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. 

My First 100 Signs: Baby Sign Language Book: Tiny Signs for Everyday Moments, by Lane Rebelo

 

Publication April 21, 2026

Although I don't have a baby handy to practice on, I was intrigued by the idea of being able to "talk" to them in signs before they are actually able to verbalize. I once had a deaf student who came with a sign language interpreter that taught me a few pertinent words, too, so I was curious to see what words might appear here that I knew or, sigh, once knew. People also swear by being able to communicate with deaf dogs, another concept that drew me, so this was a natural read for me, babies around or not. 

As it turned out, I do remember some basic terms, like the sign for "dog" (grin), but was struck at how many actually are close to things we tend to do naturally. These terms are common, very much signs that are applicable to babies, ranging from common objects and routines, as well as memorable moments in a child's life. Parents will appreciate that "potty" is in there, as is "grumpy". The way to introduce this to pre-vocal babes is to keep it fun. This is info, readers, that you're given in the front of the book. Real time connections are obviously best to start with, starting with a visual as you say and sign the word. And, remember, every child is different so what works immediately for one child may be a total flop with another.

Bottom line, an interesting idea that I'd love to know more about. The illustrations are colorful and simple, with the sign both described in words then and shown in a circular graphic. I was reading this on my phone so the sign photo did seem small but my hunch is that had I had the actual book, that wouldn't be an issue. All seem good, practical choices and I especially liked that the phrase "thank you" was included. Thanks #CiderMillPress for the early peek at this intriguing concept. Have fun with it, readers.

 

ABCs of Safe Web Surfing: Essential Online Safety Tips for Your Child's First Device , by CD Richardson

 

A nicely done, colorful guide for both parents and children. While the illustrations are definitely kid friendly with their colorful graphics, the words are obviously meant to be read by both the child and parents. I liked that concept, actually. Each term addressed is pertinent, with fun drawings to illustrate meaning, two pages per letter. 

I'm pretty certain there are some excellent reminders in here for even long time web surfers, too. It's easy to become careless and complacent as we click about at random, something this reminds us isn't always good form. I won't detail the contents but will share a few. My favorite perhaps was early one as the author urges "balance", a balance between time on and offline. As much fun and addictive as endless surfing the net can be, we're remind that time away from the screen is important, too. Cyberbullies are also addressed with the advice being direct, "Don't be one". 

The idea of "empathy", remembering that there's a real human (well, maybe) on the other end of the posting is emphasized, as is that one should never give away their "password". Nor should you click mindlessly. When in doubt, the book urges young uses to turn to trusted adults for guidance. As many learn to their sorrow, not all links are harmless and can, in fact, lead to major headaches. You're also reminded that every post you make, every comment you share, is most likely forever engraved in a digital footprint somewhere. I guess in the cloud? Not that this book even attempts to explain the cloud. Grin. 

Bottom line, a nicely done guide with fun graphics to help guide newcomers through the basics of the web. In addition, various activities are suggested at the end, including an encouraging way to get parent and child to talk out use and create guidelines. Internet sources are also given at the end. Thanks for this peek at this handy, sadly much needed guide, #IndependentlyPublished. As noted, I lean toward thinking the idea of "balance" between screen and away time is something just about any of us who find themselves seemingly glued to the screen can use.

Can I Sleep in Your Bed Tonight?, by Andreas Sahar

 

Publication June 1, 2025

This is surely something every parent has heard whispered to them in the night.  Every parent surely has handled it differently. I honestly wasn't as taken with this as I'd expected to be despite the lovely illustrations and dreamy colors. First, an admission. I really, really wanted to just give good ol' Dad a shove off that bed for both his lack of helpfulness, leaving it all to Mom to handle, and my jealousy of him being able to fall back asleep in practically the blink of an eye. Even the mother, while relatively patient, didn't seem to put much effort into how she handled the situation. 

If anything, while it's easy to give her a break for probably being exhausted and wanting desperately to sleep herself, she didn't seem to offer any soothing words or suggestions other than go back to bed. Dad continued to sleep through most of the interruptions, mind you, only going into action when a storm struck and the dogs' barking joined the pleas of the frightened children. They're adorable, by the way, and there are even a pair of twins. In any case, Dad's solution was to simply grab a blanket and pillow and move to the couch, in essence leaving Mom to deal with the children in the now roomier space of the bed. Can you tell I was disappointed by both? 

Bottom line, while I'm sure this could open a conversation between children and parents of how the situation could have been better handled, I didn't really enjoy the story. The rhyming text was relatively well done, however, and, as noted, the illustrations had a bit of a dreamy feel to most of them with the night colors and subtle soft hues. And, much as I hate to admit it, the situation is probably rather realistic. Children get frightened or even bored at night frequently and seek the comfort of their parents. I just wish there had been more of a gentle, positive handling of the situation, albeit, as noted, I can see this being used as a means to open a dialogue between not just parents and children but between the parents. Thanks #HolzerBooks for giving me this early peek at the book and life in many homes with small, restless children.

I Got This!: I Have Bounce Back Superpowers, by Julia Cook , Michele Borba, Dale Crawford (illustrator)

Love this! What a fantastic teaching/guiding tool attached to a fun story. Children (and adults) can also benefit from the advice within, so a double win. Toss in great illustrations....my favorite was Hazel the squirrel and Charlie the wannabe rescue dog looking ever so human and dejected, sitting in the snow.... and you know children will enjoy the story. The story follows Charlie's quest to become a certified rescue dog by completing the difficult journey of climbing the tallest mountain. It's full of challenges and, even better, hints on how to overcome the obstacles her (and we) meet sometimes. I loved the eagle as the wise one, guiding Charlie along, offering suggestions but not telling Charlie specifically how to achieve his goals. I must admit, too, the illustrations are well done and realistic, even to the one of the "oops" in the slippery, deep snow. 

Eagle helps Charlie and his squirrel friend Hazel reach their destination. It isn't easy and he learns how to use his "Bounce Back Superpowers" to reach the top of that mountain. Step-by-step, obstacle by obstacle, they show us that we do have the power within us to overcome obstacles by staying calm and using our heads. They're presented to Charlie in a believable way via the dialogue and illustrations. And, hey, Charlie, I've seen some real life mushers tackle getting around a downed tree to keep moving forward, so, yes, quite realistic. I definitely liked that Eagle reminded Charlie that while the journey is his, there is no reason he can't ask for help, something even we humans tend to forget at times when we're so focused on the target we lose sight of the big picture. The helpful suggestions shared with Charlie and nicely summarized at the end, too, with some suggestions on how to help children grasp what they actually mean.

Bottom line, I adored this book. Not only was the cover adorable, but the illustrations throughout managed to capture both the whimsical personalities of Charlie and Hazel but the reality of the winter scenes. You'll feel like cheering at the end, trust me. Teachers and parents, this is a book you should have. I'll be a quite valuable resource for you to bounce back, too, as you guide your child through ways to stay strong and keep their eyes on the goal, not the momentary frustrations we all feel at times when things don't go just right. Thanks so much #NetGalley and #NationalCenterForYouthIssues - #IBPA for sharing this early peek at this great resource that has the benefit of also being a great, fun story with an adorable dog and its squirrel friend. With this books help, we can all look forward to that virtual downhill sled ride at the end. Wheeee.....

My Schoolwork Is a Mess!, by Jennifer Licate , Suzanne Beaky (illustrator)

 Publication August 27, 2024

Yes! We gave a winner! 

Seriously, this one is great. Provides easy to follow, direct ideas for how to get organized and take charge of your life or, in this case, school days. As an adult who uses variations of many of these suggestions, I can definitely recommend it to not just teacher friends but parents struggling to help their children who are also struggling in school. The colorful illustratins and fun and main character Dakota is easily likeable. You'll root for him as his mother and counselor work to help him,. I particularly liked that these aren't ideas engraved in stone, either, but ideas that recognize the need for down time, too.

I won't detail the basic suggestions, the blurb does a good job of that, but will note that I also liked the emphasis on reaching out for help. Dakota's mother is there for him but every child wanting to appear cool and in control will relate to how Dakota struggles to do a simple task that seems easy for most, simply pick up the phone and call a classmate to ask what the homework was for a class that night. Dakota's mother, who calls him Kota, is disappointed but instead of going off on him, she shows him ways to get things done. Then, she herself reaches out for help, enlisting the counselor's assistance, showing that even adults need a helping hand at times. I definitely liked that his math teacher, the same one Dakota accused of being out to get him, took time to praise him one-on-one, too, rather than doing it in front of a classroom of Dakota's peers and possibly causing embarrassment. A good reminder to us so called adults, I'd say, on taking the time to acknowledge effort and improvement. 

Bottom line, I highly recommend this book to not just my teacher and parent friends but anyone, quite frankly, not just the targeted middle grades, who maybe needs a bit of a help getting organized. Honestly, I use many of these suggestions without thinking, including the idea of using modern technology to snap a photo of information that I need to remember. Thanks #NetGalley and #BoysTownPressPublishing - #IBPA for sharing an early peek at this title with me. Let's face it, part of getting organized is getting started, so I assure you I'll be sharing this with others.

The Angriest Monster on Mill Street, by author Sarah Sparks , Sypha Vendez (Illustrator)

Available October 2, 2023

Well, now I know who to blame the next time Alaska has an earthquake. Just kidding, of course, but, oh, my, Albie does manage to set off a chain reaction of destruction when he blows up. In this case, he blows up literally in size, I might note, as his anger grows, he. grows. I must admit to not being quite as drawn to this book in the series but that's probably natural. We don't like being around angry people. That in itself is a lesson of sorts for children to be lead to understand. As for Albie....

It was interesting to see the five senses being used as a means of calming anger. From another review, I gather that is actually a coping method used for such emotional blow-ups. After showing how others are impacted by his anger, Albie is lead to recognize the damage he's doing not just to himself but others who are both bewildered and even frightened by his gigantic, uncontrolled anger. Of course, Albie doesn't mean to anger or hurt/scare others. This book will guide children who perhaps see a part of themselves in Albie on ways to calm and control the anger. I liked that the author simply shows Albie recognizing and responding to simple things like the smell of a flower, the feel of a breeze, and beauty of a rainbow. While rainbows aren't always available, there is beauty all around us, so this use of the five senses is something anyone can use. Tantrums aren't fun for anyone, whether the one having the tantrum or those impacted by the flood of anger.

The rhyme seemed a bit off, perhaps intended to convey the upheaval of a tantrum, but was still cute and easily conveyed the message of the book. The illustrations are fun, almost scary at times given the anger, and help show the harm the lack of emotional control can create. While certainly not providing the grand fix-all-to-end-all tantrums, I applaud the book for showing a way to make a start. As it notes, Albie isn't always bright and cheerful after his realization of the need for control, so it's also realistic...and hopeful. Thanks #NetGalley and #ViaNovaProductions for sharing this series with me. I look forward to meeting more of those amazing looking monsters of Mill Street.