Every Little Bit . . .

Each morning Mulan, my canine companion, and I take the same route on our morning walk.  More than half of the route is without sidewalks and when there are sidewalks, we tend to stick to the edge of the roadway due to other walkers, runners, and dogs.  Without fail, there is one driver each day who not only ignores the posted speed limit, but comes so close to us that we have to move off the road or jump aside.  They drive as if their hair is on fire and they are the only person on the planet.

Despite this one soul without regard for other living things, there are multiple drivers who slow down and nod, wave or smile.  Those small acts of kindness when added together have a huge effect on our morning walks.  Those people are used to seeing us and respond accordingly.  I have no idea who they are, but I consider them friends.  The mutual respect we have for each other has established a community of sorts. Today is the book birthday for a title, One Small Thing (Beaming Books, May 9, 2023) written by Marsha Diane Arnold with artwork by Laura Watkins, which presents the practice of rising above ourselves to assist others.  Every little bit helps and does not go unappreciated.  

All the animals in Brightly Wood were talking about what happened.

During a storm the previous night, lightning struck Raccoon's home.  All that remains are ashes.  Squirrel, Badger, Beaver, Mouse, and Rabbit are recreating the event in their conversation. In addition to the loss of his home, Raccoon has suffered burns on his feet and his cricket companion is missing.  In the concerned comments made by Raccoon's friends, readers get a hint at their personalities.  

Beaver wonders where Raccoon will live now.  Rabbit hardly knows Raccoon. Mouse is so little and this problem is huge.  Badger, seemingly a curmudgeon, wonders where the 

silly cricket

is.  Squirrel is overwhelmed by the sadness of this event.  They all leave for their respective homes except for Badger.  Badger heads to the darkest part of the forest.

Squirrel, Mouse, and Rabbit start on tasks exemplifying their talents.  Beaver knows she excels at home construction, so she works all day to build another home for Raccoon.  As Squirrel sips her tea, she begins to think.  As Mouse hangs herbs from his rafters, he begins to think.  As Rabbit nibbles on honey bread with honey,  a single thought pops into Rabbit's mind.  The four friends find Raccoon and snuggle inside the new house drinking tea and eating honey bread with honey.  Mouse rubs a balm made from his herbs on Raccoon's feet.

Where is Badger you ask?  Is Badger lost among the shadows of Brightly Wood?  That thunderstorm created a major loss, but much was found the next day because Beaver, Squirrel, Mouse, Rabbit and Badger decide to do . . .

A bit of a mystery introduces us to this narrative with the first sentence.  Author Marsha Diane Arnold has piqued our interest.  She leads us, as she does so often, to examine our hearts as each of her characters do the same.  By having each of the animals offer an opinion several times, she establishes a rhythm to her story.

As we follow their actions and thoughts, we see how each personality works through a tragic event and responds as they are able.  Readers will see themselves in one or more of these characters' reactions.  The title of the book is beautifully woven into Squirrel's, Mouse's and Rabbit's ultimate decision. Here is a passage.

Beaver stepped back and looked at her work, then hurried off to find Raccoon.

All the other animals hurried off to find Raccoon too.

Except Badger.  He kept wandering through Brightly Wood, muttering,

"Where is that silly cricket?"

A single, full-color image extends from the left edge of the book case to the right edge.  It is the dawn of a new day in Brightly Wood.  Mouse, Squirrel, Rabbit, Badger, and Beaver, eyes closed in affection, offer a group hug to their friend, Raccoon.  We can see by Raccoon's eyes, this hug is needed.  Everything about this scene, the brightening sky, soaring birds, glowing sunlight reflected on the grass and calm breezes, suggests warmth and connection.

A pale lemon yellow covers the opening and closing endpapers.  On the title page is a close-up of Raccoon's mailbox secured to a tree.  Careful readers will see with the opening single-page picture, artist Laura Watkins uses the background sky to indicate weather and time of day.  She continues this throughout the book.  The colors in her outdoor scenes tend to not only reflect the time of day and weather, but the mood of the characters.

The facial features and body postures on each of the animals reveal their emotional status and personality traits.  While their physical characteristics are realistically portrayed, there is also a quality about the animals that depicts them charmingly enough that you might want to hug them. Two of them are more motivated to immediate action, while the other three tend to mull over circumstances.  This is mirrored in Laura Watkins's art.

As the pages are turned, Laura Watkins moves from single-page pictures to groups of vignettes, and to large double-page images, one, a bird's eye view of Brightly Wood.  She also shifts perspectives to enhance the text.  Within Squirrel's, Mouse's, and Rabbit's homes, readers will be fascinated by the attention to detail.  They will also come to understand how a certain moody friend can walk unafraid into the less inviting portions of Brightly Wood.

One of my many favorite illustrations is a two-page picture.  Beaver has found Raccoon seated on a log near the river, soaking his burned feet in the water.  The river mirrors the sky as the day comes to a close.  There are hues of orange, golden yellow, and purple in the sky, silhouettes of trees and trees near the river.  Beaver is seated next to Raccoon on the fallen tree, embracing her downcast friend.  

This book, One Small Thing written by Marsha Diane Arnold with illustrations by Laura Watkins, is a quiet but compelling tale reminding us that we are never too small to effect change or an action we take for good is never too small to make a difference.  It demonstrates how like single snowflakes can combine to make a blizzard that many small things can create a huge shift in someone's life.  It might be fun to do this as a reader's theater.  You will want to have a copy of this on your personal bookshelves and in your professional collections.

To learn more about Marsha Diane Arnold and Laura Watkins and their other work, please visit their websites by following the link attached to their names.  Marsha Diane Arnold has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.  Laura Watkins has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  There is a wonderful thirteen-page activity guide at the publisher's website for you to download.

A Cloak Of Comfort

Even a casual observer will notice the abundance of blankets in my home.  A collector of warmth and comfort abides within this space.  Several of them are gifts from treasured friends.  Stories are woven in them.

As children we know there is something about burrowing under the cover of a blanket to read a book by flashlight when everyone else is sleeping. In her first wordless picture book, Blanket (Groundwood Books, House of Anansi Press, August 2, 2022), Ruth Ohi tells a tender tale of the kindness extended from one friend to another friend.  True friends can look into our hearts and know exactly what they need.

One sunny morning with a trio of birds chirping outside the window, Cat wakes up.  The blue sky and happy birds cannot drive away the worry and sadness Cat feels.  Cat climbs off the bed and pulls the blanket along and completely covers their body.  There is a blue lump on the floor when Dog walks into the room.

Dog, book in hand, sits on the floor near the blue lump and begins to read.  The blue lump moves closer to Dog for a snuggle.  Dog begins to talk.  Soon the blanket lifts and Dog crawls inside with Cat.  Cat talks and talks and Dog listens and listens.

Then, Dog supplies Cat with a flashlight.  The two play and Cat seems to be better until Dog leaves and does not come back fast enough.  Dog has the best idea, though.  The duo make an open-air tent, a canopy, with the blanket and two chairs.

As you might expect, the fun escalates.  There is shadow puppetry.  When Dog wants to leave again, Cat is distressed, but Dog is a reassuring companion, the best kind of companion.  What do you think Cat does in Dog's absence?  Cat is remembering.  Dog remembers, too.  A blanket can be many things.

This story told without words by Ruth Ohi is beautifully conceived.  It is an expression of shared sorrows being halved and shared joys being multiplied.  It shows readers the many forms friendship can take.  Using the blanket as the unifying component of the tale is brilliant.  Readers of all ages can readily identify, based upon their own experiences, with the value of a blanket.

There is a feeling of sanctuary in the scene with Cat and Dog on the front, right side, of the matching dust jacket and book case.  Kneeling under the blanket, head to head, the two are one in the affection they hold for each other.  This image extends over the spine.  To the left of the spine is a crisp white canvas.  Two of the featured birds are flying left to right across the top. (The third bird is on the back flap.)  In the center is a drawing of Cat, looking a bit lost, on a piece of paper with a few crayons nearby.  Above this, in an arc, we read:

How much difference can a friend make on a gray day?

Both the opening and closing endpapers are shaded in hues of gray and purple to signify Cat's morning mood.  On the page prior to the title page, Cat, lying on their stomach, is drawing a picture.  Edge to edge, across the verso and title pages is the blue blanket.

These illustrations by Ruth Ohi are loosely framed and placed on a white background.  They are full-page pictures, two images to a single page, and dramatic double-page visuals.  Sometimes smaller images will be grouped on a page to denote the passage of time.  We are usually close to the characters, making for a more intimate reading of the narrative.

The use of color depicts the current mood of the characters.  Facial expressions are realistic and easy to understand.  These facial expressions bind us to the characters.  Ruth Ohi's lines and light and shading are marvelous.

One of my many favorite illustrations is actually a trio of images on a single page.  In the first one, the blue lump, Cat under the blanket, has moved right next to Dog.  Dog, eyes closed in contentment, leans next to the blanket.  The book is temporarily on the floor.  In the second visual, Dog is turning toward the blanket, speaking and holding the book open.  In the final picture, the blue lump has moved even closer to Dog as the book is read aloud.

If there were a category of huggable books, Blanket conceived and illustrated by Ruth Ohi, would be at the top of the list.  This story without words speaks volumes about the importance of friendship on any day.  As a story time title with a group, sighs will fill the room at its conclusion.  If you are reading this one-on-one, be sure to have enough blankets for snuggling and a shelter.  I highly recommend this book for your personal and professional collections.  It would make a wonderful gift.

To learn more about Ruth Ohi and her other work, please visit her website by following the links attached to her name.  Ruth Ohi has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.  At the publisher's website, you can view interior images.

Gifted With . . .

When we enter this world, we have undiscovered potential.  Those closest to us, our family members, may try to steer us toward a generational family tradition or occupation.  They may see us as the next great beekeeper, politician, educator, doctor, grocer, carpenter, chef, clothing designer, gardener, or musher.  Even though the choices seem limitless, the path we follow, according to them, is already defined.

Our gift or gifts do not always align with their desires.  Sometimes, they are the exact opposite of family expectations.  If we are fortunate, we will be supported regardless of which direction we take.  As the monster in Anzu The Great Kaiju (Roaring Brook Press, January 11, 2022) written and illustrated by Benson Shum discovers, sometimes such approval is not quickly or easily earned.

All great kaiju are born with a superpower

to strike fear in the heart of their given city.

Anzu desires to follow in his family's footsteps.  He does have a conspicuous dilemma.  It is hard to 

strike fear in the heart of 

your city when your superpower is of the floral variety.  Yes, Anzu has flower power!  He sees and summons loveliness everywhere.

When Anzu reaches a certain age, he is assigned a city.  He can hardly wait to cause chaos.  His mother and father decide to first demonstrate by example what he needs to do.  He must unleash wild weather and earthly upheaval.

Alas, Anzu conjures up wreaths and necklaces of flowers and a playground appears when he uproots a huge tree.  The residents in his city are wildy ecstatic.  No matter what he does, they get happier and happier.  There is a contrast in the air between  the despondency of some and the pure bliss of others.  What is Anzu to do?

Now, Grandmother steps on the scene.  She tells him to dig deep into the powers passed to him from those of his past.  Anzu does this and there is an enormous resonating sound.  No one is more surprised than Anzu at this result.  Anzu has a decision to make.  Only his heart has the best answer.

With his first sentence, author Benson Shum fills us with anticipation.  When we learn of Anzu's superpower, in light of this statement, we are struck by the incongruity of this monster's situation.  It is a bit humorous, and a lot wonderful.

Anzu's story is told with a mix of added sound effects, conversation, and narrative.  Benson Shum's word choices not only convey the mood of the moment, but bring us into the action with their welcoming cadence.  Each of the family members speaks their truth with affection for one another.  In keeping with the back and forth between rumble-tumble turmoil and flower-power glee, we are privy to the conflict facing Anzu between pleasing one's family and staying true to yourself.  Here is a passage.

SHWACK!

Vines and flowers erupted,

twirled and swirled into a

jungle of seesaws and slides.

"A great kaiju should unleash havoc," Dad said.

"NOT happiness."

How can you not want to reach out and hug bold yellow and orange Anzu when seeing him perched on the framed title on the dust jacket?  His happiness is contagious to everything around him as color bursts forth in the form of flowers and butterflies while the tiny residents of his city enjoy the effects of his superpower.  Anzu and the title text box are varnished on the front of the dust jacket.

To the left of the open dust jacket, on the back, is white space.  Above the ISBN at the bottom, two teeny residents are laughing as they balance on a seesaw.  Above them a cascade of flowers spin from left to right.  Toward the top Anzu is placed in a rectangular frame with a teal background.  He is exclaiming 

PEW PEW PEW 

as flowers come from his mouth.

The book case is a vibrant spring green.  Covering the back and a large portion of the front is an array of flowers in shades of red, purple, pink and yellow with glossy green leaves.  On the front Anzu is lying on his back, smiling and looking at the wonder his superpower has created.

The opening and closing endpapers appear to be an open guidebook on monster superpowers.  Opposite each depiction of the monster is a list of their superpowers.  There are circles around some of the superpowers.  Throughout the pages are hand-drawn stars, hearts and other doodles.

Rendered

with watercolor and ink and compiled digitally

these illustrations are as spirited as Anzu.  Colorful backgrounds showcase the other cheerful hues.  Black lines accent the glorious selected shades.  Sometimes, on a crisp white background wider lines will frame the text and an image.  A smaller framed visual and text are placed on a double-page picture for maximum effect.  The image sizes reflect the text and focus on the facial expressions and body postures of the characters superbly.  The final two-page picture is wordless and represents the marvelous conclusion.

One of my many favorite illustrations is after Anzu's first attempt at terrifying the citizens of his newly acquired city.  The background is sky blue.  There is a dirt and grassy dirt mounds along the bottom.  Garlands of flowers are floating from the sky in bright colors.  The tiny beings are dancing.  One shouts Hula!  Garlands are on the ground and hanging from the mounds.  Anzu's mother stands to the right of all this merriment, holding a garland and looking distressed.  She is a lot taller and thinner than Anzu, a light teal in color with large white spiny plates down her back.

There comes a time, many times, in our lives when we have to decide what is best for us and best for those around us.  This title, Anzu The Great Kaiju written and illustrated by Benson Shum, shows readers with great joy how to be guided by your heart and to stay true to yourself.  I highly recommend you place a copy in both your personal and professional collections.  This is to be shared often and widely especially as a read aloud.  

To learn more about Benson Shum, please follow the link attached to his name to access his website.  Benson Shum has accounts on multiple social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  Benson Shum wrote a guest post this month on author Tara Lazar's Writing for Kids (While Raising Them) during Storystorm.  Benson Shum is interviewed about his work and this title on author Erin Daley's site, author illustrator Jena Benton's site, writer Vivian Kirkfield's site, and Kaitlyn Leann Sanchez's Math is Everywhere.  At the publisher's website you can view multiple interior images.

Better Together #3

There comes a time when a single dramatic event causes us to assess how we will respond in certain situations.  There is usually an initial reaction.  It happens almost instinctively, but it is not always the right one.  Upon reflection, we realize we must improve how we think and act.  This makes the connections between family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers stronger.

Less than one year ago, we met an abundantly positive petite personality in an uplifting take on a classic tale.  Chicken Little The Real And Totally True Tale (Scholastic Press, May 5, 2020) written and illustrated by Sam Wedelich through wit allowed us to see the wisdom in collecting information before making a decision.  This fact-loving fowl is back in Chicken Little and The Big Bad Wolf (Scholastic Press, March 2, 2021) written and illustrated by Sam Wedelich. How big and how bad is this legendary wolf?

I am so

NOT

scared

of any

wolf! 

As Chicken Little boldly proclaims her lack of fear repeatedly, she is oblivious to the approaching figure.  There is a colossal collision.  When a dismayed voice asks if Chicken Little is alright, she looks up, screams, and skedaddles without hesitation.

As she tries to process what she has seen, there is only one logical choice.  It is the Big Bad Wolf!  An older chicken raises the alarm.  Chicken Little tries to run after her, but she is, after all, little.

Back in the barnyard, the chickens can't agree on a plan, but ultimately select an unwise alternative.  Fortunately for the flock, Chicken Little arrives with her voice of reason.  She gathers clues.  These don't satisfy her.

Hesitantly, she approaches the BBW.  The ensuing conversation has the residents of the coop rolling their respective eyes in disbelief.  And yet . . . Chicken Little speaks truths one cannot ignore.  Let's eat!

Each sentence Chicken Little utters in the beginning sets readers up for the BIG crashing comedic reveal.  This is a gift author Sam Wedelich gives to us.  The humor continues as Chicken Little ponders this unexpected situation.  Readers will delight in the word play, the use of re-worded iconic phrases, the fear factor trigger, and phrases with double meanings.  Told in dialogue, first person and other characters, and a bit of narrative, Chicken Little at the end brings us back to her first words.  Here is a passage.

WOLF?! YOU

CAN'T TRUST A WOLF!

HE'S PULLING THE FEATHERS

OVER YOUR EYES!

YEAH!

HE'S THE

BIG 

BAD

WOLF!

Hmm . . .

I see what

you mean.

In looking at the front and back of the book case, we immediately notice hilarity is a huge part of this story.  Look at the shadow of the wolf on the front.  It is a clear contrast to the words Chicken Little is saying.  On the back are four questions begging to be answered.  The first one has multiple-choice replies.  Chicken Little, wing on her hip, warns readers to not check the third box.  This is an irresistible invitation to start reading the story.  There is a little bit of text about Sam Wedelich, similar to what you might read on the back flap of a dust jacket.  Chicken Little on the front and back and the title text are varnished.

On the opening and closing endpapers is a pattern in two shades of red, pale and bright.  These are the identical hues shown on the book case.  Here Chicken Little is engaged in a variety of activities.  Cameras and photographs of The Big Bad Wolf are a part of the design.

On the title page, wings spread open to her sides, Chicken Little wearing her signature tiny red boots and large circular red glasses starts the story.  These illustrations on cream, matte-finished paper are rendered digitally with the type hand lettered by Sam Wedelich.  Dialogue appears in speech balloons, differently colored depending on the speaker.

Each portion of these images is defined by the heavy black lines around them.  Chicken Little is portrayed in a variety of sizes in partial-page pictures, full-page pictures or double-page pictures. Motion and emotion are conveyed with excellence, each assisted by perspective.

One of my many, many favorite illustrations is a single-page visual.  It features four of the coop chickens.  They are all wearing old-style flying helmets.  Three have on goggles.  These three are carrying suitcases. They are looking straight at readers.  This picture is after they have decided 

to fly the coop.

This bird is certainly the word.  Chicken Little and The Big Bad Wolf written and illustrated by Sam Wedelich allows us to examine ourselves in light of the situation in which Chicken Little and the coop characters find themselves.  Everyone wants to belong, accepted as they are and not as they are perceived.  I highly recommend this title for both your professional and personal collections.

To learn more about Sam Wedelich and her other work, please follow the link attached to her name to access her website.  Sam Wedelich has accounts on Instagram and Twitter.  You can see loads of Sam Wedelich's art on her Instagram account.

In her poem, The Summer Day, Mary Oliver closes with a question:

Tell me, what is it you plan to do

with your one wild and precious life?

Assuredly the responses to her question will vary with each reader, but it is a hope many will share identical replies.  After reading A New Day (Dial Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC, March 2, 2021) written by Brad Meltzer with illustrations by Dan Santat, this is guaranteed.  This story centers on how a grateful heart extended with kindness can be an agent for significant change.

Sunday quit.

Just like that.

She said she was tired of being a day.

Do you know how much

work it takes to give the

world a beautiful,

free day . . .

As Sunday speaks, the other days, understandably shocked, listen to her list the other things she wants to do.  Monday, ever practical, suggests they find a new day.  Posters are posted from one end of the earth to the other end.  The six remaining days, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday start interviews the next day.  It's safe to say, the witty commentary begins, also.

First up is FunDay followed by BunDay (hair).  Canines make an appearance, suggesting all the right reasons for DogDay.  Not to be excluded a group of cats offer conversation on the sidelines suggesting Caturday.  After getting some promising proposals, Friday and Saturday want more similar ideas.  And this is when the real trouble (comedy) commences.  The cats are still on the scene, ever hopeful.

The rivalry heightens.  Clever contenders disguise themselves and solicit partners, claiming teamwork.  There were crazy days like UnicornsWithHornsForHornsDay and ridiculous days like GelatinSuitsDay.  Of course, the dogs are vigilant making a third showing which has the cats in a furry.  When it seems as though the word sensible has vanished from everyone's vocabulary, Monday asks a question.

A small, quiet voice says two simple words.

I do.

As Monday continues the chat, she, the other days and readers are astonished by the child's other words.  The most surprised is Sunday.  All Sunday needs, all anyone needs, is exactly what this child is offering.  It is indeed A New Day.

Author Brad Meltzer through dialogue, narrative, and details supplies us with page-turning action.  We promptly step into this story and its fun.  We embrace that dialogue, text, and details creating the outlandish exaggerations found in the new day presentations.  But let's be clear, Sunday's claims are sincere and true.  When we compare her desires with those of the new day possibilities, amid our laughter, we feel Monday's frustrations.  This is why our souls soar along with Sunday's and the other six days at the end.  Brad Meltzer must have had loads of fun writing this story.  Here is a passage.

Oh, c'mon!

Those're the

same dogs as

before---

but with

mustaches!

This isn't fair.

When do we get to

pitch Caturday?

The cats were right about it being unfair.

But as word began to spread that teamwork was a good thing . . .  

The remarkable, signature artwork of Dan Santat is boldly presented on the matching and open dust jacket and book case.  On the front, right, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday each have defining characteristics and distinguishing colors.  In an ingenious design, the title text is placed in an outline of a possible new day personality.

On the back, left, is the WANTED A NEW DAY poster.  The description of the qualities needed are lengthy and explicit.  They describe what many experience on a Sunday.  You know something, the opposite of what is expected to happen, is in the offing when you read the final line on the poster.

SERIOUS INQUIRIES ONLY

On the opening and closing endpapers, Dan Santat introduces and finishes his pictorial interpretation of this story.  On the first set, the six perplexed days, looking worried and disgusted, stand on an enlarged calendar within some of the square lines.  On the second set, the six days, now overjoyed, have left the audition table.  They are hugging Sunday, have open arms, and all are smiling.

On a dramatic two-page picture for the title page are seven vertical panels.  Each one contains one of the days except for the first one.  There is a smudge where Sunday should be.  These illustrations prepared

with watercolor, color pencil, crayon, and digitally rendered in Adobe Photoshop

are highly animated.  Facial expressions, body postures and clothing are captivating.  Background colors showcase dialogue displayed in speech bubbles.  

Sometimes a single page will focus on one thing, bringing us close to that item or person. Other times a series of horizontal or vertical panels will present the new days.  At times we are looking at the six-day audition panel, other times we are behind them or even looking down on the action.  Every time you read this book; you'll notice a different brilliant detail.  You'll burst out laughing at the text and image following the dedication and publication page at the end.

One of my many, many favorite illustrations is for DogDay.  It is a two-page image.  All the days are merrily enjoying the dogs and puppies.  It's a day where everyone will get a dog or a puppy.  There are dogs present in all kinds of shapes and sizes.  Some of the days have left their chairs to get closer to the dogs and puppies.  One puppy has joined Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday at the table.  Off to the right side, one dog is talking with a disgruntled cluster of cats. 

Brightly hued and lively images paired with light-hearted, inventive language beckon readers into the book, A New Day written by Brad Meltzer with illustrations by Dan Santat.  You'll carry this funny, lovable story in your heart, remembering how the right two words can be all we need.  I know you'll want a copy of this title for both your collections, personal and professional.

To learn more about Brad Meltzer and Dan Santat and their other work, access their websites by following the link attached to their names.  Brad Meltzer has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  Dan Santat has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. At the publisher's website you can view the opening endpapers.  Here is a link to a clip on Good Morning America with Brad Meltzer speaking about this book. 

The two other blog posts in the Better Together series are here and here.

Better Together #2

It is not only people who respond to compassion.  Humans with animal companions, veterinarians who heal and care for them, and scientists who study them usually agree the response from animals approached and treated with kindness is favorable.  In fact, there is evidence some animals experience a varied range of emotions. (Animal Emotions: Exploring Passionate Natures: Current interdisciplinary research provide compelling evidence that many animals experience such emotions as joy, fear, love, despair, and grief---we are not alone by Marc Bekoff, BioScience, Volume 50, Issue 10, October 2000)  An act of compassion or harmony does not need to be a grand gesture.  It can be as simple as a glance filled with warmth and affection.

Sometimes, the least of us are the ones who need to receive that glance, a caring word, a helping hand or even something done in complete anonymity the most.  Tiny Kitty, Big City (Balzar + Bray, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, March 2, 2021) written and illustrated by Tim Miller simply, truthfully and with great affection is a gentle reminder of what it means to be charitable.  When we are mindful of others everyone wins.

Tiny kitty.

Big city.

When you are a tiny kitty, the city is more crowded.  It is a forest of feet and legs.  You hurry through the maze of people and vehicles as quickly and safely as possible.

Loud noises and barking dogs are frightening.  Bravery comes when joining with an iconic ally.  A warm day welcomes rest.  

An idyllic afternoon is spent dining and playing.  As evening descends, so does a snowstorm.  Nothing would be better than the warmth of a home.  Tiny kitty is chilly.

In darkness, a bluesy beat beckons.  Hearts swell at a serenade.  Love finds a way.

Using two words, kitty and city, and adding carefully selected, single adjectives, author Tim Miller tells a tale of being lost and found, and of finding what you may not have known you've lost.  The two-word phrases toggle back and forth as opposites and as responses.  The way this narrative is purposefully presented, we are able to understand the personality of the kitty and the characteristics of the city.  In those revelations, the tiny kitty and big city are able to meet in heartwarming rapport.  Here are two more two-word phrases.

Wildlife city.

Playful kitty.

Opening the dust jacket, we see the story beginning.  To the left, back, of the spine on pale blue is the tiny kitty peering from the inside of a tipped cardboard box.  On the front, right, the tiny kitty looks large compared to the big city in the background.  This reader likes to think of that as foreshadowing.  It is a hopeful concept.  The title text and tiny kitty are varnished.

You cannot look at the book case without smiling.  Across the opened book case is tiny kitty's face, up close and personal.  The nose and mouth are placed at the bottom of the spine.  One eye is on the left and the other eye is on the right.  This is a soul-to-soul stare.

Across the opening and closing endpapers, tiny pawprints, in blue on a cream canvas, loop back and forth beginning in the upper left-hand corner and running off the lower, right-hand corner.   The loops do change lengths.  Instead of going off the edge on the right side on the closing endpapers, the happy ending of this story is presented.

There are notable details for readers to see.  The words for the dedication are in the shape of a heart.  On the title page tiny kitty is staring into a puddle.  The kitty and the big city are reflected there.  Of the making of these illustrations artist Tim Miller says:

This book was made with acrylic gouache, with digital touch-ups.  Also my cat was sitting on my lap while I worked, so you might find some of her hair in the pictures.

Black lines define each element in these images.  Tim Miller presents multiple perspectives on his double-page pictures and his full-page pictures.  We look at the world from tiny kitty's point of view, from a person's point of view, and from a bird's gaze at the city below it.  These illustrations are full of emotion, fright, wonder, exhilaration, courage, contentment, fun, joy, and love.

One of my many, many favorite illustrations is a double-page picture.  The sky is golden in the middle of a sunny day.  Trunks and bare branches of trees rise in front of background buildings on the left.  In front of these a large "library lion", facing left, stretches across both pages.  A familiar building fills a large portion of the right side.  Asleep under the majestic feline's face is tiny kitty on the large legs and paws.

Guaranteed to be a read-aloud favorite and much requested title, Tiny Kitty, Big City written and illustrated by Tim Miller needs to be on your personal and professional bookshelves. In his dedication Tim Miller conveys his passion and purpose for this book.  We are grateful to him.

To learn more about Tim Miller and his other work, please follow the link attached to his name to access his website.  Tim Miller has accounts on Instagram and Twitter. This title is discussed, and Tim Miller is interviewed at Scholastic's Ambassador of School Libraries John Schumacher's Watch. Connect. Read. and at teacher librarian Travis Jonker's 100 Scope Notes.  Don't miss either of these posts!  They are fabulous as is the post Tim Miller wrote for the Nerdy Book Club. 

If you were to ask a group of people of various ages a year ago how they define peace, would those same people answer differently today?  Perhaps, a lot of their replies would change.  A global pandemic has a way of altering perspectives and priorities.  Also, if you were to ask this group how to obtain peace, express peace, or give peace, would their thinking have shifted?  Peace, Paz and Frieden (English, Spanish, and German translations of the same book) (North|South, March 2, 2021) written by Baptiste Paul and Miranda Paul with illustrations by Esteli Meza allows all ages to ponder those very questions.  It expresses through universal actions in easily understood words and lively, luminescent images, peace is for everyone, everywhere, and always.  

Peace is a hello,

a smile,

a hug.

Peace is for those who dare to be different and for those who quietly work alone.  When we show respect for others, extending common courtesies to them like looking at them when we share conversations, that is peace.  Sometimes peace starts with an unspoken gesture.  When shared ideas are discovered, that unspoken gesture blooms into a movement.

When we give to others when we have more than we need, that is peace.  Do these actions happen immediately?  No.  Peace is a good habit to nurture and have.  It's something we carry with us as if it is a part of our bodies. 

Peace is acknowledging our mistakes to ourselves and to others.  This peace brings a calm during day and night, happiness and sorrow.  Where there has been life, there has been peace.  What can and will we do to bring it to all parts of our planet?

Having read this aloud in both English and Spanish, the words of Miranda Paul and Baptiste Paul (and translator Aida Salazar), gently sing off the pages in the sweetest of melodies.  The thoughts and truths supplied through rhyming text envelope you.  The words in this narrative are an invitation readers will be unable to resist.  With intention the selected actions are possible, releasing all to enjoy the results.  Here is a passage.

Peace is on purpose.

Peace is a choice.

Peace lets the smallest of us

have a voice.

La paz es a proposito.

La paz es una eleccion.

La paz permite a los mas pequenitos

tener una voz.

When you look at the front (right) and back (left) of the opened dust jacket, it is like you are looking at a portrait of peace.  Look at the children from all backgrounds with different animals among a paradise of plants and trees.  Everyone is happy.  Everyone is enjoying the company of the others without discord.  On the back (left), there are three children, six animals and two insects, a butterfly and a bee. Across one of the large leaves, it reads:

Peace is a choice.

La paz es a proposito.

On the book case a muted gold is the canvas.  On the left side is information about the book and its creators.  On the front a sturdy brown trunk and several branches are seats for children and animals.  The leaves are a hue of blue and some are a shade of pink.  This tree scene is circled by a pale peach background.  At the base of the trunk an animal peeks out at readers.  The same white dove seen on the front of the jacket flies toward the tree here.

On the opening and closing endpapers three tiny flowers dot the bottom of a deep blue canvas.  The tree shown on the book case is placed in the center.  The children and animals are gone.  Within the blush-colored leaves is the word peace in multiple languages.

In a word, the artwork here by Esteli Meza is stunning.  Her style is distinctive, replete with vibrant rich colors.  The flora is bold and symbolic.  Children from all parts of the world are represented on each of the double-page pictures.  They are actively engaged with each other and the animals.  

With each reading you will notice a new detail.  When there is more than one animal, it looks as though they are a family.  Fish in the ocean swim forming the shape of a larger fish.  The white dove is in every image.  Readers will gasp at the four-page gatefold at the end of the book.  

One of my many, many favorite illustrations is for a single sentence.  It is night.  On the right we can see a sliver of the sky and two stars.  The dove is sleeping on a slim branch which winds up the right side and along the bottom on the right.  Two other branches fan out along the bottom on the right and left.  The body of a dozing lion covers most of the two pages.  A gray cat with a curved body and a girl with red hair in a braid lean against the lion's body.  A zebra is next to them.  The hues and pattern in the girl's dress complement the branches and leaves shown on the edges.  You know sweet dreams are being enjoyed by all.

This book, Peace, Paz, and Frieden written by Baptiste Paul and Miranda Paul with illustrations by Esteli Meza, is one to keep close.  It not only depicts peace with excellence but brings peace to all who read it.  You will want to read the Authors' Note at the end.  I highly recommend you place a copy or two in your professional collection as well as in your personal collection.

To learn more about Baptiste Paul, Miranda Paul, and Esteli Meza and their other work, please access their respective websites by following the link attached to their names.  Baptiste Paul has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  Miranda Paul has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.  Esteli Meza has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  At the publisher's website are interior images, and multiple teacher resources.  At Simon & Schuster, there is one image not shown at the publisher's website.  At Scholastic's Ambassador of School Libraries John Schumacher's Watch. Connect. Read., the book trailer is premiered. Baptiste and Miranda talk about this book. 

UPDATE:  This title is showcased by author, reviewer, and blogger Julie Danielson at her site, Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast.  There is an interview with Tim Miller and considerable process art.

Illumination

Two mornings ago, a new full-time neighbor called out to me asking how long everyone leaves up their holiday lights.  My reply was, "It varies."  Due to the unpredictability of the northern winters, some people leave their lights up all year, only lighting them in December.  For myself, I will leave all of them up and on for the twelve days of Christmas.  (On Christmas Eve, I spread luminaries across more than one hundred feet along the bottom of my hill.  Surprisingly enough, the candles stayed lit for six hours.)  The large pine on my hilltop will keep its lights lit for six hours during darkness until we have conquered COVID-19.  I also told this neighbor I ordered candles to put in all my windows all year long.  

Putting lights up around windows, draped on tree branches inside my home, and outside my home on bushes and trees reminds me to use my light and to be the light someone might need.  When people see the lights on display, I want them to believe in the hope the light represents.  I want them to believe people care about them.  Share Some Kindness, Bring Some Light (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, October 27, 2020) written and illustrated by Apryl Stott is an enchanting debut.  It is about being brave enough to be yourself.

Coco and Bear were friends from almost the first time they met.

They were very different:  Bear was big, Coco was small.

Bear was shy.  Coco was brave.

Despite these differences, the friends were exactly alike in one important characteristic.  They had compassionate hearts.  During a conversation, Bear expressed his wish for the other animals to see him as Coco did. 

His sadness brought to mind a saying Coco's grandmother always said.  There and then the duo decided it was time to let the animals know how kind Bear was.  It was important to 

bring some light.

Their dilemma was to how to do these two things.

Cookie baking and lantern making followed.  The companions set off to visit the other animals with hope in their hearts.  Badger, Rabbit, Hedgehog, and Skunk did not receive them well.  There were complaints.  There was grumbling.  The trek home was slow and cold.  

Suddenly, they heard a cry for help.  Coco nearly got stuck in waist deep snow, climbing on Bear's back to safety.  Another creature, nearly buried in snow, seeks security on Bear's back.  When Bear and his two passengers reach the other animals, animals looking for a lost child, Bear's true self shines like a lantern's glow except for one more thing.  Life, like Bear, is full of wonderful surprises if we trust Coco's grandmother's words of wisdom.

If you take two words from the title, kindness and light, readers will find they flow freely like a current through the narrative written by Apryl Stott. During the conversations between Coco and Bear their revealed personalities enrich our experience. We feel an immediate connection to them because of their shared understandings and affection.  This connection increases when they strive to make Coco's grandmother's saying a reality and bring about Bear's heart's deepest desire.  Through the word choices and use of language by Apryl Stott, we learn along with Coco, Bear, and the other animals of the forest.  Here is a passage.

"They say that I must be mean,

'cause I'm so big.  And some of

them are afraid of me."

"Noodle strudel," said Coco

in disbelief.

"Yeah," said Bear, sniffing.

Coco gave Bear a big, tight hug.  Because that's what made

her feel better whenever she was sad.

I don't know about you, but when I look at the front of the matching dust jacket and book case and see Coco and Bear walking in the woods together on a snowy evening, I want to be walking with them.  Who wouldn't want to be a part of this caring companionship?  The color palette here with the luminous overtones in pink and purple radiate kindness.  The title text is raised and embossed in foil.  Coco and Bear are varnished.

To the left, on the back, on the other side of the spine the scene continues.  The end of the log is jagged from its fall and open.  Pine trees coated in snow are mixed with deciduous trunks and branches bare of leaves.  Snow falls, blanketing the forest floor.

On the opening and closing endpapers readers are treated to exquisite, intricate line drawings.  On the left and right of each page, at the beginning and at the end, are large circular depictions in the center of each page.  Each one of these pictures are different.  They represent the efforts of Coco and Bear, before and after the rescue.  Around these four drawings the partial circles, and other decorative framings remain the same on the opening and closing endpapers.  Within these are forest creatures and other representative symbols.

With a page turn, a double-page picture of Bear and Coco walking in the forest greets readers.  Here the verso, dedication, and title pages are placed.  The snow is just starting to fall.  

These illustrations by Apryl Stott

were rendered in watercolor and digital ink.

She presents full-page images, edge to edge, circular illustrations, framed in twigs or leaves, and double-page visuals.  The type of flora framing the circular pictures changes each time.  It's as if we've stepped into the forest world, fascinated by what is unfolding.  There are two double-page wordless, wondrous illustrations.  The facial expressions on all the characters will endear them to you.

One of my many, many favorite illustrations is a two-page picture.  It is as if we are a bird, hovering in place over Bear and Coco.  Along the bottom portion of the image, we see an array of snow-coated pine trees.  From above they look like opened flowers.  Winding above them in the snow is a path, prints showing where Bear and Coco have walked.  There are fewer pine trees above them.  The duo is now in the center on the right.  On the left side, they abandoned their sled laden with lanterns and wrapped plates of cookies. (Foreshadowing)

This book is beautiful to share any day, any time of year.  How wonderful though to begin the New Year by reading this delightful debut, Share Some Kindness, Bring Some Light written and illustrated by Apryl Stott, with one or many readers.  It will promote the best kind of discussions.  I highly recommend this title for your personal and professional collections.  (Sending a special message of gratitude to my friend John Schumacher for gifting me this book.)

To learn more about Apryl Stott and her other work, please follow the link attached to her name to access her website.  Apryl has numerous suggestions for activities to use with this book.  Apryl Stott has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, and YouTube.  At the publisher's website you can view interior images and the full dust jacket.

Glimmers In The Gloom

On dark days and even darker nights, we seek light, however faint it may be.  We lift our faces up to search the sky for stars or a portion of the moon.  We look for lights shining in windows of homes, even if it is the flame from a single candle. Light need not be from stars, the moon, or devices made by humans.  

Light can be found in a generous heart, the warmth of a gaze or a quick, easy smile.  Ella's Night Lights (Candlewick Press, November 24, 2020) written and illustrated by Lucy Fleming follows a whimsical being of the forest.  Although she can only move about at night, this does not diminish her purpose.

Nestled in a little nook

of an old oak tree

lived a teeny-tiny girl.

Her name was Ella.

Ella's delicate wings kept her inside during daylight hours.  Her greatest desire was to see a sunrise.  She loved light.

At night when Ella left her home, she gathered every bit of light she found.  She did not keep it for herself.  It was freely given to those who needed to navigate through darkness.

Each time she gave away light, she whispered a poem to the recipient.  She believed at one time or another; light was needed by someone.  One night Sable, a fox, welcomed Ella's light.  The duo became friends, gathering and sharing light together.

On another night another forest being was frightened.  Ella offered light. Night after night, Ella and her new friends frolicked in fun until the sun started to rise. Sable wanted to bring as much happiness to Ella as she brought to others.  The fox and the forest friends fashioned something unexpected for Ella; like her they found light in darkness.

This tender and loving story resonates through the narrative penned by Lucy Fleming.  Through her use of alliteration Lucy Fleming draws us into the nights spent by Ella.  The repetition of the rhyming, reassuring poem ties portions of the story together.

All of us can identify with being or feeling small and of having a deep desire.  Lucy Fleming, through Ella, allows us to understand the strength found in sharing light and our light.  Ella is a shining example of placing others before yourself.  Here, the shared hope comes back to Ella.  This is another passage.

When Ella awoke at night

and the moon was high,

she flittered and flew, collecting light.

She was drawn to everything that

glowed and glimmered

in the darkness. 

The enchanting scene shown on the front, right, of the matching dust jacket and book case gives us a glimpse of the magic found within the pages of this book.  Ella's two best forest friends are shown gathering and enjoying light with her.  The swirl of stars and dust represent the sharing of the gathered light.  On the front of the dust jacket the light shimmers.  

The image on the front, right, spreads over the spine to continue on the left, back.  The hill over the spine sloops down to a small valley before rising again.  There are some trees in the foreground on the right.  On the left, a large tree extends from the corner to the top, some branches reaching toward the full moon sitting just above the valley.  What a gorgeous, glorious illustration this is! (The entire picture continues flap edge to flap edge.)

The opening and closing endpapers are a golden yellow.  Etched in white are stars and other night flyers, moths.  The verso, dedication and title pages are a single illustration.  It is a panoramic view of the winter world, a vast meadow bordered by forests.  A star streaks across the night sky.

Rendered digitally, these illustrations, double-page pictures, full-page pictures, and smaller pictures grouped on a single page, show a winter world hushed in the darkness. Whether we are close to Ella or given a larger perspective of her night journeys, each intricate detail contributes to the charm of the setting and tale.  We want to stop to enjoy all the individual elements.  As Ella collects light, it follows her everywhere.  This presents the truth of light being drawn to light.

One of my many, many favorite illustrations is a full-page image.  The canvas is a starry sky with a lighter purple shade toward the bottom.  In the left-hand corner is a bit of branches from a tree.  A crescent moon hangs above these branches.  In the sky are Luna, Ella, and Sable, left to right.  Each of them is holding a balloon of light with a central glow. Luna and Ella are in flight.  Sable is leaping straight up.

Delightful from beginning to end, resonating long after the covers are closed, Ella's Night Lights written and illustrated by Lucy Fleming is a story of giving and receiving.  Readers will be wrapped in its warmth of friendship found.  You'll want to use this title for a storytime on being a friend, winter, bedtime, and sharing your talents.  Be sure to have a copy on your personal and professional bookshelves.

To learn more about Lucy Fleming and her other work, follow the link attached to her name to access her website.  Lucy Fleming has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Tumblr, and Twitter.  At the publisher's website you can view an interior illustration.  I hope you enjoy this video with Lucy Fleming talking about this book and her creative process.

Shaping Our Place In Society

From the time we first enter this world, until we exit, we are, by tiny steps or great leaps, a growing part of a glorious whole.  Whether we act alone, or with others, we are striving to not only find our place in society, but to help others find their place.  We protect.  We preserve.

If the last few years, specifically this year, have taught us nothing else, from this collection of days we know to take nothing for granted.  We know deep gratitude.  We know we cannot be silent, except when it is necessary to fuel our determined actions.  

Within the last two months four special books with a common theme have been released.  Each provides us with information, guidance, and inspiration.  They, individually and together, work as a means for discussions.  V Is For Voting (Henry Holt And Company, July 21, 2020) written by Kate Farrell with illustrations by Caitlin Kuhwald is an alphabet book designed to explain how each individual can make a difference.  It's an invitation we cannot refuse.

A is for active participation.

B is for building a more equal nation.

The next two letters focus on citizenship and our diversity.  It is followed by the need for all of us to be involved.  It is important to keep informed by a free press.  Our government is not only about leading the people but offering guidance.  H speaks to the truth of lands lost to occupation.  

Each person has a purpose, beginning in our communities.  As we pass the middle of the alphabet, we are reminded that each vote is important.  We cannot forget those who paved the way for a better life for future generations.

We need to have goals and stick to those goals, even if it means protesting.  We need to seek answers to our questions and hold those who represent us accountable. Education by 

talented teachers

gives us facts, and the ability to gather additional facts.  

Each time we vote, we are gaining ground toward change for the good.  Each time we vote, we exercise our rights.  Each time we vote, our voice is heard.

The strength of each statement for each letter is like a symphony building toward a crescendo.  Kate Farrell increases our participation in her narrative by rhyming the final word in each pair of letters. Sometimes, she will add another short sentence to the first to fashion the rhyme. Each sentence begins with the letter followed by is for.  Here is another couplet for a single letter.

S is for suffrage---the right to vote.

This fight is ongoing, not history's footnote.

When you open the cover (I am working with an F & G.  My copy has not yet arrived.), the colorful, bold images of illustrator Caitlin Kuhwald are an ideal complement to the text. Her focus on using red, white, and blue, and diverse people is a realistic nod to our country.  The girl, front and center, is shown, as are some of the other people, throughout the book. 

To the left, on the back, two other children are featured protesting.  The boy is holding a sign which reads:

V IS FOR

VOTING TO

MAKE YOUR 

VOICE HEARD!

To his right the girl has extended her left arm, fingers holding up the peace sign.

On the opening and closing endpapers are rows and rows of boxes.  In between the black boxes are hearts, stars and peace signs in shades of red.  Many of the boxes have a red x through them to indicate voting.  This design is placed on a cream background.

Throughout the book, the image sizes shift from single-page pictures, edge to edge, to double-page pictures, edge to edge.  For many of them two letters are used in a single illustration.  We see mixed-race families, people of different religious beliefs, and single-parent families.  Historical figures are used as examples with particular statements. In all the people's faces, readers will see calm, but resolve.

One of my favorite illustrations is a full-page image.  It features the neck and chin, torso, and one hand of a distinctive individual.  This beloved person is wearing a black robe with a white lace collar.  Their hand is over their heart.  It interprets these words:

J is for judges.  They're meant to be fair.

To be neutral, unbiased, objective, they swear.

Every collection, personal and professional, will want to have a copy of V Is For Voting written by Kate Farrell with illustrations by Caitlin Kuhwald.  Now, more than ever, all ages need to make educated decisions and exercise their right to vote.  At the close of the book is a short author's note and five discussions about the people highlighted in the letters G, N, S, T and U.  There is also A VOTING RIGHTS TIMELINE.

To learn more about illustrator Caitlin Kuhwald and her other work, please follow the link attached to her name to access her website.  Caitlin Kuhwald has accounts on Instagram and Twitter.  At the publisher's website you can view a series of interior images including the final two pages.

Every day we read or hear about the achievements of a single person.  We are encouraged by the power of their deeds regardless of the size of those deeds or the size or age of the person.  They make us brave.   The POWER of ONE: Every Act of Kindness Counts (Alfred A. Knopf, August 25, 2020) written by Trudy Ludwig with illustrations by Mike Curato is a beautiful portrait of change.

Sometimes One can feel like

a small and lonely number.

But don't let this little number fool you. 

It only takes one person to reach out to another person who needs comfort or support.  Beginnings start with one.  With this one, change is shaped.

One person listens.  One person smiles.  This is the start of connected hearts.

This one being can invite other people to listen and smile, comfort and show support.  Working together heals our souls, those injured and those who caused injury.  Extended warmth and heartfelt ideas make bridges linking more generous hearts.

We need to acknowledge and remember the miracle of a single seed.  Together these single seeds can feed physical and emotional hunger.  This is 

The POWER of ONE.

The words written by Trudy Ludwig in this story read like a poem.  Her spare, truthful text makes profound statements and supplies examples in support of those statements.  They also allow us to think between each page turn, imagining how these apply to our own lives.  Her repetition of the word one, is, like the word, powerful.  Here is another sentence.

One warm hug . . .

can lift our spirits up when

we're feeling down.

The front of the open dust jacket not only signifies the implications of the title, but hints at images to come in the body of the book.  The flower and its seeds are important.  Can you see the outline of other people in the glowing background?  To the left, on the back, is a depiction of the child on the front, seated on the ground, after cruel words hurt her.  The first, one, girl to comfort her is kneeling next to her.  This image is beneath the words:

One is the starting point for change.

Beneath the illustration are two endorsements.

On the book case artist Mike Curato shows us a close-up picture of a lush garden, full of leaves, ferns, pods, and fronds.  They are in shades of blues and greens.  Rising and curling from the right side of the spine is a single stem with a red and open flower on it.  Small sparkles in white come from the center.

The opening and closing endpapers are a cheery yellow.  Prior to the title page a wordless image tells the tale of verbal injury with a single soul watching.  Another two-page picture continues this tale for the title page.

On heavy, matte-finished paper  

using pencil, colored pencil, gouache, watercolor, paper, digital color, and photo collage

Mike Curato makes a mix of colorful elements and those in tones of black and gray.  This brings our attention to the main characters and his visual interpretation of the story.  He alternates between more panoramic views to those close to the people.  Sometimes a single item fills the page or captures our attention because it is alone in a larger context.  

The single flower growing as a symbol of friendship, apology, and forgiveness is wonderful.  The continued growth of the garden shows how one can multiple into many.  Many readers will see themselves in the children, from diverse races, highlighted here.

One of my many, many favorite pictures is for the passage above noted.  It spans two pages.  On the left is an enormous garden filled with blue and green leaves of all varieties.  From this garden a single stem has expanded to include three large red flowers and a smaller red one.  The largest flower blooms from the stem to the right of the gutter.  Inside the girl is being given a hug by the boy who hurt her, and she is hugging him back.  Under and to the right of them, another girl is smelling the tiny flower.

We have a choice to hurt and to heal.  The POWER of ONE: Every Act of Kindness Counts by Trudy Ludwig with illustrations by Mike Curato is a lovely example in words and artwork of the art of healing.  It presents to readers loving possibilities.  At the close of the book is a letter from Trudy Ludwig titled Planting Seeds of Kindness in Your Community.  It is followed by Recommended Books for Young Readers and Recommended Websites.  I highly recommend this title for your professional and personal collections.

To learn more about Trudy Ludwig and Mike Curato and their other work, please follow the link attached to their names to access their respective websites.  Trudy Ludwig has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.  Mike Curato has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  At the publisher's website you can view interior images.

It happened the day after our forty-fifth president was inaugurated.  It was January 21, 2017.  At this time, it is the largest single day event, a protest, in United States history.  It is called The Women's March 2017. Based upon a true story Love Is Powerful (Candlewick Press, September 8, 2020) written by Heather Dean Brewer with illustrations by LeUyen Pham follows a little girl as she and her mother get ready to show the world how strong love is.

Mari spilled her crayons onto the

table.  They made a messy rainbow.

"What are we coloring, Mama?"

she asked.

Mama smiled.  "A message for the

world."

Mari was concerned how the world would hear their message.  It's a huge place.  Her mother said 

love is powerful.

Mama wrote words on one poster, too small, Mari thought for the world to see.  On her sign, thinking of her family and friends, Mari wrote her message, the words of her mother.  

Wearing coats to warm them in the cold, the duo left their apartment, going down on the elevator to the street below.  There, they joined a crowd of people.  Again, Mari was concerned people could not hear their message in all this noise.

Soon, Mama lifted Mari to her shoulders.  From there Mari saw the sea of people stretching beyond her sight.  They were carrying signs and cheerfully chatting and shouting.  Still wondering if people could hear her message, Mari called it out.

To her surprise a single voice called it back.  She called it out again.  More voices called it back.  This four-letter word released its full potential that day, started by the voice of a child, a child who now knew the truth.

We happily join in this story as we read or listen to the conversation between Mari and her mother at the start of the book.  Author Heather Dean Brewer engages us immediately with this technique.  Mari's mother's reply to each of her questions with the title words increases the connection to the event in which they are participating.  Layer by layer it draws us toward the amazing conclusion.  Here is a passage.

Some held signs like Mari's, all saying different things.

Everyone cheered as they walked together.  Mama joined

them.  Mari bobbed above the crowd like a canary fluttering

over trees.  She felt as tall as one of the buildings. 

You can feel the sense of purpose when you look at the front, right, of the open dust jacket.  People are peaceful and happy to be able to voice their views in protest.  Not only does this scene mirror the title, but it mirrors the mood of the crowd.  The title text, solid red hearts, Mari and her mother are varnished.  It's a wonderful design style to combine bright colors with muted colors.

To the left, on the back, we are shown, on a canvas of pinkish lavender a picture of Mari and Mama.  Within a loose frame done in red crayon they are seated at the table making their posters.  The string of hearts hangs in their window behind them.  

On the book case, back and front, is a collage, in separate but blended squares, of people from the march.  You can tell these images represent all the marches on that day from around the world.  In the center on the right front, in a large square of its own, is the title.

The opening and closing endpapers are a lavender.  A two-page picture of the buildings in hues of gray of Mari's neighborhood, with the occupants standing in lighted windows, is the setting for the title page.  Artist LeUyen Pham rendered these pictures 

in watercolor, gouache, pencil, and ink.

Their size shifts with the text, enhancing its pacing. There are large images crossing the gutter to make a column for text.  There are double-page pictures with double-page smaller horizontal visuals underneath them.  Sometimes there are small vignettes accompanying the text.  There are full-page illustrations.  There is one large double-page vertical picture requiring you to turn the book.  There are three smaller vertical illustrations attached to one huge swirl of humanity on a full page.

Love abounds in every picture.  So does happiness, mirrored on all the faces.  We are always aware of where Mari and Mama are.  Readers will pause to notice the details; the items in Mari's and Mama's home which make it theirs, the words on the protesters' signs, the diversity of the participants in the march, and all the illustrations have hearts in them.

One of my many, many favorite images is for the quote above noted.  It is a close-up view of the marchers.  Buildings are behind those on the right and on the far left.  We see a collection of smiling faces, mouths open in cheers, and many holding signs.  There are adults and children.  Mari on Mama's shoulders is on the left side.  She watches all this in joyful contemplation.

Love Is Powerful written by Heather Dean Brewer with illustrations by LeUyen Pham is as strong as its title.  It presents an intimate portrait of happiness found when words are brought alive by actions.  At the close of the book is a letter from the real Mari along with a picture of her at the march.  This title has my highest recommendation for your personal and professional collections.

To learn more about Heather Dean Brewer and LeUyen Pham and their other work, visit their websites by following the link attached to their name.  Heather Dean Brewer has accounts on Instagram and Twitter.  LeUyen Pham has accounts on Facebook and Instagram.  At Watch. Connect. Read., the site of Scholastic's Ambassador of School Libraries, John Schumacher, Heather Dean Brewer and LeUyen Pham talk about this book.  At Penguin Random House you can view interior images.

In a beautiful continuation of their collaboration, author Susan Verde and artist Peter H. Reynolds, bring to readers another thoughtful title.  This book guides readers in making a difference.  No matter how small you are, you can bring change to yourself and more importantly, to others.  I Am One: A Book of Action (Abrams Books for Young Readers, September 15, 2020) welcomes you to make the first move.

How do I 

make a difference?

It seems like a tall order

for one so small.

The young child is told things of beauty begin with one.  One seed planted in the ground, one stroke of a paintbrush, or one brick removed from a wall can lead to the greater good.  Are not gardens, paintings, and friends better?

When a wall is gone, we can form bonds with those we were previously unaware.  Still using the number one, each gesture increases the bond between the two individuals.  A word, a hug, and a candle pave the path for the duo.

They arrive at a body of water.  A drop of candlewax in the water produces a ripple, growing and growing and growing.  The friends ride on the swells in a boat carrying their special cargo to new shores.

There they are greeted by others. Individuals, working together, to create a transformation.  They take what was, forming a marvelous masterpiece.

From her initial and only question, author Susan Verde weaves a tapestry of story.  Each of her carefully crafted thoughts add color and detail.  The common thread is the word one.  She begins with the first child, but with the mention of a brick and breaking down walls, another character is welcomed.  It is at this point, the color and detail become more vivid and intricate, representing the realm of possibility.  Here are two companion sentences.

I can use my

One soft voice

to start a friendship. 

I can perform

One act of kindness

to start a connection.

The color white is superbly used throughout this title to highlight the characters and their actions.  The spiral of hues of blue on the front of the dust jacket behind the first child symbolizes the ripples from the single drop of wax.  To the left, on the back of the dust jacket is an interior illustration of the first child leaning over the water so the single drop of wax can fall.  The second child is watching the effect.  The color palette selected by Peter H. Reynolds is full of warmth and calm here and on every single page.

On the book case, on a canvas of pure crisp white, a rainbow brush stroke like a wave moves from the left to the right of the opened case.  A tiny bird flies toward the gutter from the upper, left-hand corner.  Riding on the crest of the wave on the right side is a bright pink boat carrying the children, their precious cargo and a rainbow tree.  

The opening and closing endpapers are washed circles of turquoise.  On the title page is a close-up of the boat with the first child, the contents of the boat, the dog of the second child, and the tiny bird on the dog's head.  Rendered

using ink, gouache, watercolor, and tea

these pictures are portraits of endearing characters and their actions.  Each intricate line, element and color uplift and extend the words.

One of my many, many favorite illustrations is for the words:

I can perform

One act of kindness

to start a connection.

It is a single-page picture.  Behind the first child on the left are outlines of bricks in the wall.  Several bricks are on the ground.  This child is bending over to give a treat to the dog.  The second child is seated on the ground near a fire and a candle.  Tiny flowers bloom from grassy mounds.

This fifth book, I Am One: A Book of Action written by Susan Verde with illustrations by Peter H. Reynolds, in this stellar series is important.  It is important to understand each one of us can contribute to making the world better for others.  Each action no matter how small puts us on the right path.  At the close of the book is a two-page author's note including a mindfulness meditation and a self-reflection activity.  This book has my high recommendation to be included in both your personal and professional collections.  The other titles in the series are I Am Yoga, I Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness, I Am Human: A Book of Empathy, and I Am Love: A Book of Compassion.

To discover more about Susan Verde and Peter H. Reynolds and their other work, please follow the link attached to their name to access their websites.  Susan Verde has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  Peter H. Reynolds has accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  At the publisher's website are additional resources to use with this book.

Previously I wrote a post about Sometimes People March written and illustrated by Tessa Allen.  You might want to include that title with these for a unit of study, a story time, or to promote discussion.