Every month, we post an annotated bibliography of books that were rated ‘Outstanding’ and nominated for our Distinguished List at our previous month’s meeting. Members can see full reviews of these books and many more in the July edition of BayViews.
PICTURE BOOK
Little Home Bird written and illustrated by Empson, Jo; Child’s Play 2016
When it is time to migrate, Little Bird brings his favorite things with him, but drops them one by one on the journey. Luckily, he finds many new favorite things at the winter home. With lovely watercolor paintings that use splashes of color and a map of the migration route. (PK-3)
More-igami written by Kleber, Dori & illustrated by Karas, G. Brian; Candlewick 2016
Joey learns about origami from a classmate’s mom, when Mrs. Takimoto demonstrates how to fold a paper crane for the class. Karas’s colorful cartoon gouache artwork features his usual pencil detailing. Give this charming debut picture book to primary grade teachers as a natural match for a class art project. (K-3)
FICTION
Highly Illogical Behavior written by Whaley, John Corey; Dial 2016
This charming and witty YA coming of age novel centers on 16 year-old agoraphobic Solomon Reed, and fellow teen, and amateur psychologist, Lisa Praytor, who is determined to ”fix” him, so she can write a scholarship winning essay about her experience with mental illness Review based on an ARC. (8-12)
Hour of the Bees written Eager, Lindsay; Candlewick 2016
This coming-of-age story follows twelve-year-old Carol and her family on a summer-long visit to her ailing grandfather’s New Mexico ranch. Seeped in the desert setting, family lore, and the challenges of junior high, Eagar weaves a captivating, relatable tale with an element of magical realism. (5-9)
Pax written by Pennypacker, Sara & illustrated Klassen, Jon; Balzer & Bray 2016
Pax is the fox who has been a loyal pet to 12 year old owner and friend Peter. The simple beauty and commitment from both sides of the relationship between boy and animal tears at the heartstrings and haunt long after the book is finished. (4-8)
NON-FICTION
Our Food: A Healthy Serving of Science and Poem written by Lin, Grace and Ranida T. McKneally & illustrated by Zong, Grace; Charlesbridge 2016
This cheerfully informative book feeds kids’ curiosity about the science of plants and nutrition, fiber, protein, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. Learning about food and health becomes a light-hearted adventure with illustrations of energetic children exploring a farm, whimsical haiku poems, and answers to questions such as “What makes popcorn pop?” (1-4)
Learn to Program (Kids Get Coding) written by Lyons, Heather and Tweedale, Elizabeth & illustrated by Westgate, Alex 2016
Beginning-level introductions to coding and online safety are clear, engaging, not too long, and appealingly illustrated with multicultural girl and boy figures for grades. (1-4)
BIOGRAPHY
Anything But Ordinary Addie: The True Story of Adelaide Herrmann, Queen of Magic written by Rockliff, Mara and illustrated by Bruno, Iacopo; Candlewick 2016
World famous but now forgotten, magician, Adelaide Herrmann’s life and legacy are paid tribute in this superb picture book by Mesmerized team, Rockliff and Bruno. Use as a read aloud about a fearless woman who amazed audiences around the world. (1-5)
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