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Book Reviews

Her Right Foot by Dave Eggers (A Book Review)

Her Right Foot by Dave Eggers, illustrated by Shawn Harris

Publisher: Chronicle Books
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 104
Age Range: 6 – 9 and up
Grade Level: Kindergarten – 3 and up

Synopsis
If you had to name a statue, any statue, odds are good you’d mention the Statue of Liberty. Have you seen her?

She’s in New York. 
She’s holding a torch. 
And she’s in mid-stride, moving forward. 
But why?
In this fascinating, fun take on nonfiction, Dave Eggers and Shawn Harris investigate a seemingly small trait of America’s most emblematic statue. What they find is about more than history, more than art. What they find in the Statue of Liberty’s right foot is the powerful message of acceptance that is essential to an entire country’s creation.

Reflection
Here’s an interesting fact some of you may not know: the right foot of the Statue of Liberty is raised and not sitting flat on the platform. That’s right, Lady Liberty is not standing still…she’s on the move. But where is she going? She’s going forward to greet new immigrants entering the United States. What a powerful message of acceptance for little readers!

This picture book entitled Her Right Foot is so interesting, informative, poignant and funny too! Oh, and it has a neat surprise cover underneath the dust jacket.  It features the date, July 4, 1776 written in Roman numerals. That is the date on which the Declaration of Independence was signed.  What a nice, thoughtful, and detailed touch!  I absolutely LOVE all of the history and the beautiful symbolism of the statue’s raised right foot. Who knew? I went on several tours to Ellis Island and not once did anyone mention this interesting tidbit of information. I honestly think this story is so captivating and entertaining from beginning to end even though the text is quite lengthy (104 pages). It’s not boring though and it makes you want to turn the pages to read and learn more.

Little readers will enjoy learning several interesting facts about the Statue of Liberty.  They’ll find out who came up with the idea to create a statue, who designed it, how it got to New York, what the spikes on the statue’s crown represent, and who came up with the idea to put a giant record player inside the Statue of Liberty (an idea that never came to fruition).

This book was originally slated for publication in 2018, however the creators and Chronicle Books were inspired by the recent immigration ban to bring it to young readers as soon as possible. I’m so glad they did because books like this one are so needed right now. It can be a gateway to discussing refugees and immigration with our youngest readers. I think it’s a wonderful book to start conversations with and among students, helping them connect current events with the United States’ history as a nation of immigrants.

The last few pages of this book get me choked up every time because it’s written so beautifully.

After all, the Statue of Liberty is an immigrant, too.  And this is why she’s moving.  This is why she’s striding.  In welcoming the poor, the tired, the struggling to breathe free.  She is not content to wait.  She must meet them in the sea.

One to definitely check out with your little readers if you’re interested!

Book Reviews

STEM Board Books for Baby and Toddler Future Scientists: Baby Loves Science Series

Disclaimer: I was provided copies of these books from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions expressed are my own and have not been influenced in any way.

Is it ever too early to start teaching STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) concepts to children?  I don’t think so, but others may disagree with me. My reason is simple: we use STEM related concepts each and every day whether we realize it or not.  From the moment children are born they begin investigating the natural world around them.  They learn about how things work by testing them with their tiny fingers, watching them change, listening to sounds, and feeling textures. Essentially, that’s what science is all about, right?

That’s why I love the Baby Loves Science board book series for children ages birth to three.  They claim to be “accurate enough to satisfy an expert, yet simple enough for toddlers”.  Featuring friendly, simple text, cheerful illustrations and facts, these books are the perfect fun introduction to chemistry, physics and engineering for babies and toddlers.  I also think they are engaging, entertaining, and filled with simple learning opportunities.

I know I learned about quantum physics at some point during my school days, but I seemed to forget what it means over the years. Thanks to reading Baby Loves Quantum Physics, it helped to spark my memory.  The same is also true for thermodynamics.  So yes, parents and caregivers may in fact learn (or re-learn) a thing or two as well by reading these books.  I know I did!

I like how both of these books have short and simple sentences on each page making them great for bedtime story time if you are short on time.  They also spell things out for little readers making the concepts easy to grasp.

Sunlight + Air + Water = Food for the tree – Baby Loves Thermodynamics!

In quantum physics, until Baby looks in the box, Cat is both asleep and awake. – Baby Loves Quantum Physics!

I like to use these books in the following ways:

I focus on helping my children understand concepts by asking simple questions about different things mentioned in the books. “What do you think happened to the cat?”

I encourage my children to use analysis and reasoning skills by asking simple analytical and reasoning questions. “What do trees need in order to grow?”

I help my children to think about their own process of thinking by asking questions like “How did you know that?” or “How did you figure that out?”

I help my children apply concepts to their everyday world by doing simple and age-appropriate beyond the book craft projects that are related to the book in some way.

Let’s support every child to be a Scientist, Engineer, Techie and Mathematician!  You can do this by reading STEM themed books or doing STEM related hands-on activities.  This can also be done through the intentional use of simple questions that promote higher-level thinking.

Check out all of the current books in this series!

Baby Loves Quantum Physics! by Ruth Spiro, illustrated by Irene Chan

Baby Loves Thermodynamics! by Ruth Spiro, illustrated by Irene Chan

Baby Loves Aerospace Engineering! by Ruth Spiro, illustrated by Irene Chan

Baby Loves Quarks! by Ruth Spiro, illustrated by Irene Chan

Publisher: Charlesbridge Publishing
Pages: 20
Age Range: 0-3 and up
Available for Sale: September 5, 2017

Your turn: What are your thoughts about incorporating STEM into the lives of toddlers and preschoolers?  Please feel free to share your ideas and STEM experiences so that we might all learn and grow together.

Book Reviews

Leaf by Sandra Dieckmann (A Book Review)

Disclaimer: I was provided with a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my review.  All opinions are my own and have not been influenced in any way.

Leaf by Sandra Dieckmann

Publisher: Flying Eye Books
Pages: 32
Format: Hardcover
Age Range: 3 – 5
Grade Level: Preschool – Kindergarten
Publication Date: October 3, 2017

Synopsis
When a polar bear arrives unexpectedly in the woods, the animals fear and avoid him, suspecting him to be dangerous – and his habit of collecting leaves only adds to their distrust. Then one day, they watch as he attempts to fly over the water with wings made of colorful leaves…just trying to go home.

Maybe he needs some help?

Reflection

Creatures crave companionship and love just like people do.  No matter what you look like or where you are from, love and feelings are the same.  I think Leaf offers a beautiful visual representation of what love and kindness is and shows how even animals possess the incredible gift of giving and receiving love.

When a polar bear named Leaf arrives unexpectedly in the woods, the other animals fear and avoid him.  They automatically think he is dangerous simply because he looks and acts unlike any of the other animals in the wild wood.  With his white fur and weird leaf collecting habit, Leaf is an outsider.  After being carried upon shore due to melting ice in his natural habitat, Leaf is forced to make a home among an old, overgrown cave on the hill.

Needless to say, Leaf feels lonely and misses his family dearly.  All he wants to do is go back home to his family. Animals are not immune from experiencing complex emotions, such as sadness and loneliness.  I love the way this book tackles complex emotions in a way that makes it easy for little readers to grasp.

This book can spark so many discussions with the following themes:

  • loneliness
  • sadness
  • acceptance
  • empathy
  • community
  • family & love
  • friendship
  • kindness
  • feeling and being treated like an outsider
  • global warming & climate change (discuss reasons why the ice may be melting)

In addition, I like how this book comes full circle with the clever and wise crows.  I won’t spoil the ending for you, but I’ll just tell you it’s beautiful and truly brought a tear to my eye.  I love how the simple act of kindness the crows showed to Leaf had the power to dispel his feelings of loneliness.  Oh, and I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention how beautiful the illustrations in this book are. Every page is a work of art worthy to be framed.  The color palette used throughout is so stunning and truly pops off the page!

Not only does the story illustrate all of the themes mentioned above, but it also shows beauty in diversity and illustrates how creatures are all the same no matter how different they may be.  I think children need to be exposed to books like this with powerful and poignant overall messages.  Although this book is about animals, it’s very relevant to feelings of isolation and loneliness that humans may face too.  In today’s political climate, it seems that resisting isolation and staying open to being connected to others will be more important than ever.  I highly recommend checking out this book with your little readers when it publishes on October 3, 2017.

Your turn: Are you looking forward to reading this with your little readers?  Feel free to share in the comments.

 

Book Reviews

Mommy and Me Picture Book Recommendation: A Night Out With Mama by Quvenzhané Wallis

Disclaimer: I was provided a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher to facilitate this review.  As always, all opinions are my own.


A Night Out With Mama
by Quvenzhané Wallis, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Pages: 40
Age Range: 4 – 8 years old
Grade Level: Preschool – 3
Available for Sale: October 3, 2017

Synopsis
From Academy Award–nominated actress Quvenzhané Wallis comes a story about glitz, glamour, and the most important thing of all—family.

A very talented little girl has a very special night ahead of her. A night where she’ll get to wear a new dress in the most beautiful shade of blue with shoes that match it perfectly. A night where she’ll get to ride in the biggest car she’s ever seen! A night that will, of course, include ice cream.

But most special of all, it will be a night out with her mama.

Reflection
A very talented little girl has the pleasure of going with her Mama to her very first fancy awards show. She’ll get to wear her blue shoes along with her matching dress and headband, ride in a limousine and of course, eat lots of ice cream.

I love picture books like this that showcase everyday kids being kids. Of course, it’s not everyday a kid gets to attend a glamorous awards show or take pictures on the red carpet, but many kids do have family interactions.  You see the family eating breakfast together, the girl getting teased by her big brother, and being given a flower by her baby brother.  That scene reminds me of myself and my son.  My son loves giving me flowers and it warms my heart every time he does it.  It’s also so cute to see the girl and her mother all dressed up having such a great time out on the town.  This book inspires me to start having regular one-on-one mommy and me dates with my kids no matter how glitzy and glamorous or laid back they may be.  The main thing is they be FUN!

At first I’m shy…but then I relax and get into it.

The book doesn’t specify whether this story is based on a real life experience, but I’m willing to bet it is.  Especially since the author is actress Quvenzhané Wallis.  At the age of 9, Wallis was the youngest ever nominee for the 2013 Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in the movie Beasts of the Southern Wild.  To me, this picture book appears to be a fictional (or real) account about Quvenzhané ‘s first academy award experience.  The topic is lighthearted and understandable with minimal text that is easy to read.  There are themes of: family, confidence, overcoming fears, love, mother-daughter bonding, glitz and glamour.  An absolutely adorable book with gorgeous illustrations for mothers and daughters to enjoy reading together!

Your turn: Are you looking forward to reading this book?  Feel free to share in the comments.  What are some of your other favorite “Mommy and Me” themed books?

Book Reviews

Muslim Picture Book for Kids: Muhiima’s Quest (A Book Review)

Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book from the author to facilitate this review.  As always, all opinions are my own.

Muslim picture books for kids are not easy to come by.  Especially ones that showcase kids doing normal everyday things.  Enter Muhiima’s Quest, a charming and inspirational book of self-discovery and a celebration of diversity with the message that our heritage and faith are what make us unique and special.

Synopsis
Although her family does not celebrate birthdays, Muhiima wakes on the morning of her 10th birthday to an unusual surprise. Her mother gives her a carefully drawn map with instructions not to ask questions, but to simply follow the map. Muhiima sets off on her bicycle to begin a quest that will take her all around town. At each destination on the map she is gifted with an important message and a mysterious little box. Travel with Muhiima on her journey and discover how the pieces of this puzzle come together.

Reflection
Muhiima’s Quest is a delight and the illustrations are adorable! The story follows Muhiima a young Muslim American girl as she goes on a quest riding her bicycle around town. You see, it’s Muhiima’s 10th birthday and since traditional Muslims don’t celebrate their birthdays (or any other holidays with the exception of Eid), Muhiima’s parents have decided to do something very unique for their daughter. Her mother gives her a map and tells her to “find her way”. Muhiima’s job is to visit all of the places on the map until she reaches her final destination back at home.

Along the way, Muhiima is given tiny boxes from trusted family adults. When she gets back home all of the people she visited are at her house waiting to surprise her. One by one, Muhiima opens the tiny boxes and is surprised to see each one contains a tiny pearl to make a beautiful pearl necklace. In the end, they all enjoy a feast in celebration of Muhiima.

Although Muhiima doesn’t have a traditional American birthday party, I love how all of the adults came together to make her day so special. You could truly feel all the love and appreciation each person has for her. To me, this book signified a sort of rite of passage for Muhiima as she’s transitioning to her double digit years.

Reading this book presents adult readers with a great chance to talk to little readers about when they encounter something new or unfamiliar to foster a connection between them and Muhiima. For example, you could talk about how each family has their own beliefs and traditions that others may not. That may make others different in some ways, but that’s not a bad thing. You could also talk to kids about embracing their uniqueness and the importance of having a supportive village of people around you.  Muhiima’s friends and family members imparted so much wisdom on her by saying things like: “know your value and hold your head high” and “never boast about your blessings”. Themes include: family, diversity, Muslim culture, Islamic teachings, self-confidence, faith and heritage.  There is also an activity section for kids to write down their own pearls of wisdom.

I’d probably recommend this book for children ages 7-8 and up for independent reading since some of the paragraphs are a little lengthy. However, I think this book could be read aloud by an adult to smaller children as well.

Connect with Author Rahma Rodaah!

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

family fun

STEM Saturdays: Osmo Creative Kit Review

Disclaimer: I received an Osmo Creative Kit directly from Osmo in exchange for an honest review.  All opinions expressed are my own.

As a Computer Programmer and lover of all things STEM (science, math, engineering and technology), it’s important for me to expose my children to technology in order to help them build foundations for future academic and career success.  I want them to be as computer-savvy as possible from a young age.  Online skills are becoming as important as reading and writing for the younger generations, so why not give them a head start in life?  Since my kids are both still currently under the age of 5, my main goals are making sure they know their way around computers, smartphones and tablets without over exposing them too much.

What is Osmo?

I’ve been a huge fan of Osmo since discovering them a couple of years ago.  Simply put, Osmo is a unique gaming accessory for the iPad that comes with games that will change the way your child plays.  To date Osmo has been named one of Time Magazine’s Best Inventions, is a Parent’s Choice award winner, a winner of the prestigious Oppenheim award, and a 2016 finalist for Toy of The Year.

What’s Included?

We received the Osmo Creative Kit which uses interactive art tools in 3 creative apps: Monster, Masterpiece and Newton. With the creative kit you receive: a white board, dry erase markers, a pouch, and a cloth to erase.

Each of the three apps you download transforms your drawings and instantly brings them to life on the screen right before your eyes! The drawings then become animation to take part in a story, solve a puzzle or they become a one-of-a-kind artwork piece you can frame!

How Do You Play Osmo?

All that you need to play Osmo is an iPad with a camera.  Osmo is currently compatible with: iPad 2, iPad (3rd Generation), iPad (4th Generation), iPad Mini, iPad Mini 2, iPad Mini 3, iPad Mini 4, iPad Air, iPad Air 2 and the 9.7-inch iPad Pro. Osmo does not currently work with Android-based tablets, however they hope to develop for Android in the future. Right now they are just focusing on iOS.

Setting up your Osmo gaming system is easy.  You simply download the apps from the app store, place your iPad in the white Osmo base, and then clip on the red Reflector.  And once you set up your Osmo account(s), you’re ready to play!  Note:  If you have multiple children or people who will be using your Osmo you can set up different accounts.  I think this great to be able to track the progress each person has made.

Why We Love Osmo

Although we haven’t quite figured out how to play the Newton game yet, we truly love our Osmo gaming system! The kids enjoy playing Monster the best – they love Mo (and so do I)!  It’s so cool to see all of the things the kids draw being pulled onto the screen.  I’m still amazed at the technology and how it all works.  I want to see the code behind, but that’s just the techie in me I guess!

I personally love the Masterpiece game since I am not the best at drawing.  My drawings always turn out looking amazing!  Now if only I could actually draw that well on my own – ha!  The Masterpiece app has several pictures in the library that you can choose from to sketch. I also like the fact that you can take photos of different objects in your home and draw them as well.  Initially getting used to looking at the iPad screen instead of looking at the paper takes some time and practice.  We love watching our drawings in fast play once we’re done creating them.

My favorite thing about our Creative Kit is all of the games encourage creativity and lots of imagination.  In addition, they encourage children to work on their fine motor skills in a simple way that’s really easy to understand.  You’re learning while having fun and strengthening muscles in your body including your brain.  How cool is that?

Osmo games teach children a wide variety of things like:

• logic and problem solving skills

• spatial relational skills

• spelling and critical thinking skills

• drawing and creative confidence

• counting, addition and multiplication

• math, money, fractions and nonverbal communication

Osmo is recommended for children ages 5 – 12, but my children are able to use it just fine with very little adult supervision required.

To learn more about the affordable Osmo gaming system kits and games visit their website.

Your turn: Do your children have an Osmo gaming system?  How do you teach your children about STEM and/or technology?  Feel free to share in the comments.

 

children's books

Bookface Friday Kid Lit Inspiration Featuring Black Protagonists

What is Bookface Friday Anyway?

If you follow us on Instagram, you’ve likely seen some of our popular Bookface Friday photos.  Over the past few months I’ve really come to enjoy participating and scouting out potential books featuring Black protagonists for us to showcase.  Although we don’t post a bookface photo every Friday, I really get into it when we do and so do my kids. They actually look forward to posing for their photos now.

I think the New York Times summarizes exactly what a bookface is the best:

Bookface involves strategically lining up your face or another body part alongside a book cover that features a matching body part so that there appears a melding of life and art. Librarians and other book lovers post these photos weekly on visual apps like Instagram, using the caption #BookfaceFriday.

In addition to the #BookFaceFriday hashtag, I recently learned about the hashtag #BookFootFriday too.  This is the same concept as bookface photos except you line up the book cover with your feet or legs instead.

What qualities do bookface or bookfoot worthy books possess (in my opinion)?  Beautiful, high-quality, close up illustrations that are big enough to take up a full page on their own.  There are some illustrators who I think draw the best illustrations for potential bookface photos including: Kadir Nelson, Frank Morrison, Vanessa Brantley-Newtown, Don Tate and Floyd Cooper just to name a few.  I also think the bookface craze is great for helping books gain additional exposure and for highlighting talented illustrators.

Below I’ve rounded up 17 of the best bookface photos we’ve featured on Instagram to date.  There are 15 books for children and two bonus diverse books for adults.  If you’re looking for a few book recommendations featuring Black protagonists to use for your bookface or bookfeet photos, I hope these pictures and books will provide some inspiration for you.  Enjoy!

I Just Kept Spinning   (This is our most popular bookface/bookfoot photo to date!)


Props used to pull this off: a cute tutu

Emi’s Curly, Coily, Cotton Candy Hair

Props used to pull this off: a hot pink colored shirt

One Million Men and Me

Props used to pull this off: Hubby wearing a gray shirt and my daughter wearing a pink hoodie shirt

Ellington Was Not a Street

Props used to pull this off: a white pair of leggings

Something Beautiful

Props used to pull this off: a striped shirt with similar design

Hank’s Big Day

Props used to pull this off: a red shirt, white pants

He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands

Props used to pull this off: a red shirt

I Have a Dream

Props used to pull this off: a black shirt

Muhammad Ali: A Champion is Born

Props used to pull this off: a matching gray shirt

Peekaboo Bedtime


Props used to pull this off: a pillow and comforter with a similar color scheme/design

Fishing Day

Props used to pull this off: a pair of jeans

Ron’s Big Mission

Props used to pull this off: a matching yellow shirt

Michelle

Props used to pull this off: a white shirt

We Shall Overcome: The Story of a Song

Props used to pull this off: a matching denim shirt (can use overalls or a dress too)

Where’s Rodney?

Props used to pull this off: a matching orange shirt

Bonus Diverse Book for Adults: November Blues

Props used to pull this off: no props needed for this one

When Dimple Met Rishi

Props used to pull this off: a matching orange shirt

Your turn: What book titles would you add to this list?  Feel free to share your recommendations in the comments.

Book Reviews

Has Your Flower Bloomed Yet: Bloom by Brittany Travestè (A Book Review)

Bloom by Brittany Travestè

Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book from the author to facilitate this review.  As always, all opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.


Has your flower bloomed yet or are you a seed still waiting to sprout and grow?

Synopsis
Manifested from the seed of reflection, Bloom is one woman’s restorative quest toward love-of the internal sort. Through bare as bones poems, narrative essays, and brief meditations, it proves to be healing for you, too, if you’ve ever looked upon yourself and cringed at the not so beautiful. Bloom seeks release and acceptance. It is an act of utter vulnerability with the hope of giving you freedom to sprout gracefully into your most magical self, understanding that every experience, lapse in judgment, and fall from grace has led you right back to you.

Reflection
As author Brittany Travestè states in this book, “We have so much in common with flowers. We, however, attempt to hide the process. We try to pretend that we woke up in love with ourselves. As if our mothers pushed us out into a world that is perfect.”

This short collection of poetry, prose, narrative essays, meditations and honest reflection is SO beautiful! It’s broken out into four different sections: seed, sprout, grow and bloom. Women (and teens) will be taken on a beautiful journey of self-reflection, self-love and self-care. I can relate to so many of the poems and reflections from my humble beginnings when I was a “seed” to my naive years as I was still “sprouting” and “growing” to my current life living in full “bloom”.  I like the poem Insecurities, but Thank God for Mama, I Ain’t Sorry and Blues in His Left Thigh to name a few.

I’d recommend this book for teens and women on a quest to restore their internal love for self.  This book may help you find things hidden deep within your soul like fears, doubts or negative traits.  As you go on your own personal self love journey be sure to accept whatever you find and continue to move forward in your quest for self discovery.

You can grow even stronger by honestly facing the characteristics revealed by your personal inventory. Don’t be afraid to admit who you are and accept your limitations. Only then can you start working on the weaknesses to become a better person and enjoy your strengths to savor each day.  “In Bloom, you’ll recall that yours is the love you’ve been searching for all along.  You were planted for this.”

About the Author
Brittany Travestè is a self-published writer, poet and cultivator of black girl magic.  She credits her mother for nurturing her love for literature.  Brittany earned her BA in Journalism from Howard University where she began to flourish as a published writer.  To learn more about Brittany’s journey to BLOOM visit her website.

Your turn: Have you read this book yet?  Feel free to share in the comments.

Book Reviews

Black Girls Do Ballet: I Just Kept Spinning by Destini Berry

Disclaimer: I was provided a copy of this book from the publisher to facilitate this review.  As always, all opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.

I Just Kept Spinning
by Destini Berry, illustrated by Ashley Foxx

Publisher: Kifani Press
Format: Hardcover
Age Range: 5-8 and up

Can Black girls do ballet?  Oh yes, they can (and so can other girls too)!

Synopsis
Follow the story of 7-year-old Destini, who wants more than anything to dance but is banned from her first recital because her long locs seemingly don’t fit the mold of a prima ballerina. Little readers however, will see that Destini won’t let anyone else define her beauty or her destiny.

Reflection
One day after ballet class, little 7 year-old Destini is pulled aside and told by her dance teacher she can no longer participate in class because she has dreadlocks in her hair. Her teacher tells her ballet dancers should be “neat and clean”. She calls her braids unruly and tells her they must go. Feeling devastated and dejected, Destini tells her mother what happened. Soon the news spreads like wildfire and the local media is involved. In the end, the teacher has a change of heart and Destini gets to keep on spinning. Based on a true experience, this beautiful book inspires young girls to believe in themselves.

The “ideal” ballet standards have alienated many non-white women from the dance world for decades here in America and worldwide. Non-white girls and women have been told they have flat feet, they’ve been criticized and ridiculed about their hair, skin color or weight.  I’m so happy there are books like this to remind little girls not to accept “no” for an answer when they are faced with obstacles. It also teaches themes of self-acceptance, standing up for yourself and confidence.

The hand drawn illustrations by Ashley Foxx are so colorful and gorgeous and really make this book come alive. A great book to read with aspiring ballerinas, lovers of dance or anyone who is striving to make it with the odds against them.  Little girls with dreadlocks or braids who dance ballet are sure to be delighted to see themselves reflected in this wonderful book.

Kifani Press is committed to publishing high-quality works of fiction featuring characters of color by authors and illustrators of color. Recommended for ages 5-8. Visit http://ijustkeptspinning.com for more information or to pre-order.  You can also use discount code DYS15 to receive 15% off your entire order through September 15, 2017.

Your turn: Are you looking forward to reading this book with your little readers?  Feel free to share in the comments.

Book Reviews

KidLitPicks: Little Kids, Big Emotions 17 Picture Book Recommendations

Did you know that reading with your kiddos supports the development of emotional intelligence? Well it does! By enhancing vocabulary, creating an openness to experience, and providing safe space for emphatic imagination, books open our children to the world of emotions in pretty powerful ways. This month, the #kidlitpicks theme is Little Kids, Big Emotions and we are excited to share some great picture books that address your children’s big and budding feelings! Some books will aim directly at helping kiddos understand and express themselves (a major tantrum-busting skill) by featuring an array of emotions, illustrations, and feeling words. Other books will feature stories that give children the opportunity to imagine themselves in interesting narratives about sadness, hope, joy, fear, angry, and all the rest.  This month’s @kidlitpicks theme was chosen and introduced by @afriendlyaffair, with a special message: As a clinical psychologist, I feel strongly about the importance of giving your kids a plethora of ways to express themselves. Hopefully your feed will be full this month of books that help us all along the way of building a good base of knowledge, play, and imaginative experiences so that our kids can understand the world around them and be resilient.

Places To Be, by Mac Barnett and Renata Liwska
“All the ups and downs in life, the zigzags and u-turns, can be difficult to navigate, but with a friend at our side in all those places to be, we’ll get through.” — Summer from @readingisourthing

Feminist Baby, by Loryn Brantz
“She’s a force to be reckoned with!” — Mel from @spiky_penelope

“It is wonderful for opening discussions on feelings, friendship, diversity and, of course, abstract art..” — Clarissa from @book.nerd.mommy

 

Tiny Tantrum, by Caroline Crowe and Ella Okstad
“We all know a little girl like her!” —  Kim from @bookbairn
Brave, by Stacy McAnulty and Joanne Lew-Vriethoff
“This primer is a perfect introduction for kids and a great refresher for their grownups.” — Miranda from @bookbloom

In My Heart, by Jo Witek and Christine Roussey
“The die cut hearts are one of the many appealing features of this book.” — De from @books_and_babycinos

The Forever Garden, by Laurel Snyder and Samantha Cotterill
“A wonderful story about friendship and gardening! ” — Arielle from @childrensbooksgalore

Emily’s Blue Period, by Cathleen Daly
“For families going through separation or divorce, Emily’s Blue Period is an especially compassionate and helpful book…be sure to have some art supplies ready to make your own collage afterward.” — Rossa from @curiouslittlepeople

My Brother, by Dee Huxley
“Older children will appreciate this metaphorical story that is a tender exploration of loss and grief from a sibling’s perspective.” — Rossa from @curiouslittlepeople


A Book of Feelings, by Amanda McCardie
“What sets this book apart is that it not only focuses on different kinds of emotions but also how those emotions may affect them and how to identify and understand them in other people.” — Rossa from @curiouslittlepeople

I’m New Here, by Anne Sibley O’Brien
“I think this book is great for both welcoming children to classrooms and also providing American children with an understanding of what it feels like to be new and learn how to speak and write a new language..” — Charnaie from @hereweeread
 
The Field Guide to the Grumpasaurus, by Edward Hemingway
“It was a great reminder for me that there are times to be firm and strict but there are just as many times to show empathy. Both are important.” — Wendy from @homegrownreader
Everyone, by Christopher Silas Neal
“A beautiful and hopeful look at understanding emotion.” — Heather from @kidlitbookbits

The Color Monster: A Pop-Up Book of Feelings, by Anna Llenas
The Color Monster is the perfect emotional primer for young kids. It explores the range of emotions children experience — all through amazing pop-up pages bursting with color!” — Anna from @kidlitcrafts

Today I Feel, by Madalena Moniz
Today I Feel fits in perfectly with the theme. It’s an Alphabet book of feelings.” — Mel from @kids.books.we.love

Annie’s Chair, by Deborah Miland
“In a deceptively simple way, it taps into some of the BIG preschooler emotions around sharing and space..” — Shannon from @ohcreativeday

Grumpy Pants, by Claire Messer
“A great door to talk to kids about these grumpy feelings and learning how to deal with them.” — Michelle from @the.book.report

Your turn: What books would you add to this list?  Feel free to share in the comments.

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