What's New in Picture Books
November 5, 2019
Presented by Kay Richardson, Stephanie Miles, Susan Cook, Kim Dornburgh, Phyllis Brown, and Katie Kibler
Theme: Relationships
The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family
by Ibtihaj Muhammad with S.K. Ali, illustrated by Hatem Aly With her new backpack and light-up shoes, Faizah knows the first day of school is going to be special. It's the start of a brand new year and, best of all, it's her older sister Asiya's first day of hijab--a hijab of beautiful blue fabric, like the ocean waving to the sky. But not everyone sees hijab as beautiful, and in the face of hurtful, confusing words, Faizah will find new ways to be strong. Paired with Hatem Aly's beautiful, whimsical art, Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad and Morris Award finalist S.K. Ali bring readers an uplifting, universal story of new experiences, the unbreakable bond between siblings, and of being proud of who you are. Connections: A beautifully written and illustrated book with so many good links to curriculum. This would fit well with a unit of family and caring for one another. Also, ties in nicely with our SEL. The older sister is being bullied about wearing hijab and models a strategy of turning and walking away for her little sister. The author shares words from the mother of the girls: “Don’t carry around the hurtful words that others say. Drop them. They are not yours to keep. They belong only to those who said them.” The text is full of figurative language with illustrations that pair well to show the meaning of the words. An amazing message from the author at the end sharing her own experiences with this topic and providing a message of strength for people going through difficult times. |
A Father's Love by Hannah Holt, illustrated by Yee Von Chan
Throughout the animal kingdom, in every part of the world, fathers love and care for their babies. This book takes readers around the globe and across the animal kingdom, showcasing the many ways fathers have of demonstrating their love. Whether it's a penguin papa snuggling with his baby in the frosty white snow, a lion dad playing with his cub in a yellow field, or a seahorse father protecting his young inside his pouch in the deep blue ocean, we see that a father's love comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. With beautiful art that brings all of the dads and babies, and the love between them, to vivid, colorful life, this book is a celebration of the special bond that a father shares with his children. Connections: The book travels around the world showcasing different animals and the father’s care of the baby animals. Each animal is paired with a color so it could be used with that connection as well as looking at the unique style of illustrations. The rhyming text provides vivid descriptions of the surrounding environments and the creatures that are living there. Some great tie ins for informational writing as well. The text models how to incorporate facts into writing in an interesting way. There is a world map at the back and a page that gives more information on each animal that was in the book. |
Croc and Turtle! The Bestest Friends Ever! by Mike Wohnoutka
Meet Croc! He is the strongest and fastest crocodile around. Meet Turtle! He agrees that Croc is the strongest and fastest. But what happens when Elephant lifts that heavy rock with ease? And when Cheetah speeds on by? Croc and Turtle might not be the strongest or the fastest, but they're definitely the best at something even more important . . . Connections: A sweet story about friendship and how we all have different strengths. I can see this tying in well with our SEL and choosing kind. This illustrates the power of simple words and how they can lift us up when we are feeling discouraged or hurt. |
Honorable Mention: You Are My Friend: The Story of Mr. Rogers and His Neighborhood by Aimee Reid, illustrated by Matt Phelan
Theme: Character Change
Nobody Hugs a Cactus by Carter Goodrich
Hank is the prickliest cactus in the entire world. He sits in a pot in a window that faces the empty desert, which is just how he likes it. So, when all manner of creatures—from tumbleweed to lizard to owl—come to disturb his peace, Hank is annoyed. He doesn’t like noise, he doesn’t like rowdiness, and definitely does not like hugs. But the thing is, no one is offering one. Who would want to hug a plant so mean? Hank is beginning to discover that being alone can be, well, lonely. So he comes up with a plan to get the one thing he thought he would never need: a hug from a friend. Connections: If you are looking for that go to book that shows character change...look no more...a book for all ages. |
Going Down Home With Daddy by Kelly Starling Lyons, illustrated by Daniel Minter
Down home is Granny’s house. Down home is where Lil’ Alan and his parents and sister will join great-grandparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Down home is where Lil’ Alan will hear stories of the ancestors and visit the land that has meant so much to all of them. And down home is where all of the children will find their special way to pay tribute to family history. All the kids have to decide on what tribute to share, but what will Lil’ Alan do? In this rich and moving celebration of history, culture, and ritual, Kelly Starling Lyons' eloquent text explores the power of family traditions. Stunning illustrations by Coretta Scott King Honor-winner Daniel Minter reveal the motion and connections in a large, multigenerational family. Connections: This rich text naturally lends itself to children sharing their own narratives which leads right into writing them! This is also a great window book where students can see how others live. |
I Am a Wolf by Kelly Leigh Miller
When a particularly growly pup finds herself in an animal shelter, she insists that she is a wolf--a lone wolf. After all, she's not sweet, she's not cute, and she is just fine on her own! Luckily, there's one little girl at the shelter who knows that sometimes, good dogs act bad when they feel afraid and that extending a little kindness can help even the most wolfish pup at the pound let down her guard. Connections: This story demonstrates the diversity of family and that there truly is someone for everyone! Wolf stays true to who he is (or thinks he is) and is discovered by a young girl who instantly accepts Wolf for who he is and they create their own kind of family (pack). Another book on character change where Wolf goes from being alone, to loneliness, and then finally being happy with his new family. |
Theme: Choose Family/Choose Kind
Saturday by Oge Mora
Today would be special. Today would be splendid. It was Saturday! But sometimes, the best plans don't work out exactly the way you expect.... In this heartfelt and universal story, a mother and daughter look forward to their special Saturday routine together every single week. But this Saturday, one thing after another goes wrong--ruining storytime, salon time, picnic, and the puppet show they'd been looking forward to going to all week. Mom is nearing a meltdown...until her loving daughter reminds her that being together is the most important thing of all. Connections: The magnificently radiant collage artwork draws you into this beautiful narrative! It is a perfect family story for R-Factor/SEL discussions and connections. Ava and her mother cherish their Saturday moments together! They begin in “the green zone” (Zones of Regulation) and could have easily landed in “the red zone” (upset/angry). As they set off for each special activity, they are met by opposition, but notice how they PRESS PAUSE (“They paused, closed their eyes, and -- whew! --...), PRACTICE SELF-REGULATION (let out a deep breath) and repeat their GROWTH MINDSET mantra, “Today will be special. Today will be splendid. Today is SATURDAY!” Despite all their setbacks, even until the end, they found a way to make it “a beautiful day.” |
Fry Bread by Kevin Noble Maillard,
illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal Told in lively and powerful verse by debut author Kevin Noble Maillard, Fry Bread is an evocative depiction of a modern Native American family, vibrantly illustrated by Pura Belpre Award winner and Caldecott Honoree Juana Martinez-Neal. Fry bread is food. It is warm and delicious, piled high on a plate. Fry bread is time. It brings families together for meals and new memories. Fry bread is nation. It is shared by many, from coast to coast and beyond. Fry bread is us. It is a celebration of old and new, traditional and modern, similarity and difference. Connections: Historical thinking begins with a clear sense of time – past, present and future – and becomes more precise as students progress. Our youngest learners can use this book to understand concepts about the world beyond the class and community. This book is a great social studies text to launch discussions and investigations into how families lived long ago and pass down family traditions, including recipes, in their cultures. Older readers can further engage with the book’s elaborative back matter about each of the story’s sections of what fry bread is and means to the Native American culture to learn how various groups of people have lived in Ohio over time including American Indians, migrating settlers and immigrants. Interactions among these groups have resulted in cooperation, conflict and compromise. |
Finding Kindness by Deborah Underwood,
illustrated by Irene Chan Celebrate kindness in all its many forms. This is a powerful story of community, compassion, and generosity of spirit―perfect for sharing! Kindness is sometimes a cup and a card, or a ladder, a truck, and a tree. A scritch and a cuddle. A rake and a yard. Connections: Written by Deborah Underwood, the beloved author of The Quiet Book and many others, this is a story of community, compassion, and generosity! This book is perfect for launching SEL discussions. Notice how the illustrations model the humanity in simple moments and interactions with others that seem ordinary, but can be extraordinary in adding to another’s “sense of belonging”. Use this story as an invitation to your class, family and friends to extend kindness WHENEVER they can within their walls and into the world! To find kindness, one has to look for, see it, be open-hearted and ACT! Teach others to #ChooseKind intentionally. |
Honorable Mention: Treasure by Mireille Messier, illustrated by Irene Luxbacher
Theme: Connecting With Others
Bear Came Along by Richard T. Morris,
illustrated by LeUyen Pham Once there was a river flowing through a forest. The river didn't know it was capable of adventures until a big bear came along. But adventures aren't any fun by yourself, and so enters Froggy, Turtles, Beaver, Racoons, and Duck. These very different animals take off downstream, but they didn't know they needed one another until thankfully, the river came along. This hilarious picture book and heartfelt message celebrates the joy and fun that's in store when you embark together on a ride of a lifetime. Connections: At the heart of this story is a reminder that going through an event together can unify us! A favorite passage states, “So many different animals living their separate lives, but they didn’t know they were in it together...until...the river came along.” There is a message of hope and teamwork that perfectly fits with building a classroom community. In the author’s note, Richard Morris shares that as a parent he noticed kids are born with inherent personalities and all those personalities “go out into the world and balance one another.” This book is a wonderful celebration that honors our differences and shows why we are better together! The illustrations are full of color and joy, which complement the humor and adventure in the story. Great to pair with Treasure Tree by Smalley and Trent to have students reflect on which animal’s personality they identify with and what kinds of friends help “balance” them out! |
Daniel's Good Day by Micha Archer
The people in Daniel's neighborhood always say, "Have a good day!" But what exactly is a good day? Daniel is determined to find out, and as he strolls through his neighborhood, he finds a wonderful world full of answers as varied as his neighbors. For Emma, a good day means a strong wind for kite flying. For the bus driver, a good day means pleases and thank-yous. A good day is bees for the gardener, birthdays for the baker, and wagging tails for the mail carrier. And, for Daniel's grandma, a good day is a hug from Daniel! And when Daniel puts all these good days together, they make a lovely poem full of his neighbors' favorite things. Micha Archer's vivid collages bring to life one special day, and her inviting text celebrates a vibrant community and an appreciation for the many simple things that give us joy. Connections: This sweet book is packed with so much goodness in the simple text! A wonderful story, brimming with empathy that helps children see into the daily lives of others and walk in their shoes. This book offers perspective and plenty of opportunities to infer meaning as community members share their points of view on what makes their days good. A great mentor text to springboard into shared writing activities to get to know students and classmates on a deeper level. At the beginning of the year, this read aloud would encourage thoughtful discussions on the importance of kindness and consideration of others. |
The Scarecrow by Beth Ferry, illustrated by the Fan Brothers
This tender and affectionate story reminds us of the comforting power of friendship and the joy of helping others―a tale that will inspire and delight children for generations to come. All the animals know not to mess with old Scarecrow. But when a small, scared crow falls from midair, Scarecrow does the strangest thing.… He saves the tiny baby crow. Soon a loving bond grows between the two unlikely friends. But is it strong enough to weather the changing of the seasons? Connections: This lyrical picture book beautifully interweaves elements of poetry while sharing a story of friendship and kindness. Imagery, rhythm, rhyme, repetition, alliteration, and lovely, descriptive word choice all flow together seamlessly. The Scarecrow would make a wonderful mentor text to revisit throughout the year while showcasing each element of poetry. Pair it with poetry sites http://www.poemfarm.amylv.com and https://www.poetry4kids.com to highlight certain techniques for scaffolding support. Sense of belonging and helping others are thematic tie-ins. The Fan Brothers’ stunning illustrations allow each season to shine and make this a read aloud your students will love coming back to again and again. |
Theme: Becoming/Self-Acceptance
Sulwe by Lupita Nyong'o, illustrated by Vashti Harrison
Sulwe has skin the color of midnight. She is darker than everyone in her family. She is darker than anyone in her school. Sulwe just wants to be beautiful and bright, like her mother and sister. Then a magical journey in the night sky opens her eyes and changes everything. In this stunning debut picture book, actress Lupita Nyong’o creates a whimsical and heartwarming story to inspire children to see their own unique beauty. Connections: The themes are self love, developing positive self-esteem, respecting diversity. Each of us must find the light within ourselves and our true beauty. Every student needs support with this during their journey with us. This story can allow SEL reflections with students based on Sulwe’s struggle...Like most children, she doesn't want to feel different, and her dark skin doesn't make her feel special, no matter what her mother might tell her. What makes you feel different or unaccepted by others? How does it affect how you feel about yourself? What is another way you can think differently about this? How can you use positive self-talk? Who might be an encourager and support to you? |
A Boy Like You by Frank Murphy, illustrated by Kayla Harren
There's more to being a boy than sports, feats of daring, and keeping a stiff upper lip. A Boy Like You encourages every boy to embrace all the things that make him unique, to be brave and ask for help, to tell his own story and listen to the stories of those around him. In an age when boys are expected to fit into a particular mold, this book celebrates all the wonderful ways to be a boy. The author’s note about being strong is powerful and enlightening. Each generation’s best future rests with its children. These children can become leaders who honor humanity-- leaders with open hearts and minds who accept the uniqueness of individuals, regardless of their differences. The messages of this book teach leadership skills that I believe help all young people gain real strength. They teach kindness (which is a high-level Leadership skill!) and compassion. Connections: This is an empowering story for all children, especially boys.The themes of self-acceptance, becoming and leadership support our SEL especially sense of belonging. Students can reflect and share their connections and thinking from different quotes throughout the book such as these:
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Here and Now by Julia Denos, Illustrated by E.B. Goodale
Explore identity and connection, inspire curiosity, and prompt engaging discussions about the here and now. A stunning celebration of mindfulness, and a meditation on slowing down and enjoying each moment, from the team behind the award-winning Windows. The book walks readers through a different way to view their own place in the world. It closely examines the ground under our feet and what is happening all around us at any given time, like rain collecting in a cloud. Animals around us are living their lives. We are on a planet spinning in space. New friends are waiting and new connections are being formed. And you, you are becoming something too! Connections: With the themes of identity, connection and becoming, this story inspires curiosity, and prompts engaging discussions about noticing the here and now. At school students focus on “what I need or want” without being aware of those around them. Read during a “reset” time as a way to take a moment and center students in the middle of a stressful day. As a discussion or journal prompt: How do you fit into the world (school, family)? Then ask, how do others fit into the world? Draw a journey map of one’s day- waking up, going to school, the school day, and riding the bus home. This journey map could lead to design thinking of increasing the sense of belonging within a student. |
Theme: Questioning, Wonder, and Inference
I Wonder by K.A. Holt, illustrated by Kenard Pak
“Some questions have easy answers, but most questions just make us wonder.” In this unusual text, young listeners and readers follow a group of diverse kids trying to make sense of the world as they see it. Questions such as What do clouds taste like?, Do my toys miss me when I'm gone?, and I wonder if cars and trucks speak the same language remind us of a child's unique point of view. Nothing is more powerful than seeing something for the first time, and these whimsical questions will encourage all readers to take a fresh look around them. Exquisite artwork by rising star Kenard Pak follows the arc of a day, ending with a spread showing a group of children as different and varied as their questions. Connections: Students are always wondering and asking questions. This book would be a great way to wonder about the world around us and expand on the questions students have daily. Also, what makes a good question? This skill is something that needs practiced and especially for older students can be explored in depth. Use this book as a springboard to explore questioning and capitalizing on the wonders kid experience in the world around them. Book Connections: Kids who love the intrigue of titles such as What Do You Do with an Idea? will be inspired to ask their own questions about the world around them. Also the book below called Why? where the animals are asking why about everyday happenings. |
Why? by Laura Vaccaro Seeger
Two-time Caldecott and Geisel Honoree Laura Vaccaro Seeger weaves a simple story about the unfailingly curious Rabbit-- and his patient friend Bear, who always answers his questions. Bear just wants to water his flowers, but Rabbit needs to know: why? Bear is looking forward to a peaceful night of stargazing, but all Rabbit cares about is: why? As spring passes into summer, and Rabbit continues to wonder why?, detailed, lush watercolor illustrations encourage the reader to figure out the reason for each question. Over and over, Bear gives the best answers he can-- until, in the depths of winter, he has no answer to give. This simple story is a reminder that even when there are no answers for our questions, we can count on trust and love-- and sometimes, that's more than enough. Connections: This books is a great way to discuss inferencing through a little rabbits questioning. How gravity works, death, stomach aches, questions students ask and can connect with at home. The two sweet characters will spark conversation on some important concepts that students will bring to school asking questions about. Book Connections: Use this with the book about called I Wonder. |
A Stone Sat Still by Brendan Wenzel
A Stone Sat Still tells the story of a seemingly ordinary rock -- but to the animals that use it, it is a resting place, a kitchen, a safe haven...even an entire world. This is a gorgeous exploration of perspective, perception, and the passage of time, with an underlying environmental message that is timely and poignant. • Filled with stunning illustrations in cut paper, pencil, collage, and paint • Soothing rhythms invite reading aloud and bedtime snuggles • Introduces concepts like color, size, function, and time in a way that is easily understandable and teachable for children With a rhythmic, calming narrative about the stone and its place in the world -- and the changing environment -- A Stone Sat Still proves Brendan Wenzel's mastery of the picture book form. Connections: Use this story to discuss change and being willing to adjust and adapt. The stone is very important for many purposes for many things. |
Honorable Mention: The Gift Inside the Box by Adam Grant and Allison Sweet Grant, illustrated by Diana Schoenbrun