Happy Book Birthday, Arty Too by Penny Schneider!

I'm celebrating another book birthday today...yay! This one, actually, hit the shelves earlier this week, and I just managed to squeeze it in by shifting things around a bit. It's the second book in a series, and I did read the first one (amazing, right?). You can find that review HERE. It's a graphic novel for those readers out there, who are pretty sure of their words but need a little more practice...and if it's anything like the first one, it is very entertaining. 

Let's see what this pair of friends is up to this time.

ARTY TOO

 by Penny Schneider

Monarch Educational Services LLC

Children's Fiction  /   Graphic Novel

136 pages

ages 5 to 12

Tune in for a celebration of friendship with Arty and Slug where more laughs are shared, a map is followed, secrets are revealed, music is made, and magical dreams come true. When a new friend steps into the story, Arty learns that the biggest surprise might not be on the map at all.

GOODREADS    /    AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

Arty and Slug swim into an unexpected adventure, which packs more friendship, surprises, and some music, too.

Arty and Slug are playing a round of hide-and-seek, but Slug ends up in an odd situation. After finding Slug, Arty notices a hermit crab hiding near by, and the two try to coax it out. This leads to a map, a dive into Arty's past, possible friendships, and an unexpected trip with tons of fun.

This is a high-spirited graphic novel with characters to enjoy. Arty and Slug's friendship is inspiring, and their openness to new situations is contagious. They swim through unexpected situations with finesse and a dab of humor to keep the atmosphere cheerful and light. There's just enough depth to make them likeable, and readers will wish they could dive in and join them. It's a quick-paced read with quite a bit of heart and surprises. Everything is very fitting to the intended age group and hits upon themes, which readers can identify with. 

The illustrations are lively and let the personalities shine, while making the situations clear. The text is kept short and works with the images to bring across the scenes with emotion. Even reluctant readers are sure to enjoy the tale and can strengthen their reading and word skills along the way. Every now and then, the reader is asked to join in on the fun and draw something which connects with the tale. This interactive aspect adds a nice touch and gently feeds in a little food for thought. There is also goodness at the end surrounding a few sea creature facts, some simple sign language, and more to make this a read to enjoy in many ways. Still, it's the golden friendship of these two characters, which really makes this book shine.

It's a lovely addition to the series, and I can't wait to see where these two are headed next.

Really Rubie by Maddie Frost

I'm going to stick to middle grade reads for one more day and am excited to pick today's read up. It's giving me Wimpy Kid vibes on the cover, and I'm hoping it holds more than just a little humor and cute sketches or doodles. I'm hoping it doesn't get overly message drive, but then, I don't think it will.  A little drama... a little fun... a few smiles and giggles...

Let's see if it holds all of these things, shall we?

REALLY RUBIE

by Maddie Frost

Aladdin

Middle Grade Humor

240 Pages

Ages 8 to 12

COMING JUNE 2nd!!!

Fans of Dork Diaries will love this hilarious new diary-style series featuring black and white illustrations. In this first book, Rubie has to face sleepaway camp without her BFF!

Hello, summer! Eleven-year-old Rubie Fox can’t wait to go to sleepaway camp for the very first time. She and her best friend Riley Swisher will go away for an entire month TOGETHER, and they’ll even be able to spy on Riley’s crush Owen, who will be across from Camp Pineview, over at the boys’ camp, Moose-Ridge.

But when Riley drops a bomb—she can’t go to camp because she broke her ankle—Rubie has to go by herself. Which sort of makes her feel RAGE…how can she go to camp without Riley?! But her mom has already paid for it, so she’s stuck with her plushie chicken Jim the Duck and a cabin full of girls she doesn’t know.

But Rubie just might another BFF, break out of her shell, and even meet a boy…all without Riley. Camp might be more eventful than Rubie ever thought it could be—will she sink or will she swim?

GOODREADS    /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Summer camp and friendship take unexpected twists with a girl, who tries her best to have fun and stay true to her friends.

Rubie is off to summer camp and can't wait to spend time with her best friend doing all sorts of things...that is, until her best friend brakes her ankle and can no longer go along. Although Rubie doesn't want to go to camp anymore, either, she has no choice because it's already been paid for. Instead, she makes a pact with her bf, agreeing to only do certain things with her and not with anyone else during those weeks. At camp, Rubie feels a bit lost and has a hard time meshing with the other campers, even though one of them is her bf's cousin. When Rubie finally finds someone she clicks with, things take a fun turn, but now Rubie is facing even more problems.

This read reminds of Wimpy Kid with its notebook-like formatting and many doodles and sketches. This creates a very relaxed atmosphere, which fits wonderfully to Rubie's scattered personality. Especially in the first pages, her thoughts are a bit all-over-the-place which makes her endearing and full of energy. While this light-hearted peppiness continues throughout the read, the author stuffs all sorts of familiar, middle school drama in between. This not only surrounds Rubie's golden friendship with her best friend, who has to stay at home and is, obviously, disappointed and jealous to an extent, but also the problems involved in meeting new friends. The bullying aspect doesn't hit, which I was happy to see, but it's still difficult to find a person to completely connect with...and even then, there are misunderstandings. Rubie also deals with first crushes and heart breaks, and discovers something new about herself. So, there's quite a bit of goodness for school/life drama fans.

This is a fun read, which keeps humor high while weaving in messages for the middle grade audience, which they can identify with. It's an easy read, keeps the pacing up pretty well, and creates more than a few smiles on the face thanks to Rubie's vibrant personality. It will be interesting to see what she'll be up to next.

And here she is...

Maddie Frost is an award-winning, bestselling author and illustrator. She has been praised as a “powerhouse creator,” making over a dozen books for kids. You might recognize some of her books like the WOMBATS! series, Cats on Cats on Cats, and Little Boo. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband and daughter. Really Rubie is her first middle grade novel. For more about Maddie, visit her website at Maddie-Frost.com. Or on Instagram @HelloMaddieFrost.

Montgomery Bonbon 4: Sabotage at Sea by Alasdair Beckett-King

Today's read is the 4th in a mystery/detective series...and I'm so sad this didn't land on my radar earlier because sounds amazing. I'm expecting some quirky characters, hair-raising situations, clever twists, and situations to make readers smile or keep them on the edge of their seats. After all, to hit book four, this should be a fun read.

Let's tighten down those sails and see what the horizon brings in this read.

SABOTAGE AT SEA,

Montgomery Bonbon #4

by Alasdair Beckett-King

Illustrated by Claire Powell

Candlewick Press

Middle Grade Mystery

288 pages

ages 8 to 12

COMING MAY 26th!!!

As the witty murder-mystery series continues, Bonbon returns for a pyrotechnic display aboard ship—until a shocking demise puts a damper on the festivities.

Shenanigans are once again afoot in the town of Widdlington, and this time they're on board the Dreadnowt—a galleon that’s set to host a fireworks display for the town. Bonnie Montgomery and Grampa Banks are on board as guests, but just after sundown, a fog rolls in and a terrible cry is heard over the crash of the waves. Captain Valancourt stumbles out of the mist, dripping wet and covered in red welts the like of which a sea monster would leave behind, and is soon pronounced dead by the doctor on board. The crowd is shocked, and Bonnie's fishy-o-meter is off the charts. While Inspector Sands takes over as captain, Bonnie transforms into Montgomery Bonbon, and it’s not long before she’s laid anchor on her prime suspects. Can Montgomery Bonbon hoist his moustache and figure out which scallywag is responsible for the death of the ancient mariner?

GOODREADS    /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Mystery balances with humor and a pinch of tension to create a fun read.

Bonnie can't wait to be a VIP with her Grampa on the reconstruction of Dreadnowt, a once renowned pirate ship. Better yet, her mother is in charge of setting off the fireworks on the ship for the other festival members, who are still on land, to enjoy. But something goes terribly wrong. Not only is the captain killed in the mishap, but Bonnie's mother is arrested for his death. The entire thing stinks to the high-seas, and Bonnie is determined to get to the bottom of it.

This is my first look at this series, and I'm sorry I didn't discover it earlier, since it is a fun read with just enough bite to make it interesting. Bonnie is an energetic character, who acts her age but is very clever and observant. Her transformation into the detective, Montgomery Bonbon, with a simple moustache comes across with just enough silliness to create a smile but manages to skim past complete disbelief thanks to the cast of quirky characters. The entire tale rides on a constant wave of humor, which works as a counterbalance to the murder mystery. The author manages to weave the two in such a way, which makes it very appropriate for the intended audience. It's quick-paced, holds plenty of surprises, and carries heart as well.

The illustrations bring each scene to life, while the text keeps the pacing high. The mix of the two make it entertaining the entire way through. The tale fits especially well to the lower and mid-range of the middle grade audience, and even reluctant readers will enjoy the easy-to-read font and quick-paced mystery. Along the way, the author works in a few vocabulary-building moments to help improve reading skills. But this book is all about fun, and Bonnie is just the detective to pull that off. I'm looking forward to visiting the adventures I missed and see what she'll be up against in the future.

And here they are...

Alasdair Beckett-King is a multi-award-winning comedian and writer. He studied at the London Film School, and since then he has performed critically lauded solo shows at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, written for BBC radio, appeared on comedy panel shows such as Mock the Week, co-written an award-winning video game and created numerous viral sketches for social media, including an interactive whodunit.

Claire Powell is a best-selling children’s book maker, character designer, and illustrator. She is the author-illustrator of Marty Moose: First Class Mischief, the first book in a series for young readers and her authorial debut. Her collaborations with Beth Lincoln, Kes Gray, and Simon Farnaby all topped the charts. She has also illustrated books for Dermot O’Leary, Jeanne Willis, Peter Bently, and Michelle Robinson. Claire Powell lives in Derbyshire, England.

Happy Book Birthday, Notre-Dame by Lynn Curlee!

It's time to celebrate with another book birthday! Today's read hits the shelves tomorrow (I'm a smidgen early) and covers an architectural gem, which has hit the news over the last years due to a fire and reconstruction. My husband, actually, had the chance to visit the 'rebuild' of it last year and was impressed with what was done. I still remember it before the fire and will, probably, just keep that memory as a treasure and not revisit. I'm a bit old-fashioned with that sort of thing. Anyway, my husband already took a peek at the book, since he was really inspired by his visit to the new cathedral. I, however, haven't looked at it, yet. He absolutely loved it. 

So, let's open it up and find out!

NOTRE-DAME

The World's Cathedral

by Lynn Curlee

Atheneum Books for Young Readers

Middle Grade Nonfiction

48 pages

ages 8 to 12

A fascinating visual history of Notre-Dame, “the World’s Cathedral,” that highlights the burning and reconstruction of the cherished building from award-winning author-illustrator Lynn Curlee.

On April 15, 2019, the Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Paris was almost destroyed by fire, an event that shocked and riveted the entire world as it played out in real time on TV and across the internet.

The story of the fire and its aftermath, along with the rebuilding of the historic cathedral, offers an exciting narrative around which Lynn Curlee builds an illustrated story for middle grade readers about this internationally cherished monument.

In the way that only he can, Lynn illuminates captivating information about cathedrals, gothic architecture, French history, restoration of old buildings, heroism under fire, and even Quasimodo, the famous Hunchback of Notre-Dame.

GOODREADS      /      PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Well-rounded, information richness combines with a story-like atmosphere and lovely illustrations to open up the door on the history of the Cathedral of Notre Dame.

After a foreword, this book immediately dives into the fire, which almost destroyed the Notre-Dame before turning to the history of the cathedral, interesting events, facts, and then, the reconstruction. The author brings the information across in a smooth, narrative style, which makes sure to hit the highlights in an interesting way. It's not only about dates and facts but includes the emotional and human aspects to keep the reader connected to the material. Plus, it goes into needed depth to add reasoning and understanding, and this also guarantees that even Notre-Dame gurus will come out knowing more than before. At the very end, there's a quick rundown of information (height and more) for a compact overview of those numbers and such.

The illustrations are well done and make the details clear while adding atmosphere. These work well with the text to create a balanced read. The text itself is on the heavier end and works best with the mid and upper end of the age range. I'd even suggest this one to older readers...all the way through adults (a lighter read for them, but still interesting). This would work nicely in classrooms, for themes surrounding the Notre-Dame, or for homeschoolers. It, of course, is a gem for anyone who enjoys learning more about the Notre-Dame as well. 

It was also soulful to read the editor's note at the end, which explains how this will, unfortunately, be the last work put out from this author. As someone who has enjoyed several of his books, I am sad to hear of this, wish him the best, and am glad to have run across his works.

And here he is...

Lynn Curlee was educated as an art historian and worked as a fine artist for many years before he began to make children’s books. Three of his books, Capital, Liberty, and Rushmore, were chosen by the Barbara Bush Literacy Campaign as their Book of the Year in three consecutive years. Mr. Curlee has won numerous awards for his work, including but not limited to a Robert F. Sibert Honor Book (Brooklyn Bridge), Orbis Pictus Award (Rushmore), ALA Notable Books for Children (Liberty), and Bank Street Best Children’s Book of the Year (Parthenon). His other books include Ballpark, Trains, Mythological Creatures, and Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. He lives in Norwich, Connecticut, with his partner and two Great Danes. Find out more on Instagram @LynnCurlee.

Sarabeth's Garage by Melanie Florence

Today's read is another one, which has been peering up at me from my pile for awhile. I simply wasn't able to get to it faster and am thrilled that I'm about to open it up and take a peek. Part of this is because I worked in the office of an auto mechanic the last few years. Loved it, too, thanks to the most amazing boss ever. The owner was a woman, but she decided to sell and become a full-time grandma. The other reason I can't wait to take a peek is that I'm a huge supporter of kids learning to do a broad range of activities. Even car repair. Thanks to Youtube and the internet, instructions are plentiful. Believe it or not, my youngest daughter is about to replace the fan on her pickup (interior air) herself this weekend. So, this book is right down our lane.

I'm going to grab my jack, yoga mat (most comfortable way to lay on the ground and peer under the car), and pink bag of tools because it's time to see what skills this little character has.

SARABETH'S GARAGE

by Melanie Florence

Illustrated by Nadia Alam

Tundra Books

Picture Book

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

A picture book that celebrates doing your own thing in the face of society's expectations . . . and a sweet story about a girl, her dad, her disapproving grandma and, most importantly, cars.

Sarabeth loves cars.

She loves the way the engines sometimes roar like lions and other times purr like kittens. She loves seeing sports cars that are sleek and fast like cheetahs and boxy SUVs that trundle along like elephants.

And most of all, she loves to help her dad out at the garage.

Sarabeth’s Grandmother feels differently. She thinks little girls should play with dolls and wear dresses. But when her car starts grumbling like a walrus instead of purring like a kitten, will Sarabeth’s hobby save the day?

A delightful story about an independent and spirited girl who has no time for the limitations that society wants to put on her, and a grandma who gets the opportunity to change her way of thinking.

GOODREADS    /    AMAZON      /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

The phrase 'be true to yourself' echoes loud and clear as a little girl follows her heart despite some voices around her.

Sarabeth loves cars and engines and all sorts of things like that, which leaves her grandmother huffing that dolls and being lady-like is better. But Sarabeth can't think of anything better than spending time with her father at his auto shop as she helps him repair car after car. Maybe, something will help prove to her grandmother than girls can like cars and repairing them, too.

Starting with a familiar scene of a family sitting in a living room and watching the little girl play on the floor with cars, the wholesome atmosphere of warmth and family support sets the stage for the rest of the read. So, when her grandmother comes with mumbled words of disagreement, it hits with a sharp edge, but Sarabeth still carries the loving encouragement from her parents to add a caring cushion. The time she spends with her father at his shop is presented with energetic positivity and even inspires, which brings across the message of 'staying true to yourself' clearly. Readers will be able to sympathize as the grandmother's opinion isn't easily changed and, most likely, recognize similar situations from their own lives. Of course, there's a lovely round off to the entire story which brings goodness and smiles.

The illustrations are inviting and bring across the emotions, atmosphere, and tale nicely. The text makes a lovely read aloud and fits well to the audience level. Readers, who are more sure of their words, can pick this one up on their own. Plus, the illustrations will help them along, since it's pretty clear what's happening in each scene. 

Sarabeth's enthusiasm is addictive, making this a read, which is sure to leave listeners inspired.

And here they are...

MELANIE FLORENCE is an award-winning writer based in Toronto. She is the author of the picture books Sarabeth’s Garage, The One About the Blackbird and Missing Nimâmâ, which won the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award, the Forest of Reading Golden Oak Award and was a finalist for the First Nation Communities READ award. Her other picture book, Stolen Words, won the Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz Children’s Book Award, was shortlisted for the Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award, and was given a starred review by Kirkus, who listed it as one of the best picture books of 2017 to give readers strength.

NADIA ALAM is a second generation Bangladeshi-Canadian. She is an avid daydreamer and meanderer who draws to capture the world as she sees it. She is the illustrator of Sarabeth’s Garage; The Wishing Machine; Awake, Asleep; Mauntie and Me; and The House Without Lights. She lives in Toronto with her two lovely kids and a dog named Momo.