Favorite July Reads Part 2

 Anne Arrives by Kallie George and illustrated by Abigail Halpin (Juvenile Fiction)

What a great way to introduce one of the world's most beloved characters to younger kids! I really like how this is just a small glimpse into Anne's arrival at Green Gables but still has some of her most charming quotes. The illustrations are also nicely done. Anne's giant emotions really shine through. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!

30,000 Stitches by Amanda Davis and illustrated by Sally Wern Comport (Nonfiction Picture Book)

The Elephants Come Home by Kim Tomsic and illustrated by Hadley Hooper (Nonfiction Picture Book)

What a beautiful story! With so much to tell, the author does a wonderful job keeping the story simple and not too wordy. I loved reading about how the elephants bonded with Lawrence and slowly grew to trust his family. The illustrations are also exceptional. I was particularly moved by how the illustrations radiated the feelings of the elephants so well through color. If you read this, be sure to check out the Author's Note at the end. It was one of my favorite parts of the book.

Roar-chestra by Robert Heidbreder and illustrated by Dušan Petričić (Picture Book)

Dear Mister Rogers by Fred Rogers (Adult Nonfiction)

A wonderful collections of letters kids wrote to Mister Rogers and his thoughtful, encouraging, and heartfelt responses.  I liked several of his responses to tricky questions kids asked and tucked them away in case I ever need them.  This book was written when Mister Rogers was still living and my copy was a library copy from another library system.  The best part of the book was a postcard encouraging readers to reach out to Mister Rogers with their own questions.  I love when inserts survive that long (20+ years in this case).

A Year in Japan by Kate Williamson (Adult Nonfiction)

A beautiful journey of Williamson's year in Japan.  I didn't know what was more exciting - the artwork or all the beauty she encountered and wrote about.