Book Review: I Promise

I PROMISE by David McPhail is a beautifully illustrated picture book featuring a mother bear and her cub.

This charming story follows a bear and her cub as they spend the day exploring the forest. Along the way, the cub learns about the meaning of the word “promise”.

Librarians will find this sweet story has a useful message that can be effectively woven into the primary grade curriculum.

To learn more about the author/illustrator, go to http://davidmcphailillustrations.com/.

Published by Little, Brown for Young Readers, an imprint of Hachette on March 7, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: A Perfect Day

A PERFECT DAY by Lane Smith explores a perfect day for creatures living in Bert’s backyard.

A cat, a dog, a chickadee, and a squirrel are all having a perfect day until an unexpected visitor appears in Bert’s backyard. The unexpected ending will leave children smiling.

Librarians will find this book to be an effective read-aloud story. Use this adorable picture book to discuss the power of perspective with young children.

To learn more about the author/illustrator, go to http://www.lanesmithbooks.com/.

Published by Roaring Brook Press, an imprint of Macmillan on February 14, 2017. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Horrible Bear

HORRIBLE BEAR by Ame Dyckman tells the humorous, but powerful story of accidents, mistakes, and apologies.

Written for young children, this adorable picture book focuses on a young girl who becomes upset when a bear accidentally breaks her kite. She ultimately realizes the impact of her anger and the need for empathy and compassion.

Illustrator Zachariah OHora’s use of large, solid blocks of color while still paying attention to facial details make this picture book particularly compelling.

Librarians will find the social/emotional themes to be spot-on for early primary grade learners. Teachers will find many opportunities for classroom connections.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.amedyckman.com/
To learn more about the illustrator, go to http://www.zohora.com/.

Published by Little Brown Books for Young Readers, an imprint of Hachette on April 5, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Thank You and Good Night

THANK YOU AND GOOD NIGHT by Patrick McDonnell is an adorable bedtime story featuring an elephant, a bear, and a bunny.

Three friends come together for a pajama party filled with play, food, and fun. After a bedtime story, they share thanks and a goodnight kiss.

This sweet story of friendship and gratitude combines beautiful illustrations with simple text likely to appeal to young children.

Perfect for a read-aloud experience, this charming picture book is likely to become a classic. Librarians will find young children checking this book out over and over again.

Look for it on “Best of 2015” lists.

Published by Little-Brown, an imprint of Hachette on October 6, 2015. Review copy courtesy of publisher.

Book Review: One Bear Extraordinaire

ONE BEAR EXTRAORDINAIRE by Jayme McGowan is a beautifully illustrated picture book about a bear and his growing band of musician friends.

One morning a musical bear wakes up with a song in his head. As he explores the forest, other animal musicians join his growing band and contribute to his song. However, the bear still feels like something is missing until an unlikely young talent discovers the missing sound.

Librarians will find lots of ways to connect this colorful picture book with the music curriculum.

Consider creating a display of books by illustrations that use collage techniques including Marianne Berkes, Eric Carle, Lois Ehlert, Steve Jenkins, Leo Lionni, Faith Ringgold, and Melissa Sweet.

Learn more about the author/illustrator at http://roadsideprojects.com/.

Published by Abrams Books for Young Readers on September 8, 2015.

Book Review: Walk on the Wild Side

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE by Nicholas Oldland is the latest addition to the charming LIFE IN THE WILD picture book series.

This ingenious, contemporary fable reminds readers about the importance of friendship, slowing down, and appreciating life. Woven throughout the story are witty remarks, funny observations, and zingers that will keep children giggling. While the story is simple and easy to follow, it contains a strong message about the importance of viewing life as a journey. The nature and hiking theme will make readers of all ages want to get outside and enjoy a good hike.

Oldland’s appealing illustrations contain memorable characters that are likely to appeal to both children and adults. Of particular interest is how the author skillfully incorporates factual information about each animals such as what they eat for a snack. In addition, the bold, attractive font is perfect for the picture book format.

Children will enjoy reading the book multiple times observing details like the activities of the tiny bird accompanying the threesome. The book has endless possibilities for library storytelling activities.

In addition to WALK ON THE WIDE SIDE, librarians will want to purchase the other books in this outstanding series including Up the Creek, Making the Moose Out of Life, and Big Bear Hugs.

Available March 1, 2015 and published by Kids Can Press Books, a NetGalley ARC was used for the review.