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. 

When Paul Revere Rode: Voices from the First Night of the American Revolution, by Sarah L. Thomson, Nik Henderson (Illustrator)

 

This combines history, art, prose, and poetry into a strong tale of the first night of the American Revolution. Most of us are familiar with Paul Revere's famous ride but fuzzy on details, not to mention anyone else involved. This book goes a long way toward filling in some gaps. It's also nicely illustrated and helps you feel like you're there as Revere and others set about their assigned tasks. I liked the mostly dark, frequently rather ominous blues suggesting the night, reminding us that this task was accomplished in the scant span of one night. It also reminds us that there were others involved, from the man loaning a fast horse to Revere to the brave woman facing down Redcoats as her husband and she begin to melt down pewter utensils for bullets. 

Needless to say, as a former history major and teacher, I thoroughly enjoyed this creative combo of styles to tell a story we all sorta know but, well, not necessarily all that well. Each spread basically deals with on facet or brief moment of the evening, using text, and both prose and poetry to capture the moment and feelings. I liked that while the book obviously focuses on Revere, it doesn't ignore the male slave who helped get the word out or the largely nameless to us average citizens who rose to the moment in various ways. Each poem is focused on that source, sharing the person's observations and feelings as they were caught up in history. As the author notes early on, history isn't just a recitation of barely connected facts or events but it's the ordinary people, just like us, who rise to the challenge even when the odds seem against them. In other words, this is the human side of the story, not just that Revere jumped on a horse galloping about the countryside shouting that "The British are coming!" He didn't, btw. How foolish that would have been given speed and stealth were the objective, not to give himself away. 

Bottom line, as noted, I enjoyed this creative read and highly recommend it to not just history buffs but teachers and libraries everywhere. No matter your age, you're likely to enjoy the read. The maps at the beginning help visualize the setting as well as making it clear Revere wasn't in this alone. They also put the location of the Old North Church into perspective, something I don't recall having seen before but that's probably on me, not my teachers. There are brief bios of the individuals or groups highlighted, such as the fife players with information on the importance of their role in battle or maneuvers. It was interesting to learn that Revere lived to be 83 years old and left behind some 50 grandchildren! Finally, you'll find lists/links at the end guiding you to books, places, documents, and even films where you can learn more, as well as a select bibliography. Thanks #AstraPublishingHouse for allowing this history buff an early peek at the fascinating look at a pivotal moment in our nation's history. How inspiring to see common, everyday citizens rise to the occasion. 

The Six Queens of Henry VIII, by Honor Cargill-Martin , Jaimee Andrews(Illustrator)

 

Publication Feb. 3, 20266

Having read many adult level books on the Henry VIII era, I have to admit to more curiosity over how they'd handle, well, how he disposed of so many wives in a children's nonfiction book. As it turned out, pretty well. True, be forewarned that there is one illustration of a bloody sword, but overall it simply says they died and moves on. Don't get me wrong, there's quite a bit of info shared within, including the usual intrigue and efforts to gain status and position within the royal court, but it simply shows the times and, well, Henry VIII's ego and intent upon having whatever he wanted no matter what.

As for the wives, it actually does a nice job sharing their personalities with us. The charts used for each were quite informative, including education and interests, among other things, including date of demise. The illustrations are lively and colorful with the focus on the women, not Henry, I might note. The sections on each draw you in and provide the basics without drama. Heck, even Anne's end is handled rather matter-of-fact style. The sections also seem to follow the same pattern. giving a bit of the six queens background, how they encountered Henry, their doings within the royal court, and then their downfall. Again, all told without drama. We even get a peek at daughter Elizabeth.  The dress of the day is definitely fun to see and is well done by the illustrator. 

Bottom line, while I question somewhat the designation of the book for "children", I don't feel most children today would find much to be shocked at within. While I can envision some reaction to the executioner's bloody sword, for instance, let's face it, kids will be kids, they've surely seen far more explicit scenes on television by the time they'd be ready to tackle this book. The family tree info and timelines at the back are also useful in helping ground us in the Tudor Era. The cover actually helps set the tone and was a fun prelude to the saga. Thanks #SourcebooksKids for this early peek at a period in history that has always fascinated me. I wonder how history might have been changed had Catherine Parr not been able to persuade Henry to return his daughters to the line of succession.

 

 

Heat Waves, by Trudy Becker

 Publication Jan. 1, 202

I've got to admit, that cover thermometer photo sure brought back memories. After spending most of my life in sunny Florida, it was temps like this that prompted my final decision to move north to Alaska and cooler (okay, occasionally frigid) temperatures. It didn't help that the frequent lightning storms that often accompany such temps blew up my A-C on one of those triple digit days. As the book says, the heat doesn't go away, either, when you're in the midst of a heat wave.

This short, quick read designed for K-1 level does an excellent job of describing what a heat wave is to young readers. Yes, heat can make you sick. While I might wish the book had offered a few more suggestions on how to maybe not totally beat the heat but stay at least more comfortable in it, given the target audience it does its job of hitting the basics. The color photos do a good job of helping convey the sense of heat, too. Thanks #NorthStarEditions for this early peek and the reminder for me to appreciate the comparative coolness of Alaska all the more. There's also a glossary (illustrated), table of contents, and index to help guide young readers. 

Winter(Season to Season), by Kirsty Holmes

 

Publication Jan. 1, 2026

Ah, winter. A season we know well here in Alaska. Gotta admit, I chuckled when the text noted most season last about three months as, well, winter in Alaska tends to last much longer. That said, the text is accurate that the average winter/season lasts about three months, just not in Alaska. Wherever it takes place, each season has its own unique characteristics, weather, even celebrations and animal life. The pictures used are relatively straight forward, tending to be colorful with abundant blurbs/bubbles of more info. Words in bold print can be found in the glossary for a short, easy to understand definition. As one whose winters tend to be long, I definitely smiled at the inclusion of warm clothing items suggested to keep warm. Having once lived in Florida, it's easy to underestimate how cold "cold" is in northern areas, trust me. 

While more informative than story, explaining what winter is rather than the experience of winter life as a whole, I liked the inclusion of not just animals and how some survive frigid temperatures, but the various special holidays or events of the season. It was nice to see not just the well known holidays of, say, Christmas and Hanukkah noted but other less known celebrations from around the world and how each might be celebrated. Again, photos included for each bit of information. There is also a table of contents and index in addition to the previously mentioned glossary. Thanks #NorthStarEditions - #MapleBay for this early peek at this colorful look at the season I'm currently living, wintertime Alaska. I can assure you it was nice to see the subtle hint that like all seasons, this one, too, will end and new plant life and activity will begin. 

Ice Storms, by Trudy Becker

 

Publication Jan. 1, 2026

Living in Alaska, I probably know more about ice storms than I'd like to know. In fact, I did a double take looking at one of the photos showing a multi-lane highway bridge during an ice storm. Could have been taken here.  While the info is short and sweet, meant to build reading confidence in young readers (K-1), the photos used as illustrations do an excellent job showing more of the story, that's for sure. To add my own P.S. to the bridge photo, we're often reminded here that bridges are usually the first to freeze over and become treacherous, so I have to wonder if the photo placement was sheer serendipity or deliberate. 

In any case, while hardly likely to share new info with adults helping their child read through the text, the book does an admirable job of capturing the basic facts. Glossary words are shown in bold print and there are also photos on the glossary page to help understanding. The photo showing the impact ice can have on electric or other wires was a plus as that's a rarely addressed issue. Let's face it, it says the author lives in Minnesota, so they know what they're talking about. Thanks #Flux - #FocusReaders for the early look at this quite well done yet succinct title. I just hope that semi in the ditch in one photo wasn't the author's.  Grin. 

Andy: A Dog's Tale, by John Kelly

 

Publication October 14, 2025

Support dogs rock!

I've known a few, so I was immediately attracted to the book. Well, the adorable face on the cover didn't hurt. Andy is an inspiration to us all to work hard to overcome our fears and do what we were always meant to do. In Andy's case, overcome being injured by a bicycle running over his tail....ouch!..... and then learning to serve a wheelchair bound human. It isn't easy but he does it.

The illustrations are beautiful, almost lifelike at times, and show Andy's expressions well. The smallest of his litter, he already faced rejection due to size but support dogs come in all breeds and sizes. Kudos to the author and others for highlighting the contributions of our furry friends to those in need. There's a section at the end that details their contributions and those who work with them to make them a success. I understand there's a film although, alas, I have no info on it. 

Bottom line, it's a sweet, powerful story. Readers unfamiliar with service dogs will emerge with a better understanding of not just the role service dogs play but how hard they (and their humans) work to make it all work. I'm not quite sure dogs dream of being heroes but they do strive to please us, so maybe that is the same thing in their minds. Thanks to #TheCollectiveBookStudio and #NetGalley for allowing me this early peek at this adorable story. I wanted somehow to reach through the page and scratch Andy's ears (with his human's permission, of course) and tell him what a wonderfully good dog he is. 

You Are Brotherly Love A Book for the Littlest Kelce Brothers Fans, by Emma Carlson Berne and Narrated by Zach Barela

 

Available Oct. 14, 2025            Audio Book   c5m

Although my avid football fan days are behind me, I became a fan of the Kelce brothers when their two football teams opposed each other in the Super Bowl. Actually, it may have been their even keeled mother who most impressed me given her position, but I admired their humor and obvious respect for each other even then. Now, of course, given Travis' relationship with Taylor Swift, we see more of him than the retired Jason. As a result, I was curious to see how this book played out, weak pun intended. 

It took me a couple listens to sort this one out, I have to admit. The physical book is surely heavy on pictures and, unfortunately, we're asked to use out imagination upfront. Once I sorted out that the pace indicated that the narrator was moving through illustrations of the Kelce's life/career, helped along by the subtle sound effects utilized, it all made sense to me. As a teacher, I can see an opportunity to use the audio to promote children to imagine what they're seeing if you don't happen to have a hard copy of the book on hand. It'd also be fun to have them draw pictures fitting the sound/words from their own lives, I'd think. Anyway, that's the first section and it flew right along quickly. Very quickly.

The second section is more detailed, giving more biographical detail. Details range from their birth, love of sports, and attending the same college. You'll also find out the reason behind Travis' choice of jersey number. That was cool and something I'd missed knowing. In any case, while the narration sticks to the brothers, not bringing in any romantic issues, it seems relatively up-to-date, mentioning that Jason had retired but the brothers were doing a podcast together. 

Bottom line, once I sorted out my confusion over the briefness of the audio, it was an interesting, fun read. That said, while it could be made to stand alone, I tend to think it'd work best accompanying a read of the actual book. I'm actually curious to check out what the actual book looks like, I must admit. Thanks #MacmillanAudio for this early listen to a book dealing with a couple men that seem genuine good guys and are worthy of being offered as models for young fans. It's a positive message we can all relate to, one setting an excellent example for young people. 

What Goes on inside a Wolf Pack: Follow the Adventures of a Wolf Family in Yellowstone National Park, by Kathleen Yale, International Wolf Center (afterword), Carrie Shryock (illustrator)

 

Publication Sept. 23, 2025

While I've never been to Yellowstone, I have visited Alaska's Denali Park and can testify that the artist perfectly captured the vastness and grandeur of our wild places. You feel small in such places and, quite frankly, I'm not sure it isn't a reminder we occasionally need of how tiny we are in the grand scope of nature. Toss in that wolves do roam freely in my general area and this book was a natural for me. It follows a pack of wolves from basically the birth of a litter until they're grown and moving out on their own. Even better, we're also introduced to the flora and fauna as well as the other animals that surround the wolves' range.

It's a beautifully done, well thought out book. The artist has painted the vast beauty of the wolves' home largely in soft pastels, some of which almost seem to glow. Based on the many photos and books of Yellowstone that I've seen, it seems to realistically capture the area as well as the playfulness of the pups. I liked that rather then simply black print on white, the information is nicely arranged in various colorful graphs, boxes, and sidebars throughout. It makes it easy to follow, which simply going straight through the account or randomly flipping about and stopping when something catches your eye and, trust me, there's a lot to see. Readers can enjoy trying to spy whatever other things they can see, ranging from bears to lovely flowers and birds.I also appreciated that rather than toss in a plea not to litter, the author went with "a picture is worth a thousand words" mantra, showing wolf pups playing with a plastic bottle, for instance, with items that have been observed as "wolf toys" ranging from plastic water bottles and cans to human clothing items. I should also note that while it's made clear wolves eat prey, it's handled nicely, without dwelling on it. In fact, it uses that moment to subtly show competition among other animals for food and mentions why bears are such voracious eaters. 

Although aimed at independent reading aged children, adults should find this book equally interesting and informative. It would definitely make a lovely gift for animal lovers and a great addition to many teachers' reading/research shelves. The fact that it shows us the full picture, so to speak, covering nearly a year and encompassing other life in the area should make it applicable in different areas. There are some color photos at the end, I should also note, identified with the names rangers/researchers have given that particular wolf and more info on both wolves and ways children can help protect them. There's a map that identifies wolves' general ranges, too. Thanks #StoreyPublishing and #NetGalley for allowing me this early peek at a lovely book focused on an animal that fills me with awe. That said, I had to chuckle this afternoon when, while walking, my not-so-wolfish (though she had a cute howl as a pup) corgi mix demonstrated scent marking for me. Grin. 

Ask Scarlett: Can Being Outside Help Me De-Stress? And More Questions about Nature and You, by Rebecca Baines

 

Publication August 5, 2025

Full of fascinating tidbits and information.While designed for younger readers, I feel we older ones might just as easily enjoy and learn from it.  Not only is the information, which ranges from weather, both normal and extreme, to animals (even the mole rat gets space), houseplants, how pets may help out health, as well as headaches, foods, and more. Seriously, it's all tied neatly to the outdoors. I liked that though they frequently pointed out that there was scientific info to back up their statements that they didn't go into minute details in the text. The kept it simple and easy to digest and understand. There is a resource list at the end for those desiring to do a deeper dive, plus a glossary of terms and a quite extensive index to make it easier to find particular topics of interest. 

The book is illustrated with both cartoon like images, ie Scarlett, and photos which are credited at the end. Young readers should find them interesting and even charming, at least I did. There are even some crafty projects suggested with instructions at some points which will add to the fun. Bottom line, quite informative in a fun, easily read manner, and full of fun, colorful pictures. Thanks #AmericanPhychologicalAssociation for sharing this early look at a book that I highly recommend to both teachers and adults with curious, inquisitive children. Another plus is that while I ultimately read straight through, one can browse randomly or use the various guides to find desired info. Seriously, teacher friends and outdoor lovers, add this one to your bookshelves to share. 

Woody's Words: Woodrow Wilson Rawls and Where the Red Fern Grows, by Lisa Jean LaBanca Rogers , Susan Reagan (illustrator)

 

Publication Sept. 9, 2025

It's been awhile since I last read "Where the Red Fern Grows" but it still makes me smile when I remember it. Smile and feel the urge to reach for a box of tissues. That said, I must admit to knowing next-to-nothing about author Woodrow Wilson Rawls prior to reading this book. I'm now feeling the urge to dig out my old copy of the story (with some tissues handy) as I read it again with fresh eyes and more knowledge about how it came to be. 

Whether you've read "Red Fern" or not, I don't want to divulge too much of this book about it's author. Teacher friends, it should be a must. Same with dog fanatics everywhere.  A thoughtful, insightful look into what made Rawls a writer. It wasn't an easy life. In fact, he spent some time in jail but it ultimately sounds like wife Sophie was his savior and inspiration. A budget analyst for the Atomic Energy Commission, she was not just his biggest booster but typist, proofreaders, editor, and, well, much more. 

Rawls beloved dog book was first published in the highly regarded Saturday Evening Post before appearing in full book form. While barely educated himself, Rawls, a true story-teller, made thousands of promotional appearances, frequently at schools in front of children. It sounds like their words of appreciation only fueled his drive to write. Is the story 100% true? You'll have to read the book to find out. You won't regret it. While aimed at children from 7-10, my hunch is dog and book people of all ages will find it a good read. There's a lengthy bibliography at the end for those who want to take a deeper dive as well as, in addition to the illustrations, both b/w and color photographs. It was a plus to note the contributions of family members. Thanks #AstraPublishingGroup for allowing me this early peek at this intriguing, delightful story. It brought back many memories and I loved the inclusion of a photo of the statue of the book's Billy Coleman and his hounds that stands at the Idaho Falls Public Library. 

Finding the Titanic, by Dalton Rains

 While there wasn't much new here for me, a long time avid follower of the discovery, it serves as a nice, concise summation of the true Titanic story for the intended audience, grades 2-3. I do think it'll be of interest to older children and, yes, even adults like me who have maybe forgotten a few details. It's illustrated with both color and b/w photos with Fast Facts and information in side-bars throughout. It's clearly up-to-date, too, in its reminder of the dangers involved, citing the explosion of a manned-sub focused on a visual tour of the deteriorating vessel. 

Lost for some 70 years before being located by the team lead by Robert Ballard, the Titanic has had an unending hold on our imaginations. The book cites basics, it's size, number of passengers, and the various craft used in its discovery and initial investigation. One thing I'd forgotten was that the Navy, while claiming to be looking for the wreck, was using it as a cover story for another mission. Or, did I even know that? I'm honestly uncertain. In any case, not telling, but this story allows the book to utilize a strength, its glossary. While quite succinct, the definitions are simple and easy to understand, with the word "cover" getting space as in "cover story", so to speak, for the Navy's plan. There's also a Table of Contents, glossary, as noted, index, and list of both print and internet resources to use for more information. Scattered throughout are various sidebars with quick bits of added info, and "Fast Facts" that seem to appear in circles. Finally, at the end, there's also a list of questions to help check comprehension that seemed quite well done to this former teacher. 

Bottom line, a short and sweet guide and source for young Titanic fans to utilize both at their leisure and as a guided study. The photos at the end of everyday items retrieved from the doomed ship add an air of sadness, I must admit, reminding readers of the human lives involved in this tragedy. Thanks #NorthStarEditions - #Apex for sharing this peek at this resource with me. I'll be sharing it with teacher friends and parents.

Animals of the National Parks: An Alphabet Book, by Fifty-Nine Parks

 

Publication May 5, 2025

The child in me still gravitates to alphabet books. Give me one featuring animals and I'm a happy camper. I'm always curious to see how the creators will differentiate their book from the multitude of others out there, not to mention how they'll find a way to represent some of the lesser used letters. This one does both well. 

To be honest, there was a part of me interested to see not just what Alaskan animals make the cut but how they'd handle those tricky letters like "X". Well, first, they cleverly used descriptive adjectives such as zigzag salamander, but outdid themselves for that "X". They not only came up with an Alaskan critter but one whose name I didn't recognize. As it turned out, I've even seen that animal, nope, not telling, but just didn't now its official name. See, even us big kids can learn a thing or two from these alphabet books. Needless to say, being Alaskan with access to not just Denali National Park but wild animals occasionally roaming about, I was delighted to discover how many I had seen. Young readers should appreciate the chart provided at the end where they can write down not just the animals they've observed but things like who they were with at the time and even sounds heard. A nice touch.

The illustrations were realistic but fun in a slightly whimsical way. I mean, it doesn't look like those bears might want to eat us for dinner. Grin. Each subject gets a full color illustrations and short, easy to digest description on the next as well as what parks they might be found at. Another nice teaching touch is that each alphabet letter is presented in both upper and lower case, not always common. There's a lively color map at the end that shows where each park is located as well as showing small versions of the animals scattered about. There's also a list to make it even clearer. Then the chart I mentioned earlier. All in all, nicely done and would make not only a fun gift for animal crazy kids but a nice addition to your school or classroom libraries. Thanks #ClarksonPotter - #TenSpeedPress for gifting me this early copy. It made me crave another trip to Denali National Park. Ironically enough, although moose are common sights here in Alaska...in fact, one visited my yard just a few days ago....that's the one critter I've yet to spy while visiting the park, go figure.

Horse, by Alex Hall

 

This would have been a must have for me back in my horse crazy girl days. Heck, I enjoyed it today despite being, well, a bit past that stage. The information is short and sweet with great photos illustrating every page. I almost felt like I could reach out and stroke the nose of one of the horses stretching its head out toward the photographer in one shot. for instance. Lovely horses of different kinds and colors.. The info is solid and easy to understand, covering the horse from as the cover indicates, head to hoof. 

This would be the perfect gift for a young horse lover who wants to know everything there is to know about horse basics. Perfect for young readers who've gained a bit of confidence without overwhelming them with text. While those who've been reading everything and anything horse for years may not find much new, the illustrations alone would make this a lovely gift. It'd also be a great addition to a children's library shelves. Thanks #RosenPublishingGroup for gifting me this opportunity to slip back into my former "everything horse" stage.

The Story of Caitlin Clark: An Inspiring Biography for Young Readers (The Story of Biographies), by Rachelle Burk

 Publication April 1, 20205

I knew next to nothing about Clark going into this book other than that she's a phenomenal basketball player and showed up at the Super Bowl with Taylor Swift. I learned quite a bit, such as how talented she is/was in a variety of sports, loves to bake, and plays the piano (although she found it too calm for her driven personality). I also learned that other than teammates, she had few friends growing up. Most could not understand her driven passion to excel in basketball and that it took up most of her time and thoughts. Overall, I found it a satisfying read for young readers, particularly females interested in pursuing sports. Clark's success has inspired many,  She majored in marketing while attending and playing for the University of Iowa, where she was also an academic standout, a major that has surely been helpful. 

I could certainly go on and on but those are some of the highlights of a remarkable career, one still young. Words and phrases that might not be familiar are initially presented in bold print with definitions available in the glossary at the end. The thing that makes these books stand out for me, however, is the use of what they dubbed the Think Tank, presented as a sort of sidebar. It utilizes a fact/event from the topic's life, then asks readers how they'd respond. It is an excellent way to extend the reading of the book further, aiding readers in grasping concepts presented. I mean, what would you list as your five biggest goals in life, a question presented here? Clark made her list in third grade!

There's also a bibliography, letting those so inclined to further their knowledge on Clark (or whoever the topic of that particular book happens to be). And, oh, almost forgot, the final chapter is basically a multiple choice question list to help readers focus on the important facts and issues in the book. Bottom line, well put together. I would recommend it to both librarians and teachers, not to mention parents with athletically inclined daughters. Thanks #CallistoPublishing for giving me the gift of being able to read this early. I admire those who give more than skills to their sport and boost others. That's Caitlin Clark in a nutshell.

Thomas Jefferson, by Kathryn Walton

 Publication January 15, 2025

I've always been fascinated by the enigma of Thomas Jefferson, a man with so many aspects to his personality, some good, some bad, some quite troubling. As a result, even though this one is aimed right at young readers, I jumped at the chance to review it. While there certainly wasn't anything particularly new or surprising here for me, a former history major, I found it a satisfying read for children. It even touched on him being a slave owner, albeit without going into any great discussion other than explaining his times while noting how bizarre it was for a man who so espoused freedom to not only own slaves but never release his own slaves during his lifetime.

While I would wish it'd gone more into some of his fascinating inventions, the book does an excellent job of giving young readers a basic overview of who Jefferson was and why we remember him. Although it mentions the death of his father at a young age, the book really begins with his service in the Second Continental Congress. In his early 30's at the time, Jefferson stood out there, especially for his writing skills, being cited as the main writer of the Declaration of Independence. His political career is briefly detailed, too, as is his stint in France. I rather wished it'd mentioned the coincidence of the date of death for both Jefferson and John Adams since it mentions the role of the Electoral College in making Adams the second president, not Jefferson, but, hey, you can't have everything. Grin.

Each section is short and easy to read, accompanied by illustrations with more short bits of interest. I've always been fascinated by the home he built at Monticello, which means "little mountain", so was glad to see an actual photo of it included. Most of the illustrations are based on historical moments, such as the signing of the Declaration and portraits, so quite accurate. There's a timeline, glossary, index, and For More Information section at the end. It includes both print and online sources. Bottom line, for those new to Jefferson, an excellent starter book with suggestions of where to find out more at the end. Thanks #RosenPublishingGroup for this early peek at this book. Jefferson is a man of many interests, so hopefully this will guide young readers to want to know more about him.

The Northern Lights. by Jennifer Lombardo

 

Publication Jan. 15, 2025

With the Northern Lights dancing in my Alaskan skies so often of late, this seemed an appropriate read. Now, true, I'm one of those more captured by the awe and mystic they seem to summon up than the scientific data behind them but, hey, it's kinda fun to know, too. I mean, what does make those particles crash into each other and create the mysterious lights we see (if we're lucky)? This book will tell you in a simple, easy to understand manner. After all, it was primarily written for young readers. It's a great intro, however, for even adults who want to know about those particles and elements colliding and how the heck that winds up creating such beauty. It's all here, trust me. No matter your age, check it out. It even has pictures. 

I've been lucky enough to be able to step out on my own deck at times when the aurora is active and view them from my own deck. That definitely doesn't make me an expert on them, though. In fact, as I hustled to capture them on film over the last few months, I realized how much of the vocabulary of aurora chasing I had no clue what mean. STEVE? Who the heck was Steve? Or, more likely, what the heck was STEVE as people kept posting photos and asking if this was STEVE. So, I actually uttered a vocal "Yes!" when I encountered a full page with a photo about STEVE. Now, true, my not particularly scientific mind still doesn't quite understand the scientific basis for a STEVE, this book went a long way toward allowing me to finally make sense of it all. And, no, I'm not telling you what STEVE is. You need to read, just like me. Grin.

Bottom line, this is a good start for those interested in the aurora, no matter your age. Those seeking serious scientific knowledge based on aurora studies may be disappointed but, hey, remember, this is supposed to be a children's book. You will discover who may have first called the Northern Lights by their scientific name and why, as well as the science basics involved. You'll even find out why the colors vary and which are more common, as well as what the number of sun spots have to do with anything. All this and more. There's also a glossary and index included, as well as info on where to find more info online and off. My thanks to #RosenPublishingGroup and #ScientificAmericanEducationalPublishing for making this available to those of us who remain in awe of those marvelous dancing lights. I truly hope anyone reading this has a chance to see them live one day.

Trouble Dog: From Shelter Dog to Conservation Hero, by Carol A. Foote, Larry Day (illustrator)

 

Publication Feb. 26, 2925

While I knew what a scent dog was, I wasn't familiar with the term conservation dog. Not to mention the countless miles they may travel to do their job. Pretty amazing to think a shelter dog, one returned for being destructive and just too much to handle, could thrive in such a position. Tucker, the star of this story, is actually based on two real dogs, so be sure to read the after matter that discusses conservation dogs in greater detail. There are even real photos there. 

Given a second-chance by Laura, who not only has a goal but seemingly the patience of a saint, Tucker takes to the training and is pictured on several trial runs during training as well on real missions. His energy (not to mention the destruction he left in his wake early on) is nicely portrayed in the colorful illustrations. Kudos the Larry Day, the illustrator. I liked that Tucker was shown working in various sites in different ways. This helps illustrate the diverse set of skills such a dog must learn as well as the diverse cast of humans around the world they may work with. Tucker definitely proved his skill more than once. 

There's much to take away from this book aside from learning something about conservation dogs. Maybe most importantly it shows us not to cast a dog aside because it isn't the right fit for a situation, whether that be simply as a loving pet or a working dog who travels the world. Let's face it, some dogs have way more energy than others, hence usually subtle hints to potential adopters to consider their situation before adopting a dog simply because it's cute or reminds you of another pet or whatever. We can all learn a great deal from how Laura handles a difficult but lovable dog. 

The book is well written and flows nicely, with the illustrations adding greatly to our understanding. The addition of the true stories of the dogs Tucker is based on at the end with ample info on not just conservation dogs but how smell is used and what might make a dog a good fit for the position was a bonus. Thanks #WmBEardmansPublishingCompany for allowing me this sneak peek at how some dogs' natural abilities are being used for the good of all. I loved the illustration used at the top of the selected reading suggestions, too, of Laura curled up with a book with Tucker sprawled on her lap. My rescue corgi mix gives this one four paws up and many tail wags. 

Patrick , by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara , Guillherme Karsten (Illustrator)

 Publication Jan. 23, 2025

Once upon a time, Patrick Mahomes dreamed of being a baseball star. His father was a professional pitcher, so that's probably natural. Well, he became a star, just not in baseball. Although he was an all-around talent in several sports, eventually football won Mahomes' heart. The Kansas City Chiefs and fans are glad he made that decision.

While I know Mahomes name and face from his football highlights, and there are many, I realized I knew nothing about him as a person. Well, I did recall a wife and child but that was about it. So, this book taught me a few things, too, even though aimed at children. As it turns out, Mahomes comes from a divorced family and was largely raised by his mother. His athletic skills carried him through high school and on to college where he eventually settled on football as his primary sport. Several Super Bowl appearances and championship titles later, the world knows his name. 

While I rather wished this book had focused more on the person of Patrick Mahomes and not quite so much on his football status, it does give us a glimpse into what formed him. Even as a casual football fan it's seemed to me that he's relatively humble, taking neither his success for granted or himself, for that matter. Those aspects are definitely well earned and a reminder to the youngest wannabe sports star that responsibility comes with success, too. 

The illustrations are simple yet effective with lots of Kansas City Chief colors, I might add. That said, they also show him with his family, both his parents and his own. Readers can take inspiration from him and come to see that talent isn't the only thing required to be a success. You have to be smart enough to take advantage of that talent without losing track of what's important. Mahomes seems to grasp that idea, making him someone to not just idolize but try to emulate, both as an athlete and person,. Thanks @QuartoPublishingGroup - #FrancesLincolnChildren'sBooks for this early peek into the life and times of a talented, well-rounded, and well-grounded young man. I'm sure we will hear more about him in the future.