Children's Book Council

CBCbooks — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 10:55:35 +0000

The Hot Off the Press Spotlight segment showcases new books from our current Hot Off the Press list to further assist parents, teachers, librarians, booksellers, and other book enthusiasts in finding engaging books for all types of readers.

When you’re young, your emotions can feel overwhelming, too big to control, or even completely incomprehensible. Trying something new, learning how to share, navigating loss, or even just trying to figure out how to name your feelings is a big deal for kids. This selection of titles from our March Hot Off the Press list explores the emotional roller coasters that kids can experience, showing that you’re not alone and that with a little creativity, bravery, and kindness, you can get through all of those big feelings.

Anxious, by Luciana De Luca; illus. by Natalí Barbani (Annick Press) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Concepts, Mental / Physical Health, Disabilities, ages 4-6.

A gorgeously illustrated, sparingly written story about the often complicated feelings brought on by anxiousness, perfect for helping young readers identify this complex emotion.

The little girl in this picture book would love to dance, sing, and play with her friends, but she is struggling with anxious feelings that get in the way. Sometimes she feels scared and sometimes she feels shy. Sometimes the world seems too loud, too fast, and everything is so overwhelming she could just scream. There is no easy fix for feeling anxious, but by the end of this story she learns to ask for help and finds small ways to feel better.

Written from a child’s perspective, Anxious pairs evocative art with simple text to illustrate some of the ways anxiousness can be experienced, providing an empathetic and compassionate framework for helping readers understand this feeling.

A note to readers adds context and explains in more detail what anxiousness can look like, provides suggestions for coping skills, and resources for professional help.

Beth and Cloud Won’t Change, written & illustrated by Ciara Gavin (Clavis) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Friendships, Mental / Physical Health, Science / Nature, ages 4-6.

A story in which a girl learns that change can bring many new possibilities. For brave children ages 5 years and up.

Just before starting school for the first time, Beth meets a cloud who has drifted into her room. Fascinated by Beth’s inside world, Cloud decides to become an inside cloud. Now they can be friends forever. But can you keep a cloud inside forever?

Born Brave, by Megan Bomgaars; illus. by Quiel Ramos (Flowerpot Press) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Mental / Physical Health, Animals, Concepts, ages 4-6.

A new colorful and sparkling story from author Megan Bomgaars reminds readers that they were born brave just like Megan!

This uplifting and whimsical follow up title to Born to Sparkle reminds us of all the ways we have shown courage and bravery every single day since the day we were born. From the first night sleeping on your own to the very first day of school, we have all faced challenges, but Megan reminds us that we have always had it inside of us.

Henry and the Something New, by Jenn Bailey; illus. by Mika Song (Chronicle Books) �?Fiction, Early Reader, Disabilities, Friendships, Kindness / Generosity, ages 7-12.

From the creators of A Friend for Henry and Henry, Like Always comes a delightful beginning chapter book about embracing new experiences, starring a sweet and sensitive child on the autism spectrum.

It’s Field Trip Day! Henry’s class is excited to visit the museum, but Henry is not so sure. The museum means maybe seeing dinosaurs, Henry’s favorite. But it also means a lot of things that are new: a noisy school bus ride, a building full of echoes and hallways, and plenty of chances to get lost! Will he find something that makes all of this new worth the trip? Come along with Henry in this funny, bighearted tale about trying new things, exploring new places, and finding the courage to make yourself heard.

Imperfectly Perfect, by Perry Emerson; illus. by Hoang Giang (Tiger Tales Books) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Family / Community, Concepts, Friendships, ages 4-6.

A thought-provoking picture book inspired by the idea that there is beauty to be cherished in imperfection.

When Maria rips her brother Robbie’s favorite book, she’s worried that they might never be friends again. But with encouragement and wise words from family friend Ms. Bea, Maria learns to embrace the beauty of broken things and seize the opportunity they offer for healing and reconciliation. A heartfelt celebration of the perfect imperfections that surround us in our everyday lives.

The Imposter, by Laura Bower; illus. by Kerisa Greene (Gnome Road Publishing) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Friendships, Humor, Kindness / Generosity, ages 4-6.

Olive loves her Mr. Snuggles more than anything else in the world. He’s cuddly – reliable – perfect – and unfortunately … lost. When Mr. Snuggles mysteriously reappears, Olive couldn’t be more excited. Except, he looks a little too clean, a little too fluffy, and a little too new. He’s an imposter! Olive must learn to make room for more than just one Mr. Snuggles in her heart or else banish The Imposter from her life for good.

Kiki Feels Funny, written & illustrated by Esther van den Berg (Clavis) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Mental / Physical Health, Holidays / Seasons / Celebrations, Animals, ages 4-6.

A playful and recognizable story about different feelings. For toddlers ages 30 months and up, with a focus on the child’s emotions.

Kiki wakes up feeling funny. It’s not an itch on her nose or her toe, but a tingling in her tummy�?What could she be feeling? Curious, Kiki asks her animal friends what they’re feeling.

La Mala Suerte Is Following Me, by Ana Siqueira; illus. by Carlos Vélez Aguilera (Charlesbridge Publishing) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Imagination / Play, Contemporary, Cultural Diversity, ages 4-6.

In this fun picture book romp about superstitions, can Miguel learn to make his own luck—and be rid of La Mala Suerte—before it’s too late?

Miguel’s abuelita warned him that opening an umbrella in the house will bring La Mala Suerte (Mrs. Bad Luck) who will follow him wherever he goes, and now Miguel’s life is ruined! He trips, fails an exam, and he can’t block a shot to save his life at soccer practice. Nothing he tries works to get rid of Mrs. Bad Luck—looking for a four-leaf clover, his aunt’s “existential” oils�?Now what? Simultaneously published in Spanish and in English with Spanish insertions, this silly and heartfelt look at superstitions will leave kids excited to get out there and make their own luck.

Lena’s Favorite Sweater, by Ellen Delange; illus. by Johanna Häger (Clavis) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Mental / Physical Health, Family / Community, Kindness / Generosity, ages 7-12.

A beautiful story about the joy of sharing. For children ages 5 years and up.

Lena has a favorite sweater. Grandma knitted it especially for her. No one else is allowed to touch it, except when Mom washes it. But one day, when the sweater is hanging on the clothesline outside, Lena sees that it has big holes in it. Who has done this? she thinks angrily. When she finds out, she makes a surprising discovery . . .

Maya Plays the Part, by Calyssa Erb (Annick Press) �?Fiction, Prose, Disabilities, Coming of Age, Friendships, ages 7-12.

A heartwarming middle-grade debut with autism representation and a musical flair.

Maya lives and breathes musicals. When her chance to finally be a part of the summer musical program at the community theater comes up, Maya is convinced she will get the lead. After all, who knows The Drowsy Chaperone better than she does? However, things don’t turn out exactly the way Maya’s planned, and the summer turns out to be jam-packed with problems: dealing with her best friend’s move, her parents�?busy jobs, and—since her autism diagnosis—the ongoing puzzle of how to be Maya in Public. But perhaps most important of all, Maya has to figure out how to play the part that truly feels like her own.

My Baby Sister is A Diplodocus, written & illustrated by Aurore Petit (Gecko Press) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Family / Community, Imagination / Play, Concepts, ages 4-6.

In this eye-catching neon-bright picture book, a brother finds an inventive way to connect with his new baby sister through his love of dinosaurs.

My new baby sister comes home. But babies don’t drink milk, don’t ride a bicycle, don’t play my games. Do I like being a big brother? No! Roooarr! I stomp around and go to sleep in my T-Rex onesie. In the morning, I take another look at baby sister—baby sister diplodocus.

My Baby Sister Is a Diplodocus is a new sibling story within the imaginative world of a toddler. We share a brother’s excitement then disappointment in his new baby sister. But his love of dinosaurs opens up a new path. By imagining her as a dinosaur, he connects with her, making room for everyone in the family.

Vivid contemporary illustrations and surprising perspectives complement a spare narrative. Affecting vignettes of this new family, with its little baby tucked up in the centre of the story, combine with graphic/comics elements in the storytelling as we share the emotion of each moment unfolding.

My Daddy is in Heaven Grief Workbook, by Alexander R. Della Cerra and Dr. Shawna L. Della Cerra; illus. by Ryan Law (Lawley Publishing) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Death / Grief, Family / Community, How-to / Activity, ages 4-6.

My Daddy Is In Heaven Grief Workbook: A Companion Grief Guide to My Daddy Is In Heaven is packed with activities and resources to assist individuals in processing feelings while actively engaging in healthy healing. This easy to follow guide makes heavy-hearted conversations approachable by breaking down barriers into manageable chunks. The Della Cerra’s provide a variety of opportunities to strengthen coping, communication, and bonding skills. Immediately implement positive discourse through guided prompts.

The Storyteller, by Lindsay Bonilla; illus. by Noar Lee Naggan (Nancy Paulsen Books / Penguin Young Readers) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Death / Grief, Family / Community, Folklore / Fairytales / Myths, ages 4-6.

Featuring an evocative text and luminous paintings, this stunning book celebrates the power of stories—how they connect us, inspire us, and keep memories alive.

Griffin’s grandmother spins the most marvelous stories, from breathtaking fairy tales to fascinating family lore. These stories fuel his imagination and fill their days with magic. So when he sees her once-bright spark begin to fade, Griffin is scared to think of the future. Fortunately, though, he has her stories to guide him—and to remind him that he is braver than he could ever imagine.

Wild, written & illustrated by Emily Hughes (Flying Eye Books) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Imagination / Play, Science / Nature, Family / Community, ages 4-6.

In Emily Hughes�?beautiful picture book we meet a little girl who has known nothing but nature from birth �?she was taught to talk by birds, to eat by bears and to play by foxes �?she is unashamedly, irrefutably, irrepressibly wild. That is, until she is snared by some very strange animals that look oddly like her, but they don’t talk right, eat right, or play correctly. She’s puzzled by their behavior and their insistence to live in these strange concrete structures known as ‘apartments�? There’s no green here, no animals, no trees, no rivers. Now she lives in the comfort of civilization. But will civilization get comfortable with her?

Wild is a 21st century response to Maurice Sendak’s children’s classic, Where the Wild Things Are. Awash with color and full of atmosphere, it offers visual treats to enchant children and indulge their wilder tendencies.

For more great book suggestions, be sure to check out the full March Hot Off the Press list!

List compiled by CBC’s resident book connoisseur, Brooke Pisarsky. Check out other Hot Off the Press Spotlight book lists on our blog.

Children's Book Council

CBCbooks — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 15:25:19 +0000

Unite Against Book Bans—the national initiative launched by ALA in 2022 to help readers, teachers, librarians, booksellers, students, publishers, community advocates, and others in the fight against censorship—has launched a free collection of book résumés to support everyone in their efforts to keep frequently challenged books on shelves.

As easy-to-print PDFs, the book résumés feature information provided by publishers, librarians, authors, illustrators, and School Library Journal, including:

a synopsis of the book
reviews and awards the book has received
more from the book creators themselves
links to additional resources, relevant media, and more

These hundred books represent just some of the most frequently banned adult, young adult, and children’s books. Amongst the many featured is the book résumé for Yaqui Delgado Wants To Kick Your Ass by the current National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, Meg Medina. (The National Ambassador program is managed by CBC’s Every Child a Reader, in partnership with the Library of Congress.)

We would like to thank all those who gave their time to make this project possible.

Here is the directory to all the book résumés, with more to be added on a regular basis.

The Children’s Book Council join with all who are in the fight against book bans, and our work and resources can be seen here.

Children's Book Council

CBCbooks — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 17:02:29 +0000

The team at Every Child a Reader is so excited to share this year’s crop of fun, free resources for readers of all ages to use across the country. You can take a look at everything currently available below and expect a few more surprises coming your way in early to mid-April!

ILLUSTRATED RESOURCES

From beloved children’s book illustrators come 8 brand-new bookmarks and 11 activity pages to enjoy.

Bookmarks from:

Nancy Armo
Anu Chouhan
David Dolensky
Susan Gal
Suzy Lee
Meggie Ramm
Erin K. Robinson
Gabby Zapata

Activity pages by:

Shadia Amin
Jacqueline Alcántara
Kent Culotta
Natasha Donovan
Braden Hallett
Jess Hannigan
Marta Álvarez Miguéns
Andy J. Pizza
Elisa Rocchi
Joséphine Topolanski
Karen Vermeulen

Print and share these beautiful resources today!

CLUB NO RULES JUST READ

Anyone, anywhere, can celebrate Children’s Book Week. This year we invite you to join CLUB NO RULES JUST READ. How do you join? You read!

That’s right…all you need to do is read something during the week, and you are in! Of course, you can do more than that, we have some fun resources and ideas if you and your friends, family, or community want to go big.

MORE RESOURCES

We have participation tools, coloring pages in multiple languages that kids can color, an infographic of 105 Children’s Book Week, and more coming soon. Check out the main Children’s Book Week Resources page to find all the goodies!

Check out more at EveryChildaReader.net

Children's Book Council

CBCbooks — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 14:38:00 +0000

The CBC asks Sally Mallam, Director, questions about the publisher.

How did your publishing house start out?

Hoopoe’s publishing program began in 1998 with a series of 11 beautifully illustrated traditional teaching-stories from Central Asia and the Middle East, collected and adapted for children by the author and educator Idries Shah. We’ve since added many more teaching-stories, as well as an All About Me series that provides useful, scientifically validated information to help preteens and teens understand.

What is your publishing house most known for?

PROMOTING THINKING SKILLS
Hoopoe’s motto is “Thinking children become thinking adults.�?Our mission is to publish books that not only entertain children and young adults, but also help them to understand themselves and their world and to develop higher-level thinking skills and perception. Our traditional teaching-stories have been widely commended—by educators and psychologists, the U.S. Library of Congress, National Public Radio, and other news media—for their ability to do this and to foster social-emotional development.

PUBLISHING BILINGUAL EDITIONS IN MANY LANGUAGES
Perhaps uniquely among children’s publishers, we offer these award-winning books not only in English, Spanish, French, and German but in many other languages as well, including those of the regions where the stories originated. And we publish them in dozens of different bilingual editions so that displaced families all over the world can benefit from them. For such people, the power of a book in one’s own language is extraordinarily strong, and offering them a book in their own language not only acknowledges their cultural identity but also extends a hand of welcome and acceptance.

OUR OUTREACH PROGRAMS
In addition to selling these books through normal commercial channels, Hoopoe operates outreach programs that partner with schools, orphanages, and social-service agencies to provide these books, and related materials, free of charge to at-risk children throughout the world �?including many who have lost their home and their belongings, and have been forced to flee with next to nothing. Stories are borderless, powerful ambassadors that cross between cultures and communities, connecting us and bringing understanding. We currently have outreach programs in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Afghanistan, Pakistan, Ukraine, Mexico, Guatemala, Colombia, Germany, Hungary, and Nicaragua. And we hope to soon launch similar programs in India, Morocco, Syria, Turkey, Brazil, Costa Rica, Panama, Romania, and Poland.

PROMOTING TOLERANCE AND MULTICULTURAL EDUCATION
Our beautifully illustrated children’s books bridge cultures and promote tolerance among people of all backgrounds. The stories are traditional tales from South and Central Asia and the Middle East, and resonate with children from those regions, as well as with their parents and grandparents. But these stories aren’t culture-specific; rather, they’re universal tales that everyone, everywhere, can relate to. Add to this the fact that we publish them not only in English, but in a wide range of dual-language editions, thus encouraging communication and acceptance between the newly arrived and the recipient communities. Ideal for those who are learning a new language, these bilingual editions enable refugee children living in the West to read wonderful stories in their mother tongue as well as the language of their new home, and to share their culture �?its differences and commonalities �?with their classroom friends, developing empathy and understanding. What’s more, most of the Hoopoe titles depict the people, clothing, architecture, and animals indigenous to the parts of the world where the stories originated. For children, a book is not just a lens through which they see the world; it’s also a mirror through which they see themselves. So, in addition to promoting tolerance by centering on characters who look different, our books also help promote a healthy sense of identity in people of the diasporas whose roots are in those cultures.

OFFERING FREE RELATED MATERIALS FOR TEACHERS AND PARENTS
The value of Hoopoe’s unique books is enhanced by related materials that we provide online for
teachers and parents at no charge.

Where in the country is your house based?

San Francisco.

How many books does your house aim to publish per season/year?

We published three new titles in 2023 and plan to publish 10 new titles in 2024.

Which genres does your house prefer to publish?

Most of our books are traditional teaching-stories that have been illustrated and adapted for children.

Which formats does your house prefer to publish?

All of our books are available as paperbacks, and the All About Me series books are also available as eBooks.

What are some of your house’s publishing priorities over the next few years?

We already distribute in nearly 300 language combinations, and we will be seeking to extend this still further. A second major step for us will be the creation of a view-and-read online platform, where we can make available our materials and support activities aimed at teachers, pupils, and parents. This will be enhanced by monthly online discussions and readings shared by communities around the world—the aim being to help young people express their culture and celebrate their differences as well as their commonalities.

Which upcoming titles is your house buzzing about?

In 2024, we plan to publish 10 new teaching-stories by Idries Shah:

The Tale of the Sands
The Man, the Tree and the Wolf
The Boy Who Couldn’t Hear
The Onion
The Rich Man and the Monkey
The Ants and the Pen
Melon City
Speak First and Lose
The Horrible Dib Dib
After a Swim

Which of your frontlist titles would be great for a school or public library?

Peaches, The King without a Trade, and The Palace of the Man in Blue.

Which of your frontlist titles would be great for a classroom? Which grade?

Peaches, The King without a Trade, and The Palace of the Man in Blue (all of them for grades 3-6).

Which of your frontlist tiles would you like to see get more attention from bookstores?

Peaches, The King without a Trade, and The Palace of the Man in Blue.

Name a few of your favorite backlist titles that people should check out.

All of our teaching stories:

The Lion Who Saw Himself in the Water
Neem the Half-Boy
Fatima the Spinner and the Tent
The Silly Chicken

As well as our All About Me series books:

Me and My Memory: Why We Forget Some Things and Remember Others
What We See and Don’t See
What’s the Catch? How to Avoid Getting Hooked and Manipulated
Me and My Feelings: What Emotions Are and How We Can Manage Them

Thank you, Hoopoe Books!

Children's Book Council

CBCbooks — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 14:14:07 +0000

The CBC has put together 2 great panels held at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. Get the details below and book your tickets today.

Get your tickets for these CBC panels
at WonderCon

Exploring the Worlds of Graphic Novels (Saturday, March 30, 12:30 PM, Room 213AB)

In the early reader and middle-grade world, there are so many graphic novels to dive into and creators themselves are always exploring different trends and genres. From epic heroes to unicorns to cowgirls, these creators discuss their processes in navigating what’s new, what’s popular, and what’s yet to be discovered. MODERATOR

Dr. Lesley S. J. Farmer �?nbsp;Professor of Library Media, CSULB Teacher Librarian Program Coordinator

PANELISTS

Sabrina & Eunice Moyle (Captain Marvel Soars Above (A Marvel Hello Heroes Book)) �?nbsp;Abrams

April Showers (Afro Unicorn) �?nbsp;Andrews McMeel Publishing

George O’Connor (Asgardians: Odin) �?nbsp;Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group / First Second Books

Steve Breen (Sky & Ty 1: Howdy, Partner!) �?nbsp;Pixel+Ink

Miranda Harmon (Market Day) �?Holiday House

Keep Bans Off Our Books (Sunday, March 31, 1:00 PM, Room 213CD)

The topic of book banning has risen as more and more books are taken off the shelves, especially graphic novels. These creators are here to talk about graphic novels and literacy, what we can do about censorship in our communities, and most importantly, how to keep bans off our books! MODERATOR

Lauren Regenhardt �?Mission Viejo Library Senior Librarian, Children’s Services

PANELISTS

Meggie Ramm (Sink or Swim / BatCat) �?nbsp;Abrams

Richard Ashley Hamilton (Scoop) �?Mad Cave Studios / Maverick

Jasmine Walls (Brooms) – Levine Querido

Gabriel Valentin (Digital Lizards of Doom) �?Mad Cave Studios / Papercutz

A special thank you to:

The WonderCon Programming Team for their guidance and help in organizing the panels.

Mysterious Galaxy for their help with our panelists’ book signings and having the books available for purchase onsite.

The brilliant book creators, their publishers, and the CBC Graphic Novel Committee members.

Our great moderators, Dr. Lesley S. J. Farmer & Lauren Regenhardt, for their collaboration and contribution.

Learn more about the CBC Graphic Novel Committee.

Children's Book Council

CBCbooks — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 17:31:57 +0000

The past holds many lessons for the present: waste not, want not; equality was hard-won and is still a work in progress; power in the hands of the few can lead to the exploitation of the many. These historical fiction titles from our March Hot Off the Press list visit different eras and give voice to characters who face—and overcome—various challenges, all the while educating and entertaining the reader.

Nancy Bess had a Dress, by Claire Annette Noland; & illus. by Angela C. Hawkins (Gnome Road Publishing) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Environment / Sustainability / Recycling, Historical Fiction, Careers / Hobbies, ages 4-6.

Waste not, want not! A patterned flour sack becomes a clever creation in this story set in the late 1930’s featuring a crafty girl with a gift for repurposing her favorite daisy print.

When the family flour sack is emptied, Nancy Bess remakes it into a dress. But little girls grow as little girls do, and soon that dress is too small. Bit by bit, Nancy Bess fashions the material into new creations, until finally, all that is left of the flour sack are a few tattered pieces. Peering into the family scrap basket, Nancy Bess comes up with a plan to use the material once more, sewing something special to last for generations.

With carefully crafted and richly detailed illustrations, Nancy Bess Had a Dress will appeal to curious young historians and recycling enthusiasts, as well as like-minded teachers, librarians and caregivers.

One Big Open Sky, by Lesa Cline-Ransome (Holiday House) �?Fiction, Poetry / Stories in Verse, BIPOC Characters and Creators, Historical Fiction, Family / Community, ages 7-12.

Three women narrate a perilous wagon journey westward that could set them free—or cost them everything they have—in this intergenerational verse novel that explores the history of the Black homesteader movement.

1879, Mississippi. Young dreamer Lettie may have her head in the stars, but her body is on a covered wagon heading westward. Her father, Thomas, promises that Nebraska will be everything the family needs: an opportunity to claim the independence they’ve strived for over generations on their very own plot of land. But Thomas�?hopes—and mouth—are bigger than his ability to follow through. With few supplies and even less money, the only thing that feels certain is danger. Right after the war ended/and we were free/we believed/all of us did/that couldn’t nothing hurt us/the way master had when we were slaves/Couldn’t no one tell us/how to live/how to die. Lettie, her mother, Sylvia, and young teacher Philomena are free from slavery—but bound by poverty, access to opportunity, and patriarchal social structures. Will these women survive the hardships of their journey? And as Thomas�?desire for control overpowers his common sense, will they truly be free once they get there? Coretta Scott King Honor-winning author Lesa Cline-Ransome’s striking verse masterfully portrays an underrepresented historical era. Tackling powerful themes of autonomy and Black self-emancipation, Cline-Ransome offers readers an intimate look into the lives of three women and an expansive portrait of generations striving for their promised freedom.

Song of Freedom, Song of Dreams, by Shari Green (Andrews McMeel Publishing) �?Fiction, Poetry / Stories in Verse, Historical Fiction, Friendships, Romance, ages Teen.

From award-winning verse novelist Shari Green comes an unforgettable story of friendship, first love, and an impossible choice between integrity and duty, family and friends, all while fighting for a dream.

Song of Freedom, Song of Dreams is a historical YA novel in verse that centers around a young pianist in East Germany trying to make sense of love, duty, and the pursuit of dreams during the unsettled months of protest that led to the fall of the Berlin Wall in the late 1980s. Written in stunning lyrical verse, Song of Freedom, Song of Dreams is a story of hope, courage, romance, and the power of music not only to change lives, but to save them.

Uprising, by Jennifer Nielsen (Scholastic) �?Fiction, Prose, Historical Fiction, Action / Adventure, Family / Community, ages 7-12.

Twelve-year-old Lidia is outside her grandfather’s house when planes fly overhead, bearing the Nazi cross on each wing. Before the bombs hit the ground, Lidia realizes her life is about to change forever. Poland has fallen under German occupation, and her father makes the brave decision to join the Polish army to fight against the Nazis. Lidia wants to follow him into war, but she’s far too young, and she’s needed by her mother and brother. After her family returns to Warsaw, where life has changed irrevocably, Lidia continues to play the piano, finding comfort in Chopin, Bach, and Beethoven. But she also wants to aid the Jewish people held captive in the Warsaw Ghetto. With the help of a friend, Lidia begins to smuggle wheat and food into the ghetto. Still, she feels like she could be doing so much more. She wants to fight. After her brother joins the resistance, Lidia wants only to follow in his footsteps. Soon, she begins to work as a courier, smuggling weapons and messages for the resistance throughout the city. When the Warsaw city uprising begins―one year after the more well-known Warsaw Ghetto uprising by Polish Jews―with gunfire and bombs echoing throughout the streets, Lidia joins the Polish nationalists’ fight, too, and she and her peers fight with everything they’ve got. Life will continue to surprise Lidia, as she and the resistance fighters do their best to defeat the German soldiers. No matter the consequences, they’re willing to defend their freedom and their homes from the Nazi invaders―even with their lives. Drawing on the extraordinary real-life story of Polish teenager Lidia Zakrzewski, bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen presents an inspiring and dramatic account of the Polish resistance fighters who struggled to force out their Nazi occupiers and reclaim their nation’s freedom from tyranny.

Warrior on the Mound, by Sandra W. Headen (Holiday House) �?Fiction, Prose, Sports / Games / Recreation, Social Activism / Equality / Feminism, Historical Fiction, ages 7-12.

Narrated by twelve-year-old Cato, this intense and evocative story of racial unrest in prewar North Carolina ends with a dramatic match between white and Black little league teams.

1935. Twelve-year-old Cato wants nothing more than to play baseball, perfect his pitch, and meet Mr. Satchel Paige––the best pitcher in Negro League baseball. But when he and his teammates “trespass�?on their town’s whites-only baseball field for a practice, the resulting racial outrage burns like a brushfire through the entire community, threatening Cato, his family, and every one of his friends.

There’s only one way this can end without violence: It has to be settled on the mound, between the white team and the Black. Winner takes all.
Written in first person with a rich, convincing voice, Warrior on the Mound is about the experience of segregation; about the tinderbox environment of the prewar South; about having a dream; about injustice, and, finally, about dialogue.

For more great book suggestions, be sure to check out the full March Hot Off the Press list!

List compiled by CBC’s resident book connoisseur, Brooke Pisarsky. Check out other Hot Off the Press Spotlight book lists on our blog.

Children's Book Council

CBCbooks — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 12:01:00 +0000

Do you know what forest bathing is? What about inferential statistics? Did you know that Antarctic fish have a special protein in their blood that works like antifreeze? Or that 700 million years ago the earth was almost entirely covered in ice? What’s it like being an app designer or maintenance technician? What really causes an ice cream headache? And what happens with astronaut poop? This selection of nonfiction from our March Hot Off the Press list focuses on everything from how humans have changed the planet and created civilization to how to collect data and create a visual representation to how loneliness can actually bring us together. In fact, these books might just prove that truth really is wilder than fiction!

Alone Together, by Petti Fong; illus. by Jonathon Dyck (Orca Book Publishers) �?Nonfiction, Prose, Mental / Physical Health, Concepts, Science / Nature, ages 7-12.

The world is facing an epidemic of loneliness.

The COVID-19 pandemic taught us new words, like isolation, quarantine and social distancing. In places like the UK and Japan, governments have appointed ministers of loneliness to examine the problem and find ways to help their citizens. What does it mean to be lonely, and what can we do about it?

Alone Together explores what superheroes can teach us about being alone, the ways kids have survived on their own and how activists in the civil rights movement took a stand against loneliness. Discover what comfort foods, sweatpants and being kind to each other have to do with loneliness.

Based on the podcast of the same name. Readers will learn about loneliness and how being alone can ultimately bring us closer together.

How Do You Turn Data into Drawings?, by Clayton Grider; illus. by Srimalie Bassani (Flowerpot Press) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, STEM / STEAM, Math, Concepts, ages 7-12.

Have you ever wondered how to turn data into graphs and charts? A basic explanation of statistics concepts including descriptive and inferential statistics, collecting and recording data, how to make various graphs, and more is explored through charts, illustrations, and informative text in this new addition to the How Do series. Includes activities in the back of the book.

How to Teach Grown Ups About Climate Change, by Patricia Daniels; illus. by Aaron Blecha (What on Earth Books) �?Nonfiction, Prose, Environment / Sustainability / Recycling, Nature / Science, How-to / Activity, ages 7-12.

A witty guide to the science behind climate change, which puts kids in charge.

Never has there been a more perfect time to empower kids to take the lead and educate their grown-ups about climate change. Featuring a foreword by internationally renowned climate scientist Dr. Michael E. Mann and bursting with fabulous original illustrations, this delightfully witty book deals with the pressing topic of our changing planet in an uplifting, positive way. Interwoven amongst the more serious questions––why is Earth so special in the first place? How do we know about climate change? What causes it? How can we recognize false information?––are fun-filled facts about cow burps, wooly mammoths, panda-shaped solar panels, and much more. Crucially, this book also equips kids and adults alike with the practical tools they need to tackle climate change in their everyday lives. And there’s a handy quiz at the end so that you can check your grown-up has been paying attention!

Science FACTopia, by Rose Davidson; illus. by Andy Smith (What on Earth Books) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Science / Nature, STEM / STEAM, Concepts, ages 7-12.

Follow the Trail of 400 STEM-tastic facts!

Follow an ingenious trail of 400 facts about space, animals, rocks and crystals, virtual reality, the body, coding, 3D printing, engineering, plants, fungi, math, and more, where each fact is connected to the next in hilarious and unexpected ways. You’ll meet a parrot called Squawkzilla, find out about the fastest muscles in the body, discover gems that can change color, and learn about black holes that “burp.�?/p> Lavishly illustrated with witty illustrations that combine artwork and photography, and verified by the experts at Encyclopaedia Britannica, Science FACTopia! brings STEM topics to life, with facts kids will be desperate to share with their friends and family.

Scientists in the Wild: Antarctica, by Dr Kate Hendry and Helen Scales; illus. by Rômolo D’Hipólito (Flying Eye Books ) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Environment / Sustainability / Recycling, Science / Nature, Animals, ages 7-12.

Take a deep dive into the science surrounding the Antarctic, revealing how scientists work in remote, challenging places, armed with cutting edge research tools and technologies.

The reader is invited to join a crew of scientists as they sail around Antarctica studying one of the most vulnerable environments on the planet. Discover how scientists work in extreme environments, and how scientific methods have been adapted to suit this unique location. Join the team as they use drones and satellites in space to monitor colonies of penguins, seals and albatrosses, observe the team’s palaeontologist studying fossils that show Antarctica used to be covered in forests home to dinosaurs. Search for Shackleton’s lost ship using a deep-diving robot and help glaciologists unlock the secrets of the ice using ice cores and space lasers and finally experience the south pole sunrise after six months of darkness.

That’s a Job? I like Making Things �?What Jobs Are There?, by Robin Pridy; illus. by Tom Woolley (Kane Miller) �?Nonfiction, Prose, Careers / Hobbies, Music / Art, Technology / Computers, ages 7-12.

In this book, children who love to get creative with science and art can find out all about the future careers they can have! From factories to bakeries, web designers to jewelers, readers are taken through a day-in-the-life of 25 craftspeople. They’ll learn about the people whose work we rely on every day, like welders, carpenters, and upholsterers, as well as jobs they never knew existed—like bioengineer and luthier! A fantastic introduction to the skilled professionals who make our favorite things.

Unstoppable Us, Volume 2: Why the World Isn’t Fair, by Yuval Harai; illus. by Ricard Zaplana Ruiz (Random House Children’s Books / Bright Matter Books) �?Nonfiction, Prose, History, Science / Nature, Series, ages 7-12.

From world-renowned historian and philosopher Yuval Noah Harari, the bestselling author of Sapiens, comes the second volume in the bestselling Unstoppable Us series that traces human development from the Agricultural Revolution to Prehistoric Egypt.

Humans may have taken over the world, but what happened next? How did our hunter-gatherer ancestors become village farmers? Why were kingdoms and laws established? How did we go from being the rulers of Earth to the rulers of each other?

And why isn’t the world fair? The answer to all of that is one of the strangest tales you’ll ever hear. And it’s a true story! From cultivating land and sharing resources to building pyramids and paying taxes, prepare to discover how humans established civilization, endured the consequences for it, and created history-changing inventions along the way.

In Unstoppable Us, Volume 1: How Humans Took Over the World, acclaimed author Yuval Noah Harari explored the early history of humankind. In Volume 2, he is back with another expertly crafted story of how human society evolved and flourished. His dynamic writing is accompanied by maps, a timeline, and full-color illustrations, making the incredible story of our past fun, engaging, and impossible to put down.

For more great book suggestions, be sure to check out the full March Hot Off the Press list!

List compiled by CBC’s resident book connoisseur, Brooke Pisarsky. Check out other Hot Off the Press Spotlight book lists on our blog.

Children's Book Council

CBCbooks — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 12:01:00 +0000

The CBC Holidays Series explores stories that relate to specific holidays so that readers of all ages can celebrate in the best way… with a good book!

Before there was Women’s History Month, there was Women’s Day. Informally started as National Women’s Day in the early 1900s, women across the United States celebrated on the last Sunday of February. In 1910, at the second International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen, a proposal for an International Women’s Day—a day for organizing and advocating for women across the globe—was unanimously voted into existence, with its current observance date of March 8th being officially adopted during World War I. In 1978, the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County (California) Commission on the Status of Women initiated a Women’s Week, to be observed during the week of International Women’s Day. Eventually, this week grew into a month-long celebration of women’s achievements and in 1987, March was declared by Congress as National Women’s History Month.

Check out more about this historic month from these sources we used here:

History of International Women’s Day �?International Women’s Day
Why March is National Women’s Month �?National Women’s History Alliance

For National Women’s History Month 2024, the CBC shines a light on several recently published books that highlight the accomplishments of women across the world as well as resources to help you celebrate women all year long!

Be Strong: The Rise of Beloved Public Art Sculptor Nancy Schön, by Darcy Pattison; illus. by Rich Davis (Mims House) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Biography / Memoir, Music / Art, Careers / Hobbies, ages 7-12.

Bird Girl: Gene Stratton-Porter Shares Her Love of Nature With the World, by Jill Esbaum; illus. by Rebecca Gibbon (Astra Books for Young Readers / Calkins Creek) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Biography / Memoir, Science / Nature, Animals, ages 7-12.

Cactus Queen: Minerva Hoyt Establishes Joshua Tree National Park, by Lori Alexander; illus. by Jenn Ely (Astra Books for Young Readers / Calkins Creek) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Biography / Memoir, Environment / Sustainability / Recycling, History, ages 7-12.

The Fabulous Fannie Farmer: Kitchen Scientist And America’s Cook, by Emma Bland Smith; illus. by Susan Reagan (Astra Books for Young Readers / Calkins Creek) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Biography / Memoir, History, Science / Nature, ages 7-12.

Gifts from Georgia’s Garden, by Lisa Robinson; illus. by Hadley Hooper (Holiday House) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Biography / Memoir, Environment / Sustainability / Recycling, History, Music / Art, ages 4-6.

Guts for Glory: The Story of Civil War Soldier Rosetta Wakeman, written & illustrated by Joanna Lapati (Eerdmans Books for Young Readers) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Biography / Memoir, History, Social Activism / Equality / Feminism, ages 7-12.

Journey to the Stars, by Laurie Wallmark and Raakhee Mirchandani; illus. by Maitreyi Ghosh (Beaming Books) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Biography / Memoir, BIPOC Characters and Creators, Science / Nature, ages 4-6.

Lisa Leslie, by Luke Hanlon (North Star Editions / Press Box Books) �?Nonfiction, Early Reader, Biography / Memoir, Sports / Games / Recreation, BIPOC Characters and Creators, ages 7-12.

One Of a Kind: The Life Of Sydney Taylor, by Richard Michelson; illus. by Sarah Green (Astra Books for Young Readers / Calkins Creek) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Biography / Memoir, Social Activism / Equality / Feminism, Religion / Spirituality, ages 7-12.

Pedal, Balance, Steer: Annie Londonderry, the First Woman To Cycle Around the World, by Vivian Kirkfield; illus. by Alison Jay (Astra Books for Young Readers / Calkins Creek) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Biography / Memoir, Social Activism / Equality / Feminism, Sports / Games / Recreation, ages 7-12.

Primetime: Legends Simone Biles: Gymnastics Legend, by Chrös McDougall (North Star Editions / Press Box Books) �?Nonfiction, Prose, BIPOC Characters and Creators, Sports / Games / Recreation, Biography / Memoir, ages 7-12.

She Spoke Too, by Kathy MacMillan, Manueal Bernardi; illus. by Becky Thorns (Familius) �?Nonfiction, Novelty / Pop-up, Biography / Memoir, Social Activism / Equality / Feminism, History, ages 4-6.

A Steminist Force, by Laura Carter; illus. by Anna Doherty (Familius) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Biography / Memoir, STEM / STEAM, Social Activism / Equality / Feminism, ages 4-6.

The Women’s Rights Movement, by Gertrude R. Becker (North Star Edition / Focus Readers ) �?Nonfiction, Early Reader, History, Social Activism / Equality / Feminism, Series, ages 7-12.

You Are a Star, Malala Yousafzai, by Dean Robbins; illus. by Maithili Joshi (Scholastic Press) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Biography / Memoir, Social Activism / Equality / Feminism, Cultural Diversity, ages 4-6.

Resources:

Strong Women �?CBC booklist
Strong Women & Real Change �?CBC resource list
Women’s History Month: A Children’s Book Every Day �?Social Justice Books
Women’s History Month Picture Books �?Kirkus Reviews
Women’s History Month 2024: Books for Kids & Books for Teens�?Chicago Public Library
Women’s History Month 2024: Recent Books for Kids �?Seattle Public Library
Women’s History Month �?Rebel Girls
New Mighty Girl Books for Women’s History Month 2024 �?A Mighty Girl

Check out other CBC Holiday book lists on our blog. The above books were picks from our most recent Hot Off The Press lists, which you can find here.

Children's Book Council

CBCbooks — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 12:01:00 +0000

Whether in a thoughtful treatise about protecting habitats or a zany fictionalized world in which bears wear shoes and pigs drive cars, animals are timeless favorites when it comes to book subjects. Putting animals front and center can teach us how to make friends, protect our planet, and take care of our own bodies—not to mention, make us feel more connected to the world around us. Our March Hot Off the Press list shows off its feathers, fur, and scales with a whole bevy of animalia.

All Aboard the Alaska Train, by Brooke Hartman; illus. by John Joseph (Red Comet Press) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Animals, Humor, Imagination / Play, ages 4-6.

Toot toot! Come aboard the Alaska Train for a rollicking rhyming adventure with Alaska’s favorite animals!

Five shiny train cars roll down the railroad track, picking up passengers along the way—a porcupine, grizzly bear, caribou, and more. Soon the cars are packed, but now the train must go up a tall mountain. Will the Alaska Train reach its destination?

All Aboard the Alaska Train takes you on a rumbling journey as you zoom across the tracks and meet some of the state’s most famous animal residents. Included at the back is a glossary of the parts of a train, plus more information about the famous Alaska Train and a map of its route.

Animal Albums from A to Z, written & illustrated by Cece Bell (Candlewick Press) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Animals, Music / Art, Concepts, ages 4-6.

Cece Bell loves music and collecting old record albums, her introduction explains, especially albums featuring animal artists. The bouncing harmonies of the Barbershop Beagles, the elegant crooning of the elephant Ella Fontaine, the hilarious rhymes of the Hip-Hop Hedgehogs—all are represented in this quirky ABC book that draws on the creator’s personal collection of albums, memorabilia, and lyrics dating between 1944 and 1984, the heyday of album design. With wry, witty text, silly and sumptuous sound play, and biographical end matter on all twenty-six musical acts, the book commands and stands up to repeated readings. Bright, zany art—all painted and lettered by hand—a stellar design, and an album-size trim make it a collector’s item in its own right, sure to grace the coffee tables of vinyl- and design-loving adults even as it tickles young funny bones. A hootenanny hosted by the creator of the Newbery Honor Book and Eisner Award winner El Deafo, Animal Albums from A to Z also quietly reminds us just how much music can mean to everyone.

From the inimitable creator of El Deafo, this all-ages alphabet book is also a hand-wrought, high-fidelity, hilariously tongue-in-cheek homage to the golden days of album cover art.

Animal Yoga, by Flowerpot Press; illus. by Brian Fitzgerald (Flowerpot Press) �?Nonfiction, Board Book, Sports / Games / Recreation, Mental / Physical Health, Imagination / Play, ages 4-6.

Get up and get moving with these active animal friends!

Teach your little one the power of moving their body each day with these fun yoga-inspired stretches made just for little kids. Each workout is explained on the left side of the page and the corresponding illustrations show kids just what to do. Pretty soon your child will learn the movements and enjoy coming back to them time and time again!

A Better Best Friend, written & illustrated by Olivier Tallec (Gecko Press) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Friendships, Animals, Humor, ages 4-6.

A feel-good picture book about best friendship told with dry comedy and an open ending–squirrel and mushroom are best friends until another best friend comes to play.

“This morning when I was out walking, I found a best friend. At least I think so. It certainly looks a lot like it! He really has a best friend kind of face.�?/p> In this funny picture book exploring a forever childhood question about friendship, squirrel and a mushroom explore the forest through the seasons, show each other special trees, build snow mushrooms, share the good times and bad–which become good bad times alongside a friend. Then spring arrives, and so does a new friend. And then another. This raises a profound question for an overthinking squirrel: should we have just one best friend?

Extinctopedia!, by Serenella Quarello; illus. by Alessio Alcini (Red Comet Press) �?Nonfiction, Prose, Environment / Sustainability / Recycling, Animals, Science / Nature, ages 7-12.

A Smithsonian collaboration—this journey of discovery through the animal kingdom, past and present, provides a call for us to learn more and take steps to save the amazing diversity of our planet.

Every living creature contributes towards the richness and beauty of our planet. Each one has a reason to exist, from the giant panda to the pygmy possum, and if we lose them, it will be forever. Extinctopedia tells a complex story, not just of those who are extinct, but also of those in greatest peril, with explanations of what threatens their survival. It is also a story of hope—for animals who have been rediscovered, hope in the form of newly-discovered animals, and hope that we might hear the warning call and act to preserve the amazing biodiversity of our fragile planet for future generations to come.

Extinctopedia provides a fascinating catalog of life on earth and encourages the reader to find ways of preserving the incredible diversity of species, so we may all thrive and life itself can endure on this amazing and beautiful planet.

Home, written & illustrated by Isabelle Simler; translated by Vineet Lal (Eerdmans Publishing / Eerdmans Books for Young Readers) �?Nonfiction, Poetry / Stories in Verse, Animals, Science / Nature, STEM / STEAM, ages 4-6.

A spectacular tour through the dwellings of twenty-seven different animals, from a hermit crab’s secondhand shell to a beaver’s lakeside dam to a comet moth’s silk cocoon.

Acclaimed creator Isabelle Simler presents a poetic journey through amazing animal homes across the world. In Europe, alpine marmots stay safe in underground refuges. In southeast Asia, Sumatran orangutans doze off in treetop bedrooms. In Mexico and the southwestern US, elf owls nest in holes in saguaro cacti. On every continent but Antarctica, honeybees mold wax into palaces for their queens. No matter where you travel, some creature is making an extraordinary place to call home. With connections to life cycles, camouflage, and other biological concepts, Home is a spellbinding showcase of the wonders of the natural world. Enchanting poetry, fascinating back matter, and intricately detailed art invite young readers to be amazed by the creativity and diversity of our animal neighbors.

How Cats Say I Love You / Cómo los gatos dicen te quiero, by Guy Brown; illus. by Davide Ortu (Platypus Media) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Animals, Kindness / Generosity, Spanish, ages 7-12.

Cats have a lot to say! They curl their tails when they’re curious and crouch low when they’re ready to play. Sometimes they like to be left alone, other times they want lots of cuddles! In this bilingual (English/Spanish) edition of How Cats Say I Love You, visit homes from around the world to meet silly, sassy cats and their human pals. As each kid cares for their furry friend, they think of healthy ways to share their own feelings with the people they love.

How to Help a Hare and Protect a Polar Bear, by Dr. Jess French; illus. by Angela Keoghan (Nosy Crow) �?Nonfiction, Picture Book, Environment / Sustainability / Recycling, Science / Nature, Animals, ages 7-12.

From beetles and butterflies to porpoises and polar bears, animals and habitats all over the world need our protection. This book is full of simple everyday ways for you to help save the environment. Learn how to help critters in your own backyard or spread the word about endangered animals further from home, as you discover all the little things you can do to make a big difference. Featuring creatures from 9 incredible different habitats: forests, deserts, swamps, freshwater, coastlines, oceans, savannahs, jungles, and mountains. Filled with animal facts and plenty of practical, creative little ways that nature enthusiasts can make a BIG difference.

Leo the Lazy Lizard, by Ed Shankman; illus. by David Michael O’Neill (Arcadia Publishing / Arcadia Children’s Books) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Friendships, Mental / Physical Health, Animals, ages 4-6.

From the dynamic duo behind The Lake I Love and I Met a Moose in Maine One Day comes a moving and unforgettable tale of mindfulness, friendship, and discovering the magic of letting yourself just be . . .

Leo the lizard spends his days relaxing in the desert sand, gazing at the sky, and basking in the sun. The other desert animals think Leo is lazy, but the roadrunner isn’t so sure . . . could it be that Leo has learned something the others have not? Perhaps there is more to this lazy-looking lizard than truly meets the eye?

With its playfully melodic rhymes and stunning desert illustrations, Leo the Lazy Lizard invites readers of all ages to discover the beauty of quiet moments—to smell every scent, feel every breeze, and love how they feel ’cause they feel so at ease! A true celebration of mindfulness, connection, and learning to appreciate the things that make us all so wonderfully unique, Leo the Lazy Lizard will delight families for generations to come!

Mammals Unlocked / Mamíferos descubiertos, by Dia L. Michels; illus. by Bonnie Hofkin (Science, Naturally!) �?Nonfiction, Prose, Animals, Science / Nature, Spanish, ages 7-12.

Unlock the wild world of mammals, now in English and Spanish!

Fuzzy, scaly, clawed, and finned—mammals can be found in the depths of the ocean and the heights of the mountains. Mammals Unlocked / Mamíferos descubiertos illuminates the vastness of the mammal world in a simple, interactive question-and-answer format.

How wide can a hippo open its mouth? When does a camel need water? How does a platypus fight? Read the answers to all these secrets and more!

This first bilingual book in the Open Earth series is a dynamic introduction to class Mammalia, perfect for any kid who’s fascinated by mammals big and small. Discover all the facts you need in order to wow your friends, impress your teachers, and dazzle your dog! Mammals Unlocked / Mamíferos descubiertos is sure to stimulate and challenge even the most knowledgeable animal lover.

No Cats In The Library, written & illustrated by Lauren Emmons (Simon & Schuster / Paula Wiseman Books) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Animals, Family / Community, Humor, ages 4-6.

A stray cat follows her love of books all the way to a new library home in this charming debut picture book that’s “catnip for librarians and young book lovers alike�?(School Library Journal, starred review).

Clarisse is a clever cat who loves books. She may not understand the dark, squiggly lines, but she can’t get enough of the pictures. One day, she stumbles upon a magical building where people walk in empty-handed and come out with an armload of books. She has to find a way inside! There’s just one problem: NO CATS are allowed in the library! That’s not going to stop clever Clarisse, though. Once she sneaks in, she stumbles upon exciting new stories and even helps a little girl practice reading aloud. But when the librarian comes looking, will Clarisse be allowed to stay?

Peggy the Always Sorry Pigeon, by Wendy Meddour; illus. by Carmen Saldaña (Little Bee Books) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Mental / Physical Health, Humor, Animals, ages 4-6.

This book is about growing in confidence and getting out of the habit of saying sorry for absolutely everything!

Peggy is an apologetic pigeon. She automatically says she’s sorry for everything, even when she hasn’t done anything wrong, or when she’s the one getting picked on. But Joan, a seagull who sees the trouble this is causing for Peggy, gives her a nudge to stand up for herself. This tale from award-winning author Wendy Meddour contains an important message about the importance of being assertive.

A Penguin Like Me, written & illustrated by Marcus Pfister (NorthSouth Books) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Cultural Diversity, Family / Community, Animals, ages 4-6.

A penguin is a penguin is a penguin in this picture book about community and acceptance, from best-selling author of The Rainbow Fish Marcus Pfister!

At first glance, all penguins look the same. But a closer look reveals that every penguin is different. Theo is the smartest of them all, but doesn’t want to show it. Felix has short wings, Sarah loves to draw more than talk, and Lena is attracted to Ida. Each penguin has worries and fears, strengths and dreams. And yet, together they form a community. Amid a picturesque ice landscape with colors ranging from cool to radiantly warm, Marcus Pfister introduces a diverse penguin society in which everyone is allowed to be themself.

The Slug and the Snail, by Oein DeBharduin; illus. by Olya Anima (Little Island Books) �?Fiction, Picture Book, Folklore / Fairytales / Myths, Family / Community, Animals, ages 4-6.

Drawn from the Irish Traveller storytelling tradition, DeBhairduin’s tale is a gentle allegory about identity, self-acceptance and different ways of seeing the world.

Two slugs travel happily together until they meet a crow who asks them where their home is. The younger brother, embarrassed, makes himself a shell, and calls himself snail. The older brother carries on as he is. At first, the brothers grow apart. But in time, they learn to respect each other’s way of life.

For more great book suggestions, be sure to check out the full March Hot Off the Press list!

List compiled by CBC’s resident book connoisseur, Brooke Pisarsky. Check out other Hot Off the Press Spotlight book lists on our blog.

Children's Book Council

CBCbooks — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 19:29:42 +0000

The CBC asks Teresa Anne Power, President, questions about the publisher on their anniversary.

2024 marks the 15th anniversary of our publishing company!

In our 15 years as publishers, one of the most wonderful lessons we’ve learned as publishers is how the importance of yoga and mindfulness for children resonates all over the world. Since we published our first book in 2009, many of the titles in our ABCs of Yoga for Kids and Little Mouse Adventures series have been published in multiple languages, including French, Italian, Danish, Spanish, and Mainland Chinese.

How did your publishing house start out?

I started my publishing company in 2009. I had stopped practicing law a few years prior, becoming more of a stay-at-home mom. Yet, I still wanted to stay in the “pulse�?of having a career. I had been practicing yoga since 1984 and became a certified yoga instructor. I taught children as well as adults and noticed that there was a void in the children’s market for illustrated yoga books. I saw an opportunity to combine my legal skills with my love of yoga and VOILÀ, Stafford House Books, Inc. was born!

What is your publishing house most known for?

We are a small, niche publisher specializing in books, music, and other educational resources to help children, students, parents, and educators enrich their lives and manage stress. We are probably most well-known for our ABCs of Yoga for Kids series, which includes the multiple award-winning book, The ABCs of Yoga for Kids (our first title which we published in 2009 and still a very strong backlist title of ours!), along with The ABCs of Yoga for Kids flashcards, coloring book, guidebook, and poster.

What conventions and conferences does your publishing house usually attend?

We love meeting other kindred spirits in the publishing community. Over the years, we’ve attended events held by the American Library Association and International Book Publishers Association, as well as participated in the Frankfurt Book Fair (through our foreign rights department) and Book Expo (prior to COVID).

Which genres does your house prefer to publish?

Our sweet spot is to publish both fiction and nonfiction books for children that center on yoga and mindfulness.

Which formats does your house prefer to publish?

We publish beautifully illustrated hardcover books with dust jackets, softcover books, learning cards, and posters, as well as ebooks. We offer titles for a variety of ages and stages, ranging from board books to picture books to our upcoming early reader chapter book.

What are some of your house’s publishing priorities over the next few years?

We want to continue to play a contributing role in publishing high-quality books that enrich the lives of children, students, parents, and educators. Our mission is to break down the socioeconomic and cultural barriers of society by providing readers with access to yoga and mindfulness and tools to better their lives.

Which title has your house recently rallied behind?

We recently rallied behind Yoga at the Aquarium, the 5^th book in the award-winning Little Mouse Adventures series. We absolutely love this series, which is lovingly illustrated by Emma Allen, and its ability to connect compelling stories with gentle yoga and mindfulness lessons.

Which title does your house feel deserved more love than it got?

We are so proud of Yoga at the Zoo, and regret that it didn’t get as much as love as it deserved. The publication date of this first book in the award-winning Little Mouse Adventures series was March 1, 2020. Unfortunately, this coincided with the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and Yoga at the Zoo got lost in the shuffle due to the poor timing of its publication.

Which upcoming titles is your house buzzing about?

Our very first early reader chapter book launches in August 2024, and we could not be more thrilled. In Search of the Holy Grail is the 6^th book in the Little Mouse Adventures series and features Little Mouse in a brand new epic adventure (that, of course, includes yoga!).

Which of your frontlist titles would be great for a school or public library?

We love hearing from librarians and teachers who use our titles for storytime and yoga lessons. Yoga at the Aquarium, Halloween Yoga, and Yoga at the Museum are all great frontlist titles that engage kids.

Which of your frontlist tiles would you like to see get more attention from bookstores?

Our Little Mouse Adventures series fits in perfectly at bookstores as well as gift shops in museums, aquariums, zoos, and nature centers!

Name a few of your favorite backlist titles that people should check out.

The ABCs of Yoga for Kids
The ABCs of Yoga for Kids Around the World, and
The Night Before Kids�?Yoga Day.

What else would you like to tell us about your house and the amazing work you all do?

We are especially proud to support International Kids�?Yoga Day. Since 2016, 480,000+ children from 45 countries, 6 continents, and all 50 US states have participated in this free event, with the goal of making the life-changing practice of yoga accessible to everyone, regardless of age, location, or finances. Illustrations from our books serve as the foundation for the simple yoga routines done on Kids�?Yoga Day in classrooms, libraries, parks, yoga studios, and homes all around the world each year! For more information, visit kidsyogaday.com.

Thank you, Stafford House Books!