Picture Books

Book Review: Digby Takes Charge

Author
Church, Caroline
Rating
4 stars = Really Good
Review

Digby is the new sheepdog and he's having trouble getting the sheep to do what he asks. He tries different ways until his farmyard friends teach him the value of one little word - please. It's a great reminder of the power of please (and thank you).

Reviewer's Name
Carol

'Book Review: Little Worlds'

Author
Collet, Geraldine
Rating
4 stars = Really Good
Review

Step into the Little Worlds of many different kinds of children with
unusual ways to look at the world. Author Geraldine Collet and illustrator
Sebastien Chebret have created a colorful picture book for children ages 3-7.
This picture book is sure to inspire some wonderful conversations about how
exciting it is to be an individual who looks at the world in a fresh, new
way.

Reviewer's Name
Anonymous

Book Review: Bob, Not Bob!

Author
Scanlon, Liz Garton
Rating
4 stars = Really Good
Review

For the parent, teacher or librarian who loves a good read aloud that can only be done with "the voices" - this is your book. A boy with a cold in his head calls for his mom, but it sounds like "Bob," and of course his dog, Bob, comes running instead. Hilarious situations will tickle reader and listener alike in Bob, Not Bob! by Liz Garton Scanlon and Audrey Vernick with pictures by Matthew Cordell. For ages 3 - 7.

Reviewer's Name
Barb

Book Review: Big Bear Little Chair

Author
Boyd, Lizi
Rating
4 stars = Really Good
Review

Big Bear Little Chair by Lizi Boyd is reminiscent of the block cut, three color art children's books of the 40's and 50's. Very simple text accompanies the beautiful illustrations depicting size comparison. Each page is a story unto itself, and children will love filling in the details of why the big zebra has such a little broom or why the big bird is carrying a little red umbrella. Perfect for ages 2 - 5.

Reviewer's Name
Barb

Book Review: The Beach at Night

Author
Ferrante, Elena
Rating
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review

“The Beach at Night” is an amazing read. The dolls tale is dark and scary but rich with life. Through words, the doll recognizes her existence, identity and family. When the thief tries to take those words from her, to sale on the doll market, she faces the potential loss of the things she values most. However, I think this story is much more than a dolls scary adventure, it is a reflection of who we are based on the words that have been given to us. In addition, to have those words taken is to be essentially silenced an existential fear for many in our world.

Reviewer's Name
Monique

Book Review: Tyrannosaurus Rex Vs. Edna, The Very First Chicken

Author
Rees, Douglas
Rating
3 stars = Pretty Good
Review

Tyrannosaurus Rex Vs Edna The Very First Chicken is a thoroughly enjoyable read. What caught my eye first is the adorable chicken on the cover with the very big eyes, eyes that remind me of a young child exploring their world for the first time. Inside I found Edna, who is a small thing not to be underestimated and Rex, who is a big thing intent on taking what he wants. The story demonstrates that size does not matter when you believe in yourself and stand for what is important for yourself and your community, in this case, survival. The illustrations are wonderful adding character to Rex and Edna and coloring a world long gone, a great read for children. However, the end of the story left me thinking about the impact our actions ultimately have on others, in this case Rex. He only wanted breakfast and was denied the opportunity to eat, leading to an end of the Rex.

Reviewer's Name
Monique

Book Review: Have You Seen Elephant?

Author
Barrow, David
Rating
4 stars = Really Good
Review

An adorable tale about a small boy and a very large elephant combined with an exciting game of hide and seek. This elephant is very good at hiding as you will see in the subtle but wonderful illustrations. This story ends with a new friend and new game, and will have your kiddo delighted with giggles. This is a very worthwhile, silly, and fun story. (JEasy...Grades PreK-2)

Reviewer's Name
Alicia

Book Review: Claude in the City

Author
Smith, Alex T.
Rating
4 stars = Really Good
Review

Claude is an adorable dog that wears a beret, a red sweater, and loves adventure. When his owners go to work the fun begins. Claude and Sir Bobblysock, his best friend, visit the city for the very first time. They have an exciting time going shopping for more berets, and having tea, but the most fun happens when they visit a museum. This charming adventure continues and more antics ensue. Claude in the City is a joy to read and sure to entertain. (Grades 3-5)

Reviewer's Name
Alicia

Book Review: 'Twas Nochebuena

Author
Thong, Roseanne
Rating
5 stars = Bohemian Rhapsody Awesome!
Review

This is a really well-done version of Clement Clarke Moore’s “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” that incorporates the traditions of Guatamala and Mexico by using key words in Spanish. Even this non-speaker can easily interpret the Spanish, as it is woven so seamlessly into the text. The bright illustrations add to the overall enjoyment of this multi-cultural portrayal of Christmas celebrations. A nice addition to all your Christmas favorites! Best for 5+.

Reviewer's Name
Kristin

Book Review: You're All My Favorites

Author
McBratney, Sam
Rating
4 stars = Really Good
Review

What a fabulous way to assure your little ones that they are all your favorite! Three bears wonder if their mom or dad likes one of them better than the others. But the parents give really good answers to their questions. A perfect book to snuggle up with and comfort all your little bears.

Reviewer's Name
Kristin