Kidlit Spotlight: EL CUCUY IS SCARED, TOO!

You can’t outgrow fear, no matter your age. As a mom, I get scared of all sorts of things every day - mostly activities involving my children. I worry about them getting hurt as they try something new. I also worry about my girls being embarrassed or crushed when I’m not there to help them navigate their emotions.

Yep, the worry is pretty much non stop, interwoven into all of life’s moments - from the scary and unpredictable, to the beautiful and epic.

My girls have fears, too, of course. They usually surface at bedtime, right as we’re winding down for the day. Their worries come rushing in like powerful waves. We brace for the crash, then I do my best to help them to see the shoreline. The dry, safe surface is almost always within reach, even though it can feel far away.

New picture book EL CUCUY IS SCARED, TOO! is a story about growing into, and working your way through, new kinds of fear. Not the fear of monsters in your room. But big-kid fears of unfamiliar experiences and the unknown world. Here’s the bright, endearing cover of this touching story by Donna Barba Higuera, illustrated by Juliana Perdomo (Abrams Books for Young Readers), which arrived on shelves a little earlier this month.

EL CUCUY IS SCARED, TOO! is a picture book about a boy named Ramón and the monster in his room, El Cucuy. As Ramón and El Cucuy chat and swap stories, it’s clear that - despite their fears - these friends have prepared each other for harrowing life moments ahead, including Ramón’s first day at a new school. Here are three things that I love about the new picture book EL CUCUY IS SCARED, TOO! …

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Balance of Bright & Dark

EL CUCUY IS SCARED, TOO! begins at night. White stars twinkle upon a black sky as the story’s characters wrestle with the same trouble: Sleeplessness. El Cucuy, a sweet little bedtime monster, attempts to startle Ramón with his best scare. But the creature fails to elicit a jump from Ramón, as it did when Ramón was younger. The little boy has something else on his mind. “Other things are scarier to me now,” Ramón says. “Yo también,” El Cucuy sighs.

From page to beautiful page, bright striped textiles and familiar objects surround Ramón and El Cucuy. The brilliant tones and patterns provide a lovely counter balance to the heavy emotions the characters discuss, evoking cheerful and buoyant feelings in the reader, even as they process big feelings and worrisome things.

Art by Juliana Perdomo

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Parallel Journeys

Thought bubbles whisk readers into memory, as Ramón and El Cucuy picture home. “I miss our old casita,” Ramón says, as El Cucuy imagines the desert wind and the coyotes singing. The characters mirror each other on either side of the book’s gutter (center binding), a composition that emphasizes their parallel journey, as well as physical similarities between Ramón and El Cucuy: round faces, sweet smiles, and cross-legged posture. El Cucuy seems in this moment to be a reflection Ramón’s childhood loves, joys and self.

Soon the characters begin talking about school, which starts the next morning. As Ramón shares worries, El Cucuy follows suit. Whenever El Cucuy expresses a fear, Ramón comfortingly reassures the monster, demonstrating that he’s learning to distinguish between fears that are imagined and those that are very real, yet harder to define.

Art by Juliana Perdomo

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Constant Companion

Just when it seems that Ramón has it all figured out, it turns out that he needs reassurance, too. Ramón worries that he won’t fit in at school. “What if my clothes are not like theirs? What if they make fun of the way I speak?” El Cucuy understands, although he worries that people in this new place won’t even know to fear him.

It’s when comforting El Cucuy that Ramón finds his courage: “Eres fuerte… and brave. You will make new friends.” As Ramón and El Cucuy continue sharing memories and fears aloud, it’s evident that Ramón has never been alone. El Cucuy has been beside him all throughout his childhood, helping him develop strategies for handling fear, such as singing favorite songs and shining a flashlight directly upon the source of a scare.

Art by Juliana Perdomo

Ramón and El Cucuy’s bond shows the tremendous power that imagined companions can have in childhood development. In many ways, EL CUCUY IS SCARED, TOO! is an ode to imaginary friends, with an incredibly positive underlying message to children who will be coming to a new town or country, or starting over this new school year…

You are brave. You are more equipped than you know. The tools you’ve used to confront your fears in the past are still available to you today. And - perhaps most poignant of all - shine light into dark places, so you can face your fears head on. They might not be so scary, after all.

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The Creators

Donna Barba Higuera's middle grade and picture books are about kids who find themselves in odd or scary situations, and characters who tackle more than just the bizarre things that happen to them in their lives. Donna likes to write about all things funny, but also sad, and creepy, and magical. If you like those things, read her books, found HERE! Donna lives in Washington State with her family, three dogs and two frogs. 

​Juliana Perdomo has a background as a psychologist and an art therapist, but her passion is in children’s literature. Her work is diverse, heartfelt and personal, folkish, a bit retro, and joyful, with a Latin touch. She has participated in many beautiful projects, including books (found HERE!), puzzles, animations, branding, family portraits, and magazines. She lives with her amazing son Luca, rocker partner Iván and crazy old dog Menta.

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One lucky reader will win EL CUCUY IS SCARED, TOO!,

signed by Donna Barba Higuera!

1. "Like" this post (click the heart below)

2. Follow me (@anitraschulte) on Twitter

3. Retweet my pinned contest tweet by 7/30/21 

GOOD LUCK!

Kids Day Story Time in Geneva, IL

A year ago, in-person story times seemed a distant dream.

This summer, that dream is coming true!

So far this year, I’ve had the chance to be a part of three live story time events - a lifelong wish and hope fulfilled. The first was at an inclusive playdate put on by Rising Lights Project at Happy Hooves Farm. (Read about that HERE!) And the second was at Kids Day, a Swedish Days event in Geneva, Ill.

Kids Day was canceled last year, due to Covid. But in early spring of 2021, it looked like the event would be a go. At brainstorming meetings with representatives from the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, Geneva Public Library and Rising Lights Project, my wheels started turning with ways to make this year’s Kids Day, planned for the brand new Geneva Public Library site, inclusive and exciting.

There are so many incredible authors within a few-hour’s drive of Geneva, so I reached out to some fellow creator friends to see if they might be willing to come to the library for a morning of story times. Joy of joys, eight said YES, making nine in our Kids Day Story Time group.

We planned to have our event outdoors, but rain moved us in. Nevertheless, the show must go on - and it did, with an incredible crowd!

Patricia Toht read her book DRESS LIKE A GIRL, illustrated by Lorian Tu-Dean.

Norene Paulson read her book WHAT’S SILLY HAIR DAY WITH NO HAIR?, illustrated by Camila Carrossine.

Sarah Aronson read her book JUST LIKE RUBE GOLDBERG, illustrated by Robert Neubecker.

I read my book DANCING WITH DADDY, illustrated by Ziyue Chen, which comes out Dec. 1 .

(Available for pre-order HERE!)

Jacob Grant read his book NO PANTS!

Sara Shacter read her book JUST SO WILLOW, illustrated by Stephanie Laberis.

Ruth Spiro read her book MAXINE AND THE GREATEST GARDEN EVER, illustrated by Holly Hatam.

Lori Degman read her book TRAVEL GUIDE FOR MONSTERS, illustrated by Dave Szalay.

And Kira Bigwood read her book SECRET, SECRET AGENT GUY, illustrated by Celia Krampien.

Being in front of readers, and being together, was the absolute best.

And the event gave me the chance to meet my PB Debut Troupe 21 buddy Kira, too!

We are so grateful to all who came out for Kids Day Story Time, including the volunteers who made it possible - my best friends and critique partners Kate Twohig, Heather Klaus and Chaz Baechler.

Many of the authors donated signed copies of their books for a raffle, and the funds raised went toward the donation of TRISTAN STRONG PUNCHES A HOLE IN THE SKY, a novel by Kwame Mbalia, for young readers served by Leading with Literacy, my partner for Holiday Book Drive Chi, a book giving event that’s about to enter its 5th year.

Thank you, Geneva Chamber, Geneva Public Library and Rising Lights Project, for supporting and hosting this event - it’s quite is clear from on our faces that the rain couldn’t dampen our book joy.

And thanks, too, to the organizers of Swedish Days Family Fest at Geneva Commons the following day, June 26, and for author friend Norene Paulson for joining me at that event, as well.

Please check out the books shared over the Swedish Days weekend that are noted in this post - at your local indie bookstore, or at your local library - all are excellent. Happy summer reading!

Kidlit Spotlight: HOW TO SPOT A BEST FRIEND

During more than a year of pandemic-related separation, lots of parents have worried (rightly so!) that their children might have trouble reconnecting with peers and forging new relationships. It’s hard to know how this extended isolation will impact our children’s social and emotional development, in the short or long term.

But so far, to my great relief, spending time in close relationship with others has come back pretty smoothly for our girls. That’s partially because our kids have each other as friends and an established neighborhood bubble. But the girls also have made close friends with brand new classmates - children they didn’t even know until very recently.

Maybe that’s because spotting a friend can be easy, if you know what to look for. As an author and writing consultant who works almost exclusively from home, I get a front-row seat for many of my girls’ special friendship moments. Through their words and actions, it’s clear to see what makes a friend a best friend.

A best friend watches you pick out your dream doll, without getting jealous.

A best friend keeps you company, when it seems dinner will never be ready.

A best friend finds you breeze, on a sweltering day at the park.

A best friend shares the load, when your arms are wary from a swim.

A best friend fires up an extra set of wheels, to double the fun.

New picture book HOW TO SPOT A BEST FRIEND is filled with beautiful moments such as these: Specific gestures of generosity and kindness that can be mistaken for nothing other than bold, true friendship. Here’s the sweet-as-can-be cover of this story by Bea Birdsong, illustrated by Lucy Fleming (Rodale Kids), which skips onto shelves this week on June 22.

HOW TO SPOT A BEST FRIEND is the recognition of the small-but-mighty gifts given to us by our friends, and an invitation to be a great friend to others, too. Here are three things that I love about the new picture book HOW TO SPOT A BEST FRIEND…

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Charming Premise

HOW TO SPOT A BEST FRIEND whisks readers right into a little girl’s quest. “Today, I will find a best friend!” she proclaims, and sets out to do just that. Mama tries to temper her expectations. “It’s only the first day of school,” she says. But the girl embarks on her journey with a wide stride and nothing but confidence.

Flowers pop with positivity as the girl walks to school, and it doesn’t take her long to spot a best friend, or two, or three. From the moment she arrives in her classroom, she sees markers of friendship and best friendship everywhere. Hues of bubblegum pink, sunny gold and vibrant violet, rendered in joyful, playful textures and patterns, create a happy setting where the promise of something worth smiling for is around every corner.

Art by Lucy Fleming

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Positivity & Specificity

As the main character moves from activity to classroom activity, she meets new friends, keeping her eyes peeled for kids with best-friend potential. With her positive attitude, she finds best friends everywhere. One friend works with her build a tower, then helps her rebuild it after a crash. Another friend performs a magic trick, and then goes a step further to share the secret behind it.

Each act of generosity shows how a best friend goes beyond what’s expected to add a special thoughtful touch. Birdsong gives these above-and-beyond moments such lovely, tender specificity. For instance, when the class listens to a spooky story, Birdsong writes: “A friend sits next to you when it’s time for a story. A best friend holds your hand during the scary parts.”

Art by Lucy Fleming

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Inclusive & Celebratory

HOW TO SPOT A BEST FRIEND continues in this pattern, showing readers first how to be a friend, then expanding the idea of friendship to demonstrate how an excellent friend often steps back in order to share the spotlight. While “friendship” is the meaningful umbrella, and a very age-appropriate one, it’s worth noting that these selfless acts are also early glimpses and models of leadership.

The darling cast of characters illustrated by Fleming allows many children to feel seen, and also demonstrates to young readers that kindness is something to be given to all. The stakes of these pre-school and early-grade encounters may seem low, but make no mistake, the actions that these students make and take are bold and, at times, downright brave.

Art by Lucy Fleming

Best friends can be anywhere. The sister in the bunk bed above you, or the buddy next door. The child passing by your house on a scooter, or swimming beside you in the shallow end of the pool. The ever-present possibility of friendship is something kids embrace fearlessly every day, in a myriad of circumstances. HOW TO SPOT A BEST FRIEND celebrates the beauty of this love, which steps outside of what’s expected to extend a hand to someone who needs it.

Children will identify with classmates in these pretty pages and also be affirmed that there is great value and power in their mighty moves of friendship. And, as a grown-up kid, it reminded me that a new neighbor a few blocks down needs a brownie delivery… STAT!

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The Creators

Bea Birdsong is the author of I Will Be Fierce, illustrated by Nidhi Chanani and published by Roaring Brook Press, Sam’s First Word, illustrated by Holly Hatam and published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, How to Spot a Best Friend, illustrated by Lucy Fleming and published by Rodale Kids/RHCB, Goat Is the Goat, illustrated by Kelly Murphy and published by Nancy Paulsen Books, and Boop!, illustrated by Linzie Hunter and published by HarperCollins Children's Books. Bea is also a writer for the education market and a former teacher, who believes in the awesome power of books to educate, entertain, and empower. She lives in North Carolina with her family. Bea is represented by Melissa Edwards of Stonesong Literary Agency.

Lucy Fleming studied illustration at the University of Lincoln, then started her career as a children's book illustrator with a love for story-telling, magic and creating art. She is represented by the Bright Agency and has illustrated books with publishers such as Bloomsbury, Simon & Schuster, Walker Books, Harper Collins and more. Her first author/illustrator picture book, Ella's Night Lights, was published by Walker Books in 2020 and has been published in several languages world-wide. Lucy has always been an avid doodler and day-dreamer and never quite grew out of having her head in the clouds. When not beavering away creating books, you'll find her spending time outdoors surrounded by plant-life, sipping a hot cup of tea with her little cat playing close by.

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One lucky reader will win HOW TO SPOT A BEST FRIEND,

signed by Bea Birdsong!

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2. Follow me (@anitraschulte) on Twitter

3. Retweet my pinned contest tweet by 6/25/21 

GOOD LUCK!

Kidlit Spotlight: SUNDAY RAIN

More often than not, I hear about upcoming picture books from authors, illustrators and editors on Twitter. But that’s not at all how I became acquainted with the beautiful new picture book SUNDAY RAIN. My longtime critique partner Rosie J. Pova sent SUNDAY RAIN to me, and to the rest of our writing group, as a promising manuscript. When I read it, I stopped in my tracks. This was one special story.

And I’m not the only one who thinks so! The New York Times featured SUNDAY RAIN in a March round-up of 8 Picture Books About Imagination and Identity. Wowza. Doesn’t get much bigger than that! I jumped out of my chair when I heard Rosie’s good news!

What makes SUNDAY RAIN so very special? So many things! How it plays in your ear when you read it aloud… how it sparsely-but-powerfully depicts the strain of displacement… how it dives into play as both a great escape and the truest path forward... all at once. Here’s the sweet cover, which brings to my mind the light, playful sketches found within the children’s book THE LITTLE PRINCE.

SUNDAY RAIN by Rosie J. Pova, illustrated by Amariah Rauscher (Lantana, March 2021) swooshes readers from rocky waters of worry into the joy and excitement of what could be - a message sure to connect with families starting over in a new place. Here are three things that I love about SUNDAY RAIN…

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Springing with Sound

SUNDAY RAIN takes place on a blustery day. Elliott is reading in his room when the “whoosh” of the wind and a “knock” from a branch cause him to stop reading his book and peak out the window. On the other side of the pane, leaves blow and thunder booms, but alas, it’s just a storm. Elliott returns to his book, where a girl fights a dragon upon the sea. Elliott much prefers adventure and make believe to the reality outside his room: a new, unfamiliar neighborhood. 

The storm continues. Raindrops “tap, tap” on the roof. Then Elliott hears something new – laughter. Though Elliott watches timidly, this bright, silvery sound provides a sliver of hope that cuts through the layered rainstorm soundtrack with an invitation to adventure.

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Moving Metaphor

With a little prodding from Mama, Elliott grabs his galoshes and heads out into the Sunday rain, where the laughing children are at play.  The air around him smells of “wet grass and flowers and the pages of a new book.”  Elliott comes alive, roaring to the rain and jumping into a puddle. 

Elliott’s imagination takes off – his words, a metaphor for feelings deep inside. “My boat is filling up with water,” Elliott says. “Row faster!” the children encourage. “The dragon is pushing me,” Elliott says. “We’ll fight it,” a child offers in support. In this make-believe world, Elliott is joined in battle with instant friends, ready and eager to help him navigate a new world.

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Finding Solid Ground

The brave crew confronts the dragon at sea. When will the danger stop? It’s Elliott who declares that solid ground’s been found. Sun cracks through the clouds, ray by ray, and Elliott finds his footing. No one can say when the stresses and strains of an obstacle have ceased to cause trouble, save the person experiencing them. It’s moving that Elliott makes the celebratory declaration on his own, with confidence and joy.  

For Elliott, imagination is a magnet for friends and a compass through rough waters. And inspiration for his journey forward, into his new community, begins with a book. SUNDAY RAIN is a reminder that stories read alone can spur bravery, and that stories shared can lead to grand adventures.

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Rosie J. Pova is the author of ​If I Weren't With You (SPORK, an imprint of Clear Fork Publishing, 2017), Hailey Queen Pranking Makes Perfect: The Alien Encounter (SPORK, 2017), and Sarah's Song (SPORK, Fall 2017). Rosie also works as a Writing Instructor in the Dallas Independent School District through the Writer's Garret. Rosie is originally from Bulgaria and now lives in Texas with her husband and three kids. She writes for children of all age groups, as well as poetry, with poems appearing in literary magazines such as Poetry Quarterly, Burningword Literary Journal, Haiku Journal, and more.

Amariah Rauscher is the illustrator of the Princess Truly book series (Scholastic), including titles I Am Truly!, and My Magical Sparkling Curls. Amariah has a Masters in Communication, but enjoys painting pictures most of all. Her work on the Princess Truly series is dedicated to her children, who have provided so much inspiration along the way. She lives in Illinois with her husband, two beautiful daughters, and three dogs.

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One lucky reader will win SUNDAY RAIN,

signed by Rosie J. Pova!

1. "Like" this post (click the heart below)

2. Follow me (@anitraschulte) on Twitter

3. Follow Rosie (@RosiePOV) on Twitter

4. Retweet my pinned contest tweet by 4/9/21 

5. Tag a friend!

(Extra entry if you request SUNDAY RAIN from your local library!)

GOOD LUCK!

Kidlit Spotlight: KAFKA AND THE DOLL

Meet Bear-Bear-Bear.

This sweet mint-tinted stuffy was given to one of my girls during a hospital stay. For the life of me, I cannot recall which girl or why we were at the hospital…

But alas. What’s most important is that Bear-Bear-Bear is my 6 year old’s husband.

In fact, they just returned from a weeklong getaway in New York. I’m trying not to be jealous, but NEW YORK? What I wouldn’t give to see a show and dine my way across the city with my hubby, Dan. We’re approaching our 15th anniversary, after all. Nevertheless, I’m happy for them.

As Miss L’s betrothed, Bear-Bear-Bear is an official member of our family and always with us. Unless, of course, he’s been left outside on accident, which brings about quite a lot of sadness, particularly at bedtime. When it’s very cold and very dark, we trust that the raccoons and skunks will be kind to him until the sun climbs into the sky once again.

The relationship between a child and his or her doll is sacred and absolute. It’s something that grown ups respect and honor because at the center of each human heart was once such a toy.

Indispensable. Irreplaceable. Inextricably yours.

New picture book KAFKA AND THE DOLL - by Larissa Theule, illustrated by Rebecca Green (Viking Books for Young Readers, March 2021) - delves into and lyrically lives within that imaginative, intimate, technicolor space. This is the divine cover that captivated me for months before the book’s publication, and called me to get to know this story through-and-through…

KAFKA AND THE DOLL is based upon the true story of a unique friendship that developed between writer Franz Kafka and a young girl. As the tale goes, while at the park one day, Kafka and his partner Dora Diamant met a girl, who had lost her doll. Kafka’s generous heart compelled him to create a narrative that continued the doll’s journey, to the anticipation and ongoing delight of the girl.

This warm, surprising, moving story captured my heart, and holds it still. So as you can imagine, it’s a joy for me to tell you about it! Here are three things that I love about KAFKA AND THE DOLL…

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Gorgeous Lines and Limited Palette

The sincerity and unique tone of KAFKA AND THE DOLL is first experienced in the glorious palette and certain marks of illustrator Rebecca Green. The story is set in a sepia past, where autumnal hues punctuates the page in falling leaves and pretty patterns. The natural setting, minimally rendered, bends and sways in sync with the story’s brilliant characters, whose postures, expressions and clothing are set in angular, fashionable lines, creating a compelling, sartorial cast. The entire look is novel and in complete accord with the spirit of the story, which is - as I’ll soon elaborate - positively enchanting.

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Heart-driven Narrative

Noticing a girl in distress, Kafka and Diamant approach and learn that the child, Irma, has lost her doll. Her doll Soupsy. (Let us linger on the perfection of the name for just a moment longer… ) To ease Irma’s worries, Kafka swiftly whips up a story: Irma needn’t fret because Soupsy is simply traveling, and Kafka - “a volunteer postman” - will deliver Soupsy’s hand-written letter to Irma the very next day.

From the backmatter of this story, we learn the Kafka was not in good health at the time that he assumed the role of "postman.” Yet, day-after-day, for weeks, he arrived at the park with a new letter from Soupsy, filling the moments of separation between Irma and and her doll with adventure and new experiences. Only a person with an unwavering belief in the power of story would dutifully undertake such a noble and worthy assignment.

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Tender and Imaginative Prose

While this story is based upon true events, the letters written by Soupsy, and the dialogue between Kafka and Irma, are Theule’s delightful creation. Kafka’s wise, observational generalities and open-ended queries create an ocean of possibility in which Irma can interpret the details of Soupsy’s journey and imagine what might happen next.

In chronicling Soupsy’s travels - to Paris and Barcelona, and Morocco and Egypt - Kafka introduces Irma to the world outside Berlin, filled with wondrous landscapes and marvels of cuisine and architecture. As Soupsy’s letters grow shorter, a sign of Kafka’s failing health, it’s clear that Kafka has given Irma a gift that extends beyond Soupsy’s enduring existence.

“You’re pale,” Irma says to Kafka. “You miss nothing,” Kafka replies. Such is the heartbeat of KAFKA AND THE DOLL. Children see it all, and know what is real. The light in their doll’s eyes. The magic that’s just beyond what they can touch. The hope of the next grand adventure. Bigger than big. Truer than true. KAFKA AND THE DOLL captures this intuitive spark and invites us to keep the light burning, for the children in our lives and for the child inside our very heart.

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Larissa Theule is the author of many books for children, including A Way With Wild Things, illustrated by Sara Palacios (Bloomsbury), Born to Ride: A Story About Bicycle Face, illustrated by Kelsey Garrity-Riley (Abrams), How Do You Do?, illustrated by Gianna Marino (Bloomsbury), and Fat and Bones: And Other Stories, illustrated by Adam S. Doyle (Carolrhoda). She holds an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts and lives in Southern California with her family and dog.

Rebecca Green is an illustrator, painter, and author working in children’s publishing, editorial, and fine art. Her books include A Place Called Home by Kate Baker (Lonely Planet Kids), Becoming A Good Creature by Sy Montgomery (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt), Madame Saqui, Revolutionary Rope Dancer by Lisa Robinson (Schwartz & Wade Books), and A Year with Mama Earth by Rebecca Grabill (Eerdman’s Books for Young Readers). She loves experimenting with traditional materials and use an array of media including gouache, colored pencil, ink, and cut paper.

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One lucky reader will win KAFKA AND THE DOLL, signed by Larissa Theule!

*** Win KAFKA AND THE DOLL ***

Simply...

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Kidlit Spotlight: OFF TO SEE THE SEA

Now that we’re a couple of weeks into 2021, it’s safe to say that the new year, in many ways, is much like 2020. Aside from our hybrid school schedule and outdoor snow play with neighborhood friends, we are at home. We find our fun every day… some way! But many of our activities are reruns of things we’ve done for the past 10 months.

Assembling puzzles…

Making crafts…

Baking (and eating) all the things…

Though we often come to our wits’ end with one another, I know this time is precious, especially at my daughters’ young ages. But, oh! How lovely it would be to sail away right about now. Somewhere warm. Somewhere sandy. Somewhere tropical. Somewhere far, far away. A new picture book provides a great reminder that so long as imagination lives and breathes within us, we can go farther, and find more joy, than we might think.

OFF TO SEE THE SEA is a new title from the dream duo of author Nikki Grimes and illustrator Elizabeth Zunon (Sourcebook Kids, January 2021). Their collaboration BEDTIME FOR SWEET CREATURES was one of my favorite books of 2020. Both titles center on finding adventure within every day childhood moments. (And I believe one more story is coming in this series! Yay, a trilogy!)

OFF TO SEE THE SEA is a joyful, fantastical, poetic tale about a child coaxed into the bath, where splashing fun awaits. In prose bubbling with beauty and vibrant oceanic art, this picture book invites readers to dive into their daily routines with eyes open to new possibilities. Here are three things that I love about OFF TO SEE THE SEA…

Playful and Tender

Wrangling a child into the bath can take some serious creativity. OFF TO SEE THE SEA is told in the second person by a mother who invents an immersive new world to get the job done. A delightful game plays out on the page, as child evades (hiding and giggling) and mom gently beckons (in whispers and coos). When the little one finally enters the tub, mom asks, “Now, was that so bad?” In playful dialogue and tender action, mom deepens the detail of her narrative, keeping her child in the soapy sea while also building a special story that’s theirs alone. Time shared tub-side by these two is filled with ritual and comfort. It is pure fun and pure love.

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Sensory Rich Language

Lively and aurally rich, OFF TO SEE THE SEA serenades readers with evocative imagery and swells of internal rhyme and alliteration. Grimes’s words are so incredibly pleasing to say and hear. Phrases such as “toes touch the tile” and “slip-sliding into a soft-scented sea” roll off the tongue, awakening the senses. You can feel the smooth cool of the bathroom floor, the warm surround of the bath water, the floral effervescence of the bubbles. Each word-dancing spread in OFF TO SEE THE SEA brings you further into this intimate familial space, a feeling sure to bring treasured memories to mind for readers.

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Color and Movement

OFF TO SEE THE SEA is a glowing, happy, heartfelt visual delight. Zunon’s bright, dreamy palette conveys the heightened excitement of imaginative play. Backgrounds are bathed soft splashy blue and warm cozy yellow. The characters’ clothes pop with blocks of color - hot pink, soft purple and kelly green. Collaged representations of ocean sand, waves and seaweed sway and swirl. Even the text itself arcs and bows, then balloons and peeks. Everything moves. Like the swells and splashes of the sea, this bath story frolics and dances with life.

OFF TO SEE THE SEA transports readers to a sunny, sparkling place at a time when snow and solitude blanket much of the country and world. Readers looking for a sliver of shine will certainly find it in this celebratory story. And they also just may catch a spark of inspiration - a bit of encouragement to reach through the monotony of the day and make a regular old chore something memorable and more.

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New York Times bestselling author Nikki Grimes is the recipient of the ALAN Award for outstanding contributions to the field of adolescent literature, the 2017 Children's Literature Legacy Award, the 2016 Virginia Hamilton Literary Award, and the 2006 NCTE Award for Excellence in Poetry for Children. Her distinguished works include the much-honored books Garvey's Choice, ALA Notable book What is Goodbye?, Coretta Scott King Award winner Bronx Masquerade, and Coretta Scott King Author Honor books Jazmin's Notebook, Talkin' About Bessie, Dark Sons, Words with Wings, and The Road to Paris. Creator of the popular Meet Danitra Brown, Ms. Grimes lives in Corona, California.

Elizabeth Zunon is the illustrator of many books for children. In addition to Off to See the Sea and Bedtime for Sweet Creatures (written by Nikki Grimes), Zunon wrote and illustrated Grandpa Cacao: A Tale of Chocolate, From Farm to Family, and illustrated Walking through Africa: A Rhyme in Zulu, As Big as the Sky, I am Farmer: Growing an Environmental Movement in Cameroon, Martha and the Slave Catchers, The Legendary Miss Lena Horne, and many more. Zunon lives in Albany, New York, where she draws, paints, collages, sews, silkscreens, and makes jewelry and purses. Her work is largely influenced by the people, places, and things from her childhood in the Ivory Coast as the product of two cultures.

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One lucky reader will win OFF TO SEE THE SEA by Nikki Grimes, illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon!

*** Win OFF TO SEE THE SEA ***

Simply...

1. "Like" this post (click the heart below)

2. Follow me (@anitraschulte) on Twitter

3. Retweet my pinned contest tweet by 1/29/21 

(Submit a blog comment below and get a BONUS ENTRY!)

GOOD LUCK!

2020 Picture Book Picks

Picture book writers are almost always also avid picture book readers - and wow do they have GREAT recommendations.

For the past few years, I’ve queried lots of picture book writers (and some librarians, too!) who I admire, asking for their favorite title of the year. Creating this end-of-year round up is such a joy for me. I love seeing what books light other people up, which always leads to the discovery of new titles to check out… books that might have otherwise escaped my attention, which I do not care for at all. I want to read all the books!

Interested in previous years’ picks? Find them here!

• 2018 picture book pics, here!

• 2019 Picture Book Pics, here!

The 2020 Picture Book Picks list is as beautiful as it is engaging and powerful. Have a look, then find the titles at your local library or bookseller! (And be sure to check out each curators’ books, too. You’ll be very glad that you did!)

Now, for that list…

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2020 Picture Book Picks

Weshoyot Alvitre (@weshoyot), illustrator of the 2020 American Indian Youth Literature Award honor book AT THE MOUNTAIN’S BASE, recommends WAA’AKA’: THE BIRD WHO FELL IN LOVE WITH THE SUN by Cindi Alvitre, illustrated by Carly Lake (Heyday Books): I chose this book for a variety of reasons: The illustrations by Carly Lake are bold and beautifully rendered painted renditions of our birds and plants here in Southern California. The story by Cindi Alvitre is a modern tale which opens the door to combine both our traditional oral storytelling history as Tongva people, but breaks down doors to show how we have the potential to create new stories for our children and grandchildren. The combination is a fresh take on teaching stories which creates a bridge for non-Native readers to learn more about the Indigenous people of Southern California and their relationships with the native world that surrounds them.

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Hayley Barrett (@hayleybwrites), author of 2020 picture book releases THE TINY BAKER and GIRL VERSUS SQUIRREL, recommends SEVEN GOLDEN RINGS by Rajani Larocca, illustrated by Archana Sreenivasan (Lee & Low Books): SEVEN GOLDEN RINGS is visually gorgeous and delightfully intelligent, not to mention heartwarming. It's lovely.

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Ariel Berstein (@ArielBBooks), author of I HAVE A BALLOON and WHERE IS MY BALLOON? and the upcoming 2021 release WE LOVE FISHING!, recommends THE PASSOVER MOUSE by Joy Nelkin Wieder, illustrated by Shahar Kober (Doubleday Books for Young Readers): It’s a funny, heart warming and truly original take on Passover that can be enjoyed any time of the year by every reader.

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Valerie Bolling (@valerie_bolling), author of 2020 picture book LET’S DANCE!, recommends TIARA’S HAT PARADE by Kelly Starling Lyons, illustrated by Nicole Tadgell (Albert Whitman): This is one of my favorite stories. The language in the book is beautiful. Lines like: “Their laughter jingled like silver charms” and “… voice sharp as a hatpin. Then … hushed as a feather.” Not only is the language captivating, but the touching story grabs a hold of the reader and doesn’t let go. I love that the story features the determined, innovative spirit of a young girl! When her mother is forced to close her hat shop, Tiara finds a creative, thoughtful way to bring the joy back to her mother and celebrate her as a milliner. Tiara has clearly inherited her mother’s entrepreneurial gene!

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Shannon Bramer (@brokencloudco), author of the 2019 picture book CLIMBING SHADOWS: POEMS FOR CHILDREN , recommends ONCE I WAS A BEAR by Irene Luxbacher (Scholastic): In ONCE I WAS A BEAR, a little cub who is profoundly at home and at peace in the forest wakes from a deep slumber to discover that he is about to embark on a new journey as a little boy in a busy city. It is a story about transformation, bravery and the kindness and beauty in the world that is waiting to meet us, even if it might take a bit of time to get there, even if we must always let our hearts live in the woods where we most belong.

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Anika Aldamuy Denise (@anikadenise), author of the 2020 picture book A GIRL NAMED ROSITA, and 2019 titles BUNNY IN THE MIDDLE, PLANTING STORIES and THE LOVE LETTER, recommends YOUR NAME IS A SONG linked by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, illustrated by Luisa Uribe (Innovation Press): All through my life, teachers, classmates, friends, and colleagues have had trouble pronouncing my name. I wish I had had this book when I was a girl, that celebrates the lyrical beauty and history of African, Latinx, Middle Eastern, Asian, and any non-Anglo names. It's a beautifully written and illustrated celebration of diversity and cultural identity.

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Raissa Figueroa (@rizzyfig), illustrator of two books coming out in January 2021 - WE WAIT FOR THE SUN by Kate McCabe and OONA by Kelly DiPucchio - recommends LIFT by Minh Le, illustrated by Dan Santat (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers): I just discovered his (Le) book DRAWN TOGETHER earlier this year, and it evokes so many feelings of my childhood in particular that I just had to buy his other works! LIFT has the pair teaming up again (I’m also in love with Dan’s illustrations) and doesn’t disappoint. The story is just a breath of fresh air-a delight to the imagination!

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Josh Funk (@joshfunkbooks), author of 2020 picture book releases SHORT & SWEET: LADY PANCAKE & SIR FRENCH TOAST, WHERE IS OUR LIBRARY?: A STORY OF PATIENCE AND FORTITUDE and IT’S NOT LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD recommends GRANDPA GRUMPS by Katrina Moore, illustrated by Xindi Yan (little bee books): GRANDPA GRUMPS is a super cute book about a little girl whose grandpa visits from China. While Grandpa speaks a different language, isn't interested in kid-friendly things, and generally appears grumpy, the two of them slowly bond in unexpected ways (a little food always helps). This book makes a great read aloud over a zoom with grandparents (or grandchildren) you haven't seen in a while and for anyone who likes uplifting, beautifully written, and gorgeously illustrated picture books.

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Jenna Grodzicki (@jennawritesPB), author of 2020 picture book release WILD STYLE: AMAZING ANIMAL ADORNMENTS, and 2019 title I SEE SEA FOOD: SEA CREATURES THAT LOOK LIKE FOOD, recommends MAMIE ON THE MOUND: A WOMAN IN BASEBALL’S NEGRO LEAGUES by Leah Henderson, illustrated by George Doutsiopoulos (Capstone): As a huge baseball fan, I absolutely loved this book. Mamie Johnson was so much more than a baseball player. She broke down racial and gender barriers and paved the way for future female African American players. The combination of thoughtful prose and expressive artwork make this a home run.

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Alastair Heim (@alastairheim), author of 2020 release IF I HAD YOUR VOTE BY CAT IN THE HAT and the upcoming 2021 picture book QUIET DOWN LOUD TOWN!, recommends THE BARNABUS PROJECT by The Fan Brothers (Tundra Books): I have been a fan of The Fan Brothers since one of my children pointed to The Night Gardener on the shelves of a local bookstore in 2016 – when I asked her what book we should get. The Barnabus Project is, in my opinion, a master class on artistry, craft, and storytelling for any and all aspiring author/illustrators. I cannot draw to save my life, but if I could, this book is what I would aspire to.

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Joshua C. Heinsz (@JCHeinsz), illustrator of 2019 release EXCEPT WHEN THEY DON’T and 2020 picture book FROG BOOTS, recommends STARCROSSED by Julia Denos (HMH Books for Young Readers): The power of wishes has always been a narrative draw for me, and as a big Julia Denos fan, I couldn’t have been more excited about her take on this subject in her latest book Star Crossed. The friendship shared between Acamar and Eridani is pure magic and reflected so perfectly in Julia’s breathtaking watercolor illustrations of the stars and beyond. A true work of art narratively and visually, this book is an absolute must for any dreamer’s bookshelf!

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Anna Kang (@annakang27), author of ERASER and the "NOT” series, including 2020 release IT IS (NOT) PERFECT, recommends I TALK LIKE A RIVER by Jordan Scott, illustrated by Sydney Smith (Neal Porter Books): I TALK LIKE A RIVER is one of the most beautiful picture books I've read this year. in a time when there is so much negativity, this book stands out as beautiful and empathetic, without being cloying or preachy. The lyrical text and gorgeous watercolors work hand-in-hand to capture the boy's frustration and sadness. I love how the author uses elements of nature to reflect his inner struggle and, ultimately, his epiphany.

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Supriya Kelkar (@supriyakelkar_), author of 2019 picture book THE MANY COLORS OF HARPREET SINGH and upcoming 2021 release BINDU’S BINDIS, recommends OUTSIDE IN by Deborah Underwood, illustrated by Cindy Derby (HMH Books for Young Readers): OUTSIDE IN is a gorgeously illustrated, moving picture book about reconnecting with the outdoors. It was so gentle and profound, I found myself reading it over and over again.

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Kelly Starling Lyons (@kelstarly), author of 2020 picture book TIARA’S HAT PARADE and early reader series TY’S TRAVELS, and 2020 Caldecott Medal winner GOING DOWN HOME WITH DADDY, recommends I AM EVERY GOOD THING by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C. James (Nancy Paulsen Books): Like their masterpiece, Crown, I Am Every Good Thing is a jewel that lets Black boys know they're seen, heard and loved. Bursting with confidence and conviction, this powerful picture book deserves a place on every shelf. It brings me joy each time I read it.

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Ishta Mercurio (@IshtaWrites), author of 2019 release SMALL WORLD, recommends LITTLE THIEF! CHOTA CHOR! written by Vijaya Bodach, and illustrated by Nayantara Surendranath (Reycraft Books): I just love the clever, clear-headed heroine in this book. And the way it acknowledges that some moments in childhood can be scary, but shows young readers how to cope with that fear and move through it, is really wonderful.

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Jerome Pumphrey (@wjpumphrey), illustrator of the 2020 picture book release THE OLD TRUCK, recommends A POLAR BEAR IN THE SNOW by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Shawn Harris (Candlewick): This is a gentle poetic story, told with spare text and beautiful intricately crafted illustrations. The illustrations were created using cut paper and interesting lighting techniques. It’s deceptively simple and rewarding to re-read. Definitely a stand-out.

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Cynthia Leitich Smith (@CynLeitichSmith), author of 2020 American Indian Youth Literature Award winning novel HEARTS UNBROKEN and editor of the 2021 release ANCESTOR APPROVED: INTERTRIBAL STORIES FOR KIDS recommends WE ARE WATER PROTECTORS by Carole Lindstrom, illustrated by Michaela Goade (Roaring Brook): An exquisite pairing of deeply resonant, lyrical text and breathtaking, evocative illustrations birthed one of the most powerful picture books ever published—a proudly Indigenous call to action, a glittering literary triumph, a must-read for every child, family, classroom and community.

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Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow (@jtbigelow), author of 2018 release MOMMY’S KHIMAR and 2020 picture book YOUR NAME IS A SONG, recommends MAGNIFICENT HOMESPUN BROWN: A CELEBRATION by Samara Cole Doyon, illustrated by Kaylani Juanita (Tilbury House Publishers): This book is poetry and wonder and love. The vivid yet soft language and illustrations depict the beauty and joy of Black children.

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Kataneh Vahdani (@KatanehV), author and illustrator of 2020 picture book KAT AND JUJU and upcoming stories in the KAT AND JUJU series, recommends THE BOY, THE MOLE, THE FOX AND THE HORSE by Charlie Mackesy (HarperOne): This book has a heartbeat! The words are like poetry to the ears and the outstanding strong illustrations dance beautifully with the story. I want to frame each page.

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Mia Wenjen (@PragmaticMom), author of 2019 picture book SUMO JOE, co-creator of Multicultural Children’s Book Day, and host of the Pragmatic Mom blog, recommends NO STEPS BEHIND: BEATE SIROTA GORDON’S BATTLE FOR WOMEN’S RIGHTS IN JAPAN by Jeff Gottesfeld, illustrated by Shiella Witanto (Creston Books): In 1929, A young Jewish girl, Beate Sirota Gordon, immigrated to Japan from Austria with her family to escape anti-Semitism. Because she spoke Japanese and understood the culture like a native, she would be asked to help write Japan's new Constitution after the war. At a time when girls could be sold or forced to marry, Beate's proposed new law gave Japanese women more rights than American women had at the time.

Beate was a hidden figure until now because the U.S. considered her role in writing Japan's Constitution a security issue. While the U.S. rounded up Japanese Americans and put them in prison camps, Japan was doing the same thing to foreign ex-pats living there, including Beate's parents. Her parents' imprisonment prompted Beate to return to Japan to search for them. One young person, with just the strength of her convictions, made life more just for generations of Japanese women. "All of the people are equal under the law and there shall be no discrimination in political, economic or social relations because of race, creed, sex, social status, or family origin." -- From Article 14, Japanese Constitution

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I hope you enjoyed the 2020 Picture Book Picks roundup and found some new titles for your next library or bookstore haul! And if you’re a Twitter person, visit the hashtag #PBchat from 8 to 10 p.m. EASTERN (7 to 9 p.m. CENTRAL) on Dec. 23, as PB Debut Troupe 21 (my picture book debut group!) joins #PBchat host Justin Colón for a Twitter Holiday Party - for picture book prompts, giveaways, games and more!

Wishing you the very best this holiday season, and a Happy New Year, too!

Anitra

Kidlit Spotlight: Bess the Barn Stands Strong

Ever since we moved to the outskirts of Chicagoland, my eldest has attended schools even farther west than where we live… and we’re out there! These big brick buildings are on the absolute fringe of the metro area, beyond paved grids and tightly sown rows of houses, and into the quiet surround of corn and soybeans.

Along these rural roads, scattered here and there and truly everywhere, are local farms. Each has its own special charm. Heritage Prairie Farm in Elburn, Ill., has a lovely farm-to-table dinner (during normal non-pandemic times). I went there last fall with my very best friends, Colleen and Madelyn - fellow Mizzou J-school grads and my London flatmates exactly 20 years ago.

Windy Acres Farm in Geneva, Ill., has a little bit of everything. A giant jumpy pillow, a corn kernel sandbox, stair-climbing goats, and pumpkins-a-plenty, making it a favorite stop for school buses and family vans in search of fall fun.

Just last week, the girls and I visited Rustic Road Farm in Elburn, Ill., where several of my neighborhood friends get their CSA. We picked up a delicious Friday night dinner from the market and stopped to say hello to the animals in the barn.

The glow in this stall reminded me of the light found within the pages of BESS THE BARN STANDS STRONG, the beautiful debut picture book of author Elizabeth Gilbert Bedia, illustrated by Katie Hickey (Page Street Press), which releases Sept. 8, 2020. Here’s the cover, in all its autumnal glory…

Illustration © Katie Hickey 2020

Sweeping, steady, lyrical and tender, BESS THE BARN STANDS PROUD delivers all the feelings of fall in a touching narrative about a trusty barn named Bess, who ushers her farm through celebration and hardship, and into the hope of the future beyond. Here are three things that I love about BESS THE BARN STANDS STRONG:

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Powerful Personification

The story begins on the day that the main character, a barn, is raised into being. The farmer names her Bess, and from that moment on, Bess is alive with emotion and intention. She flings her hearty doors open to welcome the animals. She steadies the cows with her sweet song. She gathers the workers within her cozy walls. Through gestures of love and guardianship, Bess holds the heartbeat of the farm.

Bedia’s writing in BESS THE BARN STANDS TALL is measured and precise, yet warm and comforting. With a delicate brush, she paints setting, character and community on every page, giving the story a firm footing in the prairie, while also breathing life, depth and dimension into an inanimate protagonist.

Illustration © Katie Hickey 2020

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Luminous Link

The color that moves through BESS THE BARN STANDS STRONG is jaw-droppingly gorgeous. The peachy skies. The ochre fields. Clothing of jade, juniper, pistachio and pear. Katie Hickey, illustrator of the picture book LUMBER JILLS (a favorite of mine), is a perfect fit for Bedia’s rural tale and its tight-knit cast. Her cheerful, lively and familiar compositions convey the intimacy and vitality of the family farm.

Hickey gives “life” its own special hue - the color yellow. Golden light enters the story when Bess first opens her barn doors. It bursts out and encircles the animals, glows upon the farm’s celebrations, and twinkles as the barn’s builder quietly leaves the world. When this mellow tone leaves the story at a pivotal point, you feel it.

Illustration © Katie Hickey 2020

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New Beginnings

After many years of companionship, the farmer who built Bess dies. A new farmer enters the story, a man with big plans, which don’t include Bess. He constructs a shiny new barn for the animals, relegating Bess’s rickety aging structure to the margins. The richness of the story’s color palette washes away. It seems the vibrant days of the past are gone forever.

Then one day, a storm barrels down on the farm, wreaking havoc on the land. The new barn’s integrity is compromised, putting the animals in danger. Though Bess is a shadow of her former self, still she stands - ready and eager to help the animals she loves. The turn of events ushers forth a new beginning on the farm: a return to the farm’s joyful, celebratory roots.

Illustration © Katie Hickey 2020

BESS THE BARN STANDS STRONG arrives on library shelves, and in homes across the country, at a strange time. The creators of this book never could have predicted a global pandemic and the longing that many of us continue to feel for unrestricted days and hours with those we love.

Though we often grow weary from the rigors of this different way of life, like Bess we do our best. We stand strong and weather the storm, protecting those we cherish and holding out hope that brighter days are coming. It’s a metaphor that holds true in any year, decade or century, but it’s especially poignant today.

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BESS THE BARN STANDS STRONG is Elizabeth Gilbert Bedia’s debut picture book. Bedia is a former teacher and audiologist, who loves to stand in old barns and listen to all the sounds. BESS THE BARN STANDS STRONG was inspired by a real barn in Bedia’s neighborhood. She lives with her husband, two teenagers and two dogs in central Iowa. Katie Hickey is a freelance illustrator who blends hand rendered print processes and digital methods and finds inspiration in her travels and surroundings. Hickey lives in Surrey, England.

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One lucky reader will win BESS THE BARN STANDS STRONG, signed by Liz! Here’s how to enter:

*** Win BESS THE BARN STANDS STRONG ***

Simply...

1. "Like" this post (click the heart below)

2. Follow me (@anitraschulte) on Twitter

3. Retweet my pinned contest tweet by 9/12/20 

(Submit a blog comment below and get a BONUS ENTRY!)

GOOD LUCK!

Goodbye, summer... Hello, school!

After weeks of soaking up the sun and floating the hours away on vacation, we returned home, entering the quiet in-between. The final days of summer.

One of my first to-do’s when we got back was to pick up my daughters’ dance costumes. The ones they were fitted for in January, and supposed to wear in a May recital, but never got to use, because of COVID.

The outfits were so cute! It broke my heart that they would never be worn, outside of basement dress up. I texted my friend Heather, a phenomenal dance teacher and human being, and told her that she was gonna need to choreograph some routines for us, so the girls could dance in these darling dresses, at least once.

She said yes, of course, then instantly added: What if we did an outdoor socially distant dance camp? One week later, my driveway was alive with music and friends. Our engineer husbands drew a grid to keep the girls separated six feet. (Some little sibs shared squares.) Heather brought the music and two company members to help lead two groups of 10. Then they got to work. And by work, I mean fun. Like, the most fun we’d had all summer. (Lake vacation included.)

After just three days of rehearsals, we hosted a Saturday night recital in our front yard. Parents sat 6+ feet apart in the lawn while the girls rocked it in whatever costumes they wanted. It was a hodgepodge of color and style, and the energy was contagious.

The camp was the first-ever class and recital for my oldest, Miss E, who has Wolf-Hirschhorn Syndrome. It was a little challenging because she’s often pretty tired after dinner, but she did great! Miss E danced one number (the jazz song) out of her chair…

And one song (ballet) seated. I clicked off her breaks and Miss E swirled around in her ruby sequin dress and pretty bow. Just beautiful.

All the thanks in the world to Heather for making the whole thing look so easy. She accepted not a penny for her time, but rather donations to the local food bank. Yep, she’s amazing. Follow her lead, and donate to your local food bank here!

After recital weekend, we quickly shifted gears to school - taking inventory of existing supplies, filling our digital cart with needed items, and mentally preparing for the year ahead, which included a library haul full of titles to get us in the mindset for school.

Several books in our borrowed stack really stood out. I recommend all of these recent releases to anyone who is helping a young one get ready for a school year that will likely include some blend of remote learning, Zoom meetings, masks, frequent hand washing, and the like. Here’s a quick Kidlit Spotlight on five great back-to-school reads…

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I LOVE ME!

By LaRonda Gardner Middlemiss

Illustrated by Beth Hughes

(Beaming Books)

This story is brimming with affirmations, giving kids an extra dose of confidence as they head into new learning environments. The art reflects children from diverse backgrounds and includes the repeated phrase “I love me!”, which can be programmed into a switch for an interactive read along.

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THAT’S LIFE!

By Ame Dyckman

Illustrated by Cori Doerrfeld

(Little, Brown)

Meet “Life,” this fuzzy little gray character, who can be messy and pretty weird. In this story, “Life" acts out many of the idioms and sayings we use when talking about everyday happenings. The tone of this tale is humorous and gentle, resulting in a sweet and touching mantra for navigating the unexpected days ahead.

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CLOVER KITTY GOES TO KITTYGARTEN

By Laura Purdie Salas

Illustrated by Hiroe Nakata

(Two Lions)

Clover Kitty forgets all about kittygarten until the morning it begins. From the moment she arrives at school, through the end of the day, Clover is inundated with overwhelming stimuli. This story is particularly great for children with anxiety and/or sensory sensitivities. It’s honest about the ups and downs of Clover’s day, and also delivers a fun read aloud, filled with clever puns and satisfying internal rhyme.

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A WHALE OF A MISTAKE

By Ioana Hobai

(Page Street Press)

Mistakes happen every day, but sometimes they can feel so glaring, embarrassing, and just plain big. In this story, a mistake is embodied by a giant whale. As the story progresses, the child is able to see that the world is full of mistakes, and that mistakes do grow smaller and smaller in time, becoming little waves in the vast waters of our world.

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GRACE GOES TO WASHINGTON

By Kelly DiPucchio

Illustrated by LeUyen Pham

(Little, Brown)

Election years can provide a great opportunity for talking to our kids about government and democracy. In this story, Grace learns how the United States’ three branches of government work through a real-life experience, as students in Grace’s school decide how to spend their bake sale money. This story explains a complex concept with clarity, character and charm.

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I hope you’re able check these titles out - they’re all excellent! Wishing everyone a very safe, healthy and happy school year. It won’t be easy, but we’ve got this… I think!

And now, how about a little weekend fun? Hop over to my author Instagram @anitraroweschulte to enter to win a copy of CLOVER KITTY GOES TO KITTYGARTEN!

Plus!!! One lucky person will win two of the books featured in this back-to-school book roundup. (A big thank you to authors Ioana Hobai and LaRonda Gardner Middlemiss for sharing signed copies of their books!) Here are the details…

*** Win 2 books! ***

Signed copies of A WHALE OF A MISTAKE and I LOVE ME!

Simply...

1. "Like" this post (click the heart below)

2. Follow me (@anitraschulte) on Twitter

3. Retweet my pinned contest tweet by 8/30/20 

(Submit a blog comment below and get a BONUS ENTRY!)

GOOD LUCK!

Kidlit Spotlight: Kat and Juju

When I first locked eyes with new picture book character Kat, I couldn’t help but feel like I already knew the charming protagonist. She was spirited and unique. And there was something about her headband… it was like I’d seen it before…

The red bow that our daughters wear year-round looks so much like Kat’s cat ear headband. This accessory delights me to no end. I wish I knew it where it came from! We get a lot of hand-me-downs, and sometimes items that belong to friends land in our basement… and stay. But at this point, someone would have to pry the headband from their crowns, or from my hands, to get it away from us. We love it SO.

The girls wear their ruby points whether they match their ensemble or not. Summer or winter. Rain or shine. And shine they do, when this red bow is atop of the spice that they’ve got. (And that’s a lot.)

KAT AND JUJU, the debut picture book of author-illustrator Kataneh Vahdani, just celebrated its book birthday on July 1, 2020. The cover - which features Kat’s red cat ear headband - first caught my eye on Twitter. When I looked closer, I learned it was from Two Lions, the publisher of my debut DANCING WITH DADDY (Fall 2021). I had to check it out! How eye-catching is this red, white and blue-tiful cover? Meet Kat and Juju…

New picture book KAT AND JUJU centers around Kat, a raven-haired girl, who sees the world differently and does things her own way. But she is shy and afraid to share her ideas with other kids. On her birthday, a special surprise arrives - Juju! Her very own best friend. Red-feathered Juju is confident and brave and not at all like quiet Kat. When a problem lands in their midst, Kat is presented with a chance to help. But that means overcoming her worries. Will she do it? Here are three things that I love about KAT AND JUJU…

Rich Texture & Limited Palette

The aesthetic of this story was the first thing to grab me. I just needed into this world! Texture is everywhere. Faint washes of blue watercolor. Smudges and splatters of black ink. Spongy splotches of red. The color is shaped and held by simple, elegant lines - sometimes lightly gestured, other times dark and firm. And layered upon that? Graphic elements with repeated patterns, elements completely saturated in color, and precise marks and details. So, so much. While undoubtedly complex, it all blends together in a clear, unfussy and gentle way, offering page-after-page of magical marks to explore.

Kat’s ensemble - red headband, black bob, checkered dress - is iconic, and the entire setting of the story complements and extends her look. The limited palette of black, red, white, and blue conveys intense artistic focus, but never gets boring. That’s because the lens, so to speak, is always moving. Sometimes, readers are observing Kat straight on, learning the basics about her. Other times, readers are taking in her profile, close on her furrowed brow and blushing cheek, digging more deeply into her complex heart. The variety of the art shows readers how Kat’s worry manifests itself differently in different situations.

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Contrast in Character

In stark contrast to Kat’s artistic and timid personality is fluffy and lovable bird Juju. He is the opposite of Kat, a fact that is driven home in many ways. Juju is big / Kat is small. Juju is silly and messy / Kat is quiet and tidy. Juju is uninhibited / Kat is extremely guarded. They are a sweet odd couple, and their differences play out not just in Kat’s reactions to Juju’s exuberance, but also in the faces of Kat’s peers - a trio of other young children (and their animal pals) present throughout the story.

Conversation bubbles add yet another layer of interest to the story, injecting opportunity for read-aloud fun, as storytellers imagine the voice of funny Juju. While the characters take turns in the spotlight, the story remains, ever, Kat’s. Her wishes, her fears, her hopes, and her gestures of kindness show young readers that changing and growing into bravery often isn’t a bold, overnight transformation. It can happen quietly and gradually - in a picture book, and in real life, too.

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Taking Chances and Growing

Kat and Juju’s personalities seem fixed, until the characters stumble upon a third character in need of a helping hand. Kat doesn’t hesitate to step in, but she does worry. That she isn’t up to the challenge. That helping will put her in uncomfortable situations. And of course, it does, leading Kat to feel all kinds of awkwardness and doubt. Which makes it all the more satisfying when she lets loose and lets her joy ring out loud.

KAT AND JUJU is a story that reminds readers that trying new things, and meeting new people, will grow and stretch you in incredible ways. But these changes won’t take you farther from who you are. Rather, they bring you closer to everything that makes you YOU.

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KAT AND JUJU is Kataneh Vahdani’s debut picture book. Kataneh is a director, storyteller, professor, and mama bird. Her animated films have been screened at many festivals, including Sundance Film Festival and New York International Film Festival. She worked for many years in the story department of Walt Disney Animation Studios and taught story, design, and animation at CalArts and College of the Canyons. She is currently directing an animated feature. Follow Kataneh on Twitter at @katanehv, and follow her characters Kat and Juju at @KatandJujuLove.

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One lucky reader will win KAT AND JUJU, signed by Kataneh Vahdani!

*** Win KAT AND JUJU ***

Simply...

1. "Like" this post (click the heart below)

2. Follow me (@anitraschulte) on Twitter

3. Retweet my pinned contest tweet by 7/17/20 

(Submit a blog comment below and get a BONUS ENTRY!)

GOOD LUCK!