Multicultural stories

Bilingual Picture Book Review – Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English / Tío Ricky no habla inglés

TIo Ricky Doesn’t Speak English
• Tío Ricky no habla
inglés

Written by Maritere R. Bellas
 
Illustrated by Jayri Gómez

(Lil’ Libros; $19.99, Ages 4-8)

 

 

 

Tio Ricky Doesn't Speak English cover Tio Ricky and nephew

 

 

 

Publisher Description:

“… This heartwarming English-Spanish story shows that speaking two languages is powerful and you don’t need a cape to be a hero.”

 

Review:

 

This is a WAY overdue post of Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English/Tío Ricky no habla inglés, written by Maritere R. Bellas and illustrated by Jayri Gómez, a picture book so well crafted that I wish I’d been able to review last year. The good news is that I’ve reread it, and once again, Bellas’s characters still jumped off the pages into my heart. Not only do I enjoy bilingual books, but I also love learning something new. In this case, the not-uncommon need for bilingual English-Spanish speakers to help their Spanish-only-speaking relatives, and how it can sometimes feel like a “have to” rather than a “want to” for young children. This must be so relatable for many readers.

This opening spread, full of excitement, sets up the story with both the prose and the emotive art:

 

Tio Ricky Doesnt Speak English int1 Tio Ricky is here.
Interior spread from Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English • Tío Ricky no habla inglés, written by Maritere R. Bellas and illustrated by Jayri Gómez, Lil’ Libros ©2025.

 

 

The main character’s delight at his uncle’s visit is palpable, but pretty soon, readers see there are strings attached. Wherever the main character and his uncle go, the child is called on to translate, be that at the bank, at the market, with neighbors, or with the mail carrier. While Papi explains that helping each other is what families do, it doesn’t seem to ease the young boy’s burden.

 

 

Tio Ricky Doesn't Speak English int2 Tio Ricky needs translation.
Interior art from Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English • Tío Ricky no habla inglés, written by Maritere R. Bellas and illustrated by Jayri Gómez, Lil’ Libros ©2025.

 

 

 

A trip to the pharmacy to get medicine for Tío Ricky builds tension and reveals the extent of the narrator’s frustration. What the boy doesn’t realize is that his uncle feels the same way about being unable to communicate clearly with the staff. His facial expression speaks volumes.

 

 

Tio Ricky Doesnt Speak English int3 Tio Ricky at pharmacy.
Interior spread from Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English • Tío Ricky no habla inglés, written by Maritere R. Bellas and illustrated by Jayri Gómez, Lil’ Libros ©2025.

 

 

When the boy overhears his uncle practicing his English at home, the boy’s empathy shows. I love that playing dominoes is a way for these two to connect and a great opportunity to teach some English words. In the art, readers can see on the characters’ faces how much they’re enjoying each other’s company. It’s nice that some of that annoyance has passed simply by sharing a good time together.

 

 

 

Tio Ricky Doesnt Speak English int4 Tio Ricky learning English.
Interior spread from Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English • Tío Ricky no habla inglés, written by Maritere R. Bellas and illustrated by Jayri Gómez, Lil’ Libros ©2025.

 

 

 

But when Tío Ricky complains that his head hurts and he feels dizzy, his nephew steps up and calls 911, something he learned from his parents. Just like he learned the value of family members supporting each other. I liked watching the main character grow over the course of the book. It felt natural and satisfying to see him finally embrace his skill—one I sure wish I had—when faced with an emergency.

“The paramedic tells me Tío is lucky to have me
there to help. I smile.
“Your tío is going to be fine. He just needs to take
his medicine and rest.”

Bilingualism is a gift. It’s why we sent our daughter to a bilingual school when we lived in Germany. But the truth is, many children do not appreciate this gift until they are older. Tío Ricky Doesn’t Speak English/Tío Ricky no habla inglés is an important story to share so children in similar bilingual situations will see that they are not the only kids who have to translate. It’s also a reminder that, while there may initially have been reluctance on the part of the young translator to be on call for their non-English-speaking relative, the benefits far outweighed the drawbacks. In fact, it ends up being a win-win for everyone!

I hope that by sharing this book, parents can help children embrace and celebrate the “superpower” of bilingualism.

Order your copy here.

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The Book of Candles: Eight Poems for Hanukkah

 

THE BOOK OF CANDLES:
Eight Poems for Hanukkah

Written by Laurel Snyder

Illustrated by Leanne Hatch

  (Clarion Books; $19.99, Ages 4-8)

 

 

The_Book_of_Candles_cover_child_and_cat_looking_at_menorah

 

★Starred Review – Publishers Weekly 

Tonight is the first night of Hanukkah. HAPPY HANUKKAH!

For those of you who read this blog regularly, you’ll know how much I love poetry, so when I saw that there was a new Hanukkah book of poems, I jumped at the chance to review it. The Book of Candles, written by Laurel Snyder and illustrated by Leanne Hatch, is a welcoming and lyrical look at the festival of lights.

I enjoyed spending time with the family of five featured in this picture book, the youngest of whom is affectionately called Sugarpop by his mom. The poems are titled for each night of Hanukkah, spanning from the first night to the eighth, the last night.

In a dark, dark room,

one thin candle

wakes, bursts to life

 

So begins the joyful celebration. It’s also a great idea that, in addition to every poem, a helpful info box with thoughts on that particular night in each poem is included.

 

 

The Book of Candles int1 boy wishing Happy Hanukkah to man in street.
Interior art from The Book of Candles, written by Laurel Snyder and illustrated by Leanne Hatch, Clarion Books, ©2025.

 

 

And even though I have observed this holiday for decades, I still learned something new. For example, Snyder explains the approach to lighting the candles on a Friday night, which is also Shabbat (the Sabbath).

 

A Thought for the Fourth Night: On Friday night, we light the Hanukkah candles at least eighteen minutes before sunset because, for observant Jews, it’s against the rules to strike a match after Shabbat has started.

 

Some poems are playful while others are more solemn, but all are engaging. Together, they make this book about a moving and meaningful celebration come to life. I especially found the scenes with Sugarpop and the cat to be sweet and relatable since our family cats have always been present for Hanukkah, whether beside the menorah, mesmerized by the flickering candles, or seeking a taste of latkes with sour cream. Many readers will be delighted by the poem describing the family visiting the grandparents, when the youngest was finally allowed to light the candles. And who won’t be impressed when, in another scene, a flat tire means the family will have to improvise, using the banana Hanukkiah hack. That, along with convenience-store birthday candles standing in for Hanukkah candles, makes for a most memorable holiday!

 

 

The Book of Candles int2 flat tire.
Interior spread from The Book of Candles, written by Laurel Snyder and illustrated by Leanne Hatch, Clarion Books, ©2025.

 

There are myriad reasons to find The Book of Candles a fresh new take on Hanukkah, Hatch’s art being one. She captures the warmth of the holiday, particularly in her depiction of the candles burning. She also conveys the family’s closeness in a laid-back way while maintaining the holiday’s importance. I can definitely picture children wanting to have this read to them each night of Hanukkah along with many of the other wonderful Hanukkah books out this year.

 

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Picture Book Review – Body Beautiful

BODY BEAUTIFUL
Written by Susan Verde
Illustrated by Steph Littlebird
(Abrams BYR; $19.99, Ages 4-8)

 

 

Body Beautiful cover Black girl hugging herself as kids play in background.

 

 

Did you know your body is beautiful? #1 New York Times bestselling author, Susan Verde, poses this thoughtful question to young readers in her new picture book, Body Beautiful. The book takes children on a journey that celebrates the magnificent wonders of our bodies.

The story starts with a lovely illustration (below) of a fetus sleeping soundly inside its mother’s womb.

“You were born from a beautiful body

who was born from another beautiful body

and so on going way way way back.”

Indigenous artist Steph Littlebird illustrates our continuing connectivity by showing the planets circling the mother and unborn child using soft colors of purples, pinks, and yellows. Littlebird’s vibrant art moves us forward as we turn the page to a list showing all the many ways to describe the human body. It’s a long list because we are rightfully different. I love how this spread conveys that we are all so unique that we can’t be categorized as just one entity.

 

 

Body Beautiful int1 Pregnant woman You were born from another beautiful body.
Interior spread from Body Beautiful, written by Susan Verde and illustrated by Steph Littlebird, Abrams BYR ©2025.

 

 

However, Verde explains, these descriptions are only part of what makes our bodies beautiful.  MIRACULOUS, GROWING, and SPEAKING are words used to express how each of us is more than what is seen on the outside. UNIQUE is spelled out alongside a girl and a boy sitting in the wilderness, amidst the green trees, birds, owls, and butterflies. The story’s lyrical language takes the reader through the outer vessels of our bodies to our inner minds that tell us when our body has something to say. One of my favorite lines is Asking you to listen—our bodies often tell us when something isn’t right. We just need to stop and listen. As a certified yoga instructor, this resonated with me because it’s something I do and encourage others to as well.

 

Body Beautiful int2 wonderful descriptions.
Interior spread from Body Beautiful, written by Susan Verde and illustrated by Steph Littlebird, Abrams BYR ©2025.

 

 

Littlebird’s uplifting art depicts kids of all shapes and sizes, from tall to short, large to small, from white to brown, and everything in between, as well as those with varying abilities, each moving happily together. Your body is also WISE— Keeping a record of the joy, the sadness, the wonder, the stories of your resilience, the lessons learned. This book serves as a meaningful reminder to children (and to adults). When we see the young black girl hugging herself, we read Your body is YOUR OWN.

 

 

Body Beautiful int3 diverse children Your body is expressive.
Interior spread from Body Beautiful, written by Susan Verde and illustrated by Steph Littlebird, Abrams BYR ©2025.

 

 

The story flows, inviting read-alouds and conversation. It then concludes with children walking through a field, reminding the reader that the most beautiful part of your body is YOU, and there will be nothing more beautiful than that.

The backmatter includes an Author’s Note explaining how Verde got the idea for this story. There’s also an Illustrator’s Note that encourages young people to feel proud of their bodies. This is an important topic that should be taught to children at a young age, before they begin judging themselves for what they think they should be. We live in a time when stories like this need to be told because you can never share too much about mindfulness, self-love, and kindness with children.

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder
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The See-You-Soon Spice Box: A Guest Post by Pamela Ehrenberg for Jewish American Heritage Month

THE SEE-YOU-SOON SPICE BOX

Written by Pamela Ehrenberg

Illustrated by Gabby Grant

(Kar-Ben Publishing; $18.99, Ages 3-8)

 

 

 

The-See-You-Soon Spice Box cover grandson great grandma on video call.

 

PICTURE BOOK SUMMARY:

Silas and Great-Grandma Faye always end their video calls with “See you soon!” Great-Grandma Faye says that Havdalah, which separates Shabbat from the rest of the week, is like saying “See you soon!” to Shabbat. She shows Silas a spice box made by his great-grandpa, who used to say, “Havdalah is the time between Shabbat and ordinary days, when we get to feel both kinds of magic at the same time.” Great-Grandma Faye suggests she and Silas make Havdalah together over the internet until they can be together again. Silas makes his own spice box. When Great-Grandma Faye finally comes to visit, they say Havdalah with both spice boxes.

 

 

GUEST POST BY AUTHOR PAMELA EHRENBERG:

It’s such an honor to be here as a guest on Good Reads with Ronna—thank you so much for having me!

When I realized that your blog celebrated its 13th (b’nai mitzvah!) year sometime during the pandemic (belated mazel tov!), it made me think about all the ways that different cultures and traditions have come up with for keeping people connected—even in our world where so often we’re pulled by opportunities and experiences to end up living far away from people we love.

The See-You-Soon Spice Box is a modern take on a boy and his great-grandma who meet every week over video call for the Jewish ceremony of Havdalah, which is about saying goodbye (or “see you soon,” until next week!) to the Sabbath.

 

 

The See-You-Soon Spice Box int1 grandson great grandma chat on video call.
Interior art from The See-You-Soon Spice Box written by Pamela Ehrenberg and illustrated by Gabby Grant, Kar-Ben Publishing ©2025.

 

 

 

As a single parent (like the dad in The See-You-Soon Spice Box!), I had many years where in-person connections, especially with far-away friends and family, were super-difficult to schedule. And I think the pandemic made clear that there are a lot of people, for all sorts of reasons—disability, caregiving, job responsibilities, the challenges of life!—who can’t connect in person as often as we’d like.

 

 

 

The See-You-Soon Spice Box int2 what I like best about Shabbat activities.
Interior art from The See-You-Soon Spice Box written by Pamela Ehrenberg and illustrated by Gabby Grant, Kar-Ben Publishing ©2025.

 

 

 

But the pandemic also reminded us that connections helped by technology are nonetheless real connections with real humans. And that’s one of the wonderful things you’ve done all these years with your blog: you’ve connected creators at all stages of our creative journeys—pre-published, published, re-published, and those of us facing all kinds of uncertainties as we wonder what the next step will bring—and connected us with readers, who have realized all along that stories are one of the main ways that humans have always connected with one another.

 

 

The-See-You-Soon Spice Box int3 great-grandma Faye Havdalah items.
Interior spread from The See-You-Soon Spice Box written by Pamela Ehrenberg and illustrated by Gabby Grant, Kar-Ben Publishing ©2025.

 

 

At the end of The See-You-Soon Spice Box, when the great-grandma travels for an in-person visit, I think it’s a happy time for the family, to be able to connect in person. But I don’t think it changes their relationships, from the already-strong connections they’ve built across distances. Sometimes I forget that you and I haven’t yet met in person, since your blog makes me feel like I know you so well, even though we live 3000 miles away! Thank you so much for everything you do to keep readers, writers, illustrators, and stories connected in spite of everything!!

BUY THE BOOK:

Click this Bookshop.org link to purchase The See-You-Soon Spice Box or purchase a copy at your favorite independent bookseller.

Author Pamela Ehrenberg Photo Credit Alexandra Taylor
Pamela Ehrenberg Photo Credit: Alexandra Taylor

BIOGRAPHY:

Pamela Ehrenberg’s previous picture books include Queen of the Hanukkah Dosas and Planting Parsley. Her middle-grade novel Detour Ahead (co-authored with Tracy López) was a National Jewish Book Award finalist. She and her children live in Washington, D.C., and she can be found online at www.pamelaehrenberg.com, and on Instagram & FB: @PamelaEhrenbergAuthor

 

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The Ways We Say “I Love You” for Valentine’s Day 2025

 

 

THE WAYS WE SAY “I LOVE YOU”

Written and illustrated by Caroline Hadilaksono

(Orchard Books; $18.99, Ages 4-8)

 

 

 

The Ways We Say I Love You cover mom hugging child.

 

 

Publisher Description:

For some families, saying ‘I love you’ comes out easily. For others, they show ‘I love you’ in other caring ways. Author-illustrator Caroline Hadilaksono’s sweet story explores the many thoughtful ways we show our love to each other, whether it’s spending time together or hidden in a ‘have you eaten yet?’

Review:

 

As I read her thoughtfully crafted picture book The Ways We Say “I Love You,” I felt as if author-illustrator Caroline Hadilaksono was speaking to me. I grew up in a family where I knew I was loved, but the sentiment was shown way more frequently than said. I’ve written essays about how my father took me shopping and my mother took me to the theater, but hearing those three words verbalized was uncommon in my family.

 

 

The Ways We Say I Love You int1 siblings reading together.
Interior spread from The Ways We Say “I Love You.” Written and illustrated by Caroline Hadilaksono, Orchard Books ©2024.

 

 

What’s so wonderful about this picture book is that it offers children who have been raised in households similar to mine the opportunity to see that actions often speak louder than words. Hadilaksono also gently conveys in her warm illustrations that many cultures demonstrate their love this way, which doesn’t mean a child is loved any less. The way the siblings share a story time (see the illustration above) says love. The tender way the parents watch and don’t interrupt the special moment says love. That’s why this book would be great to share for Valentine’s Day, especially if the giver knows the book is depicting them. It’s a great way to start the conversation about all the different ways there are to say I love you.

 

 

The Ways We Say I Love You int2 children grandma cooking together.
Interior spread from The Ways We Say “I Love You.” Written and illustrated by Caroline Hadilaksono, Orchard Books ©2024.

 

Spending time with a grandparent, great aunt, or other esteemed elder is a special way to show love. Sharing and passing along a traditional family recipe while cooking together also demonstrates love. The various spreads show diverse families and the love their actions convey, whether that’s feeding a child, talking long distance on a video call, or teaching a child to ride a bike, being there if they fall, and cheering them on when they succeed.

In her touching backmatter Author’s Note, Hadilaksono writes that in her Indonesian culture, her parents never said, “I love you,” and people didn’t generally say it to one another. It was much more of an “American thing” from movies and TV. She captures the heart of her picture book when she explains that while she’s still learning how to say “I love you” to the important people in her life, she also understands that there are many ways to say” I love you.” The beautiful artwork, rendered in watercolor and gouache textures, was composed digitally and adds to the feel-good mood this story brings to readers.

 

 

 

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Picture Book Review – Our Class is a Country

 

OUR CLASS IS A COUNTRY

Written by Andria W. Rosenbaum

Illustrated by Dream Chen

(Albert Whitman & Co.; $18.99; Ages 4-8)

 

 

Our Class is a Country cover ten diverse children interact.

 

In the delightful and inclusive picture book, Our Class is a Country, written by Andria W. Rosenbaum with illustrations by Dream Chen, a classroom of diverse students welcomes a new teacher with love and respect.

Acorn Elementary School students enter the school building with smiling faces and backpacks over their shoulders. An adult with blonde hair speaks to the new red-headed teacher as a student points to the unfamiliar lady. What makes this opening spread stand out is the diversity of the students. A blonde boy wears a beret, while a brown-haired boy skips into class with a yarmulke on his head. Chen’s colorful illustrations of the kids (I love the perspective of the one below) display the uniqueness of each young child.

 

 

 

Our class is a country int1 join in circle time.
Interior spread from Our Class is a Country written by Andria W. Rosenbaum and illustrated by Dream Chen. Albert Whitman & Co. ©2023.

 

 

Led by the new teacher, the children gather in a circle on a rug, holding each other’s hands. The teacher sits with legs in butterfly pose, while some kids have their legs stretched in front of them and a boy in a red shirt sits in his wheelchair. The teacher stands in front of a green wall map with kids waving their hands up as Rosenbaum writes We’re hola, bonjour, namaste, and shalom. Our class is a country of “welcome” from home. The drawings of these kids show the reader that all kids can get along no matter where they come from or what religion they practice.

 

Our Class is a Country int2 smiling faces of diverse children.
Interior spread from Our Class is a Country written by Andria W. Rosenbaum and illustrated by Dream Chen. Albert Whitman & Co. ©2023.

 

 

Next, the teacher transitions the class into the music lesson seated again in a circle on the rug. Our language is music. Our names are a song. Our class is a country when we sing along. One boy strums a green-colored guitar while another boy drums with his orange sticks. Lunchtime emphasizes the diversity when the children sit together at a long table eating tacos, wontons, sushi, and a hamburger. The Indian friend bites into Naan bread, but the French boy prefers his croissant.

 

Our Class is a Country int3 teacher's helpers.
Interior spread from Our Class is a Country written by Andria W. Rosenbaum and illustrated by Dream Chen. Albert Whitman & Co. ©2023.

 

Sometimes, the kids work solo, and sometimes, they work in teams, but however they work, the new teacher is there guiding them along.  After spending time practicing addition seated at their desks, the kids return to the circle where Rosenbaum writes Our class in a country with no room for hate, my favorite line in the story. The day concludes with the kids returning the kindness the new teacher has shared by drawing hearts on cards and giving them to her. Wouldn’t it be great if all classes were like this one?

The backmatter asks How Many Ways Can You Say Hello? A list includes Konnichiwa (Japanese), Shalom (Hebrew), and Ciao (Italian) to name a few. This story was very realistic for me as a substitute teacher. I often work with students who speak languages unfamiliar to me and this story felt like the new teacher could also be a substitute. Kids will enjoy the catchy refrain of “our class is a country.” And like the title, which is just so good, it kept me hooked. This is an upbeat read-aloud with an encouraging message of kindness and acceptance that always grabs my attention. I can see this as a go-to picture book for storytimes especially in schools and libraries.

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

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Picture Book Review – Love Grows Here

 

LOVE GROWS HERE

Written by Chloe Ito Ward

Illustrated by Violet Kim

(Albert Whitman & Company; $18.99, Ages 4-8)

 

 

Love Grows Here cover Asian girl holding title poster.

 

 

Shopping in an outdoor market with her grandmother, Obā, Aiko immerses herself in the tastes, sights, smells, and sounds of her surroundings. Ward’s economy of “warm and welcoming” words paints a bustling scene full of joy, excitement, and love—that is until a hurtful encounter with a stranger changes everything. His racist words “sharp like scissors, cut,” causing Aiko to feel confused, afraid, and heartbroken. 

 

Love Grows Here int1 Go Back to Your Own Country.
Interior art from Love Grows Here written by Chloe Ito Ward and illustrated by Violet Kim, Albert Whitman & Company ©2024.

 

Stopping by a ramen shop, Aiko tells Obā’s shin-yū (best friend) about what happened earlier. In turn, Mrs. Nakano shares her experiences of confronting hate when she and her family were forced to live in a Japanese internment camp. As Aiko learns of a particularly painful part of her history, she struggles to understand why people would act so unkind. Obā eloquently expresses the root of all discrimination:  “Sometimes the fear in your heart plants roots and grows into anger.” Fear and anger. Aiko wonders, “[w]here else were they growing?” 

When they pass by Miss Chon’s café and see that it has been vandalized, they help clean up. Aiko decides then and there how to respond to the fear and anger—through a radical act of kindness. 

 

Love Grows Here int2 this is our country!
Interior spread from Love Grows Here written by Chloe Ito Ward and illustrated by Violet Kim, Albert Whitman & Company ©2024.

 

Walking back home, she shares something dear to her that she had purchased from the market, handing it out to strangers as she passes along the way and watching their faces light up with joy. 

Whether at home or in the classroom, Love Grows Here provides opportunities to talk about hard but necessary topics:  racism, anti-Asian hate, and Japanese American history. Equally important is discussing the antidote Aiko chose to fight the hatred around her. Her actions echo Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous words: “Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

  • Reviewed by Armineh Manookian

 

Visit the author’s website here.

Visit the illustrator’s website here.

 

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Picture Book Review – My Dog Just Speaks Spanish

 

MY DOG JUST SPEAKS SPANISH

Written and Illustrated by Andrea Cáceres

(Candlewick Press; $17.99, Ages 2-5)

My Dog Just Speaks Spanish cover girl hugging spanish speaking dog.
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Author-illustrator Andrea Cáceres walks a girl and her loyal Spanish-speaking dog through their neighborhood in her debut picture book My Dog Just Speaks Spanish, an engaging immigration story showing that love transcends any language.
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My Dog Just Speaks Spanish int1 hola=hello
MY DOG JUST SPEAKS SPANISH. Copyright © 2023 Andrea Cáceres. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.
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Cáceres’ warm-toned digitally rendered art opens with young Aurora hugging her cuddly white and brown furry best friend, Nena, both drawn with smiles on their faces. When the reader turns the page, they see Aurora seated on the hardwood floor of her bedroom surrounded by items taped with notes translating Spanish into English. Cama=Bed; Zapatos=Shoes; Pelota=Ball. What a great way to learn a new language! Well, that is if you are interested in learning a new language but readers soon learn Nena wants no part in this. Ripped yellow sticky notes are scattered on the hardwood floor with one small paper innocently sticking out of Nena’s mouth. Oops, I think she’s been caught red-handed. Oh, Nena!
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My Dog Just Speaks Spanish int2 girl and dog in bedroom.
MY DOG JUST SPEAKS SPANISH. Copyright © 2023 Andrea Cáceres. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.
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Aurora’s Mom waves goodbye from the apartment window while Aurora commands the leashed Nena to Sientate! Nena obediently does what she is told. She doesn’t know the word Sit, but she recognizes the sound of Sientate! As the two stroll into the park, suddenly the leash falls from Aurora’s hand because Nena decides the brown squirrel climbing the tree is more intriguing than the leisurely walk. Aurora orders her to Wait! but English is not the language Nena knows. Espera! Aurora shouts. Nena obeys looking up to watch the squirrel. Aurora then lays down a blanket with a plate of oranges for her and a bowl of water for her dog. Nena doesn’t know the command Come! but does understand Vente!
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My Dog Just Speaks Spanish int3 at the park
MY DOG JUST SPEAKS SPANISH. Copyright © 2023 Andrea Cáceres. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.
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The dogs at the dog park respond to fetch but Nena only joins in when she hears buscala! Walking home, the two encounter a woman pushing a child in a stroller who shouts perro! Nena is pleased to hear a word she knows spoken by a Spanish speaker. Returning home, Spanish is the chosen language Aurora speaks to Nena. A drawing of a dark-haired girl and her white and brown dog is surrounded by hearts and the words Mejores Amigas! fills the page. Whatever language is spoken, they are truly best friends.
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This heart-warming story portrays the kindness between a girl and her pet and is a great tool to use for teaching Spanish words to English-speaking kids, as well as teaching English to Spanish-speaking kids. Cáceres’ work as an art director/illustrator, much of it featuring dogs, has appeared in many product campaigns. The backmatter explains that dogs can identify when different languages are spoken. Cáceres’ silky terrier named Tobi, who the reader may be able to spot in the book, moved with her from Venezuela to the United States and is an expert in performing tricks commanded in Spanish. This picture book is also available in Spanish.
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• Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder
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Picture Book Review – Two New Years

 

TWO NEW YEARS

Written by Richard Ho

Illustrated by Lynn Scurfield

(Chronicle Books; $18.99, Ages 3-5)

 

 

Two_New_Years_cover_multicultural_Chinese_Jewish_family_celebrating

 

Reading Two New Years written by Richard Ho and illustrated by Lynn Scurfield, reminds me of how wonderful it is to find similarities in cultures while also celebrating the differences. Ho draws from his personal life to imbue this heartwarming Rosh Hashanah and Lunar New Year story with meaning while also making it accessible to anyone, whether or not they are Jewish or Chinese like the family we meet here.

 

Two New Years int1 family celebrating rosh hashanah and lunar new year.
Interior illustrations from Two New Years written by Richard Ho and illustrated by Lynn Scurfield, Chronicle Books ©2023.

 

The book begins simply and yet pulls readers in to find out more. “My family celebrates two New Years: Rosh Hashanah in the fall and Lunar New Year in the spring. We’re shown through art and prose how this works so beautifully in a multicultural family. Though Ho converted to Judaism, he still remains committed to his Chinese roots and traditions which readers are introduced to over the course of the 22-page story. Since I’m familiar with Rosh Hashanah, but less so with the Lunar New Year, I was curious to get the details. This is accomplished by dividing the book into two parts, the first being the lyrical, emotional heart of the story and the second being the factual part.

Kids should find it interesting that both Rosh Hashanah and the Lunar New Year, as well as other holidays, are lunar-based in the Jewish and the Chinese calendars respectively. However, it’s the Gregorian calendar we use in our daily lives and the one most children know best. That’s why  Rosh Hashanah and the Lunar New Year fall on different dates every year.

The holiday customs Ho writes about demonstrate how much they have in common. One similarity both New Years share is putting the past behind to welcome in the new. In Chinese culture “we sweep past troubles out the door.” In Jewish culture, we “cast old mistakes into the  depths.” You can see those actions thoughtfully illustrated in a rich fall palette in the artwork below. When our children were younger, we often went with our Jewish community on what’s called a tashlich walk to a nearby park to throw pieces of bread into a stream, representing mistakes we can toss away to start anew.

 

 

Two New Years int2 sweeping troubles out the door and casting old mistakes into stream.
Interior illustrations from Two New Years written by Richard Ho and illustrated by Lynn Scurfield, Chronicle Books ©2023.

 

Both new years are about spending time with family and remembering those no longer with us. Scrumptious food is served. “We prepare foods that symbolize togetherness and the heartfelt sharing of good wishes.” So much about a new year is about moving forward and the hope for a better tomorrow, one filled with “long life and prosperity, good deeds and a sweet year ahead.” Scurfield’s thrilling illustrations depict the blast of a shofar (a ram’s horn) in the synagogue while opposite “the clatter of fireworks,” makes a loud noise as a dragon dances by during a parade. Respect and love fill the pages of Two New Years and will hopefully fill readers’ hearts too.

Twelve pages of interesting backmatter comprise the second part of the picture book including a lovely two-page Author’s Note. Children will benefit from the Visual Glossary included. It goes into more depth about aspects of both Rosh Hashanah and the Lunar New Year briefly touched upon in the story. As I mentioned earlier, I know less about the Lunar New Year despite having read many picture books over the years. While I knew about lucky money and the importance of the color red on the holiday, I had never heard about the tray of togetherness, a tray “filled with candies, dried fruits, and nuts and served to visitors at Chinese homes, and how the tray is divided “into either six or eight sections” because the words for six and eight respectively sound like the words for luck and prosperity. Likewise, young readers may enjoy learning that for Rosh Hashanah the seeds of a pomegranate symbolize the “many merits or good deeds” of a person.

I am so happy this worthwhile book is out there and hope it lands on many bookshelves in homes, schools, and libraries to be enjoyed year after year.

  • Reviewed by Ronna Mandel
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Picture Book Review for Grandparents Day – Mama Shamsi At The Bazaar

 

MAMA SHAMSI AT THE BAZAAR

Written by Mojdeh Hassani and Samira Iravani 

Illustrated by Maya Fidawi

(Dial BYR; $18.99, Ages 4-8)

 

Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar cover Grandmother and grandaughter walking to bazaar

 

 

Written by mother-daughter duo Mojdeh Hassani and Samira Iravani and illustrated by Maya Fidawi, Mama Shamsi At The Bazaar shares the loving bond between grandmother and granddaughter as they venture out to share a new experience together.

 

Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar int1 ready to go to bazaar
Interior spread from Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar written by Mojdeh Hassani and Samira Iravani, and illustrated by Maya Fidawi, Dial Books for Young Readers ©2023.

 

Getting ready to go to the bazaar with her grandmother for the very first time, Samira is afraid she’ll get lost in the crowd. Again and again, she tries to coax Mama Shams into letting her hide under the protection of her veil. “‘Let’s get in line, under your chador, you in front, me behind!’” But each time, Mama Shams responds with a resounding “Na, na, na” followed by an exaggerated explanation of how silly they might look to passersby. “‘I’d look like a fool with four legs below me just like a mule!” 

 

Mama Shamsi at the bazaar int2 Samira and Mama Shamsi near bazaar
Interior spread from Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar written by Mojdeh Hassani and Samira Iravani, and illustrated by Maya Fidawi, Dial Books for Young Readers ©2023.

 

Textually, this lovely rhyming interchange between grandmother and granddaughter adds much humor and whimsy, while also providing a place for young readers of all backgrounds to stay grounded in the story as Mama Shamsi suggests the different types of animals she may be mistaken for if she acquiesces to Samira’s wish.

 

 

Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar int3 Mama Shamsi tells Samira to use her eyes and ears
Interior spread from Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar written by Mojdeh Hassani and Samira Iravani, and illustrated by Maya Fidawi, Dial Books for Young Readers ©2023.

 

Visually, their conversation introduces readers to the bustling capital of Iran, Tehran. Fidawi’s expressive illustrations are wonderfully and thoughtfully detailed from home to city life during the 1960s/’70s, reflecting the time period author Hassani grew up there. My personal favorites include the seated vendor on the street, prayer beads in hand, and chai brewing on a portable burner next to him, a grandmother on the balcony of a nearby apartment hanging clothes to dry, and another vendor selling my favorite Iranian street food: steamed beets. When they finally arrive at the bazaar, Samira feels assured that with Mama Shamsi by her side, she is safe to enjoy and explore her new world. 

For those seeking an intergenerational, diverse, sweet, and/or humorous story with a touch of social-emotional learning, this picture book ticks off all of the boxes. A recommended read for National Grandparents Day and year-round.

  • Reviewed by Armineh Manookian
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Picture Book Review – Yuna’s Cardboard Castles

 

 

YUNA’S CARDBOARD CASTLES

Written by Marie Tang

Illustrated by Jieting Chen

(Beaming Books; $18.99, Ages 3-8)

 

 

Yuna's Cardboard Castles cover Yuna in Japan with origami

 

In Yuna’s Cardboard Castles, the heartwarming picture book debut from author Marie Tang, illustrated by Jieting Chen, readers meet Yuna, who has just moved with her family to America from Japan. Like most children in that situation, Yuna is filled with concerns about what life will be like in her new home and how she’ll make new friends. The extra challenge Yuna faces is that she doesn’t speak English yet. While she misses her old friends and all that is familiar, Yuna is eager to find a way to connect with local kids.

 

Yuna's Cardboard Castles int1 Yuna longed for the colors and shapes
Interior spread from Yuna’s Cardboard Castles written by Marie Tang and illustrated by Jieting Chen, Beaming Books ©2023.

 

It’s great to see Yuna take the initiative to look for ways to break the ice with the children in her neighborhood. At first, she tries making balls out of colorful paper. The results are lovely and impressive, highlighting her skills. However, Yuna feels discouraged after noticing children already have balls to play with. Onto the next option.

Thinking about where she used to live, Yuna longs to reproduce that environment where there were pointy buildings and rice cake stands. She cleverly uses cardboard and scissors to construct her very own stand but she’s at a loss to find the words to explain her project and the food on display. So, the neighborhood kids return “back to their tea parties.”

 

Yuna's_Cardboard_Castles_int2_Yuna_kept_cutting
Interior spread from Yuna’s Cardboard Castles written by Marie Tang and illustrated by Jieting Chen, Beaming Books ©2023.

 

And though with her talent, Yuna can build almost anything she wants, she still feels the disconnect without the language to communicate. She is sad, frustrated, and isolated.

When a boy’s kite gets tangled in her yard, the two soon find common ground with their paper creations. Teaming up, their imaginations soar, and playing together becomes second nature. Soon, the neighborhood kids can’t help but engage with Yuna and the exciting cardboard world she’s constructed with her new friend. Chen’s vivid illustrations convey energy, enjoyment, and make-believe, filling each page with wonder to inspire children as they read  Tang’s thoughtful story.

When my family lived overseas for 10 years, our children played with other children from around the world whether we traveled to Germany, France, the Canary Islands, Italy, or Greece. Watching kids connect despite not having the words is always joyful to watch. Play is a universal language bringing diverse children together wherever you are. Yuna’s Cardboard Castles was inspired by Tang’s childhood experience of moving from Hong Kong to the United States. In the book, Yuna demonstrates how, just as Tang did as a child, using origami and corrugated boxes can open up worlds of opportunities for friendship when you have only a minimal grasp of your new country’s language. While the immigration experience is different for every child, Tang’s book creatively captures the emotion Yuna feels while presenting a positive way to cope that is empowering. Four pages of backmatter include detailed instructions to make an origami boat … “that can actually float!”

  • Reviewed by Ronna Mandel
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An Interview with Aixa Perez-Prado about City Feet

 

SUSI SCHAEFER INTERVIEWS AIXA PÉREZ-PRADO,

AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATOR OF

 CITY FEET

(Reycraft Books; $17.95, Ages 3-5)

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City Feet cover map legs shoes walking on city sidewalk
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PUBLISHER SUMMARY:

This shoe lover’s paradise reveals that a city’s feet are as varied as the people and animals who live there.

INTERVIEW:

Susi Schaefer: Congrats on your picture book, CITY FEET. How did you get into creating books for young readers?

Aixa Pérez-Prado: Thank you very much! I feel like I have been a writer and illustrator since I was a little girl. I was born in Argentina and raised between there and the USA. I later lived in several other countries, including Costa Rica and Morocco. I believe that being multilingual, being a child immigrant, and having lived in many different places are all strong influences on the stories and the illustrations that I create today.

I am a former bilingual kindergarten teacher, a current university professor specializing in diversity education, and, most importantly, a mother of six. All of those experiences led me to read many children’s books over the years and create my own stories for my students and my children. A few years ago, I decided to try to publish some of those stories and started my education in writing picture books.

Part of my education included taking a number of kidlit writing courses, entering online contests, and joining SCBWI. In addition to writing, I started drawing again and creating a few dummies for my stories. CITY FEET is my debut picture book.

SS: Tell us what inspired this book.

APP: I am a city girl at heart, and I love to explore the cities of the world. A few years ago, when I decided I wanted to try to publish in kidlit, I started entering online writing contests, and an earlier version of CITY FEET was a story I wrote for one of those contests, the Early Childhood Book Challenge. The idea was to write a story of 250 words or less, use rhyme, and have the story take place in an urban setting. I came up with about six stories for the contest and was a finalist with a different story, but the beat and rhythm of CITY FEET stuck in my head.

Two years later, I pitched it in Latinx Pitch on Twitter, and Winsome Bingham of Reycraft Books liked my pitch and made an offer. I was not meant to illustrate the book, but when she found out I was also an illustrator (or want-to-be illustrator), she and my agent, Joyce Sweeney, encouraged me to make a dummy. I had a very clear idea of how I wanted the book to look, with all characters appearing only from the waist down, as seen from the point of view of a baby in a stroller. I made the dummy and soon after received the offer to be the illustrator. I was thrilled!

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City Feet int1 City Feet walking down the street
Interior spread from City Feet written and illustrated by Aixa Pérez-Prado, Reycraft Books ©2023.

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SS: Can you share your process?

APP: I started by revising the original story and adding an additional stanza to reach the appropriate amount of spreads for a picture book. I then started trying to create the first spread, but the vision in my head wasn’t really working on paper. I went to an illustrator friend, Cristina Keller, and explained what I wanted to do to her. She invited me to her studio, and after showing her some of my sketches, she helped me to map out the first spread. After that, I knew exactly what to do.

My illustration process for CITY FEET is mainly collage created by cutting up different kinds of textured papers that I create and others that I find. I also use fabrics, leaves, petals, and other materials – including banana peels – in my collages. Once I make the collages, I scan them and bring them into Photoshop in different layers to combine and rearrange. I also do some digital collage in Photoshop.

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City Feet int2 dancing feet prancing feet

Interior spread from City Feet written and illustrated by Aixa Pérez-Prado, Reycraft Books ©2023.

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SS: Are you working on any projects you can tell us about?

APP: Yes, I am the author and also the illustrator for a nonfiction picture book that will come out in the Fall of 2024, Mercedes Sosa: Voice of the People, published by Lee & Low. It is a very different kind of story than CITY FEET, with a different feel and somewhat different style. However, my illustration technique will continue to be the use of collage with a variety of materials as well as digital collage for the majority of the artwork.

BUY THE BOOK:

Support independent booksellers and purchase City Feet at the link below.
https://bookshop.org/p/books/city-feet/18947595?ean=9781478881841

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Author Aixa Pérez-Prado headshotAUTHOR-ILLUSTRATOR BIO:

Aixa Pérez-Prado, the author/illustrator of CITY FEET is a native of Argentina who immigrated to the US as a small child. In addition to writing and illustrating, Aixa is a translator, sensitivity reader, and university professor. Aixa has lived in several different countries and draws inspiration for her stories and illustrations from diverse locations. Her passion is writing and illustrating picture books aimed at giving diverse children a chance to see their multilayered identities represented with heart and humor. She writes in Spanish and English and enjoys mixing languages in her prose. Similarly, she loves illustrating by employing different techniques in a multimedia whimsical style.

Aixa’s upcoming picture books are OUR WORLD: ARGENTINA (Barefoot Books, 2023) and MERCEDES SOSA: THE VOICE OF THE PEOPLE (Lee & Low 2024). Aixa is represented by Joyce Sweeney from the Seymour Agency.

AUTHOR-ILLUSTRATOR LINKS:

Website: https://www.aixaperezprado.com

Twitter: @professoraixa

Insta: @aixasdoodlesandbooks

TikTok: @aixasdoodlesandbooks

Threads: @aixasdoodlesandbooks

Facebook: @aixasdoodlesandbooks

 

INTERVIEWER BIO:

Born and raised in the Austrian Alps, Susi Schaefer trained as a glass painter in the medieval town of Rattenberg. After moving to Southern California for sun and adventure, Susi studied graphic design. She’s the illustrator of ZOO ZEN by Kristen Fischer, author-Illustrator of CAT LADIES and THE GLOW SHOW. Susi lives in North Tustin, California, with her family. www.susischaefer.com

Twitter @susischaeferart and on Instagram @susischaeferart

 

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Picture Book Review – Sora’s Seashells

SORA’S SEASHELLS
A Name Is a Gift to Be Treasured

Written by Helena Ku Rhee

Illustrated by Stella Lim
With Ji-Hyuk Kim

(Candlewick Press $17.99, Ages 4-6)

 

Sora's Seashells cover Sora and Halmoni at beach picking shells

 

 

Sora’s Seashells, written by Helena Ku Rhee and illustrated by Stella Lim with Ji-Hyuk Kim, is so much more than a beach or summer story. It’s a multi-layered, moving, and intergenerational picture book about a grandmother and granddaughter relationship. Gentle in tone with art that beautifully captures the book’s mood, the story is also about loss, and passing kindness forward to other’s lives, including strangers. Additionally, Sora’s Seashells addresses the meaning of a name and how it can bring joy.

 

Sora's Seashells int1 Sora and Halmoni comb for shells
SORA’S SEASHELLS. Copyright © 2023 Helena Ku Rhee. Illustrations Copyright © 2023 Stella Lim and Ji-Hyuk Kim. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.

 

When Sora’s grandmother (Halmoni), visits each summer from South Korea, the pair spend special time together gathering seashells at the beach. Though lovely, the prettiest shell that Halmoni picks is intended for someone else. “It’s a gift,” Halmoni tells Sora, left “For anyone who sees its beauty.” Sora is a bit confounded at first. Parents, however, may explain to children being read the story what a thoughtful gesture Halmoni has made.

Not quite understanding the largesse in Halmoni’s action of spreading kindness, Sora tucks away a few of her favorite finds when she and Halmoni go back to the beach the next day. Later at home, Halmoni can be seen in art glancing from Sora’s bedroom door at her granddaughter who inspects her collection that brings her such happiness.

 

Sora's Seashells int2 empty bench at beach
SORA’S SEASHELLS. Copyright © 2023 Helena Ku Rhee. Illustrations Copyright © 2023 Stella Lim and Ji-Hyuk Kim. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.

 

At the beginning of Kindergarten, some classmates tease Sora about her unusual name, wondering if it’s really supposed to be Sara. The bullies persist over several weeks but Sora chooses not to tell her parents. When she learns her Halmoni has passed away, she is beset by sadness for so many reasons all at once. Sad she’ll no longer be able to spend summers with Halmoni. Sad at remembering times together and the way Halmoni said Sora’s name. And sad how the bullies treated her at school. “I hate my name. I want to be Sara!” Sora tells her parents through a steady stream of tears.

A restorative trip to the beach and learning that her name means seashell in Korean, helps Sora get things in perspective. Most of all, Sora’s mom explains that Halmoni felt finding a perfect shell was like receiving a wonderful gift. Sora was that gift!

And if that doesn’t tug at your heartstrings, when Sora shares the meaning of her name at show and tell, and gives each of her classmates a shell, including those who’d teased her, my eyes welled up with tears. She knew she mattered, took the high road, and was rewarded. I was especially touched when Sora left her last shell on the bench at the beach exactly as Halmoni had. What a meaningful way to end the book.  The art, rendered in warm watercolor and finished digitally, is soothing and sensitive. Full of caring and love, hope, and kindness, Sora’s Seashells is the kind of feel-good read that is easy to recommend.

  • Reviewed by Ronna Mandel
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Picture Book Review – What’s Your Name?

WHAT’S YOUR NAME?

Written and illustrated by Bethanie Deeney Murguia

(Candlewick Press; $18.99; Ages 3-7)

 

 

What's Your Name cover kids greeting kids

 

★Starred Reviews – Kirkus, Publishers Weekly

When author-illustrator Bethanie Deeney Murguia discovered her parents almost chose another name for her it got her thinking about the importance of names and what they do, and the idea for What’s Your Name? was created.

 

What's Your Name int1 children greeting children
WHAT’S YOUR NAME? Text and illustrations copyright © 2022 by Bethanie Deeney Murguia. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.

 

This relatable and diverse picture book takes young readers on a reflective journey through the meaning behind their own names. The book opens with two pages of orange talking bubbles listing names from Alina to Xavier and Ana to Eli. There are short names, like Bo, and longer names like Zachariah. There’s even my son’s name, Adam. Turning the page, we find lush green spread of lawns and bushes, and grey stone bridges, with walking dogs sniffing hellos. Murguia’s illustrations not only include adults and children of various ethnicities but one child in a wheelchair and another on a skateboard. Greetings are expressed by kids with Hi, Hola, and Good Morning before announcing their given names because Everyone has one … or maybe a few.

 

What's Your Name int2 a name is a meeting
WHAT’S YOUR NAME? Text and illustrations copyright © 2022 by Bethanie Deeney Murguia. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.

 

Murguia writes in playful rhyme explaining to the reader the many ways names are used. When Lena greets Elijah they high-five as they pass. When the spotted brown dog goes farther than allowed, his fluffy-haired owner calls Buster stopping him in his tracks. A name can be common, familiar, and known. A name can be rare, unique, all your own. Cherimoya explains to new friends that her name is like the fruit but you can call me Cherry! And the worker at the burger stand gets a lot of responses when he calls out the common name Bob. Murguia explains to kids that names honor families when they are named after a loved one or historic people such as Malala and Frida.

The colorful art beautifully tells the story with greens, oranges, and greys visually showing the reader that autumn leaves are the reason behind a baby girl’s name. A boy shouts to a crowd, with his hands beside his lips, yelling Hey…you! with an illustration of confused people with mouths wide open wondering who he is calling. If only he knew the name of the person he was looking for he wouldn’t need to shout.

 

What's Your Name int3 names honor family
WHAT’S YOUR NAME? Text and illustrations copyright © 2022 by Bethanie Deeney Murguia. Reproduced by permission of the publisher, Candlewick Press, Somerville, MA.

 

Naming your child is a huge decision. Will your baby’s personality or character reflect the name you have chosen or vice versa? Will your child be clumsy yet her name is Grace? Do you choose the name Cole if your child’s eyes are pitch black? This book will spark conversations about how your child got their name and how their parents did as well. A discussion will be a beautiful introduction to family history, or how a name just felt right. This book made me laugh because my own name is spelled differently than what people expect, but I guess you would say that is what makes it unique. Because if it were different, would you still be you? The book’s last line reads what’s yours? and provides a great jumping-off point for a first-day-of-school read for teachers who are getting to know their new students.

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder
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Picture Book Review – Anzu and the Art of Friendship

 

ANZU AND THE ART OF FRIENDSHIP

Written by Moni Ritchie Hadley

Illustrated by Nathalia Takeyama

(Albert Whitman & Co.; $18.99, Ages 4-8)

 

Anzu_and_the_Art_of_Friendship_cover_friends_making_origami

 

REVIEW:

Patience and the practice required for paper folding (aka origami) offer the promise of friendship in Anzu and the Art of Friendship written by Moni Ritchie Hadley and illustrated by Nathalia Takeyama.

If your child isn’t already familiar with origami, this multilayered picture book provides a gentle introduction to the beloved Japanese art form while also tackling a topic that should resonate with young readers: making new school friends after moving. When Anzu starts a new school, “her stomach folds in knots.” At the same time, the teacher Mr. Lee informs the class they are beginning a unit on origami.

 

AnzuandtheArtofFriendship int1 mrlee introduces Anzu
Interior art from Anzu and the Art of Friendship written by Moni Ritchie Hadley and illustrated by Nathalia Takeyama, Albert Whitman & Co. ©2023.

 

Readers have already seen Anzu’s creations hanging in her bedroom courtesy of Takeyama’s bold and expressive art that appears to be digitally rendered. That, along with Ritche Hadley’s prose, lets us know from the first page that Anzu adores origami. It’s especially sweet when Anzu’s ojiisan (grandfather) gives her a tsuru (crane) for good luck. Maybe Anzu’s origami skills can help her forge new friendships with her classmates.

Pretty soon Anzu sees her good intentions go unappreciated. She is disappointed that her classmates look for an easy, often silly way out despite her offers of help. At night she explains to Ojiisan what’s been happening. He thoughtfully suggests she try to be patient. The next day is not much better. Anzu’s classmates seem frustrated and look for quick solutions such as scissors and tape. Again she complains to Ojiisan. He compares the skill of creating origami with that of making new friends. She needs to give it time. Still, Anzu is sad about her move and misses her old friends.

 

AnzuandtheArtofFriendship int2 classmate wearing hat dances
Interior spread from Anzu and the Art of Friendship written by Moni Ritchie Hadley and illustrated by Nathalia Takeyama, Albert Whitman & Co. ©2023.

 

Things look up for Anzu the next day when “Mr. Lee displays an origami frog figure.” Always an attention-getter, the frog inspires curiosity and joy. But Anzu’s classmate Alex is frustrated he cannot put the frog back together after he’s unfolded it. This time, after Anzu does all the required folding, creasing, etc., she demonstrates how it can hop. Instead of losing interest, Alex asks Anzu to show him how to do it. At last! Anzu also tells Alex that the frog or the Kaeru, “is a symbol of good luck and a safe return when traveling.” Alex realizes the Kaeru is something meaningful he can give to his father to take on his next business trip. His interest in the paper creation prompts Anzu to come up with fun ways to engage her formerly reluctant classmates (see illustration above), and it works! Folding leads to friendship and Anzu’s spirits soar.

All the work involved in making origami as well as the symbolism of each figure serve as perfect metaphors for this book’s themes of perseverance, empathy, and kindness. Young readers will rejoice when they see how Anzu has truly mastered the art of friendship. They’ll also see the rewards of not giving up, whether that involves sticking with a tough project or trying to make a new friend. While in real life these things may take a little longer, the positive message conveyed in Anzu and the Art of Friendship makes this book easy to recommend.

The special meaning of the origami figures included in the story is explained in the back matter.

  • Reviewed by Ronna Mandel

BUY THE BOOK:

Support a local independent bookshop by clicking here to purchase Anzu and the Art of Friendship.

FIND THE AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATOR ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

MONI –

Click here for Moni’s website.

https://www.instagram.com/bookthreader

https://www.twitter.com/bookthreader

https://www.facebook.com/bookthreader

 

NATHALIA –

Click here for more about Nathalia.

https://www.instagram.com/natztak

https://www.twitter.com/natztak

https://www.facebook.com/nathalia.takeyama/

Read a guest post by Moni about her debut picture book, The Star Festival.

Find out about The Star Festival here.

 

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