Written by Rita Lorraine Hubbard, Illustrated by Oge Mora, Published by Schwartz & Wade, 2020. (fiction, ages 5-9)
It’s interesting how we place barriers between us and our goals. We tell ourselves that we do not have time, or that it is too hard. Then when we do have the time we say, “I’m too old” or “it’s too late to start going for my dreams now.” This book really gave me the wake up call to always strive for what we want no matter how old, or how long it takes. Not to mention that the story is charming and a stunner since it’s based on the true story of Mary Walker who lived through twenty-six American presidents!
BACKGROUND
Mary Walker was born in 1848 and always wanted to learn to read. She was freed from slavery at the age of twenty and worked hard to provide for her family growing family. Finally at the age of 116 she decides that she will finally learn to read. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
About a fifteen minute read aloud that would be a perfect model of grit, perseverance, goal-setting, and hard work.
Written by Christian Trimmer, Illustrated by Melissa van der Paardt, Published by Simon & Schuster, 2016. (fiction, ages 3-5)
The Lunar New Year is approaching and while there are many books that talk about the celebration, there are even fewer that talk about the folktale that explain the animals in the zodiac. Based on the Chinese folktale, the Jade Emperor, or ruler of heaven, held a race for all the animals. The first twelve that crossed the finish line were included in the calendar in the order they placed. The rat was cunning and tricked its way to first place and managed to exclude the cat, hence the reason why the cat is not in the zodiac and why the two are natural enemies. It is important to note that the Lunar New Year is celebrated in numerous Asian countries and although the animals in the zodiac are similar, there are variations. For example, unlike the Chinese, the Vietnamese zodiac does include the cat, but does not include the rabbit.
BACKGROUND
A lighthearted version of the Chinese folktale. When Shu the rat receives the invitation to the Great Race it is up to his smarts and know how to make sure that he and his best friend Mimi the cat win the race. Mimi agrees to go along with Shu, although her focus is getting the promised cupcakes at the finish line.
BEST FOR
About a five minute read aloud that would be great for a Chinese New Year celebration. It would also be appropriate for a folktale unit, or just a silly and entertaining read aloud.
Written by Linda Sue Park, Published by Clarion Books, 2020. (historical fiction, ages 8-11)
This was the honor title for the APALA children’s literature award for 2020. Not only is it a fascinating read, but if you read the author’s note Park reveals that this story was personal. She grew up loving Laura Ingalls Wilder’s books but struggled with the racism towards Natives as well as the lack of representation of Asians in that setting. As a result she wrote the book that she wished she had as a girl.
BACKGROUND
Hanna and her Pa move to the Dakota Territory in 1880. She dreams of fulfilling her late mother’s wishes of finishing school and becoming a dressmaker. However when you are the only half White half Asian girl in the territory, she must carefully overcome the racism and distrust of the community in order to accomplish her dreams.
BEST FOR
An intriguing middle grade read for those that love the slice of life frontier genre.
Normally I would have another book trailer released and I’m still working on one for this week. However, the Youth Media Awards presented by the ALA (American Library Association) was announced this morning and I wanted to highlight a few titles! Also a special shoutout to all my peeps that served on the APALA Literature Award Committee on a job well done!
Illustrated by Michaela Goade, Illustrated by Carole Lindstrom, Published by Roaring Brook Press
This is the first time a Native has won the Caldecott Medal so a big thank you and a very hearty congratulations to Michaela Goade for your award and for paving the way for more Native creators!
Written by Tae Keller and published by Random House Children’s Books
Lily must navigate a new town when her family moves to be closer to her sick grandmother. This magical realism title touches on family relationships, grief, and Korean folklore.
Written by Saadia Faruqi & Laura Shovan and published by Clarion Books
Sixth graders Sara, a Pakistani American, and Elizabeth, a Jewish English American, find friendship through their school’s cooking class and their shared experience of their moms taking the US citizen test. This realistic fiction is great for readers who love food!
Written by Christina Soontornvat and published by Candlewick Press
Pong, an orphan in Thailand escapes from prison hoping to change his doomed fate. However he struggles to escape his past running from Nok, the prison warden’s daughter, and the dark and powerful governor. This fantasy is an action packed adventure.
Written by Ernesto Cisneros and published by Harper, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.
When Efren’s mother gets deported, he finds himself taking care of his younger siblings on very little funds while still balancing school life. While he and his Papa try to bring Mama back he struggles to hold everything together. This realistic fiction touches on immigration, family, activism, and friendships.
Written by Linda Sue Park and published by Clarion Books, an imprint of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Books for Young Readers
When Hanna moves to the Dakota territory in 1880 with her father, there is one thing she notices, she is the only half Chinese girl in the entire town and probably terrority. This historical fiction addresses racism, family dynamics, friendships, and never giving up on your dreams.
WINNER OF THE SCHNEIDER FAMILY BOOK AWARD FOR MIDDLE GRADES
Written by Ann Clare LeZotte and published by Scholastic Press, an imprint of Scholastic Inc.
Mary is deaf and has always felt safe in her largely deaf community on Martha’s Vineyard island in the 19th century. However things start changing when an outsider comes to study her community. This historical fiction talks about family relationships, Native history, Deaf history and sign language.
This is just a tasting (ha!) of the many wonderful titles honored today. Congrats to all the creators! Here is a link to the official Youth Media Awards including a full list of all winners.
Written by Angela Johnson, Illustrated by Eric Velasquez, Published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2005. (historical fiction, ages 4-7)
This Martin Luther King’s Day has brought a lot of reflection. This year brought into sharp focus the problems with inequality and racism that has never really been adequately addressed in our country. While there still is a lot of work to do, it is hopeful to see more parents having conversations and teaching lessons about race with their young children. It is also hopeful for me to see high school and college students being much more aware and active with politics both local and national. This particular picture book shows that children have and always will be involved in social change.
BACKGROUND
A pair of sisters, unable to resist the scent of roses and freedom, go out and join a march. Told through their perspective, the two are able to hear the words of Martin Luther King Jr. as they call for equal rights. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This two minute read aloud is ideal to open discussions about activism, marches, civil rights, and Martin Luther King Jr. It’s unique black and white illustrations with pops of red are also engaging for younger readers.
Written and Illustrated by Sang Miao, Published by Flying Eye Books, 2019. (fantasy, ages 5-8)
There are some big emotions going on right now, and even though every single person experiences them, feelings are still so hard to talk about. This book deals with grief from the loss of a loved one in such a beautifully unique way. The illustrations are also just captivating. If anything, the story not only models a way to remember a loved one, but gives permission to young readers to use their imaginations and natural wonder to find comfort.
BACKGROUND
While a boy and a grandfather draw together, the grandpa tells the boy about the immortal jellyfish. When it is about to die, it starts life again. When the grandfather passes, the young boy is overcome with grief and cries himself to sleep. It is in his dreams where his grandfather takes him to a fantastical land where souls get to create a new memory for their loved ones.
BEST FOR
About a ten minute read aloud that could be used to open discussions about loss, grief, coping mechanisms, and honoring the memory of loved ones.
Written and Illustrated by Jen Wang, Published by First Second, 2019. (Graphic Novel, ages 9-12)
Initially when I started this blog I thought that I would highlight picture books and feature middle grade novels by making book trailers. Pretty soon I realized that I simply cannot make book trailers fast enough, so I’ve decided to incorporate more children’s books sans trailers. (Don’t worry, I’m still making trailers!) It’s the new year so it’s the perfect time to try new things! I loved this graphic novel from Jen Wang. Not only did it remind me of my high school experiences with my friends, but I love how it shows diversity within an ethnic group and allowing all its characters live full authentic storylines.
BACKGROUND
When a new neighbor moves in, the normally reserved Christine is intimidated by the bubbly and gregarious Moon. When the two become unlikely friends, jealousy, secrets, and a medical emergency threatens their bond. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade read is perfect for readers hungry for everyday stories that deal with family, school drama, and friendships.
Written by Supriya Kelkar, Published by Aladdin, 2020. (Realistic fiction, ages 8-11)
I am not Desi but I did relate a lot to Lekha in this book. Those moments where she cannot go to school outings because of cultural obligations, being cautious about what to bring for lunch because the food at home can smell really strong, but it tastes oh so good! Also constantly balancing multiple cultures is such a familiar struggle. Kelkar balances a lot of themes and does it well while being very entertaining. A delightful read overall!
BACKGROUND
Lekha and her family are the only Desis in their small town just outside of Detroit. When she gets on the swim team and a new girl from India moves in, Lekha tries to figure out who she really is, especially when local politics get ugly. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel is delightful while touching on serious issues such as race, xenophobia, colorism, friendships, activism, and being authentic.
Written by Pat Mora, Illustrated by Magaly Morales, Published by Clarion Books, 2009. (Fiction, ages 4-7)
Pat Mora is a great author if your collection does not already have her titles. I also love the vividness and color of Magaly Morales illustrations. Together the duo create a very festive and wondrous book that is perfect for a good holiday read aloud.
BACKGROUND
Taking inspiration from the carol, a young Latino girl goes through the twelve gifts of Christmas her parents have prepared for her. This time the gifts from Latino culture, and Spanish words are incorporated in the narrative. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This five minute read aloud is a great choice for the holidays, Latino culture, introduction to Spanish, family themed units, as well as a great counting book.
Written by Helena Ku Rhee, Illustrated by Pascal Campion, Published by Random House Children’s Books, 2020. (Realistic fiction, ages 4-8)
This particular story shows how hardworking families make good memories out of less than ideal situations. It also reminded me of my own story. My father owned a store when we were kids and I remember my brothers and I spending hours upon hours amusing ourselves along the shelves and hiding behind the counter. When I asked my dad later why we were there so much, he answered that he had to work weekends, but still wanted to spend time with the family. As a result, we have many fun memories even though it was at an unlikely place.
BACKGROUND
Daniel’s parents both work as night janitors. It just so happens that their babysitter has also cancelled. Reluctantly Daniel accompanies his parents their work, a huge corporate building. Just when he starts getting grumpy, his parents whisper the secrets of the paper kingdom. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
About a fifteen minute read aloud. A great way to highlight family, imagination, and resourcefulness.
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