Unexpected Guests by Mariajo Ilustrajo

I'm very excited to open up today's read and see what's inside. This one caught my attention thanks to the title and cover. The two already promise a tale with all sorts of possibilities. Then, I saw that this one was short-listed for the British Books Award...which hints at amazing illustrations and a great tale, too. Right? I'll admit that I'm not always onboard with award decisions (especially in movies!), but I have high-hopes for this one.

So, let's open it up and see if I'll be disappointed or not.

UNEXPECTED GUESTS

by Mariajo Ilustrajo

Frances Lincoln Children's Books

Picture Book

42 pages

ages 4 to 8

Shortlisted for Illustrator of the Year - British Book Awards 2025

From the internationally best-selling author and illustrator, Mariajo Ilustrajo, comes an interactive page-turner of a picture book. Providing a playful, surprising twist on the classic “unexpected guest” premise, the narrative here is flipped, making humans the unexpected guests in a tale told by mice! 

The mice living happily under the floorboards of a house find their peace is disturbed by some unexpected guests . . . humans! The mice are curious about their guests and set out to investigate. They find weird and wonderful human objects and lots of food, so they decide their guests might not be so bad after all – until our intrepid mouse narrator finds himself caught in a jar!  His friends try to save him but get caught too, and they fear the worst, but they’re set free from the jar . . . and into a cardboard Mouse Land. The humans aren’t so bad after all! But, for the final twist, the mice discover there is one last guest to deal with—and it’s even worse than a CAT!

Providing a full interactive picture book experience, Unexpected Guests features a clever gatefold device that reveals the mice in their home under the floorboards, while die cut holes can be found on the front and back cover. These elements elevate the fast-paced and funny story and bring to life Mariajo’s irresistible artwork, resulting in what is sure to become a firm family favourite.

GOODREADS     /     PUBLISHER     /      AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

The idea of uninvited guests takes a cute twist and leads in unexpected directions in an inviting and, yet, thought-provoking way.

Mice have been enjoying their lives under the floorboards of a long, empty house. When so-called humans move in, everything is flipped on its head. These mice have heard rumors concerning humans, but nothing horribly specific. At first, they are very careful but soon learn that humans have some interesting things and foods, which definitely make mice-life more enjoyable. But humans are also known to be dangerous...and that might cause some issues.

This is a beautifully created picture book with light humor and an enjoyable amount of imagination. The illustrations carry this tale as the energetic mice go through their side of an adventure. Their world grabs attention with antics and heart at the bottom part of the page, while the humans' realm sits towards the top. The idea of 'pests' will probably sit in the back of readers' minds from the beginning, but the cute mice completely win over...and that while later switching into this more dangerous relationship between humans and mice. Or at least, edging on it enough to keep readers wondering what will happen and fear for the mice while also empathizing with the humans. It's an adorable and thought-provoking balance.

The text flows smoothly and enhances each moment while giving it foundation. This creates a lovely read-aloud and even a nice one for beginning readers to grab up on their own, since the images can help them along with the plot. The ending isn't quite what might be expected and keeps the entire read snuggly at the age level.

It's one worth picking up and enjoying.

And here she is...

Mariajo Ilustrajo is an award-winning Spanish illustrator based in the UK. She completed her MA in Children's Illustration from the prestigious Cambridge School of Art, before going on to be crowned the overall winner of the World Illustration Awards. Her debut picture book, Flooded, has been translated into 20 languages and won the Klaus Flugge Prize for Illustration.

The Head of the World by B.R. Kang

Today's read is the first in a brand new series. I've heard whispers that there are five books in planning but don't quote me on that because they are only whispers. I haven't really looked into this one much but have been looking forward to finally picking it up, since it's been on my pile for a couple months...just waiting to slide closer to release day, which is next week! Anyway, I'm expecting fantasy and rich world building as well as characters to adore, since this should be a longer series.

The only way to find out if this one is worth a read or not is to open it and dive in.

THE HEAD OF THE WORLD

Caput Mundi #1

by B.R. Kang

AP Creative LC

Middle Grade Fantasy

270 pages

ages 9 to 12

COMING MARCH 17th!!!

When Niil Terra sets off to find his missing parents, he ends up in Caput Mundi, a dazzling place filled with flourishing innovation and alchemic wonders. It is also the home of enarii, a shape-shifting metal that can be willed into any shape, whether it be swords, forks or fly swatters. As Niil’s talent for shaping enarii emerges, he discovers something he’s never had before: a place where he belongs.

But when secrets about enarii—and Niil’s parents—begin to surface, he is faced with an impossible choice that could cost far more than he’s prepared to lose.

Caput Mundi, the Head of the World is an upper middle grade fantasy adventure for ages 9-12. This epic quest blends action, elemental powers, and friendship into a hopepunk story about perseverance and standing up for what’s right. Even when the world feels impossibly big.

GOODREADS

MY TIDBITS

With a very original, magical direction, this is an adventure about discovery...and that in so many ways.

Niil's been kidnapped and brought to a very strange place. The kidnappers hope that his father will come for him and return what he's stolen, but Niil's family life isn't exactly golden. Instead, the kidnappers are kinder than expected and treat Niil like their own child. When they finally go after his father, they never return and Niil accompanies their true daughter to search for them. Plus, he needs to learn more about his own mother and history. But the journey isn't what they expected, and not only are there constant dangers, Niil discovers the magical substance called enarii and learns of his own, special powers. 

From the very first page, it's clear that this is a fantasy read, which takes an unique direction. Not only is the world different, but the characters seem to never be what a reader might expect. But then, the characters are often not what they first appear to be and carry secret intentions. This keeps the plot on its toes and guarantees many twists and turns. Then, there's enarri. This magical element embraces so much: a magical tool, currency, part of characters' lives and so much more. Niil's own hidden past intertwines with enarri in ways which leave much to be discovered during the rest of the series. Plus, this isn't a light read. There's betrayal, fights, danger, death, and constant secrets to be revealed. Yet, the author keeps it in the solid realm of middle grade fantasy.

While the fantasy aspects stay high, there's more to this book than just magical adventure. This first book seems to slowly step into the characters, leaving them at arm's length until the later pages of the book. It's as if the reader needs to get to know them first. Plus, there is quite a bit of underlying depth in everything. For example, Niil comes across as mature for an 11-year-old, but as the terrible relationship with his father is made clear, Niil's attitude makes sense. There's also a large dose of society disparities. In this realm, there are clear social levels with the lower ones suffering. It surprised me to discover a revolutionary group, of sorts, which can use pretty harsh means to meet their goals. So, there are some heavier directions in this first book, which signal some unique themes not often seen in the middle grade realm. And there are also messages surrounding the need to stand for what is right and determining when something is evil.

Summed up, this is an original, fantasy read with tons to offer and even more to come. Anyone who enjoys unique magic, social unrest, finding yourself, secrets, fights, adventure, and more will want to give this book a go.

And here she is...

B.R. KANG is a 1.5-generation Korean-American, unapologetic foodie, Harvard alum, and constant daydreamer. Her debut novel, “Caput Mundi,” has been nearly twenty years in the making—rooted in what-ifs, countless revisions, hundreds of rejections, and a stubborn belief that good stories are worth fighting for. 

When she’s not writing, she’s in the kitchen experimenting with recipes or exploring flavors from around the world. Learn more about her and her work at CaputMundiBooks.com.

Follow B.R. Kang on Instagram: @boraborakang & @caputmundibooks

The Ocean: Explore a Watery World by Laura Perdew

THE OCEAN

Explore a Watery World

by Laura Perdew

Illustrated by Micah Rauch

Nomad Press

Middle Grade Nonfiction

128 pages

ages 8 to 12

COMING MAY 15th!!!

A fascinating exploration of the different parts of the ocean and the creatures that live there!

The mighty ocean covers 70 percent of the planet, supports well over 100,000 marine species, regulates climate, feeds billions of people, and plays a key role in the carbon cycle. Yet the ocean is also fragile and needs our help.

In The Ocean: Explore a Watery World with Hands-On Science Activities for Kids, young marine biologists learn the ocean’s history and the key roles it plays on Earth, including its part in the carbon cycle and in regulating weather and climate. Explore the polar oceans, intertidal zones, the shallow ocean, and the open ocean, and discover the incredible biodiversity adapted to living there. Find out how people use and rely on the ocean and how humans are making a giant impact on this massive body of water.

Each chapter examines different aspect of our oceans and our scientific understanding, including past and current ocean conservation efforts around the world. Sidebars about technology, species spotlights, and short biographies about ocean explorers and scientists provide insight into the marine-human relationship, while hands-on activities and critical thinking exercises invite all kinds of learners to gain a deeper understanding of Earth’s oceans. A compelling narrative style, fun facts, glossary words defined on the page, and links to primary source combine to take readers on an investigative journey of the ocean.

Additional materials include a glossary, a list of media for further learning, a selected bibliography, and index. All books are leveled for Guided Reading level and Lexile and align with Common Core State Standards and Next Generation Science Standards.

GOODREADS     /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

A wealth of information surrounding oceans hits with depth and broadness to form a very, well-rounded read.

After a Table of Contents, which highlights the seven chapters and themes these pages touch upon, there's a world map, which shows the basic flow of the oceans. The chapters touch upon topics such as the ocean's origins, currents, climates, ecosystems, and other themes. Each chapter begins with a quick comic strip of a girl sailing with her father, an all-reaching question to be understood during the chapter, and a quick introduction into the main theme. From there, each chapter packs tons of information surrounding the theme...and this coming from various directions in the STEM realm. At the end of each chapter, there's a short list of activities, small experiments and such, and at the end of the book, there's an index, glossary, references for further research and more. It forms a very thorough look at various aspects of the ocean and leaves readers with quite a bit of knowledge in various directions.

This isn't a light read but tries to give readers a good understanding of the many themes explored. For example, the first chapter takes a look at how water relates to the beginning of life and how the formation of the oceans might have taken place. Each chapter packs tons of information...and I do mean a lot. The explanations are delivered in a tone fitting to the audience level and move quickly from one topic to the next. The important terms are placed in a sidebar along the pages to help readers easily find the definitions. Since there are so many topics mentioned, QR codes offer readers the chance to take side-dives into various themes as desired. There are also interesting tidbits put together, which hit everything from interesting facts to important individuals. It's thorough, well-thought out, and kept interesting for the right reader. Others might be overwhelmed with the fast-paced delivery of so much information. 

The various activities at the end of the chapter add an especially nice touch and can be done with simple, household items or explored by readers on their own. There are also many photos to help make the information more clear. This book could be used by groups or homeschoolers as the basis for an entire unit surrounding oceans, and they would come out with a broad understanding of much more than basic ocean facts. It's also a lovely read for science fans, who want to learn more about the ocean.

And here she is...

Laura Perdew is an author, writing coach, presenter, and former middle school teacher. She is the author of The Fort (Page Street Kids 2020) and over 50 books for the education market including Biodiversity: Explore the Diversity of Life on Earth (Nomad Press 2019) which is on the Booklist editors’ list of the Top 10 Books on the Environment & Sustainability for Youth 2020. Laura is a long-time member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, and an avid runner and hiker. She lives and plays in Boulder, Colorado.

Happy Book Birthday, Glory Be by Jamie Sumner!

 

It's a very busy month on the book birthday end, but there can never be enough celebrations! Today's read hits the shelves today with poetic flair. Yep, this is a book written in prose for the middle grade audience and promises tons of heart. I'm looking forward to seeing how it flows.

And what about that doggy? Well, let's find out!

GLORY BE

by Jamie Sumner

Atheneum Books

Middle Grade Contemporary   /   Poetry

208 pages

ages 8 to 12

A girl searches for her lost dog and truths about her family in this heartwarming, poignant illustrated novel in verse from Jamie Sumner, the acclaimed author of Roll with It.

Disappeared. Vanished. Vamoosed.

Glory has the best dog in the world. Roux wags his tail so hard his whole round little body shakes. He touches his nose to hers like E.T. phoning home. Roux is always there for her—but now he’s gone. And Glory is worried her daddy had something to do with it.

Daddy’s been getting into trouble since the day Glory was born. Now it’s worse than worse. As she searches all over New Orleans for her lost pup, Glory discovers some things about her city and herself. Enough to make her How do you know when to hang on to the ones you love…and when to let go?

GOODREADS    /    PUBLISHER    /     AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

Emotions glide on every page as a girl not only searches for her dog but faces some harsh, family realities.

Glory has skipped school, but she has no choice. Her dog has gone missing, and she's determined to find him. She leaves no stone unturned and even uses her mother's ties to the homeless encampment to see if any of them have seen her favorite pet. Her search takes her all over town, but instead of finding her dog, she's learning more unpleasant things about her father...although he hasn't lived with her and her mother for awhile. When she returns home, her father arrives with the dog, but the joyous moment sours and carries harsh barbs, instead.

The prose format flows very well and lets emotions come across clearly the entire way through. The reader gets to dive deep into Glory and understand her concern and efforts. Glory is a very independent spirit, and her wanderings through the town (alone) give an extra edge. Thanks to her mother's kindness of handing out food and water to the homeless every now and then, Glory feels comfortable enough to enter an encampment...which adds an interesting touch. But then, it's clear from her search through the town, that she's accustom to being on her own while her mother works. Little by little, the reader is brought into the difficult family situation surrounding the father, and this aspect carries bite. While the author handles the entire thing well, it might be heavy for more sensitive, younger readers. I, personally, see this as a better fit for ages ten and up, than the lower end of the middle grade range. The themes will also be more understandable for this slightly older age group. 

And here she is...

Jamie Sumner is the author of the Roll with It trilogy, Tune It Out, One Kid’s Trash, The Summer of June, Maid for It, Deep Water, Please Pay Attention, Schooled, Glory Be, and Wish You Well. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and other publications. She loves stories that celebrate the grit and beauty in all kids. She is also the mother of a son with cerebral palsy and has written extensively about parenting a child with special needs. She and her family live in Nashville, Tennessee. Visit her at Jamie-Sumner.com.

Squirrel Draws Big Feelings by Erin Dealey

I found the squirrel on the cover of today's read adorable, and that it's drawing with chalk is even better. I'm assuming this will be a cute read with heart and fun. According to the blurb, it hits on the theme of 'big' feelings. I'm assuming that the chalk-art will have something to do with the coping mechanism, but let's just open it up and find out, shall we?

SQUIRREL DRAWS BIG FEELINGS

by Erin Dealey

Illustrated by Luciana Navarro Powell

Beaming Books

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 4 to 7

COMING APRIL 7th!!!

"Uh oh! Sometimes, when Squirrel felt BIG feelings he couldn't stop racing around."

Squirrel feels squirrelly all the time! Porcupine gets the pricklies when things don't go the way she expects them to. And Bear only knows how to express his feelings ROARfully.

When Squirrel is having a hard time controlling his emotions and his body, his squirrelly behavior causes such a commotion that Porcupine gets all prickly and Bear has a ROARful day. No one is having fun and everyone is overwhelmed. Until Squirrel turns to chalk art to express his big "With each squiggly line, Squirrel felt better. Art felt like a quiet hug." After some initial hesitation and insecurity over whether they can make art too, Porcupine and Bear join Squirrel in drawing their hearts out. Turns out, friendship and sharing are coping skills too.

With rhyming text and dynamic, mixed-media illustrations, Squirrel Draws Big Feelings will help readers understand that even when we don't have the words to express how we feel, we don't need to get stuck there.

GOODREADS     /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

A cute squirrel battles to handle its over-powering emotions in a meaningful way.

The very first page already will have readers smiling as the squirrel can't stop running around, here and there, thanks to its overwhelming feelings. But this squirrel is intelligent and quickly heads to one of its favorite activities, drawing. Unfortunately, feelings aren't always easy or quick to reign in, and one little accident leads to a row of events. 

The book carries a very clear message, and it's one that readers can easily transfer over to their own situations and feelings. So, this aspect alone already packs goodness. Then, there's the warmth of friendship and being there for others. Both messages are wrapped up into an interesting story, where humor carries some scenes and heart carries others. 

The text is fitting to the age group. It rhymes but gently enough to flow smoothly without feeling overly 'rhymey'. This makes it a nice read-aloud for individual or group settings. The illustrations are well-done and work with the text to carry the story and add to the atmosphere.

It's an enjoyable read with goodness.

And here they are...

Erin Dealey is an award-winning children's author and playwright. Erin has published dozens of books celebrating kindness and community, including Dear Earth. . . From Your Friends in Room 5 (NYSRA Charlotte Award) and Snow Globe Wishes (Anna Dewdney Read Together Honor Book). With decades of experience as a language arts and theater teacher, she loves motivating kids to read, write, and make art. She lives in Northern California with her husband.

Luciana Navarro Powell grew up and started her illustration career in Brazil before moving to the United States in 2002. She worked as an art buyer for an educational publisher in the Chicago area, before moving to California and becoming a full-time illustrator. She now lives in Washington state and has illustrated more than 20 children's books. In her free time, she loves to go hiking with her family and paint en plein air.