#NewRelease: Mr. Mole Moves In

New Release

Mr. Mole Moves In

by Leslie-Anne Green

Tundra Books

Mr. Mole is new in town, and the critters of Juniper Hollow aren't sure what to make of his odd behavior. But one observant neighbor lends a helping hand, demonstrating that a little kindness can go a long way. This cozy story features adorable felted art and gentle situational humor.

Mr. Mole is a very well-mannered fellow. He greets fence posts politely, he compliments watermelons and he generously gives children erasers to eat.

The critters of Juniper Hollow are confused, but they befriend him anyway. After all, maybe this is just how things are done back in Moletown . . . and in Juniper Hollow, strangers are just friends waiting to happen!

This hilarious story of compassion, friendship and wacky misunderstandings will tickle readers, and the fuzzy artwork will delight fans big and small.

I absolutely adored this book! Not your typical illustrations - the felt and clay work was WELL-DONE! I definitely think kids will love seeing the pictures matched with the story about a wonderful new mole who moves into town, and makes hilarious first impressions on all the townspeople who realize....are you ready for a spoiler....that Mr. Mole simply needs a pair of glasses. Children will adore this story and giggle throughout it.

#SundayReview: Tough Like Mom

Sunday Review

Tough Like Mum

by Lana Button

Tundra Books

What does it mean to be tough? Kim finds out in this moving mother-daughter story about family hardship, vulnerability and love, perfect for fans of Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors.

Kim's mum is tough. Everyone says so. She can deal with unruly customers at the Red Rooster with a snap of her fingers.

Kim is tough, too. She doesn't need to wear a hat to keep her ears warm. And she can make soup all by herself, even without the stove.

Kim and her mum are tough.

But Kim is learning that sometimes toughness doesn't look like what you'd expect.

In this tender exploration of a mother-daughter relationship, Kim and her mother learn that in order to support and truly take care of each other, they need to be tough -- and that sometimes being tough means showing vulnerability and asking for help.

I am a huge fan of Lana Button, and she has not disappointed me with Tough Like Mum. Tackling the difficult subject of a child with a parent struggling with depression, the story brings forward the difficulties of the unknown which can be a hard subject for any child to tackle. 

#SundayReview: I Do Not Like Yolanda

Sunday Review

I Do Not Like Yolanda

by Zoey Abbott

Tundra Books

Bianca likes stamps and writing letters and going to the post office. . . she does not like Yolanda, who works there. A relatable story about facing your fears and giving people a second chance for fans of Miss Nelson Is Missing and My Teacher is a Monster.

When Bianca gets stuck in Yolanda's line at the post office, she expects the worst: scowls, claws, teeth . . .

This is what she gets for having a five-letter day.

She might not survive . . .

Or will Yolanda surprise her?

This hilarious story explores fear and kindness, in that order, when Bianca decides to overcome her terror and ask Yolanda very nicely how her weekend was... and learns that Yolanda is not scary, she's a delight! A truly lovely book about questioning your assumptions and reaching out to another person, no matter how scary they might be.

This is definitely one of my favourite picture book reads for the year! I loved the story about a little girl who did not like a grumpy post office worker, but when she took the time to ask her something about herself, learned they have a lot in common. A wonderful story to teach children that there is more to a person then a first impression.

#SundayReview: Anonymouse

Sunday Review

Anonymouse

by Vicki Vansickle

Tundra Books

Animal-friendly street art is popping up all over the city, but who is creating these masterpieces? There is no explanation, only a name: Anonymouse. For fans of Sidewalk Flowers and Art & Max.

Art for the birds.
Art for the ants.
Art for the dogs, cats and raccoons.
Art to make them laugh, make them think, make them feel at home.
But who is creating it?
Only Anonymouse knows for sure . . .

This clever tale mixes street art, animals and gorgeous illustrations to create a meditation on how art can uplift any creature's spirit -- human or animal -- when it speaks directly to them. Every page of Anna Pirolli's stunning artwork is its own masterpiece with its bold pops of colour and sly humor, elevating Vikki VanSickle's subtle but evocative text.

A great story about street art and the ways it can help us see the beauty of an urban landscape. Classrooms can use this book in lesson planning and have children come up with their own ways to see the playground or school structures different.

#SundayReview: The Aquanaut

Sunday Review

The Aquanaut

by Jill Heinerth

Tundra Books

Written by an award-winning aquanaut and with art by a #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator, this inspiring picture book encourages readers to explore their world, build their self-esteem and imagine what they can do and become when they grow up.

When I was young, the world seemed too dangerous. Everything was too hard. I was too young. Places were too far away. But that was okay because I had a big imagination . . .

Through beautiful, spare text, Jill Heinerth tells her story about a girl who feels too young, too little and too far away from her dreams. But you don't need to wait to grow up. It doesn't take much to imagine all the things you can do and be. What if your bedroom were a space station? What would it be like to have flippers or tusks? In your own home you can explore new worlds and meet new friends.

Jaime Kim's luminous art transports readers back and forth through time to see how Jill's imagination as a young girl laid the pathway to her accomplishments and experiences as an underwater explorer.

I love this story about how to use your imagination to overcome fears. The best part is that it is about the author as a child, showing the reader that they can also overcome their fears and follow their dreams. Amazing illustrations take us into the dark places of the ocean and show the beauty that lies beneath.

#SundayReview: Maya's Big Scene

Sunday Review

Maya's Big Scene

Isabelle Arsenault

Tundra Books

Maya's imagination sets the stage for her friends to act out her feminist play. Can she make room in her queendom for the will of the people? A funny picture book about leadership and fair play for fans of King Baby and Olivia.

Maya is a bossy, burgeoning playwright and loves to have the kids in her Mile End neighborhood bring her scenes to life. Her latest work, about a feminist revolution, is almost ready for public performance. But as her actors begin to express their costume preferences, Maya quickly learns that their visions may not match hers . . . and as both Director and Queen, Maya demands obedience and loyalty in her queendom of equality! But she soon realizes -- with the help of her friends and subjects -- that absolute bossiness corrupts absolutely!

What a great tale of community, leadership, and being humble. I loved the story of the strong-headed Maya, who took it upon herself to put on a neighbourhood play. But when things don't go exactly as planned she steps up and commands everyone to do what she says. This book opens up conversations with kids on freedom of speech, respect, and working together.

#SundayReview: Outside Art

Sunday Review

Outside Art

by Madeline Kloepper

Tundra Books

Join a curious pack of woodland animals as they try to understand what art is and create their own in this beautiful, playful picture book.

Pine Marten loves watching Human doing peculiar things in its log nest in the woods. One day, she notices Human putting colors on a board using a furry stick. Pine Marten learns from Chickadee that Human is actually "an artist" and is busy "making art." But what is art?

Soon all of the animals in the forest are wondering: why is Human doing this? Is it a warning? Is it looking for a mate? Is there any meaning at all? And if Human can make "art," why can't the animals do it too?

Outside Art is a gorgeous and gently humorous exploration of art, creativity and nature by up-and-coming author-illustrator Madeline Kloepper.

This book is a great way to introduce to kids both art appreciation and how to develop art from the natural work around us. I love how the animals each provided their outlook towards what the artist was creating, showing that there is room for multiple thoughts and opinions, yet were also able to work together and contribute something that they each felt was art from their own perspectives and abilities.

#IReadCanadian: The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt

#IReadCanadian

The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt

by Riel Nason

Tundra Books

When you're a quilt instead of a sheet, being a ghost is hard! An adorable picture book for fans of Stumpkin and How to Make Friends with a Ghost.

Ghosts are supposed to be sheets, light as air and able to whirl and twirl and float and soar. But the little ghost who is a quilt can't whirl or twirl at all, and when he flies, he gets very hot.

He doesn't know why he's a quilt. His parents are both sheets, and so are all of his friends. (His great-grandmother was a lace curtain, but that doesn't really help cheer him up.) He feels sad and left out when his friends are zooming around and he can't keep up.

But one Halloween, everything changes. The little ghost who was a quilt has an experience that no other ghost could have, an experience that only happens because he's a quilt . . . and he realizes that it's OK to be different.

This story is not only visually appealing, it's also sweet as can be. While most ghosts are made of sheets, little ghost is a quilt. It was all I could do not to imagine snuggling up with him as he is the most adorable and cozy looking little quilt ghost (we are quilt lovers in this house). An excellent tale about why being different is a good thing, children will also love reading about this relatable character who worries he's not like everyone else.

#SundayReview: The Barnabus Project (08/09)

#SundayReview

The Barnabus Project

by Terry Fan, Eric Fan and Devin Fan

Tundra Books

An adorable and heartwarming adventure with fun illustrations! Follow a group of ragtag toy rejects as they escape their toy store laboratory and venture out to find their place in the world. Part of the fun is spotting all the characters on each page.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free copy for my honest review.

 In a world built for Perfect Pets, Barnabus is a Failed Project, half mouse, half elephant, kept out of sight until his dreams of freedom lead him and his misfit friends on a perilous adventure. A stunning picture book from international bestsellers The Fan Brothers, joined by their brother Devin Fan.

Deep underground beneath Perfect Pets, where children can buy genetically engineered "perfect" creatures, there is a secret lab. Barnabus and his friends live in this lab, but none of them is perfect. They are all Failed Projects. Barnabus has never been outside his tiny bell jar, yet he dreams of one day seeing the world above ground that his pal Pip the cockroach has told him about: a world with green hills and trees, and buildings that reach all the way to the sky, lit with their own stars. But Barnabus may have to reach the outside world sooner than he thought, because the Green Rubber Suits are about to recycle all Failed Projects . . . and Barnabus doesn't want to be made into a fluffier pet with bigger eyes. He just wants to be himself. So he decides it's time for he and the others to escape. With his little trunk and a lot of cooperation and courage, Barnabus sets out to find freedom -- and a place where he and his friends can finally be accepted for who they are.

This suspenseful, poignant and magical story about following your dreams and finding where you truly belong will draw readers into a surreal, lushly detailed world in which perfection really means being true to yourself and your friends.

#IReadCanadian: Maud and Grand-Maud

#IReadCanadian

Maud and Grand-Maud

by Sara O'Leary

Tundra Books

Maud and Grand-Maud is an absolutely adorable picture book with gorgeous illustrations. I love the touching story of a quiet sleepover with Maud and her Grand-Maud. This reminds me of times with my own grandmother (especially tv trays and a late show) and how my children have also had special sleepovers with their grandmothers. A truly timeless story that I'm sure will be enjoyed for generations to come.

Thanks to NetGalley for the free copy in exchange for my honest review.

Maud loves the weekends that she stays at her grandma's house. There's always breakfast-for-supper, matching nightgowns, black-and-white movies and best of all -- having someone to listen to her dreams for when she grows up. But what makes the visit extra-special is what Grand-Maud has hidden in an old chest under her bed. Sometimes there are paint sets, toys, homemade cookies, handknit mittens or sweaters. But Maud finds a wonderful surprise when she finds a belonging from Grand-Maud's childhood. When she grows up, Maud wants to be just like Grand-Maud.

Maud and Grand-Maud is a sweet celebration of the unique bond between grandparents and grandchildren.

#NewRelease: Terry Fox and Me

#NewRelease

Terry Fox and Me

by Mary Beth Leatherdale & Milan Pavlovic

Tundra Books

Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Terry Fox Marathon of Hope, this picture book biography tells the story of a friendship defined by strength and love.

Before Terry Fox become a national hero and icon, he was just a regular kid. But even then, his characteristic strength, determination and loyalty were apparent and were the foundation for his friendship with Doug. The two first met at basketball tryouts in grammar school. Terry was the smallest - and worst - basketball player on the court. But that didn't stop him. With Doug's help, Terry practiced and practiced until he earned a spot on the team. As they grew up, the best friends supported each other, challenged each other, helped each other become better athletes and better people. Doug was by Terry's side every step of the way: when Terry received a diagnosis of cancer in his leg, when he was learning to walk - then run - with a prosthetic leg and while he was training for the race of his life, his Marathon of Hope.

Written from Doug's perspective, this story shows that Terry Fox's legacy goes beyond the physical and individual accomplishments of a disabled athlete and honors the true value of friendship.

#SundayReview: Monsters 101

#SundayReview

Monsters 101

by Cale Atkinson

Tundra Books

Monsters 101 is an excellent read for anyone interested in the science behind monsters. Tons of facts and checklists create an enjoyable and interactive experience for the reader. It even talks about how to get along with them. At the end you even get a diploma!
Thanks to NetGalley for offering a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

Monsters! They're so much more than just that scary thing under your bed. Join Professors Vampire, Blob and Werewolf, and their trusty lab assistant--a zombie named Tina--as they reveal eerie and frankly ridiculous monsters facts never uttered outside a crypt! For example:

  •   Monsters love competitive board game nights!
  •   Favorite monster foods include clam pudding with fish heads and pickled ant ice cream!
  • In addition to cauldrons and spider gardens, monster homes often include homemade collages!
  •   Werewolves hate the sound of vacuum cleaners!
  •   Monsters aren't all scary! Try being nice to one for a change! Offer them a compliment!

Full of eye-popping illustrations and a story with nonstop sidesplitting laughs, plus a removable Professor of Monstrology diploma at the end of the book, Monsters 101 will have children--and adults--eager to enroll, time and time again!

#IReadCanadian: The Invisible Bear

#IReadCanadian

The Invisible Bear

by Cecile Metzger

Tundra Books

A touching story about a lonely bear that gets an upbeat new neighbour, who shows him how to look at the world a little differently. I am absolutely buying a copy of this book to add to my library. Not only is it a sweet story, but it's also filled with beautiful illustrations.

A simple act of kindness brings two unlikely friends together in this profound picture book about the transformative power of friendship.

A bear sits in his quiet, colorless home in a forgotten place. He feels invisible; no one comes to see him, and he spends his days alone. 

Then someone moves in next door. Madame Odette is sound and sunshine, and at first, the bear isn't sure about this colorful new neighbor.

But through an act of kindness, the bear and the Madame Odette meet, and as time goes by, they become friends. And in the end, they are both forever changed by the gifts they bring each other.

The first book from author-illustrator Cécile Metzger, The Invisible Bear is a powerful and beautiful meditation on the beauty of friendship and how two people can save each other just by being themselves.