Today's read... Love Is My Favorite Color by Nina Laden

LOVE IS MY FAVORITE COLOR

by Nina Laden

Illustrated by Melissa Castrillon

Paula Wiseman Books

Picture Book

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

COMING...

JANUARY 24th, 2024!!!

A sparkling and tender picture book about all the things that are bright and loving in the world and fill our lives with joy.

From caring to hoping to peace to sharing, there are many ways to find joy in the everyday. Celebrate the things that make life wonderful and each day special. With stunning artwork, readers of all ages will find moments to treasure.

GOODREADS

MY TIDBITS

With illustrations, which dance on the edge of fantasy, this read radiates joy on every page.

This book heads in a poetic direction with a simple, verse flow which packs deeper meanings and positive vibes. Just enough of each verse repeats itself to quickly gain familiarity with young listeners, while the rest takes meaningful terms (hope, love, bravery, etc.) and gives them thoughtful twists. The younger end of the intended age group most likely won't entirely grasp or appreciate the meanings of each phrase, but the older readers will be able to work through them to get food for thought and even open up to lighter discussions. For both, it makes a gentle and enjoyable read. 

The illustrations allow for unique color contrasts, which when combined with the playful style, take familiar scenes and give them an almost fantastical touch. It invites to dream, while spinning familiar settings and situations, which readers/listeners can identify with. The calming and positive atmosphere gives it a relaxing touch, which is wonderful for those quieter moments. It's also an enjoyable way to subtly introduce literary devices and poetry.

And here they are...

Nina Laden is the author-illustrator of many books for kids, including the Peek-a series; Who Loves You, Baby?; The Night I Followed the Dog; Yellow Kayak; Dear Little One; and Love Is My Favorite Color. She lives with her husband on Lummi Island, Washington. Visit her online at NinaLaden.com.

Melissa Castrillon studied at the Cambridge School of Art where she earned a first class honors degree in illustration and a master’s degree in children’s book illustration. She is the illustrator of If I Had a Little Dream by Nina Laden. She is also the author-illustrator of The Balcony, which received the Society of Illustrators Gold Medal. Her book Dear Little One, by Nina Laden, was a School Library Journal best picture book of the year. Her books have been published all over the world. She lives in Cambridge, England, with her husband.

 

Review: Yellow Kayak by Nina Laden, Illustrated by Melissa Castrillon

YELLOW KAYAK

by Nina Laden

Illustrated by Melissa Castrillon

Simon & Schuster

Picture Book

ages 4 and up

32 pages

A child and his beloved best friend go on a grand sea adventure in this magical picture book by the author and artist who created If I Had a Little Dream.

You just never know what a new day will hold if you are brave enough to find out. On one quiet afternoon, a boy and his special friend’s unexpected adventure bring joy and excitement and sights never imagined. And the best part of any adventure is returning home with stories to tell and you best friend at your side. 

MY TIDBITS

With pointed text and stunning illustrations, this book invites into the world of dreams and endless possibilities.

A boy and his friend, a simple giraffe, take a boat ride into adventure. The journey takes them through storms, peaceful waves, swirling sea creatures and bucket loads of other sights and unexpected places.

The illustrations in this one are amazing. While in some ways reminding of the swirly, imaginative style found in Dr. Seuss, these colorful depictions go a step further and enter the world of artistic wonder. The colors radiate and are daring, giving each scene a wonderful and inviting atmosphere. Yet, the playful side sits front and center, giving young readers something to discover and enjoy time and again.

The text is exquisite. The four line rhymes are composed and carefully placed, each line only consisting of two words. And these two words are exactly what is needed to call in each emotion and image. It reads like a fantastic dream, letting the adventure slide in harmony with the illustrations. It's calming, invites imagination to take flight, leaves the reader feeling a bit braver and craving an exciting journey of their own.

I highly recommend this read, and see it as a clear favorite among young listeners and older readers alike.



And here they are. . .

The author. . .
Nina Laden is author-illustrator of man books for kids, including Peek-a-Who?; Who Loves You;, Baby?; The Night I Followed the Dog; and If I Had a Little Dream, illustrated by Melissa Castrillon, which School Library Journal called "a sweet bedtime selection." She lives with her husband on Lummi Island, Washington.

The Illustrator. . .

Melissa Castrillon is a freelance illustrator currently based in Cambridge, England. She earned a master's degree in children's book illustration at the Cambridge School of Art. She is the illustrator of If I Had a Little Dream, written by Nina Laden, about which Publishers Weekly said, "Castrillon debuts with a splash. . .She's a talent to watch."