Growing Up Ladybug by Štěpánka Sekaninová

Spring is hitting full-swing as sights shift forward to Summer. I still have a few things to plant in the garden, but most seeds have already found their place. The grass...well, let's just say that my mower better not play tricks on me anytime soon. The cows are happy, though. And fat.

Anyway, today's read fits the season. This book is the forth and final in a series for those beginning readers out there who are sure of their words. Each book covers a different insect and introduces all sorts of facts about them. I haven't read any of the other books in the series and am jumping in with this final addition. But then, ladybugs have always been a favorite insect of mine.

So, let's open this one up and see if we'll buzz around with these adorable bugs!

GROWING UP LADYBUG

Little Heroes Book 4

by Štěpánka Sekaninová

Illustrated by Linh Dao

Albatros Media

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 6 to 9

Peek into the bold and beautiful world of Anna the ladybug—where tiny legs, spotted wings, and big adventures await!

Anna may be small, but her life is anything but quiet. From the moment she hatches, she’s on the move—growing, changing, and learning how to survive in a world full of surprises. Whether she’s escaping hungry predators or hunting down her favorite snack (aphids!), Anna shows that even the tiniest beetles can be fierce, clever, and full of heart.

Whether your child is a budding entomologist or just loves a good garden adventure, Growing Up Ladybug is a delightful and educational journey they’ll want to read again and again.

The Little Heroes series highlights the essential, yet often overlooked, roles that insects and small animals—from pollinators to natural pest controllers—play in our ecosystem. Through a fun and gentle lens, young readers learn about the small but mighty heroes that keep our natural world in balance.

• Fascinating Ladybug Facts – Learn how ladybugs grow, hunt, and protect themselves in the wild.
• STEM Learning Through Storytelling – Perfect for classrooms, homeschoolers, and curious kids who love bugs, beetles, and backyard science.
• Complete Life Cycle Coverage – Follows Anna from egg to adult, highlighting her role in nature and the importance of biodiversity.
• Vivid Illustrations and Engaging Narrative – Brings the garden to life with colorful artwork and a story that sparks curiosity.
• Part of the Trusted Little Heroes Series – A favorite among families and educators, this series celebrates the courage and wonder of nature’s smallest creatures.

For more than 75 years, Albatros Media has been crafting original and innovative children's books that are both playful and educational, fostering curiosity and a thirst for knowledge in young minds. We deliver the highest quality children’s books from novelty, picture, pop-up, and how-to books, to nonfiction, and fairy tales.

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON     /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Excitement, care, and the enjoyment of life buzz on every page as all sorts of ladybug facts unfold.

These pages are all about ladybugs and allow readers to enter this small insect's world with a hum of fun. Every page presents happy ladybugs as they go through their daily lives. The book covers everything from types of ladybugs (and there are over 5000 known species) to habits to life cycles and more. The entire time, a bubbly atmosphere keeps everything from growing boring and presents ladybugs with a very positive attitude. By the end, readers are sure to know much more than before...and even adults will pick up an interesting tidbit or two.

The illustrations are cheerful and add a mix of human characteristics to the bugs but not so much so that the facts get mutated. This opens up the door to younger readers with a sense of playfulness. At the same time, the information and explanations are given a visual foundation. For example, the various stages of a ladybug's development are shown in a way that can be used to identify them in real life. 

The text is suited to the readers, who are sure of their words, but stays short and keeps a light atmosphere. There is a general paragraph at the top of each two-page spread, which introduces the overall theme. Then, the more exact information is broken down into smaller sections throughout the page, only with a few, short sentences each time. These are also kept light and playful, allowing readers to join the ladybugs as they explain each aspect. So, the information never weighs down. 

It's a cheerful way to introduce readers to the world of ladybugs.

And here they are...

Štěpánka Sekaninová used to work as a TV reporter and in the production of children’s programs. Now she is a writer and a editor-in-chief, living in the Czech Republic.

Linh Dao was born in Hanoi and currently resides in the Czech Republic, where she studied Illustration and Animation. In 2016 she was a prize-winner in the Young Creative category at the ADC Creative Awards. She lives mainly on potato chips and green tea. 

Happy Book Birthday, Maddie's Breezy Soul by Bridgette Melton!

We're celebrating another book birthday today, but this time, we're headed under the sea! With school's beginning to open up to summer vacations, fun in the water is one of the first activities which hits many young readers' minds. Maybe not always the ocean, but water is sure to splash somewhere during the next weeks. So, today's read seemed fitting.

MADDIE'S BREEZY SOUL

The Sea's Symphony

by Bridgette Melton

Illustrated Danika Runyan

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 4 to 8

In Maddie's Breezy Soul, Maddie the seahorse hears a rumbling growing inside her when she discovers her little brother has accidentally broken a favorite vase she made at camp. But when she sees her brother's remorse and sorrow, the sound of a breeze swishing through her brings calm and compassion.

Through heartwarming and whimsical storytelling and vibrant playful illustrations, each endearing character's adventure provides young readers the tools to recognize, understand, and regulate their emotions.

GOODREADS     /     AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

A wholesome adventure unfolds as this adorable seahorse swims through life.

Maddie enjoys her life under the sea and always has something to do or going on. While many moments are amazing, others leave her upset...like when her brother breaks her vase. While she wants to explode, maybe there's another way to deal with her feelings.

This is a book about feelings and the range of directions they take during a day. While I'm not always a fan of such reads, Maddie is an adorable seahorse who simply puts a smile on the face. She radiates innocence and a joy for life on every page. Even when sad or frustrating things occur, she takes a breath and steers through the emotions in a wholesome way. While this, of course, is something to inspire and give readers/listeners nibbles to ponder, I appreciate that it comes across swimmingly with sea fun and not preachiness. Maddie's day is easy to connect with, and while it packs fantasy, there is also many things which will remind readers/listeners of their own lives. The situations are simple, and that makes them easy to sympathize with and understand.

The text flows smoothly and creates a fun read-aloud for the intended age group. Those readers, who are sure of their words, can tackle it on their own. The illustrations are bright and cheery to give each scene a sense of fun and energy...even when negative feelings hit. It keeps the read enjoyable and uplifting the entire way through.

And here she is...

Children’s author and former Pre-K and Kindergarten educator Bridgette Melton became passionate about children’s mental health and trauma informed practices in education while she was working on her Master's degree in Psychology and teaching in a HeadStart classroom. As she saw young students struggle to regulate their emotions because they simply didn’t know how, she taught them the Zones of Regulation (associating a color to a feeling). 

Bridgette decided to take that idea one step further and develop another way for kids to name their feelings, learn that it is ok to feel that feeling, hear the sound, but to be brave and overcome it to find a positive space (reframing). She calls this emotional regulation concept that she is developing “Emotional Recognition through Auditory Awareness,” which is essentially associating a sound to a feeling. Bridgette has created her line of children’s picture books, The Sea’s Symphony, which integrate her concept, as a tool for educators and families of young children to use storytelling to help children.

Bridgette believes that a great book is one with memorable characters and a relatable plot. She hopes her young readers come away from her stories with a better understanding of their emotions and how to regulate them and that this stays with them long after the book is closed.

When she isn’t writing, Bridgette enjoys traveling with her family, cooking new recipes, and hiking. She lives with her husband and children and their two cats in Denver, Colorado

Website: bridgettemelton.com

Transition Age by Tyler Corriveau

First, I have to apologize. I noticed this morning that this post went up without the review! So, it's time to correct that.

Today's read is the first in a new science fiction series for young adults. Not only does that tend to catch my attention, but this one is also only 147 pages long. Scifi fans out there know that short reads like this are rare, which makes me wonder why. The other side of me is thrilled because it's nice to pick up a quick read, every now and then, too.

So, I'm opening this one up to see if it's grabbing fun or not.

TRANSITION AGE

by Tyler Corriveau

YA Science Fiction

147 pages

In a future rebuilt after nearly a century of war, collapse, and environmental failure, humanity survives inside mile-high vertical cities governed by artificial systems designed to optimize life, suppress instability, and enforce order at all costs. History is managed. Memory is curated. What came before has been buried beneath steel and data, entombed in an artificial twilight. It is an age shaped by systems, and a generation raised within their limits.

Iris Vale knows this world only as it has been presented to her until she escapes a covert research facility hidden deep within the city’s lower layers. Years of her life have been taken, her memories fractured, her existence classified. As fragments of her past begin to resurface, Iris realizes she was never an anomaly. She is part of a larger truth buried inside the very systems designed to control humanity.

Set in Chicago in the year 2159, Transition Age follows Iris as she navigates towering vertical districts, rigid social hierarchies, surveillance-driven institutions, and the forces that shaped her into something both feared and contained. As truth presses against control, she must confront what reclaiming her past will cost, and whether exposing what was buried is worth destabilizing a world built to value order over humanity.

GOODREADS   /    AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

A rich, scifi world opens up and races forward in a chase which keeps tension high the entire way through.

Iris suddenly wakes up in a lab, riddled with injuries and connected to machines, but there's little time to think as alarms howl and smoke rises. She has no idea what is going on...she has no idea who she even is. But that she needs to escape or die is very clear. Heading toward what she hopes is an exit, she bursts free and falls into a river just before everything falls apart and would drown if a passing small boat didn't fish her out further down the river. The man immediately recognizes that she's in trouble and promises to take her somewhere safe to give her care, while showing obvious disdain for whatever place it was that she escaped from. Unfortunately, those who held her are never going to let her go and will hunt her down no matter what.

The author begins this tale in an original and potent way. Instead of diving right into the story, the first 17 or so pages hit with summaries of the years, starting with modern times and ending when this story takes place, 2159. These lay out political and social events in a grabbing way to show how present day mutated into the world, where Iris faces her adventure, and the logic is nicely presented to create an intriguing and solid foundation. Then, we meet Iris...or the girl who later learns that she's Iris.

The moment Iris awakens, the book races with just enough breath in between action scenes to let the characters each gain a bit of depth as well. While it's not clear what Iris is up against, at first, the danger of the situation is impossible to miss. The hunt for her identity soon molds into a thick web of intrigue, which seems to grow more sinister and dire with each secret that's revealed. Add the constant ticking of the clock, which Iris faces since those hunting her are very powerful and capable, and it's a read to hold in the pages the entire way through. Considering that it's only around 150 pages, that's a short burst, too.

My critique: the book is too short...and I say that without taking away stars from my review. The book grabs and I found myself at the end faster than I realized that I'd reached the last page. That doesn't happen often. Unfortunately, the ending hits on a huge cliffhanger. It gives me the impression of a quick episode of a tale rather than the first novel in a series because everything is open and nothing is tied up. But I definitely want to know what happened next. So, those readers who don't like cliffhangers will have a problem with this, but those who simply enjoy good, grabbing tales in quick bites at a time...well, this one is exactly that.

Happy Book Birthday, The Underwearwolf by Gideon Sterer!

There are two reasons to celebrate today. First, it's Mother's Day!!! Here's wishing every mother out there a wonderful day. 

Second, it's book birthday time! Today's read, actually, doesn't hit the shelves in two days, but that's close enough for me. It's always fun to pick up a humorous read, and I have a feeling that this book is packed with that. Now, I'm wondering if that werewolf twist will give it a little adventure, too, but we'll find out if it does or not after we open it up and take a peek.

After making sure we don't have a full moon tonight, I'm ready to open this one up!

THE UNDERWEARWOLF

by Gideon Sterer

Illustrated by Charles Santoso

Simon & Schuster

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 4 to 8

Perfect for fans of Creepy Pair of Underwear, this wolfish picture book romp follows a kid who finds himself in a hairy situation when he dons a pair of not-so-normal undies under the light of the full moon.

Do not, under any circumstances,
Or for any reason,
Wear this underwear under the full moon.

Do you understand?

Get ready to howl with laughter as one rule-breaking, underwear-loving kid transforms into a—gasp!—UNDERWEARWOLF! Now he’s on an unforgettable nighttime adventure that may or may not include furry paws, sharp claws, uncomfortable wedgies, and an honest-to-goodness wild wolfpack! No butts about it—this is one read-aloud that’ll blow your undies off!

GOODREADS    /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Monsterly fun hits with a dash of underwear humor to make an original and exciting read.

This little boy really likes his underwear. He even has a pair hung up for each day of the week. So, when a relative gives him an unique pair of wool, fuzzy underwear, the boy is excited...although even he finds fuzzy underwear a bit odd. Stranger yet, there's a note on the inside, which warns from wearing the underwear during the full moon. The boy doesn't care about that, though, and quickly puts them on. The last thing he expects is to turn into a werewolf and take off into the night.

While I thought this would be an 'underwear humor' read...and it is that too...but it swings into the wilder side with the werewolf adventure, too. The boy is introduced with a bit of an oddity as very colorful underwear hang, each with its own hanger, along a wall. So while there is underwear humor, it comes with a little edge to keep it more subtle and run right along with the paranormal side. This makes it even a nice read for Halloween as the boy takes off into the night and meets more monsterly-ish adventures there. This side has a racing feel to it and keeps a slightly tense action style  Then, there's a little uncertainty as the boy wonders if everything is getting to be too much, but that's exactly when the author tosses in a phrase of humor, which adds a giggle of lightness despite the whisper of something heavier. 

The illustrations match the mood changes wonderfully and go from light silliness to dim and spooky. It creates a grabbing read and works well for read-aloud sessions or for listeners to explore on their own. 

And here they are...

Gideon Sterer is the New York Times bestselling author of The Christmas Owl, I Will Read to You, From Ed’s to Ned’s, Not Your Nest!, The Night Knights, and The Midnight Fair, among others. Gideon grew up in upstate New York, where his parents owned a little zoo in which he would run around after hours and let the animals out. He now lives in the Hudson Valley and invites you to visit him online at GideonSterer.com and on X.

Charles Santoso loves drawing little things in his little journal. He gathers inspiration from his childhood memories and curiosities he discovers in his everyday travels. He has illustrated several picture books, including The Snurtch, I Don’t Like Koala, Finding Muchness, and Ida, Always. Charles also works as a visual development artist, creating illustrations for feature film projects. He lives and works in Singapore. You can visit him at CharlesSantoso.com.

This is Who I Am by Rashmi Sirdeshpande

Today's read heads to Asia...and the U.S.. This one hits multi-cultural goodness and takes a look at what it's like to have '2 worlds'. Of course, this one caught my interest thanks to our own, multi-cultural family. While my kids have very much settled into American life by now, they still have to slip right back into the German one when heading back. And yes, there is a difference. It's not just about food or holidays, but also about mindsets and different ways of viewing and going about life. I think it's, actually, this aspect which makes switching back and forth most interesting and challenging. 

Anyway, let's see how this little girl coasts between the two worlds.

THIS IS WHO I AM

by Rashmi Sirdeshpande

Illustrated by Ruchi Mhasane

Magination Press

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 4 to 8

What does it mean to belong to two cultures?

One little girl explores how she has come to be who she is. She knows that she is much more than where she is from. Her family came from Asia, but there is more to it. She is also her ancestors, their traditions, and their environment, and she is her parents, who bravely moved to a new country, and their dreams, and she is all the people who helped along the way and even the people who didn't. She is her own memories, from family visits and the journeys back home to new traditions and old customs. She is every teacher and every book that has opened her eyes to the world around her.

She is all her experiences and those of everyone who came before her. As she navigates through her rich heritage, she finds she feels proud to be who she is.
With beautiful illustrations, rich prose, and a loving message, This Is Who I Am is a celebration of identity and the richness of diversity.

GOODREADS    /    AMAZON    /    B&N

MY TIDBITS

These pages celebrate embracing every part of life...even if they sit on two sides of the world.

This little girl has lived in the U.S. with her family for a few years already and has very much settled in to everyday life and the world around her. And she likes it. But she's more than that, and also is a complete part of her life in Asia. Although she doesn't live there, that's where she came from and her relatives and friends still remain. So, when she returns, she dives right in and clicks into that puzzle of life as well. It's like two different lives in one person, and she loves it.

Positivity radiates from every page in this read as a little girl goes about her life in the U.S., and a few pages later, in Asia. She's smiling and energetic to show how comfortable it is to slide into both cultures seamlessly...and yet, it also makes it clear how different both sides can be. While the difference between the two cultures comes across loud and clear, the way she embraces and finds family and friendship on both ends, also demonstrates how love, concern, and family is everywhere. This balance allows listeners to fully enjoy and feel the excitement she does as she lives in both worlds.

The illustrations are detailed, draw in, and bring each moment to life with energy. They also bring across the differences in the two lives with visual clarity while offering information on that front. While the text explains a few aspects of each world, it's the illustrations which really hold the most goodness on that end. The text is fitting to the age group and creates a nice read-aloud. It flows nicely and introduces each moment while drawing in. It's an enjoyable read without any sense of preachiness and simply lets a young girl enjoy all aspects of her vibrant life. And this leaves a smile on the face.

And here they are...

Rashmi Sirdeshpande is an award‑winning children’s author who loves taking big ideas and making them accessible for children. She writes a mixture of picture books, poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. 

Ruchi Mhasane studied at the Cambridge School of Art, UK. She works mostly in pencil and watercolor and enjoys capturing expressive gestures and movements, especially those of little children.

The Umbrella by Sylvia Walker

Today's read caught my attention not only because Spring's rains have been keeping things moist in our area, but it's marketed as a tale similar to The Mitten. This was one of my favorite stories while growing up and also one of the only books my parents had on their shelves for us kids. We read quite a bit, thanks to the weekly Saturday visits to the local libraries, so they didn't buy but a few reads over the years. Anyway, I could easily see the theme from The Mitten working under the idea of an umbrella and am excited to see how the author handles it.

THE UMBRELLA 

by Sylvia Walker

Denene Miller Books

Picture Book

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

COMING JUNE 9th!!!

Getting caught in the rain at the park leads a little girl to discover a remarkable umbrella and, with it, the magic of friendship and community in this charming picture book inspired by Jan Brett’s classic The Mitten.

Zora’s fun day in the park is interrupted by a sudden rain shower, and she finds just the thing she needs to stay an umbrella big enough for one. When another child on the playground asks if he can join her, and then another and another still, Zora makes room for them all—and the umbrella does too!

But suddenly, a gust of wind blows the umbrella away, and Zora and her new friends must work together to find it, a search that helps them discover the true value of friendship and collaboration.

GOODREADS    /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Sharing mixes with a big heart to create a touching read.

Zora is having a great time playing at the park, but a sudden rain shower has her looking for cover. Luckily, an umbrella is underneath the park bench. Zora immediately opens it up, glad for protection for the rain and realizes that others around her are searching for cover, too. Since the umbrella is easily large enough for more than just her, she invites everyone in.

This is a simple and, yet, potent read, which leaves all sorts of warm feelings inside. The setting is one that most young listeners can identify with, starting off the read with good vibes. These increase with each turn of the page as Zora's invitation stretches to everyone around her, friend or stranger. The strong sense of community, helping others, and working together come across loud and clear without even a dusting of preachiness or intentional messaging. It's simply a lovely tale to put a smile on the face and inspire to help out when one can.

The bright and cheerful illustrations invite in while bringing across the scenes with an every day atmosphere. Even the rain doesn't press down long thanks to the obvious warmth shown. The text is kept short and plays with the illustrations to add atmosphere while still working as a read-aloud. The words flow smoothly and make each moment clear without explaining exactly what is happening, so that the illustrations work to carry the story, too. This makes it also ideal for young listeners to pick up on their own and follow the story through the scenes.

It's a warming read, which is sure to get the word 'again'.

And here she is...

Sylvia Walker, a southern California native, brings a natural affinity to the artistic painting of diverse images, especially children. She expresses herself in a variety of media, including watercolor, pencil, ink, acrylic on canvas and wood, and recently digital images. After earning a BFA at California Institute of the Arts, she began a career in fashion illustration for department stores, fashion houses, and the Simplicity and McCall’s pattern companies. Sylvia has years of experience illustrating children’s books. The Umbrella is her author-illustrator debut. Sylvia lives in Sacramento, CA.

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.