Welcome to another installment in our series of blog posts featuring children’s books we’re currently loving! “Book Chat with the Youth Services Team” features one book recommendation from each of our Youth Services team members. We cover a variety of books from fiction to non-fiction, picture books to chapter books, graphic novels and more! We hope that this month’s reading recommendations get you excited about some awesome new books we’ve added to our collection as well as some oldies but goodies. Enjoy!
Lisa recommends: The Shadows (The Books of Elsewhere, Volume 1) by Jacqueline West (ages 9-11)
This is the first volume of the New York Times’ bestselling series The Books of Elsewhere. Olive and her parents have just moved into an old house in a new town. The house holds secrets that Olive discovers when she decides to investigate. What stories do the paintings on the walls tell? Olive, along with some witty felines as sidekicks, find out the mysteries the house holds. This is part of a five book series and RPL has all the books! Check it out!
April recommends: A Split Second by Jane Marks (ages 8-12)
A Split Second by Jane Marks is about how your life can change really fast because of something unexpected. The book tells stories about different people who face big surprises and how strong and brave people can be, even when things get tough. I enjoyed this book because it shares real-life challenges and how people overcome them. It’s written in a way that makes you feel like you’re right there with the characters, experiencing their adventures and feelings. A Split Second is a good choice to read for 3rd, 4th, or 5th graders. This story will introduce them to individuals their age learning how to tackle problems, and seeing how they grow and change. Author Janae Marks has written a book about bravery, making good choices, and how little moments can make a big difference.
Madison recommends: Escargot and the Search for Spring by Dashka Slater (ages 4-6)
This spring, I recommend Escargot and the Search for Spring, by Dashka Slater. Escargot, a charming little snail, is experiencing ennui- or perhaps a touch of seasonal depression. In search for signs of spring, he ventures out of his home and encounters a white bunny rabbit. Convinced the rabbit will hinder his quest,
Escargot hilariously tries to get rid of his new companion, only to discover that the bunny has brought him a delightful springtime gift. I love this book because of Escargot’s playful personality. Reading it aloud invites silly voices and dramatic moments, making story time extra fun with your little ones. Celebrate the changing season and check out Escargot and the Search for Spring from your local RPL
branch!
Mirissa recommends: A Forest Song by Kirsten Hall and Evan Turk (ages 4-8)
Anyone who’s ever taken the time to walk through the woods and listen to nature’s secrets will feel perfectly at home in this one. A Forest Song is a cento poem, or a poem made up from lines borrowed from or inspired by other famous poets like Robert Frost, Edgar Allen Poe, and more. Kirsten Hall weaves these borrowed lines into a new tale of a child exploring the forest in wonder. Evan Turk’s whirling illustrations add depth to the words, hiding little details like watching birch eyes or a camouflaged bird. My favorite lines come halfway through, a blend of Emily Bronte and Walt Whitman with a little added flair: ‘But then! The leaves speak bliss to me. / The leaves kick’d by my feet soon sing. / Who knew such pleasure this would bring?” Pick this one up today to find which line speaks to you.
Summer recommends: Life is Beautiful by Winsome Bingham (ages 4-8)
Granny Dee always tells her granddaughter Missy to appreciate life. They live on opposite sides of New York City, but when they get together, they have all manner of fun inside and outdoors. After Granny Dee becomes ill and passes away, Missy remembers her grandmother’s wisdom -even through the tears and pain, life is beautiful. Kids and caregivers alike will get lost in the colorful, gorgeous illustrations from Molly Mendoza in this touching picture book.
Rachel recommends: Hollow Chest by Brita Sandstrom (ages 8-12)
“In the beginning, there was Hunger, which grew teeth. There is no other story but this.”
It is February of 1945, and Charlie’s brother is finally coming home from the war. But when Theo gets back, he’s different. Charlie had expected this, but it’s more than Theo’s disabled leg, the nightmares, or his sudden asociality. Theo’s heart is gone. It hasn’t been lost or stolen; it has been eaten by the war wolves. Can a heart that’s eaten ever be recovered? Hollow Chest is a fable about trauma, bereavement, wanting, and learning to love someone who will never be the same
Adriane recommends: I Have Three Cats by Michelle Sumovich (ages 4-8)
This picture book caught my eye because I am a cat lover. The main character has three cats when a stray shows up. At first the girl posts a sign for someone to come and get this “Terrible Cat”. But as time goes on, after she has a bath, some food, and a warm bed, the little girl realizes maybe there is room for one more cat.
Joan recommends: Best in Show by David Elliot (ages 4-8)
Any dog lovers in the house? Check out Best in Show. It’s a great new informational picture book that highlights a variety of dog breeds. In addition to poetry and facts about each breed, this book includes artwork from 18 award winning illustrators. A few of the artists: Oge Mora, Antionette Portis, Sergio Ruzzier, Raúl the Third and Elaine Bay. I think the format of this book is really engaging. Each two page spread is unique visually due to the different artists. Also, the style of poetry and type of information included in the side notes changes from breed to breed. Don’t forget to check out the pages at the back of the book to learn a little more about each contributor and their canine friends.
Well, readers, that’s a wrap! Check back again next month for some more fabulous reading recommendations. Until then, happy reading!
