Brandon Sanderson, Kazu Kibuishi, Christina Soontornvat, Isabel Roxas, Lisa Katzenberger,
Rob Sayegh Jr., Bob Shea, David Biedrzycki, Michael Rosen and Robert Starling.
Lately, there’s been crazy stuff going on, and I just needed to go to my happy place. My local library. From the moment I walk in the door, I feel my blood pressure go down. Calming. Warm. Inviting.
My favorite place to go is the children’s section and the shelf of new books. It reminds me of my days as a teacher librarian when I would open a brand new box of books. There is nothing like the smell of new books and opening those covers for the first time makes my heart sing. Anyway, last week I checked out a pile of amazing new stories, and I just have to share them. 100% winners.
I Am Happy – Written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Robert Starling
The silly puppy in this story finds JOY in every day activities. Playing in puddles. Chasing bubbles. Laughing. Dancing. Swinging. Rolling down a mountain.
Recently, I shared this story with a group of preschool children, and they laughed throughout the whole book! I needed this book to remind me to BREATHE, and find joy in the world around me!
Pizza for Birds – Bob Shea
I’m currently working on a project with author Jill Esbaum, who has teamed with Bob Shea on their SUPERPOWER series. Seriously, so good! Bob Shea always DELIGHTS and AMAZES me. His books are fresh, unique and make me think and laugh. Pizza for Birds is an insightful look at dealing with the topic of jealousy, the power of the “INTERNEST” and telling truth vs. lies. Lying hurts! And yet, it is possible to see each other and form friendships for ‘good’. Love you, Bob Shea!
Leo’s First Vote – Written by Christina Soontornat and illustrated by Isabel Roxas
Wow! I’ve long been a fan of Christina’s work – The Last Mapamker, All Thirteen and A Wish in the Dark. This is a beautifully illustrated and informative explanation of the voting process. It’s told with facts and heart, emphasizing the importance of each and every voice. Back pages include additional information. The dialogue between the dad and the son is insightful and honest, creating a conversation about the election process to provide understanding. A must purchase for every school library.
The Most Boring Book Ever – Brandon Sanderson and Kazu Kibuishi
Let’s just ponder this collaborative team for a minute…brilliance in action. This book is the ultimate example of partnership as the story and illustrations are beyond powerful, and they paint this rich adventure of a boy who sits in a chair, and then well, watch out. Literally. You’ll be on a rollercoaster of an adventure. It’s one of those books that I could read over and over again, and see something new each time. True magic.
I had the opportunity to meet Kazu at LITapalooza. It was an honor.
ARTificial Intelligence by David Biedrzycki.
Beidrzycki is an ‘authorator’….as coined in the back flap of the book. I’ve never heard that phrase before. But what a fantastic description of the outstanding genius of this story. Robot daydreams and imagines life differently. He creates rich, vibrant and colorful art that brings beauty into the world around him. It’s a grand story of the power of noticing. Noticing others. Noticing possibilities. Noticing ideas. By trying something new that hasn’t been done before, the world becomes a place of splendor. It’s a domino effect of the power of creativity.
A Love Letter To My Library – Written by Lisa Katzenberger and illustrated by Rob Sayegh, Jr.
This story brings us full circle as to the importance of our libraries. It is poignant and sweet. Specific and insightful.
Children write a thank you letter to the library, sharing all the reasons the library is a happy place to visit. They enjoy finding special nooks in which to read, doing crafts, connecting with others and going on great adventures. Thank you for reminding us to celebrate our libraries. Lisa is also a LITapalooza favorite author!
Thank you, authors and illustrators, for bringing light and joy into the world.
