Little Bookworm: Mystery, by Gabbi Calabrese, Helen Dardik (Illustrator)

 

Publication Sept. 1, 202

As a mystery fan, I was immediately attracted to the cute cover. I think I was expecting some sort of admittedly very basic, basic level mystery, probably dealing with a missing item. It turned out to be more of a tool to introduce the various genre terms to young readers. That aspect was well done, quite nicely defined and shown in the cute illustrations, but would have still loved to have seen it all woven into a story. I know, I know. Making work for an author who is focused on another aspect just to please me. Grin.

That aside, especially as a former teacher, I could still appreciate the organization and witty illustrations that added to the understanding. While I believe this one would better serve as a guided read with an adult, there's plenty for the youngest readers to see and learn. I hesitate to comment on the layout since I was having to read this on my phone at the time, but the illustrations, while colorful, fun, and witty, seemed like they might be difficult for the youngest readers to navigate. That may, of course, not be the case on the actual picture book, so I didn't hold that against the book. The explanations of the terms were well done and the adjoining illustrations did much to extend understanding, such as the one comment I loved about anyone having the ability to be a sleuth. 

Bottom line, how you rate this one will probably depend on not just expectations but the age and interest your young reader has in mysteries.  I was a bit bemused at the use of "babies" in the blurb materials as, well, I'm not sure babies would be an ideal audience for this, even toddlers with some vocabulary to build on. Given the proper presentation and audience, that wasn't my teaching level, the whimsical illustrations can work, however, and the child can come away with an appreciation for mysteries.....Who stole my toy?!!! Grin..... while chuckling at the illustrations. Check out those hats in the various pictures in particular as they are not just witty but frequently show how costume can help define characters. Or maybe have your child practice counting, too. Hey, evidence is evidence and they're all quite playful. Thanks #SourcebooksKids, for giving me this sneak peek. Aside from not quite being sure of the age level, I feel it has a great deal to offer, including smiles and giggles as its read and discussed. Having grown up with Nancy Drew, I'm a good example of how childhood habits can leave a lasting impression. 

The Moon Explorer's Guidebook, by Ben Lerwill, Patrick Corrigan (Illustrator)

 

Available Sept. 1, 2026

I spent much of my life growing up where all I had to do was step out the door to see the various launches lift-off with my own eyes including the one leading to the first moon landing. It was so common that I don't think I appreciated it much at the time. This frequently whimsical (bet you can't guess how many giraffes it'd take piled atop one another to reach the moon. Nope, not telling.) but informative little book is for those not at lucky, not to mention those with a long time fascination with astronauts and the moon. While it's obviously aimed at children, it doesn't skimp on facts and basics. Readers will come away with not just a grin or a few but some solid knowledge of the huge process that will have them never quite looking at the moon quite the same.

The illustrations are colorful and add to the charm. I particularly liked, no surprise, the dog in the space helmet, especially when it is shown digging into a hole, helmet and all.  The map showing the location of various lunar landings was a definite plus, as was the timeline. The questions, even the whimsical ones, will also make readers think. Like, has the moon simply always been there? Could we go sailing on the Sea of Storms? And, much more. It's written in an easy to read and understandable manner, so should make a nice addition to any space exploration fan's library. And, no, I'm still not telling how many giraffes. Grin. Thanks #SourcebookKids and #NetGalley for giving me an early peek at this entertaining and informative little book. While I never aspired to go soaring into space, the young me could still appreciate the astounding wonder of it all. 

Hispanic Star: Lin-Manuel Miranda, by Claudia Romo Edelman, Sara E. Echenique, Alexandra Beguez (Illustrator)

 

Publication August 18, 2026

It seemed appropriate that, given the closeness of the Miranda Family, this book basically began with a recap of his family's Puerto Rica roots and what brought his parents to America to begin with. I quickly realized as I read that while I knew a good bit about Miranda's creative output, that aspect of his life was one I knew little about. I knew the Miranda Family was a musical one and he grew up in a home full of music of all kinds, but very little beyond the obvious love and respect between his parents and family members. So, don't think you know all there is to know about Lin-Manuel Miranda. I'm betting, like me, you'll find lots of new info here.

I don't want to divulge too much but will say that his mother Luz's bout of thyroid cancer pre-marriage to Luiz was news to me, as was the fact she was a single mother at the time. I instantly loved his sister Cita's insistence basically that there had to have been a mistake, that they simply couldn't have another child when Lin-Manuel came along. She was three if memory serves. In any case, lots and lots about family ties and influences, including interesting ways their past lives still intertwine with old friends and acquaintances. As you read about the very young Lin-Manuel, you're sure to pick up on the man he was to become, whether his emotional reactions to songs like "Bridge Over Troubled Water" as a young child while loving Phantom of the Opera, not to mention him having to be gently taken offstage after overstaying his piano recital. He may have been an anxious child but he certainly didn't shun the spotlight, even then. And, and, and....so many little tidbits but no more family life teasers.

As for his more known public persona, I won't detail that here as while there were definitely intriguing details the average fan won't know, I lean toward thinking we're all more familiar with him as a writer, actor, producer, and, oh, everything else he does. His Puerto Rico roots run deep but so do the New Yorker ones. If memory serves, I knew about Hamilton before learning about his In the Heights work and that was via a table top style book written about the Hamilton musical itself. Once Hamilton hit and, oh, my, did it ever hit big, he seemed to be everywhere. Heck, he's still a fixture on the musical and theater news and involved in so many different works that it's hard to keep up with what he's up to at any given time. Does the man every sleep? He's definitely brought a great deal of joy and magic into our lives by sharing his energy, talent, and humanity.

Bottom line, I recommend this one to anyone with an interest not only in Miranda but music, theater, and production. It's been a delight to follow the entire Hamilton casts come together as family and that is how he seems to feel about them. The illustrations are well done and quite realistic and add a nice touch. Thanks #MacmillanChildren'sPublishingGroup for giving me this early peek at a delightful and informative book that I will definitely be adding a hard copy of to my own library. To paraphrase the author's dedication, it's a lovely reminder to us all to keep dreaming. You never know where it'll take you. 

The Best Good Thing: Discovering Joy on a Very Bad, Smad Day, by Anna Housley Juster, Andrea Onishi (Illustrator)

 

Publication August 11, 1016

We've all had bad days. Even very bad days. But, have you ever had a smad day? That is one of those days when not only does the world seem against you but you're mad at, well, just about everyone and everything. You're also usually absolutely convinced that nothing, absolutely nothing can change your mind set. This book is a lovely reminder that even on our worst days there are good things. While that maybe won't change your opinion of the day being a very bad day, it's a reminder that if you just take the time to look and listen, you'll discover that even on your worst days there are good things to enjoy, too.  

Her mother's gentle guidance and admission that she, too, has bad days, are sweet and recognize the need to embrace her child's feelings without telling her simply to get over it was the perfect touch. The realization that everyone, even adults, can have bad days is something that, in the long run, will provide support and strength to the girl as she matures. I definitely liked that her mother didn't simply take her by the hand and start dragging her around, pointing to good things, too. That recognizes that no two people, even if related, react the same to everything. The good things don't have to be amazing. Simple joys, like a butterfly or puppy, even a beautiful, clear blue sky above you, count. I just glanced out my own window and realized I was smiling as I watched a neighbor heading out to feed her sweet chickens that provide fresh eggs daily. There are flowers bouncing around in the breeze, too, and, hey, there's a robin bopping around to its own beat as it searches for insects to eat. Okay, maybe the insects aren't going to have such a good day. Grin. But, it just goes to show how many genuinely positive, fun things we all may miss if we're bummed and just shutting out the world. Everyone can feel sad and pain but everyone also has the ability to find joy in even the smallest things. That's the lesson the girl's mother subtly shares, noting her own bad days. You won't be happy all the time but at least you'll learn how to work about such bad days.

Bottom line, a sweet read. Take time to check out the illustrations, too, as I'm sure you'll spy a few good things in life. Definitely something here for both parent and child, a double plus. Thanks #FreeSpiritPublishing for allowing me this early peek at this meaningful book. Now I think I'm going to go back to watching the world go by outside my own window to enjoy the smiles everyday life can bring. Smile. 

Milton Makes a Move, by Jonathan Graziano, Dan Tavis (Illustrator)

 

Publication August , 2026

Experiencing new things is a fact of life but, whoa, think how anxious new experiences can make a dog new to both a home and its new human. Milton is adorable and brave, however, trusting his new human to take care of him and be there for him.  I read that the story is based on Milton and author Jonathan Graziano's real life meet and get to know each other, making it all the better. I'm just surprised that I seem to have somehow missed Graziano's dog related books until now. I'll be looking for them in the future, however, as I thoroughly enjoyed this tale. 

 The illustrations are lively and colorful. Well, most are. I'm assuming, however, that since my copy was an early copy, the final version will be fully colorful, so don't hesitate if you see that noted in other reviews. I did when I went looking to see if I was missing something and although I couldn't pick up on any logical reasons, thought maybe I was missing some grand but subtle point. Grin. Anyway, do be sure to give the illustrations some attention as they are not just fun but there is lots to spy. I absolutely adored the pictures of Milton's co-passengers on the plane, for instance. Also, having had a rain adverse dog myself, I grinned at Milton's adorable yellow raincoat. Nope, no spoiled dogs in the author's home, either, I'm sure. 

Anyway, you'll enjoy their adventures as they get to know each other and survive not only raindrops but another monster according to one of my past dogs, thunderstorms and lightning. Milton is able to lean on his human, however, a subtle hint that change may make you anxious but even scary things aren't so scary when you have a friend. My thanks to #SimonAndSchusterChildren'sPublishing for introducing me to Jonathan Graziano's work and giving me an early peek at Milton's life after a surely nerve wracking move. I came away from the book with all the more respect for the various dogs who've given me their trust over the years. Virtual treats for Milton!

Dog Obsession!: Facts, Quizzes, and Activities About Our Furry Friends, by Ailynn Collins

 

Publication August 1, 2026

It doesn't matter whether you're an adult or child, there's something here to amuse and educated us all. Well, I wasn't happy not to catch any corgi mentions but, hey, my second favorite, Golden Retrievers, got lots of mentions. Seriously, my quibble aside, there are lots of dog breeds mentioned and described, not to mention mixed breeds get a nod, too. Lots of colorful pictures and more than a few colorful blocks with bit of info. I mean, I knew Jack Russell terriers are known for their energy but did you know how fast they can run? Nope, not telling, but it's impressive. It's those sort of little bits of info that will keep you browsing, with or without a child.

I definitely chuckled at the opening quiz of a sort to see what breed of dog you most resemble. I think I'd have best been described as a mix but it was interesting to see the interpretations. Charts and lists abound but never overwhelm. The Cool Facts scattered about were always fun and there's even a recipe  on how to make your own dog biscuits. Do you have your own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame? Rin Tin Tin does. You'll learn his background as well as a bit about other famous or even legendary dogs as you take in all that is there. Again, lots of info but never seems crowded or give you a feeling of being overwhelmed. 

Bottom line, while aimed at children, this would be a perfect gift for any dog lover, adult or child. Lots to keep everyone entertained and learning. I'll note that one of the most important pages comes near the end and basically shares way we can help dogs, not to mention it addresses common things like how to approach and interact with them, especially if you're strange to them. Thanks. #Capstone #CapstonePress for allowing me this early peek at this fun, informative book. Lots of good info and, as noted, people of all ages should be able to pick up something new as they dive into the book. 

Collateral Death: A British Mystery, by J. Kushley

 

As anyone who has read my reviews regularly surely knows by now, I'm a sucker for a book with a dog. Even more so if that dog happens to be a corgi. Yet, I hesitated to request this book for review. It wasn't that I thought it wouldn't be good, it's reviews are top notch, but it's "darker" than my usual mystery choice, cozies. Heck, I don't recall if it was a blurb or part of one of the reviews I scanned but it even clearly says this one isn't for those who prefer their mysteries light and cozy. Yet, having lived a decade plus with a corgi mix, I began to notice that my Daisy seemed to share many of Percival Hoover's traits. Intelligent, judgemental, sees all and knows all, stubborn and grumpy but yet with a sense of humor and quirky sense of right and wrong, with me the one usually not living up to her high expectations. She also came from a shadowy background that I never fully knew or, for that matter, maybe didn't want to know. So, here I am. Having read this amazingly book and writing a review. 

Yes, much to my surprise, I was fully into the book from the beginning. I'll note that had I not read the blurbs and a handful of reviews, the prologue would have lured me in without me realizing that the main character is a dog. An amazing dog, true, but a dog. You're only stopped short when you become aware you've read the word "paw" and not "hand", How did Percival become not just a talking dog but a detective. Beats me. It is what it is, bottom line, and no real explanation is given. If you're like me, it won't matter, however. You'll find yourself invested in the story and description of Percival's home with specific to his needs accommodations, including clothing that sounds quite Holmes-like. You'll also discover that although we don't learn much this go-round, there is something in his past that seems to send him spiraling. I found it interesting to see how he manages his demons. Then, as you'll discover, he knows one of the orphan victims although it isn't clear why or how. "His Chloe", he remembers.

While contending with his own demons, Percival seeks justice for the two victims that the police seem determined to label as accidental deaths. Percival is a firm believer in the idea that people seem to feel putting a name to something somehow makes it less of a problem, hence his reaction to the label. Don't get me wrong, there is humor here, too, with the focus on Percival's rather dry wit, so you may find yourself laughing one moment and feeling heartbroken the next. 'The focus is as much on the way social institutions operate, more for the ease of operation that humanity, as the actual crime. Gotta protect one's reputation, you know. Stiff upper lip and all that. An interesting aspect of the investigation is seeing it from Percival's perspective where he sees even the smells his canine nose picks up as colors. Again, all this is simply the way it is and you come to accept it easily. It's not a gimmick. It's simply an investigative tool he uses. 

The town of Bellwick itself could be considered a character, too, with it's quirky and lovable and not-so-lovable characters who simply accept Percival as he is. It contributes to the overall mood of the story. The pace is steady and it's likely you'll wind up finding Percival Hoover one of the most complex sleuths you've read as the suspense builds. I'm being deliberately vague, sorry, but you'll understand why I'm so reluctant to share much as you read. Thanks to the author and #NetGalley for making this book available to me. I definitely won't hesitate to pick up the follow-up as I've grown fond of Percival and want to know more. I somehow think my Daisy would approve of his grumpy humor. Grin. 

A Murder at the Mansion (A Novel Detectives Mystery, 3), by Ellie Alexander

 

Publication July 21, 2026

Annie and Fletcher tackle what is surely their most high profile case yet. An elderly, reclusive heiress, Bernadette Garst, has gone missing and Detective Caldwell asks for their help. The story jumps right into the mystery, so you're pulled in immediately. Time is, of course, of the essence, although it's the one thing they don't have in abundance. Fletcher is now not only working as a detective while maintaining his bookshop job but is also immersed in college classes. Annie is happy to have hired some solid help but feels bad simply leaving them and, hey, maybe more importantly, her romance with Liam is getting serious and they are having some serious discussions about moving in together. Never mind, though, as everything else is now secondary, well, other than Fletcher's college demands, and they're on the case. I rather wonder when he sleeps. 

I won't detail the plot much as encountering the clues as Annie does is part of the fun. I found myself wondering about a few, only to have the author answer that question for me soon thereafter, so you may have the same experience with your questions.  Helps us wannabe sleuths sort out the meaningful clues from distractions. One distraction is the family's seeming disconnect and Bernadette's missing lawyer. The only one who seems to be the least bit genuine is teen Preston, who even that super hyped/trained up poodle seems to like. I decided I'd probably be giving it a wide berth, too, though I loved its name, Dorothy Barker. Dog person that I am, I was delighted to see dogs play a role in this go-round. Where is the lawyer? Who would have taken or, gulp, killed the elderly Bernadette? That mystery lingers awhile but, double gulp, the missing lawyer's body is found in a boat shed by the pond. So now Annie has two mysteries to solve. Detective Caldwell, known to Annie still as Dr. Caldwell due to her having been one of Annie's most admired college professors, is good about being on call but Annie does have a knack for stumbling into places she might want to leave for the police to investigate. What secrets are the family members hiding? Why? Could Paula really fly the dog to a doggie spa for grooming and pampering on Bernadette's dime? (Answer, yes. Read the author's notes at the end.) 

Bottom line, I fully enjoy this series and fell into this one immediately. The quick start of the action was a real plus. The characters are well fleshed out and their connections shared early on even as Annie begins the investigation. I still have to marvel at how unlikable I found Annie way back when as opposed to how much I've grown to like and admire the character over the course of the books that feature her. The fact the characters are there for each other and have their own lives is a plus, too. It was fun to catch up with Annie's best friend, too, although she played a minor role. Liam is, as usual, a rock for Annie. Finally, the side mystery involving Hal and his belief in his connection to Agatha Christie has been a continuing story, so looking forward to seeing how that plays out. I'm leaving out lots but, well, want you to enjoy the discoveries as they happen and see how life is progressing for all of them. Thanks #StormPublishing for introducing me to Annie originally and providing the early peeks into life in Redwood Grove as the dynamics between the characters play out. Loved the ending and what it meant for Fletcher in particular and all that may happen as a result. Nope, not telling. Read the book. If you enjoy cozies, you'll like this one. Heck, you'll even pick up some sleuthing hints. Grin. . 

Murder in the Reading Room (Miss Merrill and Aunt Violet Mysteries #6), by Anita Davison

 

Publication June 24, 2026

This is one of those books one reads with a sense of sadness knowing it's the grand finale of the series but can enjoy seeing how life for the characters you've grown to care about ends in a satisfactory way.  As the story begins, Armistice Day is only a month in the past and England is still feeling the effects of the war with shortages and, of course, the empty tables at homes across the nation. Shop assistant Penny is aniously awaiting the return of her Archie while Hannah is lucky enough never to have had Darius far away. True, his job with MI5 with the British government was often shadowy and left Hannah wondering, but he's home now to stay. As for Aunt Violet, she and former Scotland Yard police chief Aidan Farrell seem to be content to remain unmarried although they might as well be. Read that as you will. Grin. They're also busy running an upscale hotel where Hannah and Darius find themself staying while their home is being remodeled, so the family is together. I don't know about you, but that's a biggie for me as a series draws together. You do want to see your virtual friends happy even while they confront a confusing murder. You'll encounter lots of new or at least not part of the inner circle characters as the story unfolds although Hannah's friend Matilda Gilmartin is front and center and a vital cog in solving the mystery.

Of course, this being a cozy mystery, you know Hannah may face some danger, much to Darius' discontent. This leads them to face some life-changing decisions but I'll leave that for you to discover as you read. So, who killed the seemingly innocuous scholar Theodore Pryme in the middle of a crowded research library? Maybe more to the point, why? What does a lovely statue rumored to be a part of the de Medici family collection have to do with anything? And how does an aristocratic but financially strapped family fit into all this? Heck, one of them was even severely wounded in the war? Yet, there's an art expert and another wannabe art collector showing up with connections to the statue. Where does Hannah fit in all this? Why is she attacked? Well, she is snoopy. Asking too many questions? Too many questions to the wrong people? And, did she ever find that Shakespeare related book that set her off on this adventure? In the meantime, there's suffragette talk -- I never realized there was an age limitation on women voting after the voting right was given -- and you'll learn quite a bit about the role of women in the early post-WWI days in England (and elsewhere). Trust me, Aunt Violet wouldn't let us not be fully informed on that if we drop in on her. 

Bottom line, enough teasers. While I'm not sure this series was in my top ten, it's one I've enjoyed in the past as much for the history of the era as the characters. Don't get me wrong. They're quite likable and mostly believable, even the crusty Detective Inspector Wilson. It's been fun to follow Hannah's growth through the series, including a stint in a military hospital, and see her relationship with Darius bloom despite her chafing at giving up any of her independence. I liked the ending, so wish these virtual characters well and, oh, can't forget Bartleby the shop cat. May he thrive, too. Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for introducing me to Hannah and her circle of friends and family and the early peeks at how life during and just after the war was going. In a way, I'm going to miss them and that touch of history.  

Death on the Books (Blue Ridge Library Mysteries #10), by Victoria Gilbert

 

Publication August 4, 2026

Apparently librarian Amy Muir  doesn't even have to go far to find a dead body. In this case, the victim actually stumbles into the Blue Ridge library and dies. Of what? No one is really sure initially. But, no surprise, it turns out to have been murder. Amy vows not to get too involved in the case, even promising husband Richard she's stay out of danger but if you're read this series, I'm sure you know Richard probably knew that wouldn't happen. I do give her credit. She did try, initially limiting her sleuthing to internet searches and speaking to possible suspects when with a crowd. Sometimes, though, danger just always seems to find Amy.

In any case, lots going on here. The victim turns out to be connected to quite a few people Amy knows, even family. Unfortunately those connections lead to intrigue, missing and priceless Faberge eggs from 1922, the not so savory side of the art world, drugs, and more. Much more. And, hey, where did BFF Sunny's boyfriend disappear to? In the midst of all this, Amy is coping with her real world, which includes not only her library job but a husband and two way-energetic twins, so you'll get to meet up with them and the rest of the extended family as the story progresses. I'd sort of forgotten Richard's family background, so it was a bonus to get a short recap of his growing years and newfound connection with his mother. Watching him work hard to ensure his children don't have a largely uncaring, missing dad is a delight, especially since Amy and he seem to largely be on the same page. True, the twins wish they'd waver on the proper amount of cookies per day but, hey, it's obvious they love and respect them. Needless to say, lots of dance and art talk throughout but the plot seems to move along nicely. In other words, the side stories are fun but don't distract from discovering whodunit for long. It works well as a standalone And you'll come away feeling like these are people you could know. True, you may not be able to discuss art with Lydia or Kyle but they're far from one dimensional. The dialogue not only flows naturally, it's realistic no matter what the topic. 

Bottom line, this has proven a solid, entertaining series with characters I enjoy spending time with. The touch of history dealing with the Faberge eggs of the Romanov empire was a real bonus for this former history major and teacher. Toss in an intriguing murder, lots of shadowy characters, and even more characters that would make great friends and it's a fun read. Thanks #CrookedLaneBooks for introducing me to Amy's world and keeping me in the loop for an early peek whenever possible. Amy's energy levels sure put me to shame when, after dealing with those oh, so, energetic twins, especially on a cookie high, she's still sleuthing.