Olivia is taking over her family’s matchmaking business. Tapping into her heritage, the business revolves around compatible matches using the traditioOlivia is taking over her family’s matchmaking business. Tapping into her heritage, the business revolves around compatible matches using the traditional Chinese Zodiac approach. However, her plan to revamp the business gets derailed when a new app is trying to modernize Chinese Zodiac dating with the convenience of current-day dating apps. This was a really cute book that is infused with love, dating struggles, and funny banter between the two main characters. One thing that I truly appreciated was Jessen's way of identifying the struggles of Asian American/Mixed Race people. As someone who has personally gone through these struggles, it was refreshing to be seen in a book that was able to identify the strong feelings of wanting to follow tradition but also wanting to get with the times. The natural flow of the book was wonderful, I love a good meet-cute (which this book totally has), and I love how everything was centered around family. This is an adorable RomCom for anyone looking for a sweet, wholesome book! – Alyssa C....more
I remember watching Oprah one day and listening to her interview of this author. She recounted how the Gratitude Journal had made an impact in her lifI remember watching Oprah one day and listening to her interview of this author. She recounted how the Gratitude Journal had made an impact in her life, opening her eyes to the wonder and abundance all around her. I have learned so much from this book. Ban Breathnach takes us on a journey to our past. With the tools she has provided, we excavate the landscape of our history to uncover hidden treasures. The compilation of quotations throughout the book is another of my favorite features. A rich repository from some of the most insightful and inspired minds, broken down into a gentle daybook. If you are looking for something to enhance the quality of your days and fill your quiet moments with the musings of old souls, this might be the book for you. ~Tiffany J.
Flowing and lyrical, this insightful picture book celebrates the deep connections we have both to the land and to each other. Also, the beauty and wonFlowing and lyrical, this insightful picture book celebrates the deep connections we have both to the land and to each other. Also, the beauty and wonder of change and transition both in nature and in our own lives. Sainte-Marie speaks to the truth that although we might wander far from the people and places we love, we always return. ~Tiffany J.
The pages of this little book each have a mental health affirmation paired with a cute monster illustration. The pages are grouped together by theme, The pages of this little book each have a mental health affirmation paired with a cute monster illustration. The pages are grouped together by theme, and whenever I felt anxious, I found myself flipping a corresponding section and reading a couple of pages to steady my mood. This is a very gentle book that is lovely to have on hand if you are going through a stressful time. - Dominique A....more
In a typical community center the mysterious librarian, Sayuri Komachi’s book recommendations change the outlooks of those who come to her seeking booIn a typical community center the mysterious librarian, Sayuri Komachi’s book recommendations change the outlooks of those who come to her seeking books. What You’re Looking For is in the Library is not only about the powerful effects books have, but how the book must also be matched with a person’s desire for improvement or change.
Each chapter focuses on a different character, which makes reading this book feel quick and easy. Discovering the connections between characters, who all live in the same ward but may not know or even encounter each other, is a happy reward. This is a wonderful read for bibliophiles and library lovers and would especially be enjoyed by those who like the Netflix series Midnight Diner.
As a Librarian, of course I had to read this book- and it did not disappoint! Dear Librarian is based on the author's experience as a young girl experAs a Librarian, of course I had to read this book- and it did not disappoint! Dear Librarian is based on the author's experience as a young girl experiencing homelessness, but finding refuge in the library and the children's librarian. The story was beautifully told, accompanied by illustrations that fit the gentle tone perfectly. The pictures used a soft pastel color palette and there are many small details that add to the whimsy. Recommended as a lap-sit book for a caregiver and child, like as a sweet bedtime story, or for an adult reader to enjoy even without reading aloud to a young one.
Emily’s quest to write a complete Encyclopedia of Faeries leads her to the remote, northern, icy village of Hrafnsvik, Ljosland. She has more difficulEmily’s quest to write a complete Encyclopedia of Faeries leads her to the remote, northern, icy village of Hrafnsvik, Ljosland. She has more difficulty navigating the complexities of small-town life than solving the mysteries of the fairy realm. One moment she is trying to master the art of chopping enough firewood to keep her frozen cottage warm, and the next she is trying to discover the secrets of a trapped fairy king. The relationship between Emily and her enigmatic colleague Wendell Bambleby make this story shine. Filled with quirky characters, light mysteries, and a very mild romance, this book is a quick, pleasant read.
This is a charming story told through beautifully illustrated pictures. True wordless picture books are great for building narrative skills by giving This is a charming story told through beautifully illustrated pictures. True wordless picture books are great for building narrative skills by giving children a chance to verbalize the story from their own interpretations of the pictures. I love how expressive the pictures are of the friendship forged between a polar bear and a young Inuit girl. -- Alexis S....more
I thought that this book was descriptive and creative. The author painted a perfect picture of life in Green Gables, and the book was enjoyable to readI thought that this book was descriptive and creative. The author painted a perfect picture of life in Green Gables, and the book was enjoyable to read. The illustrations for this book were colorful and vibrant, perfect for little kids. - Nikhita D., SPL Teen Volunteer ...more
"When all else fails, tidy up." So speaks Molly's beloved Gran, who has passed on and left Molly to fend for herself. So far, she is not doing too wel"When all else fails, tidy up." So speaks Molly's beloved Gran, who has passed on and left Molly to fend for herself. So far, she is not doing too well. A man she trusted has swindled her and she stands accused of murder. While on duty at her beloved job as a maid at the Regency Grand Hotel, returning each and every room to a spotless "state of perfection", Molly has the misfortune to stumble upon a dead man. Soon she finds herself embroiled in a web of drugs, deceit, and utter disaster. Molly is a heroine I wanted to jump up and cheer for. Filled with heart-warming axioms and anecdotes of her life with her grandmother, she proves that good manners and cleanliness never go out of style. A debut novel, I can't wait to see what else Nita Prose has to offer. ~Tiffany J.
This book made for an impromptu children's librarian Storytime. You know a book is good when one librarian reads it, then immediately takes it over toThis book made for an impromptu children's librarian Storytime. You know a book is good when one librarian reads it, then immediately takes it over to her colleagues, interrupting whatever they were doing, and reads it aloud with nothing more than a hurried, "Look what I just found for storytime!" to introduce it. "Oooh, those are Caledcott level illustrations!" one exclaims, "Such rich vocabulary!" said another. It was passed around through the youth staff in the building and title and author were promptly scribbled onto post-it notes. Lots of possibilities here for themes and writing prompts and art prompts too for our teacher and teacher librarian friends. Readers may also enjoy "King Bidgood's in the Bathtub" by Audrey Wood, "Grandpa Green" by Lane Smith, "Shh! We Have a Plan" by Chris Haughton, or "Fred Gets Dressed" by Peter Brown. Enjoy! - Alexis S....more
This was an early chapter book (AR 3.1, 92 pages with illustrations) that was funny, quaint, surprising, and a little gross. Rabbit's bad habit was unThis was an early chapter book (AR 3.1, 92 pages with illustrations) that was funny, quaint, surprising, and a little gross. Rabbit's bad habit was unexpected, I didn't know they were cecotropes, so there was an added science lesson in there too for my kiddos. The contrast between the two characters was very interesting and fun for my 2nd grade and 3rd grade readers! Readers may also enjoy "Chicken Squad" series by Doreen Cronin, "Haggis and Tank" series by Jessica Young, or "BUNJITSU Bunny" series by John Himmelman. Happy Reading! - Alexis S. ...more
What a great book for growth mindset! Oona is an adorable mermaid with a cute otter pup pet and she has a problem that takes some perseverance to solvWhat a great book for growth mindset! Oona is an adorable mermaid with a cute otter pup pet and she has a problem that takes some perseverance to solve. Such a wonderful picture book, great for elementary classrooms. The illustrations are amazing and there are so many curricular possibilities with STEAM or just as a quick picture book read-aloud on growth mindset for gifted or upper grades. Readers may also enjoy "The Magical Yet" by Angela DiTerlizzi, "What Do You Do with a Problem?" by Kobi Yamada, or "Flight School" by Lita Judge. Enjoy! - Alexis S....more
Kid 2: But... is there a dog in it? Me: Yes, the dog's name is "Ranger" and he travels through time. Kid 2: Does the dog have something horrible happen Kid 2: But... is there a dog in it? Me: Yes, the dog's name is "Ranger" and he travels through time. Kid 2: Does the dog have something horrible happen to it? Now that I am in 4th grade I don't trust dog books. Me: Looks like there are 12 in the series... I think we're good? Kid 2: I'm not reading book 12.
He started with book 6, and they are now making their way through the kids at school too. He has loaned out several. They have cool stuff about history that has led to some deeper conversations, more reading, and learning about those events. He checked out a couple books on earthquakes and even picked it as a topic for a report at school. (AR is 4.3) Readers may also enjoy I Survived series by Lauren Tarshis or Time Warp Trio series by John Scieszka. - Alexis S. ...more
This is a hilarious mash-up of 'Twas the night before Christmas and The Three Little Pigs done in southwest style with javelinas and fun Christmas sonThis is a hilarious mash-up of 'Twas the night before Christmas and The Three Little Pigs done in southwest style with javelinas and fun Christmas songs and traditions sprinkled throughout. The pictures are detailed and adorable. - Alexis S....more
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse is a short heartwarming book for readers of all ages. It is especially poignant for adults who may be reflectThe Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse is a short heartwarming book for readers of all ages. It is especially poignant for adults who may be reflecting on their lives and what is most important. The illustrations and text work together to create a book that is a true work of art. Many of the pages would be wonderful as framed prints. This may be a book you borrow first from the library, then buy a copy for your friends, family, and yourself! Definitely a book you'll want to re-read and share with others. -Diana F....more
Dove Pond is a delightful place to visit and one you'll want to stay in for a while. With a hint of magic and a cast of characters you'll want to knowDove Pond is a delightful place to visit and one you'll want to stay in for a while. With a hint of magic and a cast of characters you'll want to know better, the 2nd book in the series is a wonderful addition. This time we get to know Ava, her green thumb, her amazing teas, and a terrible secret that threatens all she loves. This series will also appeal to fans of Sarah Addison Allen. - Jennifer K....more
"All I know is I didn't see him coming. And once he was there, he would not go away." Such a well written and beautiful story about the pain, the many"All I know is I didn't see him coming. And once he was there, he would not go away." Such a well written and beautiful story about the pain, the many emotions felt, and the healing that can occur with time when a child loses a loved one, specifically a parent. It's a tough and somber subject, but it's a valuable story when it is needed. – Megan G....more
Peter Reynolds has crafted an exceptional way to express that there are many ways to use your voice. Bold and bright illustrations make the intangiblePeter Reynolds has crafted an exceptional way to express that there are many ways to use your voice. Bold and bright illustrations make the intangible seem more concrete for younger readers. I like how many forms of sharing and communicating are presented in this book, and the overall message that what kids have to say should be heard and valued. What a great read for K-3 classrooms! See also Word Collector by this same author and The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade by Justin Roberts for more. – Alexis S....more
"She was worth more than fried chicken." A fitting quote for a book set on the coast of North Carolina.
A slow meandering story with beautiful charact"She was worth more than fried chicken." A fitting quote for a book set on the coast of North Carolina.
A slow meandering story with beautiful character development, characters you grow to care about, a great mystery, and poetic writing. This is not an action packed story, but it will have you willingly turning the pages to solve the puzzle of Kya. –Megan G.
Delia Owens is an award-winning nonfiction writer and co-author of 3 internationally bestselling nonfiction books, Cry of the Kalahari, The Eye of the Elephant, and Secrets of the Savanna. Her first novel, Where the Crawdads Sing, is simply beautiful.
Kya, the main character, is believable in an untenable situation and someone you can’t help rooting for. This is a story about bullying, prejudice, heartbreak, loneliness, and the power of kindness. It’s about family baggage, living in harmony with the natural world and, ultimately, about resilience. This book has romance and mystery and so many twists and turns. I don’t want to give away ANY details that would spoil the surprises. Lush descriptions of the marshland of coastal North Carolina ground it all perfectly. The beauty and truth of Where the Crawdads Sing are guaranteed to remain with you long after you’ve finished it. -Kathleen G....more