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Review: My Mommies Built a Treehouse

My Mommies Built a Treehouse by Gareth Peter, illustrated by Izzy Evans and published by Lantana Publishing in 2023, is a delightful story that captures the process of making a childhood dream come true. The narrative follows a young boy who, filled with excitement, asks his two moms to build him a treehouse. What unfolds is not just a tale of construction but a journey filled with planning, patience, and teamwork.

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Review: Mina Belongs Here

Mina Belongs Here by Sandra Niebuhr-Siebert, with illustrations by Lars Baus and published by Floris Books in 2022, is a beautifully crafted story that tenderly captures the experience of a young child stepping into a new, unfamiliar world. Little Mina, just starting kindergarten, finds herself in a classroom where she doesn’t yet understand the language. As the story unfolds, we watch her slowly but surely blossom, learning new words and gradually finding her place in this new environment.

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Review: La Falda Morada de Leo

“Irma Borges’ book, ‘La Falda Morada de Leo,’ illustrated by Francesco Fanani, takes readers on a vibrant journey of self-expression and breaking gender stereotypes through the eyes of a young boy, Leo. With a treasure trove of costumes, Leo loves to immerse himself in various roles, from pirates to superheroes. Among his favorite items is a purple skirt that allows him to explore a multitude of characters, highlighting the versatility and joy of imaginative play.

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Review: Go-Go Guys

“Go-Go Guys” by Rowboat Watkins is a vibrant and imaginative picture book that will resonate especially with children who are always on the move, including those showing characteristics akin to ADHD. The story centers around three lively characters who find the idea of bedtime unappealing, opting instead for thrilling adventures. This portrayal is particularly relatable to children who have difficulty settling down or exhibit high energy levels, making the book a delightful read for young, spirited minds.

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Review: The Darkest Dark

“The Darkest Dark” by Chris Hadfield, illustrated by The Fan Brothers, is a touching and inspiring picture book that speaks to children’s common fear of the dark, while also encouraging them to dream big and embrace their aspirations.

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Review: If You See a Bluebird

Bahram Rahman’s “If You See a Bluebird,” illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard, is a heartfelt tale exploring displacement, family, and the essence of “home.” Centering on Ali, a young boy from Kabul, the story juxtaposes his joyful past with the challenges of war and relocation. Rahman’s genuine narrative, paralleled in works like “A Sky-Blue Bench” and “The Library Bus,” provides a sincere perspective on the refugee experience.

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Review: El Ratón Que Comía Cuentos (Spanish)

In José Carlos Andrés’ “El Ratón Que Comía Cuentos,” illustrated by Katharina Sieg, the journey of Simenón, a small, ever-hungry mouse, becomes a touching metaphor for the nourishing power of stories and knowledge. His discovery of a bookstore leads to an unusual but fulfilling diet of book pages, symbolizing how stories feed our minds and souls.

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Review: We All Celebrate

“We All Celebrate” by Chitra Soundar offers an educational journey through various global festivities, structured according to the seasons. Each section of the book introduces readers to diverse cultural, national, and religious celebrations, providing insights into traditions like the varied ways of celebrating spring in Samoa and Sweden or winter holidays in different cultures.

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Review: Lolo’s Sari-Sari Store

“Lolo’s Sari-Sari Store” by Sophia N. Lee, illustrated by Christine Almeda, is a heartwarming tale that resonates with the themes of community, connection, and the enduring warmth of home. The story centers on a young narrator who fondly remembers helping their Lolo (grandfather) run his sari-sari store—a variety store—in the Philippines. The store, with its diverse inventory ranging from household products to freshly baked pan de sal, becomes a microcosm of community life, where Lolo’s generosity and understanding play a pivotal role.

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