Ronda Einbinder

Picture Book Review – The Quiet Ocean

THE QUIET OCEAN

Written by Charlotte Offsay

Illustrated by Abi Cushman

(Beach Lane Books; $19.99, Ages 4-8)

 

The Quiet Ocean cover creatures under the sea.

 

★STARRED REVIEW – School Library Journal

 

Charlotte Offsay and Abi Cushman have created another terrific picture book together called The Quiet Ocean. This one is a companion to The Quiet Forest. Cushman’s illustrations draw readers into the soothing blue ocean with her delightfully silly sea creatures living their best lives, until unexpected havoc turns their world upside down.

The book’s endpapers depict the ocean floor, but it’s not what you would expect (NOTE: Don’t miss the other endpapers after you finish). A bike leans against a rock, across from a beach chair, and a bathtub and a rubber ducky sit alone not far from a harmless (?)-looking pufferfish. After the title page, where there’s a clever glimpse of a yellow fish tail, readers see that same cute pufferfish swimming happily amongst the seaweed and rocks, gliding in and out of the marine algae and seagrasses. Until…

A squid, wearing a shower cap and drinking a cup of coffee, soaks in a tub with a brush in one of his eight arms. As you can imagine, this would scare anyone who saw it, even a sea creature who has lived his life on the ocean floor. The pufferfish’s fright releases ink, and this obviously startles the squid. His once-clean body is now covered in ink! Tension builds.

 

 

The Quiet Ocean int1 pufferfish scaring a bathing squid.
Interior spread from The Quiet Ocean, written by Charlotte Offsay and illustrated by Abi Cushman, Beach Lane Books, ©2026.

 

 

A playful puffer and a startled squid in a suddenly not-so-quiet ocean. Offsay uses cumulative structure in each event, creating a fun read for both the reader and the listener. Splattered ink surprises the relaxed green turtle as he lounges in his beach chair. He falls out of the chair, spilling ice cubes from his glass, and scurries past a dolphin riding his bike. FLAP! SPLASH! The cumulative chaos continues.

The dolphin’s splashing upsets the shark, who is doing what all sharks tend to do — knitting a blanket in a lounging chair. The shark grabs the knitted blanket, which causes the yarn ball to wrap around the chair, seagrass, and rocks; the pufferfish and turtle’s eyes open wide when the shark swims into a wedding cake the whale is meticulously decorating with icing. Oh, what a mess! So … page turns quicken.

A playful puffer, a startled squid, a troubled turtle, a distressed dolphin, a shaky shark, and a wailing whale in an oh-dear-this-is-out-of-control ocean.

 

 

The Quiet Ocean int2 ink frightens a turtle.
Interior art from The Quiet Ocean, written by Charlotte Offsay and illustrated by Abi Cushman, Beach Lane Books, ©2026.

 

 

Havoc turns to calmness when the whale hears the ocean’s song. The shaky shark de-stresses the distressed dolphin, and the troubled turtle soothes the startled squid. Ahhh! Now that feels good.

It’s impossible not to smile while reading this story. Children learn the importance of calming their bodies and minds in stressful moments. It’s a story to share after a difficult day at school, or a funny read before bedtime. Both Offsay and Cushman have created a book teachers will keep on their shelves for years to come. Offsay and Cushman’s long list of children’s books is on my reading list, and I especially recommend this one.

 

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

 

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The Little Acorn’s Big Adventure

THE LITTLE ACORN’S BIG ADVENTURE

Written by Sylvia Rouss

Illustrated by Rick Penn-Kraus

(Dragonfeather Books; $16.95, Ages 5-9)

 

 

The Little Acorn's Big Adventure cover forest animals observing acorn.

 

 

 

REVIEW:

Award-winning author Sylvia Rouss, who brought joy to picture book readers with her Sammy Spider series, has done it again with The Little Acorn’s Big Adventure, a beautifully written story about the wonders of animals in nature and how we can help our environment.

The rich greens, browns, oranges, and golds of the autumn forest, illustrated by Rick Penn-Kraus, come alive as they serve as the background for an oak tree and a small acorn falling from its branch. As the acorn topples, a black-and-red woodpecker attempts to catch it in his beak, “… but a sudden gust of wind startled the bird, and it dropped the acorn to the forest floor.” And this is where Acorn’s adventure begins.

 

 

The Little Acorn's Big Adventure int1 woodpecker snatching falling acorn.
Interior spread from The Little Acorn’s Big Adventure, written by Sylvia Rouss and illustrated by Rick Penn-Kraus, Dragonfeather Books, ©2025.

 

 

A chipmunk tries to eat the acorn, but his mouth is too full. (This is what happens when you stuff your cheeks with nuts.) When a bear passes through the forest, the chipmunk scurries up a tree only to watch the bear trample the acorn to the ground. A squirrel appears and digs a hole, covering the acorn with loose soil, leaving it in the ground as autumn turns to winter. You can almost feel the chill in the air as you turn the pages.

 

 

The Little Acorn's Big Adventure int2 warmth of the summer.
Interior spread from The Little Acorn’s Big Adventure, written by Sylvia Rouss and illustrated by Rick Penn-Kraus, Dragonfeather Books, ©2025.

 

 

Rouss takes the reader through the icy winter weather, showing where the chipmunk, squirrel, and bear sleep. The acorn remains buried in the ground. An earthworm digs a hole, “… making room for its small roots as they began to grow.” Penn-Kraus’s soft colors gently take us from winter to spring. And now we begin to see a sprout growing from the ground, enjoying the rainwater. The lovely interplay of light with the earthy tones resembles a photograph.

 

 

The Little Acorn's Big Adventure int3 little sprout.
Interior spread from The Little Acorn’s Big Adventure, written by Sylvia Rouss and illustrated by Rick Penn-Kraus, Dragonfeather Books, ©2025.

 

 

The Little Acorn’s Big Adventure concludes with the final season, summer; the woodpecker, bear, squirrel, and chipmunk return to find a growing green tree, ready to begin a new adventure. What a great way to show an acorn’s growth cycle in relation to the seasons.

Rouss’s back matter adds an extra bonus to this story. Broken down into Ten Fun Facts About Oak Trees, Ten Things You Can Do To Help Trees, and Ten Steps To Grow An Acorn, the reader learns that only 1 in 10,000 acorns grow into a tree, and if you plant trees in your garden, you need to make sure they get plenty of water.

Recycling is also essential to saving oak trees. Oak trees keep the air we breathe healthy, and it’s illegal to cut down oak trees in some states. I have oak trees on my property here in California, and it’s my city’s job to trim and maintain these magnificent trees. I also learned what to do when an acorn falls to the ground, and I am now going to make the effort to find fallen acorns and soak them in water before planting them in a pot. Children will not only enjoy the beauty of this book but also learn how we can all help our environment thrive.

If you enjoy this book, I recommend you read An Ooey-Gooeys Adventure: You’re Not Invited! written by Sylvia Rouss and David Titcher.

 

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

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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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Picture Book Review – Two Together

TWO TOGETHER
by Brendan Wenzel
(Chronicle Books; $18.99; Ages 3-5)

 

 

Two_Together_cover_dog_and_cat_on_the_move

 

 

★ Starred reviews –  Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, Shelf Awareness

PUBLISHER’S DESCRIPTION:

In this companion book to They All Saw a Cat and Inside Cat, a journey home leads to unexpected adventures for a cat and dog. A playful, imaginative story of friendship, empathy, and discovery by Caldecott Honor winner Brendan Wenzel.

 

REVIEW:

In Two Together, New York Times bestselling author and Caldecott Honor winner Brendan Wenzel has once again created a book filled with empathy, friendship, and understanding, following the successful companion tales They All Saw a Cat and Inside Cat.

We first meet our two protagonists from afar. Then, soon after, we see a large dog that carries a white bone in its mouth throughout the book, and a cat with a striped tail who wears a red collar and a yellow bell around its neck, as they dash home. We know from the start that these two are the best of friends. We also know that even the best of friends may differ in their views.

 

Two Together int1 dog and cat on the move in the hills.
Interior spread from Two Together, written and illustrated by Brendan Wenzel, Chronicle Books ©2024.

 

 

The brown dog is painted with watercolor, while the cat is drawn in pencil. Why? Because they are different. The story, told in rhyme, shows the pals exploring unknown sounds and smells on the trees, but the sounds are different, as are the smells. Through the scrub. Through the grass. The dog jumps through the bushes, while the cat crawls underneath them. The two make their way down the path, where the dog pounces on the dirt and the cat climbs the stone wall. The page with the dog is painted. The page with the cat is rendered in pencil.

The cat finds its way to rest on a branch in a tall tree, while its buddy, the dog, and its white bone must wait at the bottom, looking up. We see them both noticing a peach hanging on a branch, but the dog’s view is that of a painted orange peach, while the furry cat sees it in mixed colors drawn in pencil. They see the world differently, yet remain together.

 

 

Two Together int2 much to see.
Interior art from Two Together, written and illustrated by Brendan Wenzel, Chronicle Books ©2024.

 

 

Brambles! Mushrooms! Squishy moss! Two together very lost. Two together find a cave. They work together out of the dark cave and into the sun. The reader turns the page to a beautiful sunset in purples and reds as the cat leads the way through the green hillside. The two climb to the top of the hill and sit together, looking up at the moon, when they see a light in the distance. All is dark. Home is bright. Wenzel draws the two in a way we can see what they see. The cat sees the dog in pencil, and the dog sees the cat in watercolor. They are home and safe—well, safe until the next day, when the two of them go off on a new adventure together.

 

 

Two Together int3 sun is setting time to rush.
Interior art from Two Together, written and illustrated by Brendan Wenzel, Chronicle Books ©2024.

 

 

The back matter adorably explains that Wenzel’s latest picture book was created with almost every medium under the sun, but mostly acrylic, watercolor, colored pencil, and a computer. The inventive art draws the reader in, making them another character in this sweet story.

 

 

Two Together int4 starry skies.
Interior art from Two Together, written and illustrated by Brendan Wenzel, Chronicle Books ©2024.

 

 

This story pulled at my heartstrings, not because I’m dog-obsessed (okay, I like purring cats, too), but because it’s a great lesson for kids to see that our differences make us interesting to others and make us who we are. We can be the best of friends and still appreciate each other for being our unique selves. This picture book makes an ideal read-aloud and is a valuable tool for teaching social-emotional learning to children.

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

 

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Picture Book Review – The Juneteenth Alphabet

 

 

THE JUNETEENTH ALPHABET

Written by Andrea Underwood Petifer

Illustrated by Ana Latese

(Sourcebooks; $14.99; Ages 3-6)

 

 

 

The Juneteenth Alphabet cover children marching and playing instruments.

 

 

 

Review:  

For decades, advocate and teacher Opal Lee fought to give Juneteenth the recognition it deserves. In 2021, her hard work and dedication came to fruition when the U.S. government, under President Joe Biden, officially recognized Juneteenth as a holiday. Author Andrea Underwood Petifer saw the recognition as an opportunity to educate both young children and adults about the history behind June 19th, which inspired her newly released children’s book, The Juneteenth Alphabet, with illustrations by Ana Latese.

 

 

The Juneteenth Alphabet int1 A is for Album.
Interior spread from The Juneteenth Alphabet written by Andrea Underwood Petifer and illustrated by Ana Latese, Duopress ©2025.

 

 

Creating a story that explains 200 years of slavery, the Emancipation Proclamation that was meant to end all slavery, and the resistance of Texas to follow through with freeing the slaves for over two years is a lot for children (and quite honestly, adults) to grasp. Petifer has articulated the complexity in an alphabet book that breaks down the history from A to Z, starting with A is for Album (photo album that is) and Ancestors, and ending with Z is for Zeal, “an eagerness to endure after hearing no. It is brave, it is hope, it is joy, it is determination.”

Before the reader dives into the alphabet story, Petifer opens with the background of Juneteenth and how it’s regarded in African American communities as the second Independence Day. Four million African American people were not thought of when the Declaration of Independence was created, so this holiday celebrates the troops from the Union Army arriving in Galveston, Texas, two and a half years after independence was declared to free the remaining slaves.

 

 

The Juneteenth Alphabet int2 F is for flag and freedom.
Interior art from The Juneteenth Alphabet written by Andrea Underwood Petifer and illustrated by Ana Latese, Duopress ©2025.

 

 

Illustrator Ana Latese creates full-color jubilant art that beautifully complements the story using Procreate, iPad Pro, or Apple Pencil. The spreads feature brown and black hands held high, a red, white, and blue Juneteenth flag flown, and the African American community smiling while parading in the streets as gospel singers belt out the hymn Happy Day drawn above H is for Happy.

 

 

The Juneteenth Alphabet int3 H is for happy.
Interior art from The Juneteenth Alphabet written by Andrea Underwood Petifer and illustrated by Ana Latese, Duopress ©2025.

 

One of my favorite items in this book is the fact/info bubbles. The reader is asked to turn to their child and discuss questions that pertain to the topic on the page. Underneath the letter H, the bubble asks, “What are you feeling?” and then asks the child to share their thoughts with the reader. I think introducing social and emotional learning is a great way for kids to better understand this challenging and complex time in history. J is for Joy explains that when we express joy, we take back our story. Great words of wisdom!

Representing the letter O, Opal Lee, dressed in bright purple, stands at a podium with the White House behind her as she petitions the government to recognize the holiday. And, of course, the reader turns the page to S is for the Sounds of Songs that are Sweet and Savory; while T is for Talents and Traditions. Black rodeos, parades, and poetry readings prove there is more than just pain to the story.

The Juneteenth Alphabet concludes with a brief summary of terms (there are A LOT of new words for young readers). Children learn the meaning behind Equality, the quality of being the same. This was a very informative book, and I have to admit, I learned a lot about Juneteenth history that I was unaware of before reading this picture book. Parents can share this book over and over again, explaining the past while teaching their children the importance of treating all people the same. Latese creates a banner that reads “Fight for the Future,” and I think those are imperative words to ponder on June 19th. Happy Juneteenth, everyone!

 

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

 

 

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Best Children’s Books for Passover 2025

 

 

SEVEN NEW CHILDREN’S BOOKS

FOR PASSOVER 2025

~  A ROUNDUP ~

 

 

 

If only I had more time! This year’s offering of new Passover books for children seems to be the largest I’ve seen in a long time. It was so hard to choose what to include, and I really hoped to cover them all. Please scroll to the end to see other books I was unable to review but recommend.

 

REVIEWS:

My Seder Plate cover seder plate shaped board book.MY SEDER PLATE
Written by Kristen Weber
Illustrated by Yaara Cellier
(Clarion Books; $10.99, Ages 0-4)

My Seder Plate: A Passover Book is Kristen Weber’s debut, and it’s a charming one! This book would have been a big hit in my home when my children were growing up. It’s not only richly illustrated, but it includes interesting seder details for those who are older. At the same time, it can be appreciated as a clever interactive way for little ones to simply enjoy the pictures during the celebration. Traditionally, the seder plate, like the board book, is round, “with spots for special foods.” Each food represented is significant in the retelling of the Passover story.

Open the sturdy book to reveal the seder plate and its contents on one side, a multigenerational family on the other. It includes the food name in Hebrew and in English. One word I have learned in Hebrew from attending many seders is Beitzah, egg, the second food shown. Each food item explained is in bold. The font is smaller for the more detailed portion, which a relative might explain, or perhaps an older sibling, a cousin, or a family friend. I also like how the first paragraph is in verse, which will add to a youngster’s engagement.

“A roasted egg sits on our plate,
warm and round and hard,
a symbol of the cycle of life
and hope for a new start.

The egg can be both a reminder
of the sacrifices Jewish people have
made and a symbol of new life.”

Now that all the Passover foods are covered, it’s time to try them! A big positive about My Seder Plate is that children can keep it with them and follow along while also being entertained by the art and the surprises that await them with every page turn. Chag Passover Sameach! •Reviewed by Ronna Mandel

 

Matzah Day cover family members holding matzah.MATZAH DAY!
Written by Charlotte Offsay
Illustrated by Jason Kirschner
(Holiday House; $18.99, Ages 3-6)

Charlotte Offsay has a talent for writing picture books with rhyme that 1. always entertain, 2. propel the story forward, and 3. employ a catchy rhyme scheme that invites read-alouds. She did it with Challah Day! and succeeds once again with Matzah Day!

This lively written and whimsically illustrated holiday story celebrates the popular Passover cracker made from water, salt, and flour that can be enjoyed in as many ways as matzah is spelled. You can even see it in this roundup spelled matzah, matzoh, and some times matza, and matzo. Are there other spelling variations that I don’t know about? Maybe! But no matter how you spell it, there is much to love about the food that came to be when “The Jewish people fled from Egypt in such a hurry that they didn’t have time to wait for their dough to rise.”

Don’t miss the three recipes included to try with the help of a parent, as well as information about exactly what matzah is, what Passover is, and why we eat matzah for Passover. I appreciated the tight rhyme when Offsay describes the different (and delicious) ways matzah can be eaten as the family gets fuller and fuller. “Like it salty, plain, or sweet? No wrong way to eat this treat! Toffee, chocolate, salted top. Once you start, it’s hard to stop.” Too right. It’s one of my Passover weaknesses, along with matzah brei, a breakfast matzah mashup my family loves year-round. The zany spreads where Kirschner has made the family members smaller sized as they play on the larger scaled ingredients are quite funny. As a feline fan, I also appreciate the adorable kitty added for good measure. What a great new read to add to your family’s Passover picture book collection. •Reviewed by Ronna Mandel

 

Written by Alan Katz
Illustrated by Adam Auerbach
(Harper Collins BYR; $12.00, Ages 4-8)

The Cohen family is enjoying the Passover seder at Grandpa Murray and Grandma Norma’s home. It is time to hide the afikomen and Grandpa Murray is searching for the perfect spot which his grandchildren won’t be able to locate. However, when he hears that the matzah ball soup is being served, he rejoins his family. After the meal, it’s time to find the afikomen . . .  but the kids don’t know where their grandfather hid it, and Grandpa Murray doesn’t remember either! So, where is the afikomen? We probably all can relate to this.

Young detectives will enjoy the pen and ink illustrations, which combine different angles and vantage points, adding both interest and a sense of mystery to the story, which has a simple yet satisfactory solution. •Reviewed by Freidele Galya Soban Biniashvili

 

 

Happy Passover, Edie Rose cover Edie hugging young neighbor Mia.HAPPY PASSOVER, EDIE ROSE!
Written by Joy Preble
Illustrated by Valeria Cis
(Kar-Ben Publishing; $18.99, Ages 4-9)

Though not new to writing for children, Joy Preble’s debut picture book, Happy Passover, Edie Rose!, is a heartwarming take on the Passover story. Young readers will admire the meaningful relationship between an older woman, Edie Rose, and a young girl, Mia, neighbors in their close-knit apartment building. Edie Rose has created a tradition with her neighbors where they gather together in her home for a Passover seder that not only includes matzah ball soup and charoset but takes them on a journey similar to the one Moses and the Jewish people took from Egypt to the land of Israel.

Early on, Valeria Cis’s appealing artwork details Edie Roses’s seder to-do list along with illustrations of the smiling and diverse mix of neighbors. And, of course, Edie’s adorable red and white dog, Mo, is always by her side. Turning the page, we see memories of past seders with Edie and her friends coloring paper frogs and crossing through Edie’s living room pretending it’s the Red Sea. Mia spends a great deal of time with Edie when her mother works late, and despite being from different generations, the two have become great friends.

Next up, Edie is baking her chewy macaroons just before this year’s Passover. Mia’s mom walks through the door as Edie carries the hot, out-of-the-oven macaroons from the kitchen. Preble skillfully sets up the scene as Mo, unable to control his sniffer and overjoyed by the yummy aroma, dashes up to steal a cookie. The two collide. Macaroons scatter everywhere. Edie ends up in the hospital with a broken arm. Mia, with her caring neighbors’ help brings Passover to Edie. Just like in the Passover story, young Mia creates the best seder ever. “We marched together,” Mia tells Edie proudly. “All of us. Like you said.”

This charming tale with a twist asks kids why this night is different from all other nights, but this year, the answer is that all the neighbors worked together for Edie Rose—a wonderful lesson in kindness and gratitude. I loved how it showed that holidays don’t always have to be spent with blood relatives. Friends are family, too. •Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

roadside seder cover seder on a logROADSIDE SEDER
Written by Anna Levine
Illustrated by Naama Lahav
(Apples & Honey Press; $19.95, Ages 5-8)

Dad, Mom, Grandpa, Grandma, Benjy, and Matzah the dog are on their way to their seder in Jerusalem when the traffic comes to a standstill. What is the cause of the jam? How will they, and all of the other people on the road, reach their seders? Will there even be any seder that night? A story that keeps you guessing will also keep you turning the pages!
As sundown approaches, Benjy, dressed in his Moses get-up, comes up with the solution for a perfect seder for everyone present. And when it’s time to find the afikoman, the reader is invited along to find it in the drawing. A Passover story that gets youngsters involved is pure fun! Beautiful, inclusive representation of the religious and ethnic diversity in Israel is depicted in the colorful and cheerful cartoon-like illustrations. A letter from the author, words to know, and a recipe for charoset round out this joyous celebration of sharing Passover traditions, even in the most unusual circumstances. •Reviewed by Freidele Galya Soban Biniashvili

 

Ellis Island Passover cover immigrants on ship seeing Statue of Liberty.ELLIS ISLAND PASSOVER
Written and illustrated by Marissa Moss
(Creston Books; $19.99; Ages 5-10)

Sometimes, you read a book that brings you back to a time long ago, and that’s what happened to me as I sat down to read award-winning author-illustrator Marissa Moss’s latest picture book, Ellis Island Passover. The story begins with a seven-year-old girl in a grumpy mood. (That was relatable.) Her family is coming over for the first night of Passover, and she has already been yelled at by her mom for bad behavior and sent to her room by her father for leaving a messy kitchen. She’s clearly not having a good day.

Moss’s evocative pastel drawings of the extended family being welcomed into the little girl’s home include Great Uncle Ezra, who has arrived from Chicago with slicked-back grey hair and glasses. He lives so far away that this is his first Passover with the little girl and her family. She doesn’t say hello to him, but no one notices—except Uncle Ezra. “’What is wrong with my cupcake?’ he asks.” She wonders if he can see she is in a bad mood. He sits on the floor with her and begins to tell her a story.

The story begins when he is nine years old. He’s shipped from Russia to America to live with his brother to escape the intolerable conditions the Jewish people were subjected to in their birth country. My grandfather escaped Russia as well, and reading Moss’s words made me remember the stories he told us.

Life in America had to be better than life in Russia. Once in New York, Ezra was put on a small boat to Ellis Island, the big immigration center. Ezra was given one week to stay there while authorities searched for his brother Mendel—and if Mendel couldn’t be found, he would be returned to his homeland. During his stay on Ellis Island, Ezra realized it was Passover. The Jews on Ellis Island did not have a Haggadah to read, so they decided to tell the stories with a Hebrew Bible. They didn’t have matzoh, so they used American crackers. That night, each of us was reading the story of Exodus and living the story of our own exodus, from the old world to the new, from oppression to freedom. And though Uncle Ezra has celebrated many Passovers since that first one on Ellis Island, this night, he had a new Passover story—his first Passover with his niece.

This picture book beautifully puts into words how Passover has been spent over generations while teaching Jewish children the history of their ancestors. The faded tones and pale palette of the art felt just right for this immigration story. My kids may be adults, but I still plan to share this story with them so they can understand what their great-grandfather endured for them to live in a free country. •Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

One Little Goat cover boy and goat time traveling.ONE LITTLE GOAT: A Passover Catastrophe
Written by Dara Horn
Illustrated by Theo Ellsworth
(Norton Young Readers; $18.99. Ages 8-12)

Starred Review – School Library Journal
e
I was not prepared for the wild and wonderfully rewarding reading adventure that Horn and Ellsworth’s graphic novel took me on. Inspired by Horn’s thoughts during Passover when she was growing up, this rollercoaster ride of a story should resonate with many young readers. When I opened the first page of One Little Goat, the narrator, known as the “wise child,” quickly pulled me in when he said his seder had gone horribly wrong. I had to find out how.
Anyone who has ever attended a Passover seder that seems to go on forever will find this novel’s tongue-in-cheek humor relatable. Can you remember your stomach’s constant growling, the one relative who insists on doing things a certain way, and definitely the long way, an older cousin dipping his pinkie in the wine a little bit too much, or never finding the afikoman and winning the dollar coin? These are just a few of the Passover things we have come to expect, all captured over six chapters in 152 pages, though I wish there were more!
We meet the narrator as the seder begins, and the house is packed with family. From our safe spot, like a fly on the wall, we watch as the chaos unfolds. We learn that Dad was originally from the Soviet Union, where he could not practice Judaism, and Mom is pregnant with her fifth child. Great-Grandma, at 98, is a Warsaw Ghetto survivor. And somehow, over time, the meaning of the seder has been lost on the narrator.
To end the seder, the afikoman, or half the piece of matzah that gets hidden early on, needs to be found. However in The Little Goat, it goes missing when the baby sister tosses it into a portal where the titular goat finds and hides it someplace safe in another time zone. But he can’t recall exactly when or where. Without that important piece of matzah, the seder continues for six months! Thankfully, those I’ve attended have never lasted so long, though they may have felt that way. Talk about taking an idea and going over the top! Even more outrageous is that this particular seder is one taking place on top of layers of seders occurring concurrently over millennia. The narrator learns this when that cheeky little talking goat shows up and leads him back in time to seders of old. It’s an eye-opening experience for him as he travels through the space-time continuum, learning about the significance of the Exodus from Egypt and all the hardships the Jewish people have endured from the Spanish Inquisition to WWII where his brave Great Grandmother lived in the Warsaw Ghetto, from Minsk, USSR 1981 where his father grew up, or New York City, 1990, where his mother lived as a child.
I enjoyed how the story’s wicked humor and educational aspect paired perfectly. Ellsworth’s artistic interpretation, in black and white, of Horn’s text is impressive and easy to follow. The two work so seamlessly together that it’s hard to believe that not just one creator did it all. The novel ends in such a satisfying way that I was ready to sit back down and start it all over again. Don’t miss this recommended read. •Reviewed by Ronna Mandel

 

MORE RECOMMENDED PASSOVER READS:

MY MATZAH
Written and illustrated by Ann Koffsky
(Apples & Honey Press; $10.95, Ages 0-5)

 

 

 

The Curious Case of the Pot Roast cover child detective inspecting roast.THE CURIOUS CASE OF THE POT ROAST
Written by Jamie Kiffel-Alcheh
Illustrated by Menahem Halberstadt
(Green Bean Books; $13.99, Ages 4-7)

Available for purchase in the U.K. now.
Available for purchase in the U.S. on May 30, 2025

 

A Purr-fect Passover cover cats at seder.A PURR-FECT PASSOVER
Written by Jenna Waldman
Illustrated by Erica J. Chen
(Apples & Honey Press; $19.99, Ages  3-6)

 

 

 

Next Year in The White House cover Obama first seder.NEXT YEAR IN THE WHITEHOUSE
Written by Richard Michelson
Illustrated by E.B. Lewis
(Crown Books for Young Readers with PJ Library; $18.99, Ages 4-8)

Starred Review  – Booklist, Kirkus

 

 

 

Zayde_Babysits_Before_Passover_cover_Zayde_and_Ruthie_at_supermarket Zayde Babysits Before Passover cover Zayde and Ruthie at supermarket. ZAYDE BABYSITS BEFORE PASSOVER
Written by Jane Sutton
Illustrated by Kate Chappell
(Kar-Ben Publishing; $18.99, Ages 4-9)

 

 

 

Passover on Everest cover two hikers and tents below.PASSOVER ON EVEREST
Written by Rachelle Burk
Illustrated by Craig Orback
(Intergalactic Afikomen; $19.99, Ages 4-10)

 

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Picture Book Review – Addie and the Amazing Acrobats

ADDIE AND THE AMAZING ACROBATS

Written and illustrated by Shauna Cagan

(Hippo Park; $18.99, Ages 4-8)

 

Addie and the Amazing Acrobats cover three bats in moonlight.

 

 

 

 

This is the story of three bat best friends: Addie, Jude, and Ben, whose favorite things to do are swooping, flipping, and somersaulting their nights away in Addie And The Amazing Acrobats. This debut picture book by author-illustrator and preschool teacher Shauna Cagan tells the story of “Superstar” Addie, who is confronted with a choice between her best friends and the fame of joining the legendary Big Bat Circus.

 

 

Addie and the Amazing Acrobats int1 best bat friends.
Interior illustrations from Addie and the Amazing Acrobats by Shauna Cagan, Hippo Park ©2023.

 

 

Cagan pulls the reader into the story by breaking the fourth wall: “Um, excuse me.” Addie interrupts the narrator, disagreeing with the opening line of the story. Cagan’s terrific digital illustrations deliver, too, as the scene is set by the big red bridge and the many bats hanging upside down in the dark underneath a passing train. With Addie not liking the opening line, the story starts again with “This is the story of three BEST friends. They were together from the start.” Addie wants the reader to know that their friendship is most important. Cagan illustrates them as newborns wrapped in blankets and at their first sleepover (see art above), where they stayed up all day (get it, they’re bats). As they get older, their favorite thing to do is aerial stunts over the night sky.

 

 

Addie and the Amazing Acrobats int2 bat friends performing under red brick bridge.
Interior spread from Addie and the Amazing Acrobats by Shauna Cagan, Hippo Park ©2023.

 

 

The trio was a big hit performing for the bears, skunks, and deer, and with each night, the crowds grew. One night, Addie felt a tap on her wing and was asked to join the Big Bat Circus leaving the following day. Addie, Ben, and Jude were over the moon and waited early in the morning with packed bags by the train tracks for the adventures to begin. But when Flipper Von Swoopsalot arrived with his tall red and yellow top hat and red cape, he said, “Just you, Superstar. The others have to stay.” Addie had a tough choice to make. Young readers may be convinced that she would never leave her friends behind. So what happened? She boarded the train with the banner on the side that read THE ONE AND ONLY AMAZING ADDIE!!

 

Night after night on the road, Addie dazzled her fans, who crammed inside the traveling circus tent with boxes of popcorn and yummy treats. Addie’s talent was in the spotlight, something she always dreamed about. But something was missing.

 

 

Addie and the Amazing Acrobats int3 Addie realizes something is missing.
Interior spread from Addie and the Amazing Acrobats by Shauna Cagan, Hippo Park ©2023.

 

 

Meanwhile, back home, Addie’s replacement, a terrified raccoon holding on to a tree stump (such a funny illustration!), is too afraid to join Jude and Ben flying in the sky. When Addie receives the news that she will be performing back at home, she immediately mails a letter to her friends. But are they still her best friends? When the second Tuesday arrives Addie looks out the train window in hopes her best bat pals have not abandoned her as she did them.

This sweet story about choosing friendship over what you think you want the most is heartwarming. It shows kids the impact of their choices, a positive social-emotional element that adds an extra layer to the entertainment. The humor is delightful, and you can find something new to laugh about with every read. Bravo to Shauna Cagan, who has taken her years of teaching preschool students and created a book the kids will adore.

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

 

 

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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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Five Halloween Books for Children – A 2024 Roundup

 

HALLOWEEN ROUNDUP 2024

Free Halloween Clip Art

Five Little Ghosts cover full moon with ghostlings floating above pumpkins.FIVE LITTLE GHOSTS
Written by Lily Murray
Illustrated by Holly Surplice
(Candlewick Press; $16.99, Ages 2-5)

It’s probably hard to find a child who doesn’t adore lift-the-flap books so this new one for fans of spirited Halloween reads fits the bill. Not only is it a rhyming story but it’s also based on the nursery rhyme “Five Little Ducks,” if you thought the structure seemed familiar. Twenty-four sturdy pages feature five little ghostlings floating away to hide under flaps, first in a forest amongst owls, a hedgehog, and a deer. The amount of ghostlings decreases as they next hide in a house, in a playground, and finally in a pumpkin patch. Soon, they have all disappeared. “Sad Mama Ghost was all alone …” Ask kids if they think she’ll find the missing ghosts for more interactive fun and a delightful surprise ending. The art, rendered digitally, has a cheerful watercolor style and complements the catchy sing-songy text.

• Reviewed by Ronna Mandel

 

Illustrated by Nico Ecenarro
(Little Press; $18.99, Ages 4-8)
Two witchy sisters share a room (and a broom) with one problem: they are opposites. One sister loves glitter, the other gloom. Through a series of magical, tug-of-war-like episodes, a familiar story of compromise plays out as the sisters argue over how to decorate their new room. Bright, cartoony art and a Halloween theme give this story a fresh feel.
• Reviewed by Roxanne Troup

 

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The Ghost Who Was Afraid of Everything cover haunted house ghost in attic window.THE GHOST WHO WAS AFRAID OF EVERYTHING
Written and illustrated by Nadia Ahmed
(Beaming Books; $18.99, Ages 3-8)
★ Starred Review – BookPage

It’s nice to read a Halloween story where it’s the ghost that’s scared rather than the child. In this sweet, SEL-centered story, Finn is afraid of lots of things. While that includes humans and the loud noises they make, the main thing that frightens poor Finn is flying. Naturally, that makes a huge difference when this year his family hasn’t brought back extra Chocolate Bats, Finn’s favorite Halloween candy.

Now that he’s motivated because of the candy, Finn decides it’s a good idea to try to face his fears. This involves a very orderly process of desensitization. He exposes himself to the things he is fearful of and gradually gains the courage to fly only to be brought back to square one after an encounter with a kite. The second time around though, rather than hide away in the attic and accept defeat, Finn decides to accept the challenge and join his family to trick-or-treat. Children will cheer for Finn when he conquers his fears. I like that this is never conveyed pedantically but rather it feels authentic to the character. Ahmed has taken on a relatable topic for children in a gently empowering tale that blends simple but charming illustrations with engaging prose. This is a welcome debut for Halloween and perfect for kids who might be frightened to go out trick-or-treating like one of my kids was.
• Reviewed by Ronna Mandel

 

The Little Witch Who Lost Her Broom cover witch and black cat under full moon.THE LITTLE WITCH WHO LOST HER BROOM!
Written by Elaine Bickell
Illustrated by Raymond McGrath
(Flamingo Books; $18.99, Ages 4-8)

New York Times Bestselling creators of The Little Ghost Who Lost Her Boo! bring you their latest Halloween tale The Little Witch Who Lost Her Broom! The reader is first introduced to the Little Witch and her cat Gloom, whose name coincidentally rhymes with Broom, as the two await the full moon rising so they can ride into the sky on her broom. The artwork grabs your eye with an assortment of autumn colors and an adorable black cat always by Little Witch’s side. But when she goes to the cupboard to retrieve her broom, “there was NOTHING inside.” And that’s when the pair begin searching under the bed, the closets, the attic, and the shed before they run out of time.

Bickell’s use of onomatopoeia and rhyme creates a fun read for both the reader and the child. Little Witch finds a scooter, thinking a scooter is as good as a broom. Push, push, wheeeee! “Oh no! Too small. Only room for me.” She tries out a digger, a plane, and even a train when she looks up in the sky and sees YOU! The story beautifully includes the reader when asked Do YOU know where to look? And the reader responds IT’S RIGHT BEHIND YOU! When the reader scrolls through the pages, they see the broom had been behind the witch all along! I can just hear an entire kindergarten class yelling out the words and laughing, asking the teacher to read the book over and over again.
• Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

Wacky Witches and Their Peculiar Familiars cover witch brewing and animals.WACKY WITCHES AND THEIR PECULIAR FAMILIARS
Written and illustrated by April Suddendorf
(NorthSouth Books; $19.95, Ages 4-8)

If you don’t know what a familiar is, it’s a witch’s protector, or companion, often a pet that helps them with their magic. I loved the idea of this picture book and enjoyed meeting a bunch of different witches with an assortment of outfits and attitudes. They also happen to be very cool. The same goes for their familiars introduced in bouncy rhyme. The meter is not always perfect and that may be due to the translation. However, the humor and bold, whimsical art more than make up for that. One witch for example has taught her parrot to talk so he can answer the phone when she’s not around. Then there’s the busy witch Agnes who finds raccoons are great to have around to help her clean. My favorite is the witch Sahra who, like me, is a big collector. Who helps her organize her trove of treasures? Why a giraffe, of course!
• Reviewed by Ronna Mandel

 

Check out recommendations from last year’s roundup here.

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Picture Book Review – Every Night at Midnight

EVERY NIGHT AT MIDNIGHT

Written and illustrated by Peter Cheong

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

 

 

Every Night at Midnight cover sitting boy with wolf shadow.

 

 

In Every Night At Midnight, illustrator Peter Cheong’s first book as an author-illustrator, Felix the human boy turns into a wolf at midnight and runs alone through the streets. But at school, life is very different. He realizes he must hide his secret so he keeps to himself. He is fine with that until one day he stumbles on a member of his pack.

The black colored background of the digitally rendered illustrations depicts dark-haired Felix dressed in an orange sweater alone at night drawing pages and pages of wolf heads and bodies that are then taped to his bedroom walls. And that is when he turns into a wolf.

 

 

Every Night at Midnight int1 boy on bed at night drawing.
Interior spread from Every Night at Midnight written and illustrated by Peter Cheong, Atheneum BYR ©2023.

 

When the reader turns the page, they see the same dark background with a wolf in Felix’s orange sweater looking down at the neighborhood streets before embarking on his solo adventure. “My hands and feet turn into velvety paws; my face changes; and I grow a long, bushy tail.”

Cheong draws a white background as Felix enters the school where kids are playing together dressed in school uniforms—with one classmate notably dressed up as a bear. Felix stands alone watching them walk by. “The other kids used to invite me to sleepovers at their places. But since I turn into a wolf every night, I can’t.”

 

Every Night at Midnight int2 no more sleepovers boy at school.
Interior art from Every Night at Midnight written and illustrated by Peter Cheong, Atheneum BYR ©2023.

 

Felix feels it’s best to be on his own but he does wish he didn’t turn into a wolf EVERY night. Felix the wolf,  dressed in an orange sweater, stands alone looking over the roofs of the neighborhood. He’s a brave, strong wolf but the loneliness he begins to feel is expressed with Cheong’s emotionally empowered words and illustrations.

 

Every Night at Midnight int3 there is a new girl at school.
Interior art from Every Night at Midnight written and illustrated by Peter Cheong, Atheneum BYR ©2023.

 

 

One day a white-haired girl in a green sweater who has moved into the house down the street from Felix is welcomed with open arms by her new classmates. Cheong’s employing a white background when Felix feels alone and a black background when he runs through the streets needing no one by his side is a great visual for feelings. Because of his nighttime outings, Felix is the fastest kid in class, ” or at least I was.” The new girl runs right past him.

One night Felix hears an echo from his bedroom and looks down to see a white wolf (remember the new girl’s white hair?) standing on a rooftop down the street wearing a green sweater. The page turns to the black wolf and the white wolf running in the streets side by side. “This is the best night ever. We leap, we bound, we fly, Until… ” The white wolf falls.

Felix returns to school not knowing what happened to the white wolf when he sees the new girl has a cast on her arm. He signs her cast with the other classmates and shows his wolf drawings to the other kids. He gives the new girl a wolf necklace that she puts around her neck and he realizes that this is the best day ever.

This beautifully told story is about dealing with loneliness until the day comes when you find your special pack. It is a heartwarming tale to help children understand that even when they have these days or weeks if they stay brave, they will one day find others just like them.

  • Reviewed by Ronda Skernick Einbinder

 

 

Click here for a guide to using books about feelings and emotions.

 

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Best Mother’s Day Books 2024

 

 

BEST MOTHER’S DAY BOOKS 2024

∼ A ROUNDUP ∼

 

 

 

I Really Like Mom cover Bear holding cub.I REALLY LIKE MOM
Written by Su-an Lee
Illustrated by So-ra Kim
Translated by Paige Morris
(Abrams BYR; $15.99, Ages 4-8)

“With a sweet, universal message and charming illustrations full of irresistibly cute animals, author Su-an Lee and illustrator So-ra Kim’s picture book I Really Like Mom is a loving tribute to moms everywhere.”

Translated from Korean, this upbeat picture book featuring many different animal mom and child pairs will make young readers feel good all over. “I really like Mom,” is repeated throughout the story as it reinforces all the special things moms do. Whether it’s tucking their child into bed, or whipping up a yummy breakfast, Moms work their magic. Moms sing sweet songs and give loving kisses. “She praises me for playing nicely with my friends
as we take turns sharing my favorite toy.” I’m glad Lee chose to include that compliment since a mom’s praise means so much to children. The story ends with a human mom and her child cuddling at bedtime bringing a full day to a calm close. Kim’s included an adorable ladybug who crawls in through a bedroom window early on and is fun to spot in various scenes. Her soft-looking, sweet digitally created illustrations add to the charm of this celebration of moms. • Reviewed by Ronna Mandel

 

Mamá's Panza cover Mamá hold son.MAMÁ’S PANZA
Written by Isabel Quintero
Illustrated by Iliana Galvez 
(Kokila; $18.99, Available in Spanish, Ages 3-7)

“Mamá’s Panza is a young boy’s love letter to his mother, along with a celebration of our bodies and our bellies.”
“Panza is another word for belly,” says a little boy on the first page as his mother performs a yoga pose. He goes on to describe many types of bellies. Some are “Big, round, soft, or small and hard … ” His favorite panza belongs to his mamá.
This heartwarming story is a gently lyrical ode to one boy’s mother from when she first felt his movements in her belly before he was born to the present. I loved the language and the gorgeous artwork in the spreads during Mamá’s pregnancy. Sentences such as “Mamá dressed her panza in bright colors and flowers to show the world that she was blooming,” convey a joyful spirit that can be seen on every page. Mamá’s panza is a fun place to play like a “whole mountain to climb,” and a comforting place to be cradled at day’s end. Best of all, not only does this child adore his mamá’s panza but she does as well. It carried him during her pregnancy and kept him alive. It “keeps me alive as well. How could I not love it?” Such a moving testament to self-love and body positivity. How could I not adore this touching book? • Reviewed by Ronna Mandel

 

Mother's Day Here I Come cover princess mom with kids at tea party.MOTHER’S DAY, HERE I COME!
Written by D. J. Steinberg
Illustrated by Emanuel Wiemans
(Grosset & Dunlap; $6.99  Paperback Original, Ages 4-6)   

Celebrate Mother’s Day with this collection of sweet and funny poems from the author of the hugely popular Kindergarten, Here I Come! The bestselling Here I Come! series offers parents and kids a way to learn about new experiences, holidays, and life events. Each book in the series features delightful poems about all the different moments and traditions children can expect, as well as a page of stickers.

This cheerful picture book, a new one in the bestselling series, is packed with poems on different mom-centric subjects. Here’s one depicting kids jumping on the bed called “Wake up!” which should resonate with moms (and dads) everywhere.

On Mother’s Day, Mama slept late,
but her three little cubs couldn’t wait . . .

They jumped on her bed.
“ Wake up!” they all said.
“ We’re ready to go CELEBRATE!”

From moms around the world to working moms, from handmade cards (legible or scribbled) to macaroni jewelry gifts, Steinberg addresses aspects of mothers’ lives in fresh, fun ways. Diverse characters populate the book and Wiemans’ art brings an added touch of humor to complement each poem.

Like the other books in this series, Mother’s Day, Here I Come! is sure to be a hit with children who want to honor their moms (or mums) on Mother’s Day. Kids’ll love the page of stickers too! • Reviewed by Ronna Mandel

 

Illustrated by Tatiana Kamshilina
(Doubleday BYR; $18.99, Ages 3-7)
This book is an homage to the adults who have taken on the role of mother for children who have lost their biological parent and children who get an extra adult to love. Stephanie Stansbie’s
picture book Always Your Stepmom is a companion book to Always Your Stepdad inspired by the
loss of her biological father at age one and the addition of her new father at the age of five.
Tatiana Kamshilina’s illustrations take the reader back in time when a smiling redheaded woman
appears on the doorstep to meet the son of what we assume is her boyfriend. The dark-haired boy
smiles as he accepts a book from this unfamiliar lady. Stansbie writes in rhyme making this sweet story a heartfelt read. The trio creates new life experiences exploring national parks, while still honoring the boy’s past with photos from when he learned his first words. If I had been there when you learned your first words, I could never have cherished you more.
As the reader turns the page, new photos are placed in the photo album of the dad, his son, and the stepmom and the new life they have created together. As a new stepmom, she is shy and awkward during the boy’s fifth birthday party. We see the change in family dynamics a year later at his sixth birthday party when the kids are frolicking and she is socializing with other adults.
I’ll love you forever. You’ve changed me for good! This beautiful tribute to blended families is a loving bedtime read for both adults and children and a wonderful addition to our Mother’s Day Roundup. •Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

The_I_Can_Say_Mama_Book_cover_photo_of_mom_and_babyTHE I CAN SAY MAMA BOOK:
A MY FIRST LEARN-TO-TALK BOOK
Written by Stephanie Cohen
(Source Books; $9.99, Ages 0-3 years)

Licensed and Certified Speech Language Pathologist Stephanie Cohen has created a board book designed to teach babies words used in daily routines, along with one of the best first words a baby can say “Mama.” Each page shows a photograph of a mother and her child with word bubbles expressing what Mama is teaching the baby to say.

The opening page is designed to attach a photo of Mama and each page after shows the action and the saying. “Hi, Mama!” The laughing baby says while being lifted by Mama out of the crib. “Up, Mama.” “Kiss, Mama.” “Hug, Mama.” Individual pages of vivid photos of diverse mothers show the bond between the two.

As the babies age, the words change. “Walk, Mama” and “Book, Mama” with Mama and child reading together. This is also a great book for potty training as the child learns words like “Pee-Yoo Mama” which should make everyone laugh. The back matter explains how this book should be used and how repetition is vital in teaching these keywords. “Just remember to pause each time after saying ‘mama,’ to allow your childtime to respond.” My favorite lesson in the book was Cohen explaining that “the more you read this book aloud to your child, the more engaged your child will be.” What a great first Mother’s Day to have your child’s first word be mama!
•Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

Additional Recommended Reads for Mother’s Day or Grandparents’ Day:

Written and illustrated by Tania de Regil
(Candlewick Press; $18.99, Ages 4-8)
★ Starred Review – Publishers Weekly
During her mother’s pregnancy, Julia is separated from her parents for the first time when she is brought by her grandma to spend the summer away in author/illustrator Tania de Regil’s picture book Something About
Grandma. Before reading the words on the opening pages, I was drawn into the mixed media artwork of purple and blue birds flying in the sky and the stunning landscape of Grandma’s little house in a town at the foot of the mountain in Mexico City.
Handwritten letters are dropped into the trees, clothing, flowers, and Julia’s bicycle representing

poems written by her great-grandfather and handwritten by her grandmother. De Regil’s creativity in showing us the importance of these poems was truly felt. Julia adores everything her grandma does from cooking meals with fresh herbs grown in the garden to somehow knowing when Julia sneaks out to pick daisies and limes. Grandma seemed to know everything.

Grandma sits quietly on the terrace under the night sky writing things in a notebook. Grandma
had many secrets. But the story changes when Julia receives a letter from Mom and Dad. She realizes she misses home. Grandma’s sweet brown striped cat sits on the couch looking over her shoulder knowing something is making Julia sad. Grandma, and the cat, cuddle with Julia to help make her feel better. Grandma makes her delicious hot chocolate and entertains her with tricks and games.
The reader turns the page to see Mom and Dad walk through the back door with a new bundle of joy in Mom’s arms—Julia has a new baby brother. Julia snuggles with her family as she turns the pages of the photo album Grandma had shared with her and it’s exactly what they needed. Julia looked at Grandma and smiled.
This is a moving story that depicts the love grandparents have for their grandchildren—and the adoring love the grandchild has for the grandparent. It teaches the reader that no matter how much they may miss their home that time spent with grandparents is a magical experience for all. This is a perfect new Mother’s Day read, and it is available in Spanish.  •Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

Click here for another Mother’s Day Roundup.

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Picture Book Review – Looking for Happy

 

LOOKING FOR HAPPY

Written by Ty Chapman

Illustrated by Keenon Ferrell

(Beaming Books; $18.99; Ages 5-8)

 

Looking for Happy cover a boy and his different moods.

 

 

Author Ty Chapman says, “Some days, Happy is hard to find,” and that’s the theme in Looking For Happy, a heartfelt picture book about a Black child who is usually happy but on this day he struggles to shake the blues.

Digital animator and illustrator Keenon Ferrell introduces the story with a vibrant blue visible outside the window beside a smiling boy listening to music and dancing. He’s happy at this moment in time. But the next page depicts a new day, and the smile is missing from his face. “Today, though, nothing makes me happy.” The reader sees that there isn’t always a reason for feeling sad, but the boy tries his best to escape his gloomy mood. He reads a book about fighting dragons, another about scuba diving, and then a book about space. Nothing. His brain can’t focus. This is very relatable.

 

Looking for Happy int1 a boy listening to music at home.
Interior spread from Looking for Happy written by Ty Chapman and illustrated by Keenon Ferrell, Beaming Books ©2023.

 

Even though his little sister is laughing in front of the television he can’t crack a smile. He’s just blue. The day continues as he spends time with friends but he’s just not feeling it so he goes home. Lying flat down on the living room couch, he tells Grandma he’s not happy and with sweetness and support Grandma replies that “everyone feels like that sometimes.” She suggests they go for a walk.

 

Looking for Happy int2 a sad boy on sofa watched by his grandma.
Interior spread from Looking for Happy written by Ty Chapman and illustrated by Keenon Ferrell, Beaming Books ©2023.

 

The neighborhood park is filled with older kids playing basketball and an elderly woman walking her fluffy brown dog. Everyone looks happy but the boy is still feeling sad inside. They continue their walk, holding hands, searching for something to put a smile on his face. The boy describes his feelings as rocks in his chest. Chapman brings words to feelings that are often hard to describe. The boy wants to go home but then hears a wonderful sound. Illustrations of musical notes float through the playground and the boy runs towards the sound.

Ferrell’s art reflects his African American heritage and love for music with the park musician playing the saxophone. “You have a song you want to hear?” the man asks with Grandma whispering the name of her grandson’s favorite song in his ear. This is when the story begins to change. We see his body move with the beat of the music and a smile appears on his face. Grandma joins in and together they sing and dance. “The rocks in his chest are gone.”

 

Looking for Happy int3 boy and his grandma at park.
Interior spread from Looking for Happy written by Ty Chapman and illustrated by Keenon Ferrell, Beaming Books ©2023.

 

This thoughtful tale conveys how music helps to remove bad feelings and models for kids that “sometimes a happy song is right around the corner.” Chapman’s literary accomplishments are quite impressive and his writing in this story flows like the notes from a saxophone. What a great lesson showing that sometimes there isn’t always a reason for feeling a little down and that in those cases, maybe we all just need time to pass or to hear an uplifting tune. This is not only a lesson for kids but a lesson for anyone needing comforting words to get them through a difficult day.

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

 

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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 – Way Past Sorry

 

WAY PAST SORRY

Written by Hallee Adelman

Illustrated by Josep Maria Juli

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

 

 

Way Past Sorry cover mcKat feeling sorry

 

 

Author Hallee Adelman has taken big feelings and put them into words and actions in this helpful picture book about a young girl who breaks a promise to her best friend and now, feeling Way Past Sorry needs to find a way to remedy the situation and save her friendship.

In this latest book in Adelman’s series that teaches kids how to manage powerful emotions in social situations, we meet Kat who is on her way to a class trip with her classmates and best friend Sage. Josep Maria Juli, who also illustrated Adelman’s Way Past Embarrassed, paints a blue bus with students seated side by side, well, everyone except Sage. Kat had promised her best friend that she would sit with her on the trip but instead sits beside Meera. I have no doubt this is probably a situation many children have experienced. The art complements the story and keeps it simple so as not to distract from the relationship issues.

 

Way Past Sorry int1 on bus Meera and I shared secrets.
Interior spread from Way Past Sorry written by Hallee Adelman and illustrated by Josep Maria Juli, Albert Whitman & Co. ©2023.

 

Leaving the bus, Kat attempts an apology but Sage ignores her.”I felt way past sorry.” When the students are asked to pair up, Sage is left with their teacher Mr. Pish. She walks towards him with sunken shoulders and no smile on her face. And Kat, dressed in her yellow shirt and blue pants, is also missing a smile.

Sometimes problems grow bigger, even when it’s the last thing we want, and that’s what happens when Kat is asked why she wasn’t Sage’s buddy. Making a bad situation worse, Kat responds, “Sage didn’t want to sit with me …” not wanting the kids to know she was the one who created the problem. She feels awful getting hugs she didn’t deserve.

Adding insult to injury, readers see Kat’s tongue sticking out at Sage when she’s confronted with her lie. This is such a relatable problem and a great lesson for kids to learn at a young age. Mr. Pish watches the girls’ interaction with a disappointed look. Kat dreams this day could start over, but we all know, especially young readers, that just isn’t possible.

 

Way Past Sorry int2 in planetarium wishing on a star.
Interior spread from Way Past Sorry written by Hallee Adelman and illustrated by Josep Maria Juli, Albert Whitman & Co. ©2023.

 

Everyone returns to class. But for Kat, “… my day couldn’t start again. I felt stuck with my sorry. After a while, Meera said, ‘You’re not being fun.'” Apropos of a class science project, Kat asks Mr. Pish, “… if good scientists make mistakes, do you think good friends do too?” She remembers good times with her best friend drawing on the floor. Completing the ice cream-making assignment, she hands a cone to Sage asking her if they can talk at lunch. This part is a mature example. Communicating feelings instead of ignoring what happened is a lesson kids will carry through into all of life’s ups and downs.

As we approach the final pages, feelings are unpacked. “She told me how I had made her feel. And I listened really well.” Kat admits her mistakes and Sage tells her she’s a great friend. A friendship mended and a happy ending. Other recommended books in the Great Big Feelings series include Way Past Lonely, Way Past Afraid, and Way Past Jealous, all teaching kids they are not alone when big feelings arise.

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

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Picture Book Review – Harold the Iceberg Melts Down

 

HAROLD THE ICEBERG MELTS DOWN

Written by Lisa Wyzlic

Illustrated by Rebecca Syracuse

(Feiwel & Friends; $18.99; Ages 3-6)

 

Harold the Iceberg Melts Down cover Harold worrying.

 

 

Kudos to Canadian debut author Lisa Wyzlic who has brought attention to climate change, and coping with big feelings in the original, humorous, and heartwarming Harold the Iceberg Melts Down.

 

Harold the Iceberg Melts Down int1 Harold liked to watch documentaries.
Interior art from Harold the Iceberg Melts Down written by Lisa Wyzlic and illustrated by Rebecca Syracuse, Feiwel & Friends ©2023.

 

The story opens with the reader being introduced to sweet, worrier Harold, a small green head of Iceberg lettuce. Rebecca Syracuse’s digitally rendered illustrations, full of whimsy, bring to life the vegetables residing in the refrigerator, and with each page turn the reader finds something new to laugh about. It took a second look for me to notice the television set was resting on a cube of butter (because, after all, it is living in a refrigerator).

One day Harold decides to watch a documentary to help ease his worries and turns on the television to learn that icebergs are melting. Syracuse depicts a variety of stickers placed on fruits and vegetables that we find in the grocery store (also in endpapers art). She illustrates Harold’s sticker with the word ‘lettuce’ partially hidden under a fold so only the word ‘Iceberg’ is visible. “I am an iceberg. See?” He announces to his friends as he stands on an upside-down sour cream container. “Though they didn’t really talk about how I ended up in a fridge…” Subtle humor like this should bring smiles to adult readers.

The other foods listen to his ramblings because sometimes feelings just need to be talked out. He tells Carrot, Tomato, Celery, and the Olives that he could slow down his demise if he moved to the freezer. The only problem is that the freezer is closed and under construction. So he decides it’s best to go to the very back of the fridge. “Maybe it’s colder there?”

 

Harold the Iceberg Melts Down int2 in the dark freezer.
Interior art from Harold the Iceberg Melts Down written by Lisa Wyzlic and illustrated by Rebecca Syracuse, Feiwel & Friends ©2023.

 

The pages turn dark and lonely as he is separated from the slice of pizza and veggie friends. He begins to worry even more. “Why didn’t the documentary tell me how to survive longer?” His friends try to help by telling Harold to count to ten and blow bubbles. He is focused only on the impending doom. While blowing the bubbles another friend from the lettuce family tells him that “he is an iceberg lettuce and lettuce doesn’t melt. ” Ooh, that’s a relief! But Harold begins to realize that even though he is safe real icebergs are melting. “What are we doing to help them?” It is too big a problem for these little guys to make a difference. Harold takes a deep breath and thinks up a plan. The slice of pizza and juice box high-five his idea. Together the refrigerator friends create posters that read Save The Planet and Save Our Bergs (their ability to write made them even more enduring).

Back Matter lists Harold’s Tips to Combat Climate Change which include turning off the tap to save water when brushing your teeth. Another list titled Harold’s Tips for Cooling Down explains the things you can do to release stress and anxiety from your body such as listening to soothing music and getting fresh air. Great tips for social and emotional learning.

Wyzlic’s book offers ideas to help children going through tough moments showing them that no matter how small they may be they have the power to do things to help change the world. I’d love to see this book in classrooms everywhere. It’s also a great read for story times and can spark many interesting discussions. Harold fans will be delighted to know the next book in the series, Harold the Iceberg is Not a Super Food, comes out this summer.

Click here for a downloadable activity kit.
Click here for some coloring pages.

  • Reviewed by Ronda Einbinder

 

 

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