WHAT FEELINGS LIKE BEST, by Tina Oziewicz, Aleksandra Zajac, Antonia Lloyd-Jones (Translator), Pushkin Children’s Books, Sept. 3, 2024, Hardcover, $19.95 (ages 6 and up)

What would feelings do if they were little furry creatures? What Feelings Like Best by Tina Oziewicz and Aleksandra Zajac, explores emotions that live inside all of us.

What Feelings Like Best follows Nostalgia as she decorates the Christmas tree and thinks of yuletides gone by. Curiosity loves listening to all of Anxiety’s fascinating worries while Patience enjoys calmly making jam for all her friends. Stubbornness gets into sticky situations while Common Sense looks on and shrugs. Worthlessness finds value among rubbish. Courage relies on Trust. Malice is at odds with Joy, and Gratitude comes full circle, looking for Nostalgia.

What Feelings Like Best is a beautifully crafted picture books that helps readers build emotional intelligence.

Where this book differs from some of the others in the genre, is in the exploration of nuanced terms and interconnectivity of feelings.

Author Tina Oziewicz expertly explains those feelings through a narrative that helps readers understand using context. It’s not easy to do, and she does so perfectly. Artist Aleksandra Zajac’s imaginative illustrations are full of personality. The lovely drawings really bring whole concepts together.

It’s a great book to add to your personal library.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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IMAGINE COUNTING ALL THE STARS, by Raewyn Caisley and Gabriel Evans, Candlewick, June 4, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Maddie takes comfort in counting daisy petals and the parallel lines of moonlight pouring through her bedroom blinds. She finds joy in patterns: the black-and-white keys on a piano, the tessellations in a brick pathway. Dad understands and encourages her love of math, but Maddie longs for a friend who marvels with the same enthusiasm she does. The other girls prefer dolls to building with shapes at playtime, and when they bake together, Maddie likes to measure, while the others decorate. Always the odd girl out, Maddie finally meets her match when Dad invites new classmate Priya and her mom along on a stargazing expedition to the observatory. The unfathomable number of stars takes Maddie’s breath away—and Priya’s. Perhaps one of them will discover a way to count all those stars one day! Heartfelt text and timeless illustrations tell a relatable story of finding the right friend at the right time and counting yourself lucky indeed.

LIFE AFTER WHALE: The Amazing Ecosystem of a Whale Fall, by Lynn Brunelle and Jason Chin, Neal Porter Books, June 4, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

All living things must one day die, and Earth’s largest creature, the majestic blue whale, is no exception. But in nature, death is never a true ending. When this whale closes her eyes for the last time in her 90-year life, a process known as whale fall is just beginning. Her body will float to the surface, then slowly sink through the deep; from inflated behemoth to clean-picked skeleton, it will offer food and shelter at each stage to a vast diversity of organisms, over the course of a century and beyond. Additional back pages offer further info and reading recommendations on whales, whale falls, and ecosystems.

DESERT SONG, by Laekan Zea Kemp and Beatriz Gutiérrez Hernández, Neal Porter Books, June 4, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

As the blush of sunset gives way to night in the desert, coyotes, cicadas, and barn owls emerge, each calling out to the moon. Watching from their porch, the family joins the song. One by one, each relative offers their drums, flute, maracas, strings, and voices.

They sing with the insects, birds, snakes and toads; and they sing with their ancestors, an audience glittering in the stars overhead. With each strum of passed-down instruments, memories renew, and those gone are alive and near again.

Desert Song hums and chimes with all the music a front porch and the desert beyond can hold. Simultaneously published in Spanish as Canción del desierto.

BEACH HAIR, by Ashley Woodfolk and Nina Mata ,Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, June 4, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

When I wake up with the wildest bed head
and Mommy and Daddy do too
Mommy says we all have beach hair,
so Daddy says, “Guess we should go to the beach.”

At the beach, everyone has beach hair. There’s twisty and twirly hair, flossy and glossy hair, hair that’s barely there, and hair that’s everywhere.

The best part about a beach day is the belonging and joy that everyone feels when they let their hair run as wild and free as the sea.

THE WORLD IN OUR BACKYARD, by Jami Gigot, Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, May 21, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (Ages 4-7)

Show young readers that whether they live in the country, city, or suburbs, their backyard is a world full of wonder ready to be explored.

As children play together, a sandbox becomes a desert, sidewalk chalk drawings become an art gallery, and everything that can be dreamed up is within reach. From forests to hike and mountains to climb, oceans to sail and castles to build, creative little ones don’t have to look any farther than their own backyard for wonderful things to be discovered!

THERE’S A MOUNTAIN IN THIS BOOK, by Rachel Elliot and Genevieve Lacroix, Thames & Hudson, June 11, 2024, Hardcover, $19.95 (ages 6 and up)

Young adventurers undertake an intrepid journey to explore some of the mightiest mountains on Earth. From the foothills of the Alps to the peak of Mount Everest, readers will discover the diverse habitats of mountain ecosystems. Expedition logs encourage readers to use their senses to explore each location as they climb.

There’s a Mountain in This Book provides young readers with an immersive experience of breathtaking mountain environments. Visit forests and caves in the foothills of the Alps; canyons, lakes, and spectacular geysers in the Rocky Mountains; rainforest and moorland in the uplands of Mount Kilimanjaro; and the snowy glaciers and icefalls of the Himalayas. Discover remarkable flora and fauna, including mighty bears, snowy leopards, and even a rare cave-dwelling salamander with no eyes!

Using die-cut flaps and gatefold pages, the book details how mountains are formed, shows a cut-through of the interior structure of a mountain, and describes the effects of changing seasons and climates on mountains in different parts of the world. Illustrated in color throughout.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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A FIELD GUIDE TO SPRING: Play and Learn in Nature (Wild by Nature, 1), by Gabby Dawnay, Dorien Brouwers, Louise Black, Thames & Hudson, April 2, 2024, Hardcover, $14.95 (ages 6-9)

Inspired by the Forest School movement, A Field Guide to Spring aims to teach kids how to play and learn in nature.

A Field Guide to Spring is a pocket-sized introduction to spring, inspired by the Forest School movement. Building on children’s natural curiosity about the world around them, this book aims to establish a connection with nature at an early age that will go on to last a lifetime!

Hunt for seedlings, squelch around in the mud, identify birds’ eggs, and build your own nest. Discover how tadpoles transform into frogs and why rainbows appear in the sky.

The first in the Wild by Nature series, A Field Guide to Spring features poems, hands-on crafts and activities, scientific facts, and identifier pages to help children find different plants and animals. Whether a child’s access to nature is in the form of an urban park, a private garden, a field, or a forest, there is so much to discover and experience. —Synopsis provided by Thames & Hudson

A Field Guide to Spring is the sort of book to which curious kids will be drawn. Everything about it invites them to explore the natural world around them. Topics range from senses and amphibians to splashing and mud. This book would be an excellent resource in a classroom or homeschool or just fun for kids after school or on the weekends.

Gaby Dawnay’s warm text is inquisitive and insightful. Prompts inspire investigation beyond the book. Dorien Brouwers’ charming illustrations are featured in cheerful full color throughout. This is a great start to a new series.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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TELL ME ABOUT OCEANS, by Lisa Varchol Perron and Jennifer Falkner, Little Simon, April 16, 2024, Board Book, $8.99 (ages 2-5)

A child gets answers to their many questions about the ocean in this rhyming, fact-filled nonfiction board book.

Tell me why the ocean moves
in waves that splish and splash.

Wind on water makes those waves
that hit the shore and crash!

A child asks their grownup many questions about the ocean. From what creates waves, what lives in the deep sea, what makes the ocean blue, and more, scientific facts are conveyed in accessible language. Sidebars on each spread provide even more information for every question asked and answered. —Synopsis provided by Little Simon

Tell Me About Oceans is a beautifully illustrated board book that little readers will be drawn to. Simple text works as a great introduction and more detailed sidebars provide further information as little ones ask for more clarity.

SHELLS… AND WHAT THEY HIDE INSIDE: A Lift-the-Flap Adventure, by Helen Scales and Sonia Pulido, Phaidon Press, April 17, 2024, Board Book, $14.95 (ages 2-4)

In this board book companion to What a Shell Can Tell, award-winning marine biologist and documentary maker, Helen Scales, introduces children ages 2-4 to the wonders of shells. With over 40 flaps to lift creating interactive opportunities on every page, stunningly lifelike illustrations, children are encouraged to observe, engage with, and understand a range of shells and environments. From where shells are found and who lives in them, to what a shell’s look and feel can reveal about its inhabitant and environment. —Synopsis provided by Phaidon Press

Children are naturally drawn to shells, and this book expands on that interest through interactive flaps, bright colors and stunning illustrations. The lift of each flap reveals new illustrations and more information about each shell’s purpose. The book’s heavy-duty construction means it will stand up to heavy use. It’s one of the better nonfiction board books available.

THIS WOLF WAS DIFFERENT, by Katie Slivensky and Hannah Salyer, Beach Lane Books, March 5, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 3-8)

Inspired by natural history, this picture book imagines how humans and wolves first came together, exploring individuality and how true friendship means embracing differences.

Long ago, a wolf pup was born in a forest. This pup was a wolf, and so were her brothers and sisters. But this wolf was different. She liked staying close to the den instead of hunting and chasing her tail instead of chasing other animals. She wished she were more like her siblings—more like a real wolf.

Then she meets a new kind of creature, no more like the other wolves than she is. As a new friendship blossoms, the wolf discovers that it’s okay to be different and, better yet, it’s a gift to be something new. —Synopsis provided by Beach Lane Books

Though This Wolf Was Different is fiction, it is based on sound research. It offers readers a plausible explanation of how dogs became domesticated. This gentle story is warm and full of life. And beautiful illustrations provide a sense of time and place. Extensive backmatter features scientific information about how wolves and humans first connected.

BEHOLD THE HUMMINGBIRD, by Suzanne Slade and Thomas Gonzalez, Peachtree, April 2, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Hummingbirds are tiny and pretty, so you might find yourself taking them for granted. But these little birds are remarkable, fierce, and talented. In Behold the Hummingbird, readers will learn about species that can hover like a helicopter, fly backwards and upside down, and consume half their body weight in a single day. —Synopsis provided by Peachtree

Behold the Hummingbird is two glorious books in one. The first, is a simple lyrical read that will hold a little one’s attention. The second, is an informative read that compliments the first. For example, a spread about “humming” explains how the hummingbird gets its name. Each spread features a different species of hummingbird rendered in glorious pastel, colored pencils and airbrush. The stunning artwork is such that you wouldn’t mind framing it and hanging it on the wall. Excellent backmatter explains how to find hummingbirds and how to help them.

ONE DAY THIS TREE WILL FALL, by Leslie Barnard Booth and Stephanie Fizer Coleman, Margaret K. McElderry Books, March 26, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Discover how a tree’s wounds and decay bring new life to the forest ecosystem in this nonfiction picture book.

When a tree falls, is its story over?

There are many ways a tree’s story could end: Gobbled up by a bird as a tiny seed. Damaged by wind or ice or fire. Chopped down and hauled away. But some trees—this tree—survives. And grows old. Riddled with scars, cracks, and crevices, it becomes a place creatures large and small call home.

One day, after standing tall for centuries, this tree will fall. But even then, is its story over? Or will it continue to nurture the forest and its creatures for many years to come? Complete with additional information about the role trees play in a forest ecosystem, this sweeping story invites readers of all ages to celebrate the incredible life cycle and afterlife of trees. —Synopsis provided by Margaret K. McElderry Books

If ever there was a perfect book for reading aloud in a classroom, this one might be it. It features lyrical text that is a joy to read aloud; big, bold illustrations that can be seen from afar; and excellent backmatter that explains how a tree’s story never ends. This book will prompt questions, illustrations and further discussion, making it a great option for both home and/or classroom libraries.

IS THIS A HOUSE FOR HERMIT CRAB? by Megan McDonald and Katherine Tillotson, Neal Porter Books, Feb. 13, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Follow a hermit crab on the perilous journey to replace his outgrown shell in this classic picture book by the author of the popular Judy Moody and Stink series.

Hermit Crab has outgrown his shell, and it’s time for a new home to keep him safe from predators. The beach is strewn with possible choices, but none are quite right. A rock is too heavy; a tin can is too noisy; a fishing net has too many holes.

He stepped along the shore,
by the sea, in the sand . . .
scritch-scratch, scritch-scratch

When a giant wave sends Hermit Crab careening toward a hungry porcupine fish, will he find a hiding place in time? —Synopsis provided by Neal Porter Books

First written in 1990, Megan McDonald’s text gets a new look with Katherine Tillotson’s captivating watercolor, acrylic, finger paint, and collage artwork. Extensive backmatter includes a note from the author and two-page spread featuring more information about hermit crabs.

ANGELA’S GLACIER, by Jordan Scott and Diana Sudyka, Neal Porter Books, Jan. 2, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Angela listened to the glacier; the glacier listened to Angela.

As soon as she’s born, Angela’s father introduces her to her glacier. He carries her on his back up the icy expanse as the wind makes music of the snow and the water underneath. Over time, Angela gets big enough to walk beside him, and then, to go alone. She tells her glacier everything, and it answers.

But then, life gets busy. Angela’s days fill up with school, homework, violin and soccer and friends. Until one day, Angela’s heart doesn’t sound right anymore. Luckily, Angela’s dad is there to remind her what she needs: a visit to her ancient icy friend. —Synopsis provided by Neal Porter Books

Angela’s Glacier was inspired by the author’s friend who grew up in Northern Ontario and emigrated to Iceland in 2011. It’s a story of home, growing up and discovering what’s most important to you. It’s told through lyrical text and magnificent illustrations that make you want to visit the glacier yourself. An afterword from the real Angela highlights the tragic threat climate change poses to our planet’s frozen marvels.

CHANGE IS IN THE AIR: CARBON, CLIMATE, EARTH, AND US, by Debbie Levy and Alex Boersma, Bloomsbury Children’s Books, March 5, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 5-8)

A nonfiction picture book about ways that the Earth removes carbon from the air, and ways people can help.

The Earth has a problem: there’s too much carbon in the air.

Luckily, the Earth also has amazing powers to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere-like the power of kelp, mangroves, and dirt. Although these powers alone cannot get us out of the climate crisis we’re facing, the Earth has another important power: the power of people! People have the power to change, protect, innovate, and invent.

In this informational picture book, Debbie Levy and Alex Boersma paint an encouraging yet honest picture of the problems at hand and some of the ways that we can address them. Thanks to the power of nature and the ingenuity of people, change is in the air! —Synopsis provided by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

At this point, there’s no point in denying climate change, but there is hope, and Change is in the Air offers it. Through fairly simple words and more detailed illustrations, readers are offered an accessible look at what can be a complex subject. Younger readers will be drawn to the artwork, while older ones will garner more from the text. Strong backmatter includes an author’s note on the problem and the Earth’s power to heal.

INCREDIBLE: STARS OF THE PLANT WORLD, by Benjamin Flouw, Twirl; 1st edition, Feb. 20, 2024, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 5 and up)

Towering sequoias, giant Saguaro cacti, prehistoric plants, incredible palms and many more fill the pages of this large format book. The detailed illustrations are accompanied by fascinating facts about each plant. It features supersized spreads with eye-catching illustrations, bite-sized descriptions about each plant and educational content reviewed by experts. —Synopsis provided by Twirl

This big, bold book will appeal to kids who like to wander their way through pages. Bold, stylized illustrations immediately grab attention and small sections of text make it more accessible. It’s not a book that has to be read front-to-back, which is a major bonus. A lovely world map tagged with each featured plant is included at the end, giving readers a sense of place. This is the sort of nonfiction book that you’d happily display on the coffee table but would also make a great addition to any classroom library.

SONA SHARMA, LOOKING AFTER PLANET EARTH, by Chitra Soundar and Jen Khatun, Candlewick, Feb. 13, 2024, Hardcover, $15.99 (ages 6-9)

Sona is determined to get her whole suburban Indian neighborhood to help fight climate change in this second Sona Sharma story.

When Sona learns about the climate crisis at school, she worries nobody is doing enough to combat it. So, she takes up the challenge herself! But her family isn’t amused when Sona suddenly gets rid of her sister’s diapers and turns off Thatha and Paatti’s cooling fan during their nap. Sona finds a better way to implement change, at a family meeting where everyone helps make a list of ways to conserve. Energized, Sona sets her sights on the rest of the neighborhood. When she learns many of the kolams—traditional art that people draw in front of their homes to celebrate the festival season—are not eco-friendly, she makes plans for some even bigger changes. Can Sona convince everyone to get involved—even her own strong-willed grandmother? —Synopsis provided by Candlewick

At 120 pages and full of charming illustrations, this is a good option for stronger chapter book readers looking for something a little different. With a likeable main character and timely topic, it’s a fun read.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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NOT YET: THE STORY OF AN UNSTOPPABLE SKATER, by Hadley Davis, Zahra Lari, Sara Alfageeh, Orchard Books, Feb. 6, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

A universal story about courage and determination that is loosely based on the life of five-time Emirati National Champion, Zahra Lari, who was the first figure skater to compete internationally in a hijab.

After watching an ice-skating movie, young Zahra sets her mind to learn how to ice skate even though her family and friends doubt her abilities. After all, she’s too old to learn, the rink is too cold, and figure skaters don’t look like her… not yet at least! Illustrated with Sara Alfageeh’s energetic lines and colors that pop right off the page, we follow Zahra’s story as she glides across the floors of her house in her socks all the way to the ice rink… and as she repeatedly says ”not yet” to naysayers — including herself — who try to convince her to stop pursuing her dream. An inspiring tale of self-empowerment and perseverance as we see the refrain — not yet — grow from a low, meek mumble to a mantra and promise filled with determination. —Synopsis provided by Orchard Books

LOVE IS IN THE AIR: THE STORY OF AVIATION PIONEER NANCY HARKNESS LOVE, by Dee Romito and Vivian Mineker, Aladdin, Sept. 26, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Take off with Nancy Harkness Love, first female pilot to serve in the Army Air Forces and founder of the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron (WAFS) during World War II, in this picture book biography perfect for readers of Fly, Girl, Fly! or Fearless Flyer.

In 1930, when Nancy Harkness was sixteen years old, she took a ride in a biplane and fell in love with flight. But at that time, women weren’t encouraged to pursue careers in aviation.

Despite the barriers, Nancy took to the air and earned her pilot’s license. She continued to fly in college, becoming known as “The Flying Freshman.” After traveling to Boston for a job, she met her future husband and fellow pilot, Bob Love, and began her official career in aviation, eventually becoming director of the WAFS during World War II.

By pursuing her dreams, Nancy paved the way for other female pilots to soar. —Synopsis provided by Aladdin

YOU ARE A STAR, JANE GOODALL, by Dean Robbins and Hatem Aly, Scholastic Press, April 4, 2023, Paperback, $8.99 (ages 5-7)

It’s Jane Goodall like you’ve never seen her before!

Using a unique mix of first-person narrative, hilarious comic panels, and essential facts, Dean Robbins introduces young readers to an scientific trailblazer. The second book in an exciting new nonfiction series, You Are a Star, Jane Goodall focuses on Jane’s lifelong mission to understand the chimpanzees and protect the planet.

Hatem Aly’s spot-on comic illustrations bring this icon to life, and engaging back matter instructs readers on how to be more like Jane! —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

SMARTY MARTY TAKES THE FIELD: A PICTURE BOOK, by Amy Gutierrez, Anika Orrock, Alyssa Nakken (Afterword), Harry N. Abrams, March 19, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 6-9)

Smarty Marty Takes the Field is an inspiring picture book from Emmy Award-winning sports journalist Amy Gutierrez—better known as Amy G—and award-winning author/illustrator Anika Orrock about the courage it takes to break down gender barriers in the world of sports and beyond.

Having proven her baseball chops in Smarty Marty’s Got Game, this time Marty is making a play for manager, something no girl has ever done in her town’s Little League history. Unfortunately, not everyone thinks she can do it, but a chance encounter with a very special trailblazer gives her the courage to turn her fear into opportunity.

Complete with plenty of baseball knowledge and go-get-’em-girl empowerment and a special interview with Alyssa Nakken, this story is sure to inspire young readers to ask themselves, “If not you, who?” —Synopsis provided by Harry N. Abrams

THE LIFE-CHANGING MAGIC OF SKATEBOARDING: A BEGINNER’S GUIDE WITH OLYMPIC MEDALIST SKY BROWN, by Sky Brown and Shaw Davidson, Magic Cat, March 26, 2024, Hardcover, $14.99 (ages 6-10)

Drop into the beginner’s guide The Life-Changing Magic of Skateboarding, with secrets from world champion Sky Brown!

Meet Sky Brown, the youngest person to win a medal in skateboarding at the Olympics and discover how she fell in love with the sport. Then, give it a try yourself as she offers tips to get you started.

Learn how to start . . . and stop. Then follow along as Sky takes you through ollies, kick turns, nose grabs, and more.

This practical biographical handbook features:

• • • A joy-filled introduction to the sport of skateboarding presented in an engaging graphic-novel style
    • Practical tips and inspiration from Sky Brown
    • Illustrated step-by-step instructions of basic and advanced skateboarding tricks
    • Advice on safety and how to get back up after a fall —Synopsis provided by Magic Cat

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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WHAT A ROCK CAN REVEAL: Where They Come From And What They Tell Us About Our Planet, by Maya Wei-Haas and Sonia Pulido, Phaidon Press, Feb. 28, 2024, Hardcover, $19.95 (ages 6-9)

Learn about rocks and minerals in What a Rock Can Reveal: Where They Come From and What They Tell Us About Our Planet, by Maya Wei-Haas and Sonia Pulido.

Award-winning science writer and geologist Maya Wei-Haas introduces young readers to the world of rocks through the art of observation. Starting with a question-and-answer format, she explores the diversity of rocks and minerals and how a rock’s shape, color, or texture help to tell the stories of how it was formed, where it comes from, and the journeys it has had. This hands-on introduction reveals how rocks are time capsules of our planet’s past, recording the events that once built Earth’s incredible geology. —Synopsis provided by Phaidon Press

It’s the cover and illustrations that will draw young readers to What a Rock Can Reveal, but it’s the informative text that will keep them engaged.

What a Rock Can Reveal is the second book in a series of scientific books that explore the natural world through everyday objects found in nature. What A Shell Can Tell, by Helen Scales and Sonia Pulido, was published June 2022.

What a Rock Can Reveal asks kids to do what they naturally do — explore. It begins with asking them to take a closer look at the rocks they come across and builds from there. Each turn of the page provides something new, and it’s all fascinating.

Author Maya Wei-Haas has done an excellent job balancing informative with accessible. She makes the more mundane aspects interesting and holds interest throughout. Illustrator Sonia Pulido creates almost photographic representation of rocks and minerals while still creating a sense of movement and flow throughout.

What a Rock Can Reveal has broad appeal. It would be a great classroom resource as well as a beloved book for budding geologists.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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SOREN’S SEVENTH SONG: A Picture Book, by Dave Eggers and Mark Hoffmann, Harry N. Abrams, Feb. 6, 2024, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 6-9)

A humpback whale tries to create a new song in Soren’s Seventh Song, written by Dave Eggers and illustrated by Mark Hoffman.

Soren, a young humpback whale, loves music but is tired of the dull, droning, endless songs that are frustratingly popular among the adult whales he knows. He has ideas for better songs: shorter, up-tempo tunes with snare drums and even maracas. Unfortunately, every time he shares his new tunes with his friends, he’s met with less than encouraging feedback and even a bit of discreet whale vomiting.

In this upbeat story of resilience and tenacity, Dave Eggers offers readers of all ages essential creative advice: your first drafts are probably terrible. —Synopsis provided by Harry N. Abrams

Soren’s Seventh Song is exactly the type of book that you want to read aloud to a classroom and have them create their own songs to go along with it. Yes, it would be a cacophony, but it would also be so much fun.

Dave Eggers’ tongue-in-cheek text has just the right amount of “raised eyebrows” to it. It’s witty. It’s charming. And, yes, sure, it has a message about creativity and persistence, but that’s not what will bring back repeat readers. Instead, it’s the fun element that will get them hooked.

Artist Mark Hoffman’s illustrations pick up Eggers’ deadpan humor and build upon it. He makes good use of his space, giving readers a sense of scale. His whales are bigger than life with their antics and lively expressions.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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COYOTE’S WILD HOME, by Barbara Kingsolver , Lily Kingsolver, Paul Mirocha, The Gryphon Press, Nov. 28, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 6-9)

A young coyote pup and a young girl discover forest secrets in Coyote’s Wild Home, by Barbara Kingsolver, Lily Kingsolver, and illustrated by Paul Mirocha.

Pulitzer Prize winner Barbara Kingsolver and environmental educator Lily Kingsolver collaborate on their first children’s book, Coyote’s Wild Home. 

The book takes us into the woods, meadows, and streams of an Appalachian forest where a girl and a coyote pup each have their first woodland adventures. On their separate journeys into the wilderness with a beloved family member, the intertwined paths of child and coyote will surprise and enchant young readers. —Synopsis provided by The Gryphon Press

Coyote’s Wild Home is a gentle introduction to coyotes’ habitat. Told from dual perspectives, both the young pup and the girl explore the wilds and learn important lessons. Through inviting text, young readers will learn about coyote migration, background, habitats and family units.

This informative narrative comes to life through Paul Mirocha’s incredibly detailed painted illustrations.

Coyote’s Wild Home has more text than a typical picture book, making it appropriate for young readers who have longer attention spans and a better grasp on solo reading. Endnotes feature a two-page spread on coyotes and how you can help them survive.

This is a lovely picture book that would work well in conjunction with school units on animals. Many kids will be drawn to it based on its cover alone.

Copyright © 2023 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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DAVID ATHERTON’S BAKING BOOK FOR KIDS: DELICIOUS RECIPES FOR BUDDING BAKERS (Bake, Make and Learn to Cook), by David Atherton and Harry Woodgate, Candlewick, Sept. 19, 2023, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 5-9)

Learn how to bake kid-friendly recipes with Great British Baking Show (Great British Bake Off in the UK) winner David Atherton’s Baking Book for Kids: Delicious Recipes for Budding Bakers.

Preheat the oven and get cracking—there are bakes to make! This third serving from Great British Baking Show winner David Atherton guides readers through a veritable feast of sweet and savory baked treats.

From snacky samosas to hot cross hedgehogs, from loaves baked in flowerpots to an ombre cake (your friends will think it came from a fancy bakery), these recipes are so delicious and easy to follow, they’ll have the reader named star baker in no time!

Featuring oven-hot tips, a review of a baker’s cupboard, an equipment list, step-by-step instructions, and illustrations by award-winning illustrator Harry Woodgate, this collection of recipes from David Atherton will bring little bakers and their loved ones together in the kitchen again and again. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick

David Atherton’s Baking Book for Kids is the baker’s third cookbook for kids — Bake, Make and Learn to Cook and Bake, Make, And Learn to Cook Vegetarian: Healthy and Green Recipes for Young Cooks — and just like its predecessors, this one is great!

The best thing about David Atherton’s Baking Book for Kids is just how simple and accessible Atherton has made his recipes. There aren’t a ton of ingredients and the instructions are illustrated step-by-step, helping bakers see exactly what they should be doing when. Younger bakers will still need some guidance, but I was able to hand the book to my 9-year-old, and she was able to do it pretty much on her own.

David Atherton’s Baking Book for Kids is one of the best cookbooks I’ve seen for kids. It’s a great option for families and for fans of Junior Bake-off

Copyright © 2023 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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Ages 3 and up

THE LOUD LIBRARIAN, by Jenna Beatrice and Erika Lynne Jones, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, April 11, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 3-7)

Penelope is perfect for the job of student-librarian. Friendly? Check. Helpful? Check. Book lover? Check. There’s just one snag. Penelope is…LOUD. Bookcases may topple and the ground may quake at the sound of her voice, but Penelope is determined to prove she’s perfect for the job and stay true to herself. Can a little librarian with a big voice find a place where she belongs?

Ages 4 and up

ON THE NIGHT BEFORE KINDERGARTEN, by Rosemary Wells, Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, June 27, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-6)

On the night before kindergarten, Milo’s dreams are not happy ones and make him worry about all the ways things at school could go wrong. On the morning of the big day, he’s nervous and wants Mama and Daddy to come with him, but they aren’t allowed. How can Milo face kindergarten alone? But over the course of the day, Milo makes new friends and learns new things. Kindergarten turns out to be pretty great!

BITSY BAT, SCHOOL STAR (The Bitsy Bat Series), by Kaz Windness, Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, June 6, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Bitsy is a little bat with big star dreams of making friends at her new school. But when she arrives, Bitsy doesn’t feel like she fits in. The other kids sit on their chairs, but sitting upright makes Bitsy dizzy. The other kids paint with their fingers, but Bitsy would rather use her toes. Everyone tells Bitsy she’s doing things wrong-wrong-wrong, so she tries harder…and ends up having a five-star meltdown.

Now Bitsy feels like a very small star and doesn’t want to go back to school. But with help from her family, Bitsy musters her courage, comes up with a new plan, and discovers that being a good friend is just one of the ways she shines bright!

PALACE OF BOOKS, by Patricia Polacco, Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, March 7, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

When young Patricia’s family moves to Battle Creek, Michigan, she finds it hard to believe this new place will ever feel like home. But soon she meets the kind librarian Mrs. Creavy and discovers the library’s doors are always open. Now, Patricia has a place to explore and study books about the birds that she loves. Mrs. Creavy even introduces her to the books of John James Audubon and helps Patricia introduce her classmates to the joy of birds by becoming the first member of the Audubon Bird Club of Freemont Elementary.

THE LIBRARY FISH LEARNS TO READ (THE LIBRARY FISH BOOKS), by Alyssa Satin Capucilli and Gladys Jose, Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, Feb. 7, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Library Fish is very happy in her bowl on Mr. Hughes the librarian’s desk. From there, she listens to story time and watches Mr. Hughes teach children the alphabet. He says the alphabet is made of letters, letters make sounds, blending those sounds together makes words, and words make stories.

Library Fish wants to read, too! She starts jumping out of her bowl to practice when the library closes at night. Can Library Fish become a reader all on her own?

DAD GOES TO SCHOOL: READY-TO-READ LEVEL 1, by Margaret McNamara and Mike Gordon, Simon Spotlight; Illustrated edition, April 24, 2007, Paperback, $4.99 (ages 4-6)

It’s Parents Week for Mrs. Connor’s first graders. Each day another parent is visiting and showing what they do. But Ayanna’s dad isn’t like the other parents. Will her classmates like him anyway?

CLASS MOM, by Margaret McNamara and Mike Gordon, Simon Spotlight; Illustrated edition, Oct/ 30, 2012, Paperback, $4.99 (ages 4-6)

In the twentieth installment of the hit Robin Hill School series, Nia volunteers her mama to be in charge of planning a great party for Mrs. Connor’s class. Everyone is excited—but Nia’s mama doesn’t know she’s been volunteered! Nia knows her mother is shy about speaking English, and is much more comfortable with her native Spanish. With the party fast approaching, can Nia and her mama pull off a great party for the first-grade class?

Ages 6 and up

A FUNNY THING HAPPENED AFTER SCHOOL . . ., by Davide Cali and Benjamin Chaud, Chronicle Books, July 11, 2023, Hardcover, $12.99 (ages 6-9)

It’s a race to do homework—in space! But first, there’s a spaceship jam. Then there’s the moon detour, the Mars alien exploration, and a stop on the gravity-defying International Space Station. And that’s just the beginning! Henry and Ali want to get their homework done—they really do! But how are they supposed to study the solar system when they seem to be swept up in an endless series of interstellar surprises?

SEJAL SINHA BATTLES SUPERSTORMS, by Maya Prasad, Aladdin, May 2, 2023, Paperback, $6.99 (ages 6-9)

Sejal Sinha is looking forward to celebrating Diwali with her family. But when a hurricane appears, Sejal and her cousin Mira learn that the house is in danger from the imminent storm. With the help of Sejal’s favorite stuffed animal, Professor Cheetah, the two girls use Cardboard Box Magic to build their own Hurricane Hunter and fly into the eye of the hurricane!

They learn about a project from the 1960s called Project Stormfury, where a team actually tried to stop hurricanes. Can Sejal and Mira do what the previous Stormfury team couldn’t and battle the superstorm?

Ages 9 and up

SMART: USE YOUR EYES TO BOOST YOUR BRAIN (Adapted from the New York Times bestseller Visual Intelligence), by Amy E. Herman and Heather Maclean, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, Oct. 25, 2022, Hardcover, $17.99 (Paperback, Sept. 12, $10.99)  (ages 9-13)

What would you say if I told you that looking at art could give you the confidence you need to speak up in class? Or that learning the history of donuts could help you think like a super spy and train like the CIA?

smART teaches readers how to process information using paintings, sculptures, and photographs using methods that instantly translate to real world situations and are also fun!

With three simple steps (1) How to SEE, (2) How to THINK about what you see, and (3) How to TALK about what you see, readers learn how to think critically and creatively, a skill that only requires you to open your eyes and actively engage your brain.

Copyright © 2023 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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