I was fortunate enough to get a copy of the ARC. This is a beautiful author debut book about accepting people in less fortunate circumstances like youI was fortunate enough to get a copy of the ARC. This is a beautiful author debut book about accepting people in less fortunate circumstances like you would family. Also an ode to libraries, a place for all and a safety net for many....more
I read this book on the plane and wished my flight was longer. Staged during "the sickness" where a boy and his family are forced into isolation, ClayI read this book on the plane and wished my flight was longer. Staged during "the sickness" where a boy and his family are forced into isolation, Clay meets a magical dog and discovers a hidden world, creates unlikely and dangerous friendships, and risks everything to save his beloved pet. This book had everything I love about middle-grade fantasy plus beautiful writing, heart and humor, and gorgeous illustrations that have definitely landed this book in my "To Be Re-Read" pile. Recommend! ...more
When a group of forest critters goes looking for wigs for the Big Wig Parade, hilarity ensues as they try on turkey tails, turds, and skunk butts. DoeWhen a group of forest critters goes looking for wigs for the Big Wig Parade, hilarity ensues as they try on turkey tails, turds, and skunk butts. Does Peltie have the answer? Super adorable with lots of gross-out humor kids will love. Our readers hope to see more Ballinger books. This one was a hoot!...more
Fabulously fun and neurodivergent affirming, written by the "Too Sticky" Dr. Jen Malia, an autistic parent to an autistic kiddo-- she gets it, and youFabulously fun and neurodivergent affirming, written by the "Too Sticky" Dr. Jen Malia, an autistic parent to an autistic kiddo-- she gets it, and you should get this book. Recommend!...more
I love spiders, but even if you are fearful, this brilliant picture book featuring-- you guessed it!-- a jumping spider will change your mind. ExquisiI love spiders, but even if you are fearful, this brilliant picture book featuring-- you guessed it!-- a jumping spider will change your mind. Exquisitely illustrated, this book puts you in the shoes... er... paws of a hungry garden spider as it hunts prey while avoiding becoming prey. It's "Honey I Shrunk the Kids" meets a non-fiction picture book told in a compelling storybook format, brilliantly accomplished like only Roaring Brook Press (see also the "If Animals Dissapeared" series by Lily Williams) can do. I bought a second copy after reading the book and will be sharing this with the special kids in my life. JUMP for a copy today. You'll be glad you did. ...more
