his great-grandmother in a tiny clay house at the edge of the desert. Just her and him. Just him and her. They don’t need anything more to be happy. But lately, Ali has begun to notice how his great-grandmother has aged. And one day, he asks if her life’s dreams have come true. All except one, she tells him. She had a dream to see the sea, but now she is too old to go. So, the next morning, Ali sets off with a pail in hand. He is going to make his great-grandmother’s final dream come true. He is going to bring the sea to her.
Details
- Title: A Drop of the Sea
- Author: Ingrid Chabbert
- Illustrator: Raúl Nieto Guridi
- Cover Artist: Raúl Nieto Guridi
- Publisher: Kids Can Press
- ISBN: 1525301241
- Publication Date: October 2, 2018
- For Ages: 4-7
- Category: Picture Book
I’d like to thank Kids Can Press for providing a copy via Edelweiss+ in exchange for review consideration.
Review
A Drop of the Sea explores the bonds between a young boy and his aging great-grandmother and reminds readers that it’s never to late to fulfill your dreams. Expressive art and gentle prose make this a story to remember.
My Friend Sleep
Synopsis
Journey with a little girl through her dreams, alongside her friend Sleep. Meet friendly aliens, ride on a dragon’s back, and meet a scary monster…who turns out to be not-so scary after all. With Sleep by your side, nothing is as terrifying as it seems.
Details
- Title: My Friend Sleep
- Author: Laura Baker
- Illustrator: Hannah Peck
- Cover Artist: Hannah Peck
- Publisher: words & pictures
- ISBN: 1786032996
- Publication Date: October 16, 2018
- For Ages: 4-6
- Category: Picture Book
I’d like to thank words & pictures for providing a copy via Edelweiss+ in exchange for review consideration.
Review
This lovely picture book celebrates the joy of dreaming and gently lets children know that nightmares are nothing to fear. Dynamic illustrations will inspire young imaginations, while the muted color palette maintains a peaceful, dreamy mood. The lyrical prose, which includes a lullaby-esque refrain from Sleep, will have little ones ready to explore their own dreamscapes.
That’s all for today! Have you read any of these, or have I convinced you to add them to your TBR? Let me know in the comments!
Spooky KidLit 