It's been a while since I have shared some reviews. My summer class, History of Libraries, is very book heavy with a lot of writing about the books. But there's always brain space for a few extra reviews.
Here are some recent favorites:
A Stone is a Story by Leslie Barnard Booth and illustrated by Marc Martin (Nonfiction Picture Book)
The watercolor illustrations are phenomenal and so grounding (appropriate, yes). The text is simple, poetic, and informative. It's a meditative read about a stone's transformation that will have you thinking about your own journeys and how each is smaller than a grain of sand in earth's timeline. There is more information at the end of this book for those who want to know more. I love how the author introduces the extra information, "Wait a minute. So rocks move around? And transform? And tell stories? Yes, yes, and yes!"
I Really, Really Need to Pee! by Karl Newson and illustrated by Duncan Beedie
Somehow this book escaped my attention for a few years, which is bananas because it's so relatable and such a hot topic. As the title suggests, there is someone in this book who really needs to pee! Their journey to relieve themselves is one we've all experienced in our lives many times. There's a small hint at a lesson about going before leaving the house, but it's a not an easy lesson to learn and doesn't always fix everything.
The Truth About the Couch by Adam Rubin (Picture Book)
Wild tales about couches that may or may not be true depending on your own personal experiences with couches. Have you ever seen runaway couches? Or couches that eat coins and grandmas? Maybe you've been eaten by a couch. You will find everything you ever wanted to know about couches here, including some things you maybe didn't know you wanted to know. Beware of the furniture police and their sensor sticker maker. They won't understand this is just a fun romp through the unknown and therefore, terrifying realm of imagination where wild couches lurk in every shadow. ;)
How We Play by Dolisha Mitchell (Board Book)
This is an excellent board book series for anyone looking for simple text, photograph illustrations, and life lessons we can all benefit from. Included in the back of these books are fun age-related questions to ask your little one.
Signs of Hope by Mara Rockliff and illustrated by Melissa Sweet (Biography Picture Book)
This is the second book I've read about the amazing Sister Corita Kent, and it's excellent too. The first one, Make Meatballs Sing is just a bit better due to all the quotes and how's it's worded. Signs of Hope, however, is illustrated by Melissa Sweet, who is one of my favorite illustrators. They are both must-reads that will inspire, thrill, and uplift you.
