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.

Daisy Helps With the Dress and Interview with Author Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich

Today, we're doing something a little different and special. First, we have an amazing read. This one caught my attention because I sewed and 'remade' all sorts of cloths as a child. As with many families, funds were often tight and hand-me-downs from the cousins lagged up to 10 years behind on the fashion front. So, reworking things was my solution as a teen. Plus, my own kids learned how to sew, too, and designed more than a few projects themselves. I can't wait to see what Daisy is up to on that front!

Also, the author has been kind enough to agree to answer a few questions for us! I don't do interviews very often, but it's always a treat to learn more about the people behind the books. So, don't forget to scroll down a bit and take a look at her wonderful thoughts, too!

DAISY HELPS WITH THE DRESS

by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich

Illustrated by Charis Jackson Barrios

Denene Millner Books

Picture Book

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

COMING AUGUST 18th!!!

Calling all budding thrifters, eco-warriors, and precocious, mischievous makers! In 

DAISY HELPS WITH THE DRESS (August 18, 2026), by award-winning author Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich, Daisy, a recycling, re-making, re-doing kind of person in the making, tries to bring a little razzle-dazzle to her cousin’s vintage wedding dress.

Daisy loves helping her family, and she knows the best kind of helpers never wait to be asked. That’s why she doesn’t ask before adding finishing touches to her family’s special reused, re-tried, remixed things, like a leftover broccoli topping for Auntie Fontie’s cakes or a good bath for Nana DJ’s “back-in-the-day, rusty, dusty” vintage albums—much to their chagrin.

What Daisy wants most is to help by giving her cousin Simone’s recycled wedding dress a little flair—a little glitter here and a few stickers there should do it. But, Simone and the rest of the family are not so happy with Daisy’s vision or her decorations. Can Daisy make things right and help her cousin find a new, relived, reloved wedding dress?

DAISY HELPS WITH THE DRESS is a fun, hilarious celebration of a big day seen through the eyes of a determined little character with good intentions who teaches readers about things that matter: family, togetherness, the importance of contributing to community—and honoring how people want to receive help.

GOODREADS    /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

This book is all about livening 'old' things up and adding new life in a way which inspires.

Daisy's entire family holds two things dearly: never wait to be asked to do something and reused, retried and remixed is awesome. Daisy is more than ready to help out where she can and loves adding new, original touches to anything she can. Even broccoli. Unfortunately, her good intentions always seem to land her in trouble, especially since the family insists that they wish she would ask before acting first. Despite Daisy's not-so-great track record, she especially wants to help out when she learns that her cousin is having trouble finding the perfect wedding dress. But Daisy's latest attempt at making things better work out this time?

While I thought that this book would be about sewing, it is about so much more. Daisy loves to be creative on any and all fronts. Be it improving food or helping younger family members with building blocks, Daisy hits all sorts of directions with her creativity. Her enthusiasm and determination are heart-warming and inspiring. Even when things go wrong, the disappointment melds with humor, which is sure to make readers smile. The family is golden, too, as they always support each other, and when unhappy with some of Daisy's endeavors, make their feelings clear without falling into negativity. This creates a wholesome atmosphere, which makes it clear what Daisy's mistake is without coming across as preachy. 

The illustrations are as full of energy as Daisy. It's entertaining to see what she's up to next, and the moments are brought across clearly. The text flows well and works nicely as a read-aloud. Beginning readers, who are sure of their words, can pick this one up on their own, too.

It's a fun read with family, inspiration, and heart.

INTERVIEW

I'm excited that Olugbemisola has been kind enough to agree to answer a few questions for us. Inquiring minds want to know, after all, and it's always fun to learn more about the authors behind such well-done stories. 

1)      Just skimming through your biography made me feel like I had to take a step back and catch my breath. To say that you’re active in all sorts of directions seems like an understatement—and so impressive! What has inspired you and drives you forward?

 I'm very much inspired by my family--they had and have so much ingenuity, curiosity, tenacity, and hearts for social justice. And there are so many makers in my family, I was raised to see making as an act of love, community, rest, empowerment, and creative expression.

I was and still am deeply inspired by stories--the books that I read, the family stories I was told (or overheard), by forms of storytelling like theatre, music, and dance. I'm so grateful to live in a city with so much free or low-cost art available--there's always fuel for creative fire!

2)      I’ve noticed that you enjoy crafting and wondered if you’ve done similar sewing/creation projects as Daisy in Daisy Helps With the Dress?

 I very much enjoy crafting!  I come from a family of makers, thinkers, dreamers, explorers, and yes! I've done group projects or refashioned items that belonged to family members, and it's such a special experience. We can bond and connect in ways that might not happen just through conversation--or just make conversation with family members while we are creating together. I believe that working with our hands can provoke memory and break down boundaries. I've also contributed to projects like a group quilt or blanket for a cause, and there's something so wonderful about strangers coming together to create things for others. I think it contributes to helping us live lives of service, of empathy, and of care.

3)      You’ve lived in several very different countries. What is your favorite aspect about each of them?

  I love to get to know the "everyday" of each place that I live in or visit--the community gathering spaces, the dining customs and habits, etc. I am a walker, and I love to just explore, chat with longtime residents, especially elders, check out street art, public spaces. And I always check out the libraries and bookshops! I think that being curious about the world and people is such an important part of being a writer, and I'm so fortunate that I had early experiences of travel to nurture that. I think that it's also important to be OK with being uncomfortable at times, to be the "new" person with humility and a willingness to learn--that's a wonderfully challenging aspect of travel.

4)      Do you have any future endeavors already in sight? Or something you’re particularly looking forward to that’s coming up this year?

  I'm so excited about Daisy--I've already started working on a stage adaptation! I think it can be a really dynamic piece of participatory theatre. I'm also working on a novel about a talking library cat, her rat best friend, and the little girl who helps them save New York City. In terms of future endeavors, I have been itching to write  graphic novel. I got a taste when I worked on a DC comics project, and loved it!

5)      What was your favorite book as a child? And what are you currently reading?

 Ahhhhhhh! I freeze up at this question!😂 I had so many favorites. I think that certain stories can come to us just when we need them, and I love that. A few that helped me through were Honey, I Love by Eloise Greenfield, Black Folktales by Julius Lester, Cornrows by Camille Yarbrough, A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle, the "Shoes" books by Noel Streatfeild, lots of Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, Agatha Christie, and Maya Angelou. I know I've forgotten some book loves, and I'm already sorry!

Thanks Tonja!

Thank you, Olugbemisola. And here's wishing years of success in all of these endeavors and more to come!

And here they are...

Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich is the award-winning author of several children’s books, a member of The Brown Bookshelf, and former Board member of We Need Diverse Books (WNDB). She is a two-time African American Literature Book Club bestseller and edited the WNDB anthology The Hero Next Door. She’s contributed to several collections, was recently commissioned to write the Operation Sisterhood stage adaptation, and has written for various outlets, including PBS Parents, and classic hip-hop fanzines, like the iconic Right On! and Word Up!. Olugbemisola has worked extensively in youth development; she was twice awarded a public service fellowship from the Echoing Green for her work with girls and was the 2024 writer-in-residence at Bank Street School for Children. Olugbemisola lives with her family in New York City where she writes, makes things, and needs to get more sleep.

Charis Jackson Barrios, a.k.a. Charis JB, is a Black and Paraguayan artist raised and based in the American South, drawing from all corners of their multicultural upbringing. Their work is continually inspired by the women, textiles, flora, and vibrant colors of their cultivated background. Charis graduated with a degree in fine art from the distinguished art school Cooper Union in New York City. As a commercial artist, they worked with several notable clients, including Google, The New Yorker, and Disney. From their studio practice, they hope their work can find a home in any space that wishes to invite an eclectic spirit, a soft elegance, or some modern cool. Charis presently lives and works from their cozy mid-century home studio.

The Mystery of the Stolen World Cup by Angela Cervantes

There's several exciting things going on this year here in the U.S. event wise...and I mean BIG even wise. One of these is the World Cup. So of course, I have a few reads in the next weeks, which celebrate this event. I am happy 

THE MYSTERY OF THE STOLEN 

WORLD CUP TROPHY

by Angela Cervantes

Henry Holt and Co.

Middle Grade Mystery

240 pages

ages 8 to 12

COMING MAY 5th!!!

From Pura Belpré Honor recipient Angela Cervantes and perfectly timed for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, The Mystery of the Stolen World Cup Trophy follows 12-year-old sleuth Diez Espada on a high-stakes case as he tracks down the tournament's stolen trophy in time for the championship match.

“Humor, heart, and fútbol... everything a middle grade mystery should be.” –Chris Grabenstein, New York Times-bestselling author of the Lemoncello series

Diez Espada—named after the jersey number of his soccer-obsessed father’s favorite player, Lionel Messi—would rather be chasing clues than soccer balls. When the World Cup trophy disappears at a glitzy party in Miami, he’s suddenly at the center of the most thrilling match of his life—a race to find the trophy before it’s gone for good.

Teaming up with his crush, Rio, and the world-famous Detective Enzo, Diez dives headfirst into a one-night whirlwind of secret tunnels and a squad of suspicious a spoiled son of a Miami tycoon, a famous sportscaster, and even Rio's two prankster younger brothers.

The clock is ticking, the suspects are slippery, and the stadium lights are ready to shine. Will Diez find the trophy in time for the World Cup championship match?

GOODREADS     /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Sleuthing takes on a fun, soccer twist in this entertaining read.

Diez enjoys two things...well, mostly one since his father is, actually, the soccer fan: sleuthing. Diez is great at seeing details and connections others miss, and he's about to prove how talented he is by revealing the thief of the school's mascot costume. Unfortunately, the big reveal isn't what he'd hoped, and he ends up tricked by the true culprit, a rich girl name Rio. Since this leads him to more trouble than he deserves, Rio's guilt gets the better of her. To make up for it, she invites him to attend a World Cup Party with her, where his dad's favorite player is said to make an appearance right along with the real World Cup trophy. Unexpectedly, the trophy goes missing. Diez is ready to take on this new case with Rio at his side, but it might be more than he can handle.

This is a quick-paced read with lots of surprises, some quirky moments, and clues galore. Diez makes mention of Scooby-Doo, which fits thanks to the characters involved. After all, Diez has to deal with a bird and a poodle, too. In other words, the author mixes in light-hearted moments to keep everything interesting and boredom far away. The clues aren't easy to piece together but make sense, and it's fun to see Diez catch things the police overlook. His insights are clever and, yet, very fitting to the age group. Add friendship and whispers of first crushes, and there's heart as well. On the family end, Diez and his father still suffer a bit after the loss of the mother several years before...something I'm not a huge fan of, at the moment, due to the large amount of reads using that plot direction during the last year or so. But it works fine and isn't overplayed, either. 

It's a fun read, especially with the World Cup sneaking up on us soon, and soccer fans are sure to enjoy it at anytime. The author does weave in some facts on this end, which adds a little knowledge richness as well. All in all, it's a fun mystery with many surprises and twists, and keeps the pages turning until the end. 

And here she is...

Angela Cervantes is the award-winning author of several beloved children’s novels including Lety Out Loud, which won a Pura Belpré Honor Award. Angela’s other children’s novels include Anomalies 53: Into the Shadows; The Cursed Moon; Maritza: Lead With Your Heart, an American Girl book; Gaby, Lost and Found; Allie, First at Last; and the Frida Kahlo-inspired mystery, Me, Frida and the Secret of the Peacock Ring. In addition to her original work, Angela adapted Coco: The Junior Novelization and Encanto: The Junior Novelization. Angela began writing stories featuring Latina main characters when she was nine years old because she wanted books that reflected her friends and her community.