Unless designated otherwise, this posting recommends novels published in 2026, several of which deal with Tough Topic issues. 

 

THE ILIAD AND THE ODYSSEY Retold and illustrated by Marcia Williams 1996-2006 / Graphic Text

There’s no disputing the popularity of the summer release of the Christopher Nolan film, The Odyssey.  It’s a BIG film (3 hours) and a rather thrilling movie-viewing adventure. The movie has sparked a re-visit of publications telling the story of the Iliad and The Odyssey. The most popular recent version is a translation by Emily Wilson (2017). Marcia Williams who has been a champion of graphic stories (Tales from Shakespeare,   The Adventures of Robin Hood, Oliver Twist, Les Miserables) has created an engaging retelling of the Odyssey story where the characters of Athena, Nausicaa, The Cicones) come alive in comic pages, helping to make this an accessible, manageable, abridged version of the classic story for readers young and old. 

 

LISTENING FOR TIGERS by Michelle Kadarusman / Animal extinction

Michelle Kadarusman has written some beautiful novels that escort readers into the natural world especially often inviting them to respect the plight of animal extinction. (Berani, We The Sea Turtles). Listening for Tigers is the second novel in a trilogy. We first met Louisa in the book Music for Tigers where  her adventure in Tasmania helped her to rescue the Tasmanian thylacinet iger which she named Ellie and was believed to have been extinct for nearly a century. In this sequel, young Louisa is visiting her grandfather’s farmhouse in southern Ontario. When her biologist mother gets a message from a de-extinction organization (TIGRR lab) to help with a project that seek out evidence of the lost species, Louisa is worried that discovering the secret of Ellie’s survival will lead to trouble in the scientific world.  Michelle Kadarusman tells a story of vanishing animals in the world through the eyes of a compassionate, courageous, somewhat introverted, girl (“You’re a musician. A listener. A deep thinker”) who has personal worries that involves an injured elbow, a frightening near-death accident and devotion to her older sister who has been diagnosed as being bi-polar. Through dreams and music and listening for tigers, Louisa – and readers – come to understand the significance of respecting and preserving the wild at a time when “de-extinction is no longer speculative. It is happening,” (Author’s note)

 

THE NEW GIRL by Cassandra Calin / graphic novel / 2024  / The Immigrant Experience

Sequel: First Crush: The New Girl #2 /2026

I was browsing through my local bookstore (Queen Books) and when i picked up this book, a uyoung girl turned to me and said that it was ‘really good‘ and she was at the store to buy the recently released sequel, First Crush, which is quickly becoming a bestseller. Drawn from the author’s own immigration experiences, this graphic book tells the story of 12 year-old Lia who is sad to leave behind all she’s known in Romania when her family moves to Montreal. Before getting on the plane to depart, Lia experiences her first period and experiences bad cramps (a recurring incident throughout the book).  Menstruation, of course causes stress and anxiety which is augmented by the pressures of joining a new school, learning French, and finding acceptance amongst her peers.  Lia is a talented artist and finds a place of belonging when she joins the school magazine. Added to her pre-adolescent anxieties is the crush she has on Julien who seems to be involved with someone else. This is an appealing story of the challenges of balancing school, family, friendships, menstrual cycles – and acne. The graphic format paints a  strong picture of the home and school life and the up and down feelings of being growing up. This book is certain to resonate with many tweenagers whether they are immigrants or not. I’m sure we’ll learn more about the ‘new girl’ in future Cassandra Calin books.

 

SHOOK by Julian Randall (verse novel)

This novel is recommended for lovers of basketball and / or lovers of free verse novels. Julian Randall is a terrific poet and his talent is put to fine use as he tells the story of Malik Page (unless your his mama, call him shake’) a twelve your Black boy addicted to playing basketball and determined to make the varsity squad as an eighth grader. When an accident, breaking his ankle forces him to be sidelined, he is an a funk where there is ‘ginger ale pops in his skull.’  The book shifts into an account of how Shook deals with an anxiety disorder. With the pressure of tryouts fast approaching, a  distancing from his bet friend Kyla, Shook, with the help of a therapist strives to return to his old self and a rewarding life on the basketball court. The poetic language, slang,  and lingo  of a Black youth from Chicago,  along with  the play by play action on the court bring authenticity to this story of a  troubled young boy dealing with mental health and living with dreams. 

Excerpt

“When my breath gets short/ when the shot isn’t falling, when the game is tied until Jeremiah drifts to the corner/ and buries a wide open 3 off my pass. All we need is us.” 

 

SLEEPLESS by Gordon Korman

I was browsing through a bookstore and noticed a new title by Gordon Korman. I grabbed it and headed to the cashier. How could I not buy a new book by the great, popular author? Korman’s books always entertain and intrigue. The characters in his book are identifiable,’typical’ (whatever that means)cmiddle school students. But what Korman cleverly does is invent rather ‘outside the box’ inventive situations that add a sense of mystery and intrigue. The question on the cover of this book asks: “What Would You Do If You Didn’t Need Sleep?”  Each of the five central characters in this novel have entered a world where they are awake twenty four hours. They do not experience any side effects or health issues of having to stay awake all night.  Each character comes to see the advantage of having extra hours beyond their usual bedtime? Mickey (embarks on an exercise routine) Skye (more time to read, knit, study and do art), Levi (attracting followers on social media platform) Cyrus (invents a new toaster and a retractable dog collar cone) and Thea (gets extra time to rehearse for the school play). How did this happen? Why them? How long can they keep sleeplessness a secret? What happens when the secret is out?  As the novel unfolds the five students find each other and have some decisions to make about whether to let the world know about their unique condition and moreover,  if given the choice, should they stay sleepless?  Gordon Korman uses his familiar technique of telling the story from different points of view. As always, he has written an unusual, mysterious, adventurous, funny, a bit preposterous and thought-provoking novel.   Bravo, Mr. Korman. 

 

THE THREE WOLVES by Eric Walters; illus. Olga Barinova / chapter book, ages 8-10

Andrew’s Mom and Dad run a rescue center  to help abandoned and injured wildlife (skuk, squirrels, bunnies a baby moose. When news reaches them that a wolf has been run over, Andrew and his Dad check out the situation only to find that three baby wolves have been abandoned and need rescuing. Eric Walters tells an appealing story about the caee and treatment of the wolves with the goal of sending them back into the wild where they belong. As always, Mr. Walters is a great storyteller. He is also a great researcher and provides interesting information about the development and behaviours of wolves. Olga Barianova’s illustrations paint clear, images of what has been described. A note from the author ells us hat he wrote a twelve-pages tory called “The Three Wolves” in grade five, His teacher, Miss Christena Gay assigned he piece an A and remarked “You can be a writer when you grow up,.” Amen! Eric Walters is one of Canada’s leading authors of children’s literature, having written  over 130 books for readers of all ages.  Eric Walters dedicated this book to his grade five teacher. Hooray for Miss Gay! Hooray for Eric Walters! (and Hooray for all those who rescue animals!)

 

THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS by Kenneth Grahame; illus. John Burningham / 1908 / 1983

“Here today up and off somewhere else tomorrow, travel, change interesting excitement! The whole world before you, and a horizon that’s always changing.”

“All this he saw, for one moment, breathless and intense, vivid  on the morning sky; and still he looked, he lived; and only still, as he lived, he wondered.”

To prepare myself for seeing a theatrical production of The Window of the Willows I decided to re-read this classic novel, written over 100 years ago, and  engaging readers young and old, generation after generation.  Friends, Toad, Mole, Badger and Water Rat have been given readers treasured book friends for over a century.  Themes of companionship, loyalty, temptation, adventure, wrong-doing, jealousy, wanderlust, comfort, home, community, change, dreams are inherent in this timeless novel.  There have been several illustrated versions of this story. On my bookshelf, one by John Burningham, the other by Robert Ingpen.  Kenneth Graham’s classic work of fiction provided rich roots for a banquet of novels told anthropomorphically (e.g., Frog and Toad Are Friends (Arnold Lobel), Charlotte’s Web (E.B. White(, Abel’s Island (William Steig), The One and Only Ivan (Katherine Applegate). My octogenerian friend re-reads this book year year. I’m was pleased to revisit this gem again. (BTW: The play I recently saw wasn’t as good as the book).

 

>>>>>>>> <<<<<<<<<

YOUNG ADULT / ages 12+

 

KIDNAPPED FROM UKRAINE: Under Attack by Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch / 2025 / Historical Fiction

High praise goes to Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch for her publication of noteworthy historical fiction titles that illuminate periods of history with detailed information and wonderful storytelling (Making Bombs for Hitler, Traitor’s Among Us, Winterkill. Her most recent book immerses readers into the horrors of the war in the Ukraine. She prepared her manuscript between 2022 – 2024 . The book was released in 2025. I am writing this in 2026 and the war goes on and on.  The protagonist of this narrative is Daria, a twelve-year old girl who was separated from her twin sister, her father and eventually her mother when Russian bombs struck her building  February 24, 2022 in the city of Mariupol.  Daria’s story could be sectioned into three parts 1. Surviving Bomb Attacks  2. Kidnapped  3.  Being “adopted” by a Russian family.  The author has done mammoth research drawn from media reports, interviews, documented accounts. Though a work of fiction, the events and experiences are real – heart-wrenching, grim, suspenseful, and horrid. Kidnapped from Ukraine is an exemplary sample of historical fictional writing where students are immersed in the tragedy of world events.   It is a story of unimaginable hardships, of fake news and propaganda, and ultimately a story of courage and hope  in “those who must be saved” in a country that is ‘under attack’. (dedication)

Excerpt

“You have been victims of propaganda,” he said. “You will learn the true history and rich culture of Russkii mir. Failure to learn will result in punishment…. You will forget the lies that your Ukrainian Nazi teachers have told you. We will make you into proper Russians.: (p. 171-172)

“As of this writing, Russia had bragged about kidnapping (they called it rescuing) 700 000 Ukrainian children. Fewer than three hundred have been returned to their homeland.” (Author’s Note, p. 305)

 

MY BROTHER OLIVER by R. L Taolson  / Mental Health

Brooks older brother, Oliver, is a brilliant, musical, 13 year old boy. Oliver is autistic.  Brooks and his parents seem to always be walking on eggshells, not knowing if and when might explode and have a meltdown. When Brooks learns that Oliver might kill himself, he turns to his parents, who lead to Oliver being hospitalized. Although Brooks saved his brother’s life, he is filled with anxiety about things he once said to his brother and for not standing up for him at all times. Brooks and his family struggle to navigate a home life without Oliver. Brooks secret  smothers him with guilt which is central to the novels narrative. The free verse style and the shifting time periods before and after ‘the incident’ make for a compelling, sombre read, especially as we get into the head of Oliver’s brother.  The author shares that this story came from her personal family experience. It is a heart-squeezing account of what it means to be a sibling and the of Mental Health.

There is a content warning that introduces the book “This book contains references to emotional instability, bullying, depression, and suicidal ideation.”  This book may trigger some connections to YA readers who have experienced breakdowns in their famiies. However, R. L Toalson’s masterful novel deserves to be read for its expert and sensitive exploration of youth (and their friends and family) who live with Mental Health issues. 

from Author’s Note (p. 449)

“I hope Brooks’s and Oliver’s story will provide an opportunity to understand the complicated factors that pile onto an already depressed mind and make it worse… Why not treat each other with kindness and understanding and love when it costs so little? W may never know what our words and actions mean to another person, but we can know that we have been, As Maya Angelou once said, ” a rainbow in someone else’s cloud.” Love well, my dears.”

 

ONE WORD SIX LETTERS by Adib Khorram / hate, homopbobia

Dayton and Farshid are freshman in high school.  The novel is presented in alternate chapters telling the story of each of these fourteen-year-old boys. Interesting is that Khorram chooses the second person voice as narration. One word, six letters connects the boys. On a dare, Dayton calls out the word during an assembly,  He is assigned 3 day in school suspension and comes to accept that this slur is hateful.  Will he ever be forgiven? Will he forgive himself? Farshid is haunted by the  one word, six letters that is called out in the hallways and feels that it is aimed at him?.  Why are students using this hateful word, when he swears he’s not gay. As the book unfolds, Dayton navigates his friendships, new and old. Farshid embarks on a strict physical regime hoping that a new body will help to make him feel better about himself as he struggles to accept the truth of who he really is . Khorram has written an important novel that deals with the issue of accepting consequences of mistakes,  hateful language, homophobia and confronting truths of what kind of men they will become.  Throughout the book, the one word six letter is never written but it is a word that is forever being tossed around both casually and harmfully in schools and in society.  It’s just a word. If anyone, for any reason has ever said this word (or any other hateful putdown) , they should buy and read Adib Khorram’s  book. It would sell millions and millions of copies. 

 

SOUNDTRACK by Jason Reynolds /2025

This is the story of a group of  teenagers in New York who come together play in a band. Dunk (guitar), Alexis (bass guitar), Kevin (trumpet player) and  central character (Stuy) are talented, dedicated and determined to let the world know how good they are.  Soundtrack (as they came to be known) pop up in the parks, streets and underground subway stations and perform like crazy, gathering crowds wherever they go. Thirteen-year-old Frankie is the good luck charm, acting as host to each of their shows and helping to collect donations left by people in the audience.  The group’s perseverance leads to growing success until an an unfortunate sends one of the group members to jail. The story takes a turn about midway through the novel when Soundtrack is forced to stop playing.  Band members  (and Frankie) are fiercely loyal to each other. Stuy and his crew are like a family, which is a good thing because each character has family problems to deal with. 

I always look forward to a new Jason Reynolds publication. This novel was written years ago and sat in a slush pile in the author’s drawer, In a Q & A section at the back of the book,  Reynolds explains that since the book is about music, it made sense to hear it first and so Soundtrack was first released as an audiobook by Listening Library.  In this original print version, the text is largely presented through dialogue, written as a movie script. First person narrative from Stuy’s point of view helps to tell a story of putting together a rock band .  I always look forward to reading a Jason Reynold’s book and would certainly welcome the publication of manuscripts found in the author’s slush pile. Soundtrack is an engaging read for young teenage readers as they  read about black family,  big dreams, exciting music-making in a story immersed in the neighbourhoods of New York where if you can make it there, you’d make i tanywhere. 

 

 

Isn’t it fascinating to read about the lives of others to learn about what makes us human? These memoirs and biographies feature authors who were famous (Stephen Sondheim, Marilyn Monroe, Michael Rosen, Alan Bennett)  and not-so-famous (a graphic artist, a Chinese delivery worker). Many of these  titles were released in 2026. Each account digs deep into someone’s talent and provides honest revelations of thoughts and feelings. Each account helps us bring insights and empathetic understanding of how people behave, relate with others, and thrive,  

 

BOOKS GOOD ENOUGH FOR YOU: The Storied Life of Ursula Nordstrom, Editor of Extraordinary Children’s Books by Nancy Hudgins

Ast he subtitle suggest, this biography surveys ‘the storied life of Urusula Nordstrom, Editor of Extraordinary Children’s Books. Nordstrom was a trailblazing book editor who’s taste, tenacity and talent helped to champion such authors as E.B. White, Margaret Wise Brown, Maurice Sendak and Louise Fitzhugh. Each short chapter provides anecdotal information about how some iconic books such as Where The Wild Things Are, Goodnight Moon, Charlotte’s Web, Harold and the Purple Crayon, A Hole is to Dig, Bronzville Boys and Girls came to be. Often facing criticism and opposition, Nordstrom fought back, defending her authors, knowing that they were offering young readers original and honest literature that reflected their worlds and opened their worlds to others. Ursula Nordstrom was a fascinating business woman and Nancy Hughes conveys her accomplishments in this autobiography written for young readers. I’m not sure how many of these young readers would be familiar or interested in the Nordstrom’s achievements but anyone, young or old, who picks up this book will gain understanding of the challenges and rumpus of publishing books. “Not good enough for you.’ (NGEFY) was a common phrase Nordstom offered authors who hoped to get their work published.  It is apparent that Ursula Nordstrom encouraged and fought for the best from writers and illustrators and she did indeed give the world of children’s literature the best – the very best – during her forty year caree.

 

CARRYING THE ELEPHANT: A Memoir of Love and Loss / 2002

In this slim volume of anecdotes, Michael Rosen ponders and preservers episodes from his past in 72 prose-poems. Each piece is a snapshot of remembrances from childhood, travels, relationships, and grief, Together, these short pieces add up to tell a story of the author’s life up until the year 2002. Recording these memories  with honesty provided Rosen the opportunity to observe, to remember, to reflect on moments of significance as well as offer readers  insights into a very special author’s biography. 

Sample

My dead boy once made a clock. Instead of numbers, he put 12 letters that spelled: How Time Flies. It fell off the wall and broke into pieces

– Hey, how time flies, he said.

Here are the pieces. I’ll stick them back together sometime. 

Two additional Memoirs by Michael Rosen : GETTING BETTER and MANY KINDS OF LOVE

 

ENOUGH SAID by Alan Bennett / 2026

I am a fan of Alan Bennett’s writing. Though I’ve not seen all his plays, I particularly enjoyed The History Boys. The Habit of Art, The Lady in the Van, The Madness of George III) I’ve also enjoyed his movies The Lady in the Van with Maggie Smith most recently The Choral with Ralph Fiennes (wonderful film). His short books, The Uncommon Reader, Killing Time, are gems. He has also published autobiographical works (Writing Home, Untold Stories, House Arrest).  Enough Said is Bennett’s collection diary entries written between 2016 and 2024 and as Bennett writes in the introduction, “It’s just jotting, the things that occur, the stuff that happens. I’ve not always found people easy to talk to. But I’ve found it easy to talk to myself, which is what a diary is.” (p. xiv). Bennett’s recordings illuminate the elements of his life, inviting readers to eavesdrop on the people, places and things that shape his daily routines: His garden, his friendships, his community, his clothing, his bicycle rides, his encounters with birds, his visits to galleries,  his travels, his rehearsals,  f, his speaking engagements, his devoted husband, his health, funerals, the pandemic and of course the craft of his writing.  The final section of the book ae essays that pay tribute to people in Alan Bennett’s life (e.g., The Telegram Boy, Uncle Clarence, The Queen)

Some tidbits:

23 May (2017) Poetry best because you can do more in less. 

6 March (2019) / A play – a play of mine anyway – is just a Christmas tree on which I hang ornaments, jokes, pithy remarks and bits of philosophy.”

28 April (2020) / The most one can hope from a reader is that he or she should ‘Here is somebody who knows what it is like to be me.’

4 September (2020) / What your work does is ‘tell people you’ve been alive.” (Lucian Freud).

 

FUNNY THING, GETTING OLDER by Michael Morpurgo / 2025

I am a Michael Morpurgo fan. So are hundreds of thousands of others. I haven’t read the 100+ titles by the award-winning, British Children’s Laureate author, but after being knocked out by War Horse, i sought out many other titles by this remarkable author. His new book is a gathering of essays, public speeches and reflections from a lifetime of writing. This book is a collection of thoughts about nature, childhood and old age, writing and reading, peace and war. The collection includes essays, poems, a play and stories that shine a shine a light on Morpurgo’s personal, political and life as an author. The book is divided into five sections: Childhood, Peace and War, Telling Tales, Searching for Wonder. The following quote is one to savour – and act upon.

“To give up on books is to give up on education, and if you give up on education then you can easily give up on hope, give up on your future. This way, you can so easily urn children away from books and feading, and that can be a life sentence, a life without books. So many avenues are barred, so many possibilities never imagined, so many discoveries never made, so much understanding of yourself, of others stunted for ever. “(p. 201)

 

I DELIVER PARCELS IN BEIJING by Hu Anyhan,  2022 / Translated by Jack Hargreaves / 2025

I’ve been to Beijing a number of times and seeing the name of the city in a book title caught my attention. That this book was about a working hard in a giant city plus the T that this book was a sensation in China (selling over 2 million copies)intrigued me. This memoir is an account of one man’s extensive experiences with jobs  that were mostly kept for short periods of time. In fact, Hu Anyhan held 19 different jobs within two decades (a waiter, a convenience store clerk, a baker, a small business owner). A  large portion of the book (120 pages) outlines his experiences delivering parcels in Beijing and the challenges he had with managers, customers, his shabby tricycle, and poor pay.  Hu Anyan moved from place to place in different parts of China hoping to settle in to find employment that would satisfy him, would give him a good sense of self, would gain confidence to interact with others and would give him a decent life outside of gruelling working conditions.  To say the least, this man was tenacious and deserves ”A’ for effort’ a for never giving up when he was abused by shrewd managers, faced competition no matter what business he was involved in and how he struggled, like millions of other workers throughout the world to make ends meet from day to day.  This was a fascinating read about a man surviving against all odds. However, whether it was the English translation or Hu Anhyan’s rather mundane writing style,I felt that Icould have abandoned reading this book at any time but I did persevere and I do sing his praises for eventually getting published and gaining recognition and success with this written story. The writing comes from a patchwork of essay reflections on the author’s blog.  I Deliver Parcels in Beijing needed some rigorous editing to make the story for a more engaging read (e.g chronology of events).   That the author constantly questions what it is that makes him scrupulous, worthy and human in a world that alienates individuals because of their status. 

Excerpts

“At this point I had already started to notice how my work situation was changing me, little by little, making me irritable, prone to anger, unconcerned by my responsibilities.” (p. 68)

“I worked eleven hours a day, spending one hour unloading the truck, sorting the parcels, and loading my trike, then another hour altogether on the road traveling between various neighbourhoods. Those were my fixed costs. They dictated that, in the remaining nine hours I spent making deliveries, I had to earn 30 yuan every hour to reach my desired wage.” (p 105)

“People like to say that our character determines our fate, but I ay that words like fate and destiny feel too big for the times we live in, whereas character plays a not inconsiderable role in determing the course of a person’s life.” (p. 213)

THE LAST DAYS OF MARILYN MONROE: A True Crime Thriller by James Patterson & Imogen Edward Jones / 2026

James Patterson is probably the most published author in recent years. He has written over 270 books that include fiction, nonfiction and young adult novels. He has co-authored books with the likes of Bill Clinton, Viola Davie, Dolly Parton etc. The guy is prolific.  In tribute to Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday (June 1st 2026) the book The Last Days of Marilyn Monroe is Patterson’s tribute the acclaimed sex goddess.This book is a biographical account of Marilyn’s  life as an orphan, her struggles towards  achieving success, her fame,  her three marriages and love affairs,, her work on films, her struggle with drugs and overdosing, her glamour, her photo shoots, her friendships, her relationships with business associates and mentors, her business acumen, and her fierce determination to be highly regarded and quest to gain reputation as the intelligent, talented, loving person she was.  

This is a book all about Marilyn Monroe contained within a Prologue of 4 chapters about the nigh t of her death, 70 chapters that reveal personal stories, plus  short epilogue that tells a bit about her funeral and a few written tributes. Much is written about her reputation for often being late for appointments and filming. Her choice not to wear underwear is frequently mentioned. We also learn about her therapy, her dedication to training to become a better actress. We join in her bi-coastal travels between Hollywood and New York as well as some trips to countries around the world. This book is a biography. What this book is NOT about, is the last days of her life. It is about all the days of Monroe’s life that lead to her death. The title is a cheat/a lie. How did Patterson get away with this? How did the editor/publisher decide on this intriguing title where readers are ‘expected to learn more about her death on August 4 1962). “Was it an accidental overdose? Or was it deliberate? And is so was it suicide or murder?   (p.385). These questions are raised in the final pages of the book but he authors do not dissect if and how this was a ‘true crime thriller’ (another false pretence of what this book is about).  Those questions are a good place to start to for a book about Monroe’s death.   So much has been written about Marilyn Monroe, her undisputed beauty, and the unsettling troubles she experienced. There are over two hundred sources listed of books, articles, television appearances  that seem to have provide the authors with insights into the career of this icon who changed Hollywood history as well as the conversations she had with those who she was acquainted with. She did indeed live a life ‘like a candle in the wind’. (Elton John / Bernie Taupin), I love Marilyn Monroe

Shout Out! See  MARILYN AND HER BOOKS: The Literary LIfe of Marilyn Monroe by Gail Crowther/2026

 

LEG: The Story of a Limb and he Boy Who Grew From it by Greg Marshall / 2023

The cover of the book captivates: A memoir entitled ‘LEG’, what’s that all about? An image of a naked man full frontal (privates obscured by fuchsia lettering of the letter “G” in Leg. (we get rear-view image of naked man on back cover). LEG is Greg Marshall’s story living in a somewhat wonky, and growing rather comfortably into a life as a game man. Greg, however has a physical disability and walks with a limb. His parents assured him that this problem was the result of tight tendons. It wasn’t until he applied for insurance just before he turned 30l,  that Greg learns that   had cerebral palsy, a secret kept from him since birth. The jacket blurb tells us that this biography ‘is a unique examination of what it means to transform when there are parts of yourself you cannot change, a moving portraiy of a family in crisis, and a tale of resilience of spirit.  Marshall’s mother had been diagnosed with cancer and has undergone treatments for years and years. Marshall’s father is diagnosed with ALS. One of his sister’s, passionate about being a dancer, seems to be on the spectrum.  Each chapter takes readers on a journey of Greg Marshall’s life: sexual early escapades with his mother’s vibrating back massager; performances in a school musicals;  a school trip to France; a relationship with a handsome guy who kept he fact that he had AIDS hidden from Greg; the unique lesbian relationship his mother has with Alice; the  dedicated care Greg given to his father as his health quickly declines; sexual ups and downs; the. love and marriage with a man who is the perfect soulmate.  Marshall has it seems lived a happy life and seems to have coped with any shit that has come his way. Early in the book we learn that Greg is now happily married, and we know (from the publication of this book) that he has fulfilled a dream to become a successful writer.   Greg Marshall is a funny, wry writer. His commitment to recording the events and observances he experiences  in his journal have paid off. The result is  an honest, observant, entertaining chronicle of a life of a boy who grew into a resilient man comfortable with his gay life, his disability and his problematic LEG. Greg Marshall’s story is a story, love of family, love of self and love of life.  I really really liked Greg Marshall and I really really liked this beautiful memoir. Greg Marshall is a terrific storyteller. 

Excerpt 

“it all goes back to my leg,” I scratched in my journal. “I feel like I’m lugging it around, like a secret. When it comes to being a homosexual, I call he shots. I can choose when people know, which people know. My leg is jus there, staring you in the face.” (P. 111)

 

STEPHEN SONDHEIM: Art Isn’t Easy by Daniel Okrent /2026

I’m a Stephen Sondheim fan so I often look forward to reading new publications that talk about the life and work of this genius composer and lyricist.  Okrent’s book did not disappoint and is a worthy addtion to my Stephen Sondheim bookshelf.. Okrent guides us through each of the creation of Sondheim’s, work, each filled with stress, insecurities  – and rewards – that Sondheim experienced in putting shows together. Okrent also paints a vivid picture of Sondheim’s complicated emotional life, unsettling self-c0nfidance,  alcoholism, and passions. He often was angry (furious) with critics and creative partners who didn’t agree with him. The book also provides insights into the personal correspondences with creative partners (Harold Prince, Leonard Bernstein, Arthur Laurents.) Stories of his tumultuous relationship with his mother, Foxy, are filtered throughout the book.  The book emphasizes the complexities of living a life of alienation and connection and where the twain do meet. This biography is honest, gossipy and helps to expose the inner life of complicated  genius making and delivering brilliant art. It isn’t easy.

Excerpts

Asked by a friendly interview what he’d like to see “LGBT-wise” in the coming  years, he said “I”d like to see the tem LGBT disappear from the English language.” (p. 216)

Sondheim once said, “I really do miss not having had a family.” But he’d added, “I suppose if I hd one I wouldn’t have had anything to write about.” (p. 224)

When discussing Sweeney Todd by Laurie Wine, Oscar Hammestein’s biographer, Sondheim was asked about his connection to the show’s central character. “The difference between Sweeney and me,” he said, “is that I turned it into art.” (p. 230)

 

TANGLES: A story about ALzehimer’s, my mother and me by Sarah Leavitt / Graphic memoir / 2010

I recently read about the Canadian animated biographical film that was presented at the 2026 Cannes film festival. The movie prompted ‘a chorus of tears’ from the audience who attended and  some who ‘turned into mush’ by the harrowing experience. This review motivated me to check out the author’s graphic memoir which was published in 2010. When she learns that her mother’s vibrant life was being stripped away by the onset of Alzheimer’s, Sarah Leavitt was forced to often return from Vancouver to her family living in Fredericton, New Brunswick.  Accepting the reality of the disease, and recognizing how she needed to be needed and strong make for a harrowing story indeed.  Leavitt recorded events and words on her mother’s declining six year journey with the disease and by creating Tangles she is able to confront and reflect on the downfall of a mother whose memory, language and independency was vanishing. For Leavitt, this makes for a poignant account of sadness and grief and her honest observations helps readers to share her sadness and come to some understanding about the realities of those whose Alzheimer patients that are disappearing. Tangles was a significant archival document for the author to create. (“I kept thinking about all the time I spent trying to soak her up when she was alive. How every second had been important”). Whether or not there are people in our lives who have experiences with Alzheimer’s patients, Leavitt’s book helps us to think about how we cope and function when we are needed to help those who can’t cope and function. The graphic format is an ideal way for Leavitt to tell her family’s story.  Pages are filled with 12 -15 rectangular panels and the black and white images provide a moving account of  loss.  This is a staggering memoir and i look forward to seeing film. 

Some heart-squeezing moments of mother’s decline:   

>She walked into the hall with no pants on.

>Even when she only meant to pull weeds, she pulled up lots of other plants too.

>Mom was furiously brushing her teeth with a dry toothbrush.

>There were gaps in her speech. She pursed her lips and breathed out hard as she searched for words.

>She could not smell garlic or apples or tomatoes that had warmed in the summer sun.

>There was a grease mark on the mirror where she’d press her nose against it and talk to her reflection. It was so funny. 

 

Some heart-squeezing  utterances of mother’s decline: 

>”No, I’m trying to get home and I can’t”

>”Doesn’t the grass feel lovely and green today?”

> “I’ve lost all my sweetness.”

> “This is a hard thing to say. I’m not a real person.”

 

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SHOUT OUT !!!!

MARILYN AND HER BOOKS: The Literary LIfe of Marilyn Monroe by Gail Crowther/2026

June 1st, 2026 would have been Marilyn Monroe’s 100the birthday. Her life and work has forever been celebrated and examined before and since her death in . TCM featuring her movies. Two weeks ago I watched Some Like It Hot (the funniest movie ever made, says I) and I watched it again this week. Two new publications about the actress caught my attention, The Last Days of Marilyn Monroe by James Patterson and Imogen Edward Jones  and this book by researcher Gail Crowther debunks Monroes dumb blonde reputation by  exposing her bookshelves and examines the MarilynMonroe’s life as a reader. . This book analyzes the literary life of the iconic Hollywood actor, delving into her personal collection of multi-genre titles, and the  400+ books from her collection that were sold at Christies’ auction. Crowther describes Monroe’s association with writers, her life of living with a writer, and describes the significance of books on her craft, her intellectual development and her friendships. The book is cleverly framed on intriguing questions that are answered in each chapter. Did Marilyn read all her books? Did Marilyn’s reading link to her acting? Why is Marilyn’s reading ability doubted? Did Marilyn suffer from imposter syndrome? 

It is believed that Marilyn spent so much of her free time reading, always having a book on the go when she was on film sets. She spent time in book stores, was gifted books and was surrounded by books in her homes (she always took her books with her whenever she moved.)  She read widely. The books that are featured in the end pages provide a glimpse of her interests (e.g., The Joy of Cooking, From Russia With Love, Of Human Bondage, On the Road, The Sun Also Rises, Napolean). Note: A list of Marilyn’s personal library, by genre,  of the 400 book presented in Christie’s Catalogue, 1999 is featured in an appendix to the book. In one of the final chapters, recognition is given to the picture book The Little Engine that Could by Wally Piper (1930), a book Marilyn owned since childhood. The heme of bravery optimism and hard work serves as a symbol of the “I think I can.., I think I can…” mantra that Monroe lived with. 

Novelist, Walter Mosley once claimed, “you can learn everything you need to know about a person by looking at their bookshelves.”Thorough  research and recounts of events in Monroe’s life that were centred on books, books books, Gail Crowther uncovers Monroes bookshelves painting a vivid picture of her  literary journey, her identity and her legacy  This title is certain to be listed as one of my favourites at year’s end. What an astonishing, complex, misunderstood, dynamic, talented, smart woman Marilyn Monroe was. What  an astonishing document Marilyn and Her Books is!

Excerpt

“What is forming here is a picture of Marilyn as reader, writer, and critic. Her lack of formal education perhaps excludes her from being regarded as a traditional intellectual. And her lack of social and cultural capital, combined with her studio-created sexpot image, did nothing but cement the myth of her as ‘the dumb blonde’. But myths are not facts, they are usually socially constructed, and anything that is constructed can be changed. Marilyn was misunderstood and spent much of her life engaged in intellectual pursuits. This is another reason why she needs to be recast and reimagined: not the late, not the ditzy, not the bombshell, not the difficult, but the intelligent Marilyn Monroe. (p. 229-230).

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TEN PREVIOUSLY RECOMMENDED MEMOIR TITLES

 

ACTRESS OF A CERTAIN AGE by Jeff Hiller

ALL THE LITTLE MONSTERS by David A. Robertson (also: BLACK WATER: Family, Legacy and Blood Memory

DEPARTURE(S) by Julian Barnes

DUCKS: Two years in the oil sands by Kate Beaton (graphic memoir)

HOW TO SHARE AN EGG by Bonny Reichert

I’M GLAD MY MOM DIED by Jennette McCurdy

KNIFE by Salman Rushdie

LEAVING HOME by Mark Haddon

LOW-HANGING FRUIT by Randy Rainbow (also: PLAYING WITH YOURSELF)

SHATTERED by Hanif Kureishi

 

 

 

 

Some great new picture books came my way this past month. Shout out to BABAR BOOKS who had a wonderful display at the Quebec English Language Teachers Conference in Saint Saveur, 

 

THE. BURNING OF THE BOOKS by Jonah Winter; illus. Gary Kelley (destroying /  banning books)

This is one of the strongest nonfiction picture books I’ve come across this year, describing the horrific event of Nazi book burning in the 1930’s. Though censorship and banning hav been part of the publishing world for centuries. the history of ‘the burning of the books’ in 1933  Germany was a gut-wrenching historical experience Moreover, this chilling story,  ominously was foreboding of the banning books of all kinds in American libraries today.  There are two things that make this book particularly remarkable:  1) the verbal text is  set off in rectangular boxes, each filled with one or two statements succinctly recounting a part of the narrative; 2) the full page art work by Gary Kelley is atmospheric and provocative,  profoundly capturing the danger of the empty shelves when books were driven to a public square, dumped on the ground and set on fire. “Destroying books came down to the same thing: to shut down not just the books but the people who write them.”

 

DEAR CLASSROOM 1B by Lynn Leitch; illus. Christine Battuz / (point of view; letters)

Norm is grumpy. Norm is misunderstood.  He doesn’t like being hugged; being groomed by others; competing in races. He likes being left alone to sleep and taking baths in sand. Norm is a a hamster, the class pet in Room 1B.  Norm sends messages to the children in letting them know what he likes and doesn’t like and offers suggestions on how to be treated.  What a delightful story that appeals to my tastes 1. Because it is mostly written as letters of advice 2.  letters are written from a clever perspectve 3. it’s anthropomorhpic (animals  human qualities. Dear Classroom 1 B is both a fiction and nonfiction story that provides young readers with facts about the life of a hamster as well as help them gain insights into a pet, in the classroom or otherwise. Lynn Leitich has written a witty, informative, book sure to entertain young readers. NOTE The book  serves as a great anchor text for writing letters in role. 

Sample

Dear Classroom 1B

Thanks for making me feel welcome. A parade? For me? It’s (almost) too much. I do have one small request. Cuuld you please let me sleep? I’m a day snoozer.

Your classroom pet, 

Norm

 

LIVING BRAVE: How to add more confidence to your courage by Kobi Yamada: illus. Charles Santoso / (finding courage)

This is an inspirational book for young readers – older one’s too – that invites pondering about bravery, courage, fears and the challenge to try new things and imagine a life of  possibilities by becoming all we can strive to be. Kobi Yamada (What Do You Do With an Idea?) presents a single precept on a double page illustrated page.  Each thought is a motivational sentence or two helping us io  “Lean into experience. Embrace making mistakes Learn o accept the unknown.” Charles Santos monochromatic art work, starring a playful hedgehog experiencing courageous acts and  living his dreams. Other titles in the series: Finding Muchness; Feeling Graceful, Chasing Dreams, Being Kind .

Sample messages:

Distance yourself from things that make you doubt your worth.

Befriend your fears. Take them with you and let them discover they can learn and change as you learn and change.

Don’t give up on the person yo will be a few years from now.

 

MELL FELL by Corey R. Tabor / 2021

 Thi story of a baby kingfisher leaving its nest for the first time, determined to fly, only to falling down down down into the water below where, true to a kingfisher’s nature  it catches a fish in its beak)  What’s intriguing and entertaining about this picture book is the formatting and sequential narrative. The story is read vertically as Mell Fell from the tree passing by squirrels, bees, and a spider who tired to protect the bird from getting injured. But into the water Mell Fell and the story con tiunes by turning the book around until – spoiler alert – bird arrives flew back home. This a clever, funny adventure with a story of courage, art work filled with energy, and delightful dialogue (“Huzzah, Huzzzah!”  / “Blast! Nuts! Oof”) is sure to captivate young readers. Mell Fell was a Caldecott Honor book in 2022

 

THE PIGEON WON’T SAY THE ABC’s by Mo Willems (the alphabet)

Mo Willems infamous pigeon is back, this time to learn his ABCs. No, he actually will not say them because he has an ‘ALPHABET ALLERGY ‘ and besides he is BUSY. Pigeon journeys through an alphabet of excuses, inviting readers to identify, observe and ‘read’ intial sounds for 26 letters of the alphabet.  *e.g., “This is EMBARRASSING. I FORGOT my license.” Oh, Pigeon, you are a funny funny rascal who always has something to amuse us and teach us. Oh, Mr. Williams you are a funny funny author who also has something to amuse us and teach us. This board book is  DELIGHTFUL, ENTERTAINING and FUN way to practice and learn the ABC’s  

 

THE ROCK AND THE BUTTERFLY by Kathy Stinson; illus. Brooke Kerrigan 2024 (Dependency, Indepency, Kindness)

Butterfly and rock depend on each other for companionship and survival (“each was exactly wht the other needed. The rock and the butterfly were a perfect fit.”.) What happens when rock disappears? How will the scared and lost butterfly cope and survive without its trusted friend.  This is a story about interdependency and independency . It is a heartwarming story of carrying on, when those we have relied upon and loved have left us. 

 

THIS IS ORANGE: A Field Trip Through a Color by Rachel Poliquin; illus. Julie Morstad / 2025

How many things can you name that are orange?  I love the subtitle of this terrific nonfiction picture book for indeed Rachel Poliquin takes readers on a field trip to the wonderful wonderful world of orange found in food, in the natural world, in art, in landmarks, in clothing and in history. This book is filled with information about something that we might not otherwise think about with an invitation for students to observe and wonder about the  wonderful color orange.  Julie Morstad’s stunning art work adds to the pleasures of the field trip through a color. I found this picture book to be totally fascinating. Orangeya glad ya bought it, Larry?

Some facts

Orange blossoms have an exquisite scent, and the fruit’s name traveled from the Tamil word naru, meaning ‘fragrant, to ‘narang in old Persian and naranjh in Arabic, narancia in Italy and narange  in France.

In 2005, the artist Christo and Jeanne-Claude installed 7.50e gial orange gates along pathways in New York City.

American astronauts wear survival suits made in a colour called International Orange to be seen against blue sky and murky water. (The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and the Tokyo Tower in Japan are slo painted International Orange. 

 

WHAT A BABY CAN DO by Jennifer Murano

Adorable photographs accompany rhyming text that tell us what babies can do (e.g., smile, watch friendly faces, smell, taste).

A baby can hear a musical toy,
Laughing, singing and whispers of joy.

 

WHEN I’M A MOSHOM by David A. Robertson; illus. Corrie Hilln / (Indigenous Identity; Generations)

If truth be told, I purchased this picture book when I saw David A. Robertson’s name on the cover. The smiling child hugging his Moshom (grandfather) added to the appeal. The title, itself,  assured me that Robertson will shine a light on the joys and responsibilities of being a grandparent cheering on their grandchildren’s activities and accomplishments. Taking a walk through the book further captured my interest, with  succinct passages on a single  page (accompanied by titles in Swampy Cree)  where the author images himself in the future (“When I’m a moshom/ A long long time from now. ..”  Robertson has found a sublime match with beautiful illustrations created by Corrie Hill. When I’m A Moshom is a picture book celebration of family bonds, of cherished memories of Indigenous peoples. This  is a picture book treasure. 

 

>> SHOUT OUT <<<<<

ANOTHER TONGUE by Yevgenia Nayberg / 2026  (Second Language Learning)

This lovely picture book celebrates both our mother tongues – the firs language we learn and the new language our tongues and ears encounter when moving to a new place with a different language.  Another tongue, with simple text and playful  witty art work is a tribute on what it means to be bilingual. Which means someone with two tongues. What a beautiful beautiful book helping readers to think about = and connect to – the tribulation and joy of learning  new words in our mother tongue or being immersed in an immigrant experience. 

“Some first words of your language are simple. And some are quite complex. But eventually you get to learn them all.”

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>>>> SHOUT OUT <<<<<

HOME IS A DOOR WE CARRY by Constantin Satupo /2023 /2026 / (The Refugee Experience)

Every year, millions of children leave their homes behind: flood, a fire, a drought, a war. Sometimes family circumstances or opportunities provide reasons for families to move from place to place. Things are left behind. Finding a place of refuge, a place of safety is a dream, a hope.  Things are left behind as people they set out to find a safer place to live. The title of this story packs a wallop, when a boy thinks of the house that he left behind as being ‘very scared and lonely right now. It might even hurt’.  The narrative provides a punch in the heart when the child says “I wish I could say ABRACADABRA and shrink my house so I could pick it up and carry it in my arms”. And so the boy carries the home that provides courage, comfort, companionship, protection as things get scary on the journey to a new place. Ultimately, the house can help make a new place,  a place of safety, community, togetherness. Home is a Door We Carry is an astonishing picture book accomplishment by an astonishing Russian expressionist artist who wanted to “tell stories of all the children who, all at once, lost everything.” I’m getting goosebumps as I write this.  A must read. 

 

FICTION

 

NOT ANOTHER BANNED BOOK by Dana Alison Levy / ages 10 -12

Molly is a grade eight student who is grieving over  the death of her older brother. Being a member of Ms. Lewiston’s  Book Club (LBC) brings her comfort through weekly meetings that allow her and  her friends to talk about books. Early in the novel, Ms Lewiston is approached by the principal of the school who informs her that she is being suspended and that the book club needs to come to an end because of books that have been discussed that are ‘not appropriate’ for young readers. . Molly and her friends take action  to investigate why this has happened and fight back to fight for the freedom to read.  Stories like this are so  important, especially in current times, helping young people to consider injustices and find the truth about book challenges, censorship and banning. Dana Alison Levy tells a compelling, serious, and even humourous story about middle years students standing up for what is right. 

 

THE NEVERENDING BOOK by Naoki Matayoshi; illus. Shinsuke Yoshitake, translated from the Japanese by Kendall Heitzman / illustrated story/ 2026

This book cover caught my attention while perusing displays at a bookstore.  A story about the pursuit of books intrigued me. That it was a bestselling title in Japan added to the intrigue.   The premise starts off well: a very old king who adoress books challenges two characters off on a quest to wander the world in pursuit to find the strangest books that are being read.  The subsequent pages is a brainstorming list of quirky books.  The books they discover  over thirteen nights provdies a list of absurd and somewhat amusing  themes: ‘This is the one book that chose its people’; ‘There was one book that had a loud booming laugh.’; ‘There was one book hat was like a cat if you dropped it from a tall place.’  Then the book shifts into a lengthy narrative about two kids, each talented artists, who are determined to create a great book. I lost interest. his book was a disappointment and even though somewhat short (with lots of black and white sketch illustrations), it was neverending for me. I skipped several sections For me, the book was certainly ‘lost in translation.’ This is the first book in many years that I will be returning to the book store.  Oh well.

 

THE READING LIST by Sara Nisha Adams / 2021

I often introduce the literature courses I teach with an activity that invites participants to list any book titles that have been important to them in their lives. I have a handout entitled ‘The Book Shelf of My Life” where people are invited to record books – of any genre – that they would consider to be significant.  What picture books, novels, poetry, nonfiction academic titles would be on your list?

The Reading List is a wonderful  heartwarming story about how books come into our lives and give significance to our lives. The book is centred on Mukesh, a widower, who leads a quiet life in West London.  He his bereft after the passing of his dear wife and regrets not having participated in her life as a reader. His  three daughters are hoping that he will ‘move on’ and gain some independence in his life. Hoping to forge a relationship with his granddaughter who is an avid reader, Mukesh makes visit to the library and connects with Aleisha a somewhat troubled teenager who is working at the library for the summer.  Aleisha’s life is rather stressful.  She is no longer part of the social circle she once was and She and her brother Aidan need to balance their schedules in order to take care of their mother who is experiencing mental health issues. At the centre of the book is a mysterious list of novels that spurs Aleisha to investigate and read. The books offer Aleisha comfort and connections which she passes on to Mukesh. (“The books fill the space where there had once been silence.”  The reading list circulates amongst others in the community and each comes to discover how books can help to provide reflection, comfort and joy. (“Please try to remember that books aren’t always an escape; sometimes books teach us things. They show us the world: they don’t hide it.” (p, 319); “Books alway change as the person who reads them changes too.” (p  325)

In this debut novel, Sara Nisha Adams celebrates the magic and power of reading fiction for both readers who consider themselves to be avid readers and for those who may grow into the reading habit. You might know (have read) the books on the list but Adams does a fine job of providing a synopsis of the book and capturing the significance of the theme to those who choose to read the books. The Reading List may inspire readers to check out some of those titles, or consider their own personal lists to share with others. This book was recommended to me by a good friend. Isn’t it great to have good books recommended to you by good friends. Isn’t it great to read a good book about good books and those who love to read?  4 stars

The Reading List that frames this story features the following titles “Just in case you need it.”

To Kill A Mockingbird 

Rebecca

The Kite Runner

Life of Pi

Pride and Prejudice

Little Women

Beloved

A Suitable Boy

 

NONFICTION

 

THE GIFTS OF READING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION: Essays on Nurturing a Passion for Reading, inspired by Robert Macfarlane and curated by Jennie Orchard / essays / British / 2025

How could I not buy a book with the title The Gifts of Reading for the Next Generation. What insights could I gain from this collection of 25 essays intended to provide a testament to ‘nurturing a passion for reading’.  My work as a classroom teacher,  university instructor, workshop presenter and author is centred on supporting teachers to choose and use literature in their classrooms that will hopefully inspire their students to partake in the joy of reading today and tomorrow.  Thought the numbers keep changing (downward?), statistics tell us that young people (eight to eighteen)  do not enjoy reading in their free time. This is grim news. What can we as teachers promote reading as a pleasurable activity?How can we do it? Promoting good books matters. Sharing our own passion for reading matters. There is no one simple answer but the essays in this book provide food for thought about the importance of books in the lives of authors and help us consider the roles we can play. I did not read these contributions chronologically but four pieces in particular drew my attention: “The Gift of Being Read To” by Horatio Clare, “Picture Reading” by Nicola Davies, “Perchance to Dream” by Michael Morpurgo and “(There Are No) Rules for Reading” by Nikesh Shukla. Tthe following passages serve as thoughtful gems that foster the love of reading in the young people in our lives.

“The National Literacy Trust’s Young Reader’s Program found that children and young people were more likely to read if they had support from role models who read and loved reading, access to books, and a ‘quiet place to read in’.”(Robert Macfarlane, p.3)

“Read the world. It is the most mysterious book of all.” from Ben Okri “Ten and a Half Inclinations” (2022)

“When you read aloud to your partner or your child (children?), the room and the world byeond it seem to still, and the spirits gather to hear the story. Words uttered are more than words heard in the silence of the mind; they are things in the world, and the world responds (Horatio Clare, p., 45)

“… young children may not have much command of language, but their inner lives are complex and epic, with big ideas and emotions shifting  like waltzing tectonic plates. I am motivated by wanting to write to that complexity, to honour and acknowledge it. That’s why I love he challenge of writing picture books, writing important big stuff but doing it with little words, carefully placed, accessible to small vocabularies. This doesn’t mean tha these texts are superficial; the right small words can suggest deep rich, hinterland that opens under the gaze of a child and is expanded, deepened and set alight by the pairing of words with illustration.”(Nicola Davies, p. 57)

“We will because of these sgtories, go on learning, wondering, dreaming, and searching for wisdom and truth. And if he search for wisdom and truth and creativity is not at the heart of the education of our children, hen surely we are wasting our tie and ours, and we are most certainly not enriching their lives. That is why stories and storyelling of all kinds should be at the centre stage of education. ” Michael Morpurgo, p. 157)

While preparing to write his essay “The Words Made Flesh”, National Book Award-winning author, Colum McCann (Let the Great World Spin) asked his son, JohnMichael, what sort of books he thought young people should be reading, his son was quick to answer – ‘”whatever the hell they want.” (pp. 8-9)

 

MAKE BELIEVE: On Telling Stories to Children by Mac Barnett / 2026

Mac Barnett is a bestselling, award-winning author of over 70 picture books. He has recently been honoured with the position of National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature in the United States.  Some popular titles illustrated by Jon Klassen include, Sam & Dave Dig a Hole, Extra Yarn, The Shape Trilogy. His latest release, The Future Book illustrated by  Shawn Harris is a hoot, sure to bring delight and laughter to readers young and old.  The three essays that appear in Make Believe help us understand that children’s literature is ‘not only as an art form worthy of deep study and criticism, but as a portal to the lives of children. In the first essay ‘A Grand Unifying Theory of Children’s Literature’, Barnett describes, explains, defends, celebrates   the potential merits of children’s literature that deserves to be considered a highly regarded and significant field of writing. He offers the following definition, “A children’s book is a book written for children.” (p. 6). Get into groups and discuss. ‘Good Books for Bad Children’ is the title of the second essay.  The title adopts the words said by he visionary edior Ursula Nordstrom who described her job as making “good books for bad children.” In this section, Barnett honours the work of the great Margaret Wise Brown (Goodnight Moon) and discusses the role that adults play in sharing books with children.Any artwork is a  conversation between the audience adn he artist. A children’s book, then, is a conversation between a child and an adult.” (p. 30.). ‘The Secret Door’ is the final essay, the author describes how books were central to his family life and his mission as an author to tap into the minds  and imaginations of children through the world of fiction. He writes:

“The sublimity of a sentence or a picture, the thrill of a plot, the intimacy of community with a character – the beauty of a good story adn the truth it contains can shock us into surrendering our certainties. And in that gloriously unsettled moment our sense of the possible is enlarged. Every story is a secret door, an invitation to imagine another world and, by believing so, make it real.” (p. 90)

 

THE STORIES BEHIND THE STORIES: The Remarkable True Tales Behind Your Favourite Children’s Books by Danielle Higley / 2021

This publication is a wondrous treat for lovers of children’s literature. The author provides short essays that explain the fascinating behind-the-scenes creations of twenty-nine children’s classics (e.g., Curious George,  Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry,   Diary of a Wimpy Kid, A Wrinkle in Time.). Author, Danielle Higley’s research and storytelling helps us ‘”o see that our most treasured children’s books weren’t just built on creativiyand imagination – many were born from extraordinary persistence and grit” (Author’s Note).  The authors’ biographical information,  ‘did you know’ facts , remarkable stories, and  wonderful brighty coloured, detailed collage like- illustrations (including some photo imags)  make this publication a fascinating, informative celebration of enduring  children’s literature we have come to love. 

Some Did You Know examples:

Dav Pilkey was  a reluctant reader when he was a kid who had (and still has ADHD and dyslexia.  Pilkey was 7 years old when he wrote and illustrated his first Captain Underpants book.Unimpressed, his teacheerf  ripped Captain Underpants first comic book in half and told the young  author that he ‘couldn’t spend the rest of his life making silly books.”

The idea for The Very Hungry Caterpillar came to Eric Carl when he was playing a whole punch, putting holes in a stack of papers. Ethe author/ illustrator’s picture book hero, a hungry caterpillar was originally was a worm named Willy who became very fat at the end of the story. The infamous book ultimately became a story of transformation. 

Children’s book editor Ursula Nordstrom offered Maurice Sendak a contract for a book entitled “Where The WIld Horses Are.” For Sendak, this was a problem since he couldn’t draw horses and when Nordstrom asked, “Maurice, what can you draw?” Sendak answered “Things..” Thus was born  Where the Wild Things Are.

It’s sort of curious that  “Goodnight Cucumber. Goodnight fly” got removed from Margaret Wise Brown’s Goodnight Moon manuscript.

Christopher Paul Curtis took a year off from working on a General Motors assembly line in Flint, Michigan.  He hoped to write a book based on a car trip he took with his own family to visit family in Florida. When his sonb gave his father with the poem “The Ballad of Birmingham’ by Dudley Randall, about the chruch bombing. the Watsons’ travelled to Birmingham instead of Florida. and the author wove in  events that were inspired from his own life. When he submitted a manuscript for The Watsons Go To Birmingham – 1963 to two contests, he did not win either award but the book caught the attention of a publisher and the book went on to win the Newbery Honor Prize and the Coretta Scott King Award. 

 

EVERYDAY I READ: 53 ways to get closer to books by Hwang  Bo-Reum, Translated from the Korean by Shanna Tan

I brush my teeth everyday I read every day  Those in schools and businesses  certainly read every day. However statistics inform us that the habit of reading for pleasure is declining both for both adults and young people. Research studies claim that daily reading as a primary leisure is declining year by year and fell by 40% in the past twenty years. (Note: data was taken from more than 236 000 Americans who participated in the American Time Use survey. The 2023 study was published in the journal of iScience) .Hwang  B0-Reum offers a list of 53 strategies presented as mini essays to help us consider how to move towards a life habit of daily leisure reading, no matter the genre. Sample tips include: Read Bestsellers (1) , You Don’t Have to Finish It (17); Read to Seek Answers (22);Read Widely, Then Deeply (39)Read Book Reviews  (42) Write Book Reviews (43); Read Books That Preserve Your Sense of Self (51). Notable too, are book recommendations are blended within each piece. Each essay invites readers to reflect on their reading habit and explore ways to encourage bookloving. 

 

SHOUT OUT

MARILYN AND HER BOOKS: The Literary Life of Marilyn Monroe by Gail Crowther 2026

June 1st, 2026 would have been Marilyn Monroe’s 100the birthday. Her life and work has forever been celebrated and examined before and since her death in . TCM featuring her movies. Two weeks ago I watched Some Like It Hot (the funniest movie ever made, says I) and I watched it again this week. Two new publications about the actress caught my attention, The Last Days of Marilyn Monroe by James Patterson and Imogen Edward Jones  and this book by researcher Gail Crowther debunks Monroes dumb blonde reputation by  exposing her bookshelves and examines the MarilynMonroe’s life as a reader. . This book analyzes the literary life of the iconic Hollywood actor, delving into her personal collection of multi-genre titles, and the  400+ books from her collection that were sold at Christies’ auction. Crowther describes Monroe’s association with writers, her life of living with a writer, and describes the significance of books on her craft, her intellectual development and her friendships. The book is cleverly framed on intriguing questions that are answered in each chapter. Did Marilyn read all her books? Did Marilyn’s reading link to her acting? Why is Marilyn’s reading ability doubted? Did Marilyn suffer from imposter syndrome? 

It is believed that Marilyn spent so much of her free time reading, always having a book on the go when she was on film sets. She spent time in book stores, was gifted books and was surrounded by books in her homes (she always took her books with her whenever she moved.)  She read widely. The books that are featured in the endpages provide a glimpse of her interests (e.g., The Joy of Cooking, From Russia With Love, Of Human Bondage, On the Road, The Sun Also Rises, Napolean). Note A list of Marilyn’s personal library, by genre,  of the 400 book presented in Christie’s Catalogue, 1999 is featured in an appendix to the book. In one of the final chapters, recognition is given to the picture book The Little Engine that Could by Wally Piper (1930), a book Marilyn owned since childhood. The heme of bravery optimism and hard work serves as a symbol of the “I think I can.., I think I can…” mantra that Monroe lived with. 

Novelist, Walter Mosley once claimed, “you can learn everything you need to know about a person by looking at their bookshelves.”Thorough  research and recounts of events in Monroe’s life that were centred on books, books books, Gail Crowther uncovers Monroes bookshelves painting a vivid picture of her  literary journey, her identity and her legacy  This title is certain to be listed as one of my favourites at year’s end. What an astonishing, complex, misunderstood, dynamic, talented, smart woman Marilyn Monroe was. What  an astonishing document Marilyn and Her Books is!

Excerpt

“What is forming here is a picture of Marilyn as reader, writer, and critic. Her lack of formal education perhaps excludes her from being regarded as a traditional intellectual. And her lack of social and cultural capital, combined with her studio-created sexpot image, did nothing but cement the myth of her as ‘the dumb blonde’. But myths are not facts, they are usually socially constructed, and anything that is constructed can be changed. Marilyn was misunderstood and spent much of her life engaged in intellectual pursuits. This is another reason why she needs to be recast and reimagined: not the late, not the ditzy, not the bombshell, not the difficult, but the intelligent Marilyn Monroe. (p. 229-230)

 

PICTURE BOOKS

 

ALONG CAME AN AARDVARK by Vi Hughes; illus. Lydia Ramsey / Plumleaf Press/ 2026

 The hero of this story is Sam O. Dictionary who seems to be a forgotten book on the library bookshelf.  When Sam overhears nursery rhymes being recited during library storytime he’s nystified by such snonsense as ‘mittens with kittens’m Humpty Dumpty falling off the wall,. Sam cleverly thinks of a plan to ‘use his words’ and to lure others to take notice of him and the importance of discovering the meaning and importance of words, words, words.  This amusing story is a celebration of words as well as a celebration of nursery rhymes. Along Came An Aardvark may invite young readers to ‘use’ the dictionary and think about the words and stories of Mother Goose. Note; The end pages featuring an A-z list of familiar and unfamiliar vocabulary is a bonus treat to this publication.

 

BOOKS MAKE GOOD FRIENDS by Jane Mount / 2023

Shy Lotti is reluctant to make new friends.LottiLOVES books and finding a quiet place to read brings her comfort and joy. Books stir the imagination. Books can take us to faraway places. Books make good friends.  The books that Lottie discovers in library visits help her to gain confidence and ultimaely find new friends. This autobiographical story, this picture book is a book lovers delight, a book for avid readers and those who are growing to discover the magic of reading. The  abundant inclusion of illustrated images of book spines offer a rich trove of treasured book titles. The journal-esque narrative along with the abundant recommended book titles help to make this a super book about discovering the self, discovering friends and discovering great books.

Noteworthy, The 50 or so spine images with picture book and novel titles featured is a compendium of old and new great book to that book lovers may recognize (e.g.,  Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown, I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen, We Are in a Book by Mo Willems,  If You Come to Earth by Sophie Blackall, Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary, Pax by Sara Pennypacker, Smile by Raina Telgemeir, The Crossover by Kwame Alexander.  What are some of your favourite good friend literature pieces  you’d reference on a cover on this picture book?

 

A CHILD OF BOOKS by Oliver Jeffers and Sam Winston  / 2016

The opening spread of this book reads: “I am a child of books. I come from a world of stories.” The girl is joined by a boy embark on a journey to experience a journey, across “a sea of words” through forests of fairy tales and mountains of make-believe. This book inspires readers to think about the power of imagination – “for  imagination is free’ – and how they might see themselves in stories. Any book that helps readers to reflect upon the rewards of reading and the importance of sharing stories is worth sharing. A Child of Books is one of those very special books that is a love letter to reading, a mighty fine tribute to books.  

Bonus: The opening 2-page spread  of this book, lists , in tiny font, over 200 literature titles. How many have you read?

 

I WILL JUDGE YOU BY YOUR BOOKSHELF by Grant Snider / graphic nonfiction  / 2020

I love books. The title of this book and the peek-a-boo image on the cover caught my attention.  In this book, comic artist, Grant Snider has given a testimony to the importance of books in our lives. In one or two pages, Grant Snider presents a range of topics  (Stages of the Reader, A Writer’s Routine, Understanding Poetry, Ban This Book, Reader’s Block), through a range of genre (poetry, advice, anecdote, list, exposition, Grant Snider is very clever with words, terrific at brainstorming, a great graphic artist, He is insightful, witty, wise and hooray, hooray, he loves books This is a book lover’s book. I loved it.

Sample (alas, without visual images) / Perfect Reading Spots

Overstuffed chair, Morning sunbeam, Rush-hour traffic, Unusual trees, Yoga Class, Business Lunch, On the Beach, On he bus, Bookshop window, Attic crawl space, Secret Library Corner, Lover’s Embrace, Frustrating Hammock, Comfortable bed, Alone with my thoughts;, Ouside my own head.

 

SHOUT OUT

TED TALK: Ann Patchett (14 min. 54 sec)

THE LOVE OF MY LIFE (AND WHY I NEED TO SHARE IT WITH YOU)

Acclaimed author Ann Patchett (Bel Canto, The Dutch House, Tom Lake, Whistler) shares her passion for reading in this Ted Talk. She notes that reading is not just a private pleasure but has the potential to pull readers out of isolation and build empathy. Patchett urges her audience  to be part of a society that cultivates readers for today and tomorrow. 

 

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>.     SHOUT OUT.     <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

PROFESSIONAL  TITLE

YES, GENRE MAKES A DIFFERENCE by Larry Swartz

Pembroke Publishers, 2026

 

The opening statement to my new book reads: “Perhaps the epitaph on my tombstone will read Good Books Matter on one side and  Read Anything Good Lately on the other. For the past  50 years as a classroom, teacher, university instructor, consultant, conference speaker and uncle, i have been passionate about sharing literature with people young and old.  This new publication is designed to help teachers introduce students toall genre forms as they build skills in reading and writing. This resource can be considered  the ultimate guide to choosing and using books to actively turn kids on to reading by exploring picture books, novels, nonfiction and poetry. I offer comprehensive lists of books and present over 150 ready-to-use activities (including reproducibles that will inspire students to experience and respond to literature. Ultimately, my goal is to provide information and techniques to deepen understanding and appreciation of all kinds of texts.  Leading Literacy educator, Regie Routman, author of The Heart-Centred Teacher writes; “You can’t make a great fruit tart from a second-rate fruit, just as you can’t teach reading well without first-rate literature.”  Yes, Genre Makes a Difference is intended to inspire, guide, motivate and have teachers consider that Good Books Matter. 

Most of the picture titles listed here are recent 2026 releases.  A majority of these titles are outstanding: they so touched my heart, the entertained me, they inspired me to slow down and  re-read the book more than once.. Turning the pages  filled with glorious artwork, often made me gasp. Aren’t we so lucky to have picture books in our lives? 

Some additional new purchases have been added to this posting.  A few  books serve as love letters to reading books. (*). A few SHOUT OUT selections, including a celebration of  Sheree Fitch’s poetry,  are absolutely worth the attention.

** NOTE: Three 2026 titles have been receiving huge praise and the exquisite art work should make them strong contenders for the Caldecott Prize for best illustrated book. Place your bets.

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*ALONG CAME AN AARDVARK by Vi Hughes; illus. Lydia Ramsey / Plumleaf Press 

The hero of this story is Sam O. Dictionary who seems to be a forgotten book on the library bookshelf.  When Sam overhears nursery rhymes being recited during library storytime he’s nystified by such snonsense as ‘mittens with kittens’m Humpty Dumpty falling off the wall,. Sam cleverly thinks of a plan to ‘use his words’ and to lure others to take notice of him and the importance of discovering the meaning and importance of words, words, words.  This amusing story is a celebration of words as well as a celebration of nursery rhymes. Along Came An Aardvark may invite young readers to ‘use’ the dictionary and think about the words and stories of Mother Goose. Note; The end pages featuring an A-z list of familiar and unfamiliar vocabulary is a bonus treat to this publication. 

 

*A CHILD OF BOOKS by Oliver Jeffers and Sam Winston  / 2016

A boy and a girl embark on a journey to experience a journey through forests of fairy tales and mountains of make-believe. This book inspires readers to think about the power of imagination and how they might see themselves in stories. Any book that helps readers to reflect upon the rewards of reading and the importance of sharing stories is worth sharing. A Child of Books is one of those special books that is a love letter to reading. 

 

*BOOKS MAKE GOOD FRIENDS by Jane Mount / 2023

Shy Lotti is reluctant to make new friends.Lotti LOVES books and finding a quiet place to read brings her comfort and joy. Books stir the imagination. Books can take us to faraway places. Books make good friends.  The books that Lottie discovers in library visits help her to gain confidence and ultimaely find new friends. This autobiographical story, this picture book is a book lovers delight, a book for avid readers and those who are growing to discover the magic of reading. The  abundant inclusion of illustrated images of book spines offer a rich trove of treasured book titles. The journal-esque narrative along with the abundant recommended book titles help to make this a super book about discovering the self, discovering friends and discovering great books.

Noteworthy, The 50 or so spine images with picture book and novel titles featured is a compendium of old and new great book to that book lovers may recognize (e.g.,  Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown, I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen, We Are in a Book by Mo Willems,  If You Come to Earth by Sophie Blackall, Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary, Pax by Sara Pennypacker, Smile by Raina Telgemeir, The Crossover by Kwame Alexander.  What are some of your favourite good friend literature pieces  you’d reference on a cover on this picture book?

 

** GOLDFINCHES by Mary Oliver: Art by Melissa  Sweet / poetry; nonfiction

“No poem is about one of us, or some of us, it is about all of us.” _Mary Oliver

Picture books, for the most part, is an experience between adult and child: “I read to you” / “Let’s read together” / “You read to me.” There are many titles that require the adult/ teacher to share with young readers since they may not pick them up on their own. Goldfinches is an exquisite, a perfect picture book, somewhat sophisticated and classy. It’s good to add ‘classy’ to add to the appetite of enjoying picture books. Goldfinches is an illustrated version of the poem “Goldfinches” by the gifted poet, Mary Oliver, with splendid art work by the gifted illustrator Melissa Sweet. 

Here are some reasons I so love this book. 1. It is a poem as picture book visual and verbal text work together to help make poetry accessible 2. It plants the seeds of further exploring the poems of Mary Oliver. 3 It encourages reflection on the beautiful poem, “Goldfinches”. 4. It shines a light on the world of nature inviting readers to think carefully about birds and sky and fauna that they encounter. 5. With scientific facts filtered throughout, it is a multi-genre book he publication serves as a mentor text for having sudents illustrate poems .  6.It demands to be re-read, re-visiting words and pictures reflecting on the carefully chosen words and images that Oliver has created. 7. It ignites wondering and contemplation. 8.Melissa Sweet’s art work is spectacular (‘nuf said). 9. It fulfills Mary Oliver’s  mission to make readers ‘more curious about the world than they were previously” 10,  The poem ends with a ks a simple but profound question  that asks readers:”Have you ever been so happy in your life”

 

I AM A GROWL by Kari-Lynn Winters / Pajama Press 

The vivid photographs of  animals (e.g., a bear, a fox, a cheetah) are powerful images of animals that growl. Interspersed throughout the book are first-person poems by the author along with face portraits of children, beautifully adorned with face-paintings giving hints of  the animal that they will meet on following pages. In each poem the sounds of growling of animals (Grumph. Grumph,-Grr) as well as the use of energetic verbs  (Tromp, Tromp, Tromp!) add to the delight of this book. This is a great selection for reading aloud, for reading together and for having children bring the animals to life through dramatization and vocalization.  This is a fun, playful, dramatic book. I Am a Growl is noted as a pre-school pretend source. Indeed it is!

 

I am a growl

Grrrrrrr!

Sneaking through

tall  grass.

My stripse hide

me.

Shhhhhhh!

I am a … (tiger)

 

MY SISTER THE APPLE TREE: A refugee story of Hope and Resilience by Jordan Scott & Jamal Saeed; art by Zahra Marwan / 2025

“The heart is on the heart.”  ` Jamal Saeed

On the day  a young boy was born, his parents planted an apple tree which became a twin sister that he came to talk with, play with sleep beside and show love day by day. Over time, The boy and the tree grew tall, and continued to communicate and share secrets.  One day, bombs struck the village in which the brother and ‘sister’ lived and the father announced “We have to leave our home.”  The boy would not leave the apple tree behind and carefully prepared her to join the family on their journey to a new country. Even though the boy misses the green mountains, his pet goats, the clouds in the shape of horses, the fig tree and sun of home, it is time to settle into a new home where boy and beloved sister continue to grow taller and taller and make friends with the sky. It doesn’t take long to accept and believe  that the apple tree is the boy’s twin sister.  As I write this synopsis, my heart is being filled re-reading this beautiful  story of family bonds, of change, of resilience.

I have a large collection of picture books about the immigrant and refugee experience and this one certainly is at the top of the list of moving stories about being forced to move. The text written by by award-winning author Jordan Scott (I Talk Like a River) and Jamal Saeed (Syrian activist) tells a story of memory and hope.  The sublime, somewhat expressionistic,  art work by Zahra Marwan with illustrations of family, war, moving are poignant  images that add to the poignant narrative. In the afterward to the book, each creator tells a personal story of migration. Many readers will connect to this story of having to leave home. Five stars from me! Make that ten stars.

 

NAHLIYA AND THE LADY by Treslyn Vasel; illus. Sahle Robinson / Plumleaf Press 

Nahliya leaves the comfort of her Jamaican home and the warmth of her Granny and heads o a counry where snowflakes fell from the sky. Nahilya is being reunited by the Lady, who had disappeared from her life five years ago. Adjusting to the new country is problematic (i.e. new clothing, name-calling, different food). Fond memories ignite when the young hears a song her mami used to hum to her and when she encounters a black and yellow bird that remind her of the home she left. Newfound love with ‘the lady’ helps Nahliya eventually leads her to feel comfort in the new place she can truly call home.  This picture book is.a story of reunion and resilience and like many young immigrant children who have been separated from their families.  Treslyn Vasel has told a beautiful story about immigration, memories  and family bonds. 

 

REACH IN by Herve Tullet

This is the most recent publication by Herve Tullet, acclaimed artist/ author of interactive picture books for youngsters. His first claim to fame was the book Press Here which invited readers to follow instructions that lead to visual surprises of lively geometric images and bold colours. Tullet’s books (Mix it Up!; Let’s Play; Tap! Tap! Tap!) are experiential, interactive and magical and oh-so-playful.  Reach In is another exciting reading adventure  of lines, shapes, flips and folds from this talented French artist. Just follow the instructions and have fun … again and again. 

 

** WHILE WE’RE HERE by Anne Wynter; Illus. Micha Archer

There’s much buzz by children’s book folks.  The verbal text is rather simple (nothing wrong with that!). The first half of the book is anticipatory as a mother and daughter hurry off through the city on adventure but alas come to meet disappointment once they arrive at the park and plans need to change.. .The narrative then switches as mother invites the child to slow down and see what’s under the bridge, watch ducklings,  walk the trails and enjoy and appreciate the natural environment before heading back home.  Micha Archer’s cut-paper collage art work is spectacular inviting readers to slow down, while they’re here’ to  appreciate the varied textures, bright summer colours and the joys of visiting a park. This book celebrates times when parent and child can spend together on an excursion – or reading a book!

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SHOUT OUT! JON KLASSEN

In 2026, Jon Klassen was awarded the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award, the largest children’s literature book prize in the world ($750 000. Canadian). There is no doubt that Klassen was deserved of the award. The committee noted that the author illustrator is esteemed for his ‘subtle and evocative storytelling” and his ability to open “new perspectives on our place in the universe.” Some notable publications  include I Want My Hat Back (trilogy),  The Skull, Pax and  The Lion’s run (fiction by Sara Pennypacker), He has teamed with Mac Barnett to create Sam & Dave Dig a Hole, Extra Yarn, The Wolf The Duck & The Mouse and a super fantastic series of. board books (The Shapes Trilogy, a quartet of books about the changing seasons, as well as the Your Places series, Your Things series)  Mr. Klassen you are a winner!

FYI

1. Jon Klassen has written an article “What is a ghost? Let Kids Decide”  in the New York Times book section: June 19, 2026

       2. The New Yorker Magazine has a splendid article about the author: The Simple Genius of Jon         

           Klassen” by Casey Cap, July 7, 2026

       3. Jon Klassens’  acceptance speech in  receiving the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award can be found               on youtube…https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHfMTjT6G6w

 

THE HOUSE WITH NOBODY IN IT by Jon Klassen / new board book 

WOWEE! This unique  book invites readers to look through doors and windows to explore the walls, a stool, a lamp, a bed as well as partake in the puzzle of who (if anybody) is inhabiting that house (“There used to be somebody. But there is nobody now”. The layered die-cut novelty format invites interaction and surprise making for a playful, interactive book. Those spooky eyes, certainly adds a sense of mystery to the story. This is book will certainly  – deservedly – make it to the top of the list of Jon Klassen bestsellers.  Another Klassen winner!

 

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SHOUT OUT

** FOURTEEN WAYS OF LOOKING AT JELLYFISH / 2026

  by Carole Boston Weatherford; illus. Bagram Ibatoulline

With carefully chosen words and awesomeillustrations, this is a staggering picture book worthy of attention. It is a mighty melding of poetry and nonfiction.  It is an art gallery in 32 pages. Hitchhiking on Wallace Shwans century-old poem “Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird”,  acclaimed poet Carole Boston Weatherford pays homage to the world of jellyfish in fourteen poems, each piece weaving in facts about this species. The art work by Bagram Ibatoulline is a stellar example of how illustrations can add power, provide information and evoke feeling  through different perspectives and colour palettes. The text may need some slow reading, re-visiting, and quiet reflection – as many good poems do – but Weatherford’s mastery of language and strong images offers different ways  – fourteen, in fact – to think about the extraordinary world of marine animals.  Bagram Ibatoulline’s at work (also presented in fourteen different ways)  made me gasp, page by page. I’m placing bets that this publication gets Caldecott recognition. How could it not?

Sample

VI

With sheer wonder,

How can a creature esist

without a brain, heart, blood or bones?

Because they are a bundle of nerves. 

 

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SHOUT OUT! SHOUT OUT!

HOORAY FOR SHEREE FITCH!!!

SUMMER FEET by Sheree Fitch; illus. Carolyn Fisher/2020

Sheree Fitch celebrates the joys of going barefoot in summer and the pleasures of swimming, dancing, gathering, wobble-dy walking, wandering wild and soaking up the sun. This award-winning book is a lyrical treat that can’t be beat in the summer heat.

 

Speaking of outstanding authors…buckets of praise goes to Sheree Fitch, a leading children’s poet, extraordinaire. She has published a number of books for readers young and old and has through workshops and writings (Writing Maniac) has provided great insights and creative ideas for writing poetry.   Sheree is the winner of the David Booth Poetry Award for her picture book, Summer Feet. In 2025, she recieved the Matt Cohen Award that recognizes a lifetine a of distinguished work by a Canadian writer. We are lucky to have Sheree Fitch in our literary world. I  was lucky to have Sheree co-author our flip book The Poetry Experience (Pembroke Publishers, ). I am lucky to have Sheree as a friend. 

A Fitch List (a sampling)

Everybody’s Different on Everybody Street

If I Had a Million Onions

If You Could Wear My Sneaers

Mable Murple

No Two Snowflakes

Sleeping Dragons All Around.

There’s A Mouse in My House

Toes in My Nose

 

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STRONGLY RECOMMENDED

TED TALK: Sheree Fitch

PEACE AND POETRY IN A SEASON OF SORROW

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCS7lJ4ZLLc

Not all of the titles listed below are 2026 publications but they were NEW picture book titles for Dr. Larry, each worthy of attention.

 

CHOCOLATE CAKE by Michael Rosen; ill. Kevin Waldron / 2017

Michael Roaen’s story poems are wonderful summonings of childhood experiences.  Chocolate Cake tells the story of a young boy addicted to this divine dessert. One night he wakes up and heads to the kitchen to just taste a crumb of cake and one crumb leads to another and another until the whole cake, of course,  disappears. This picture book, with its vibrant, comical  illustrations by Kevin Waldron, fun font displays on several pages (e..g. A- HA-HA! Gobble! Mmmm. Gobble!) and clever use of thought balloons (“yeah, its all right, OK.’) make for a delightful delicious read. Oh, how I love chocolate cake!

 

GANDER: The Town that Welcomed the World by Nikki Bergstresser; illus. Reilly Fitrgerald

When the tragedy of September 11, 2001 struck, 38 planes were forced to land in Gander, Newfoundland.  The citizens of the small city rose to the occasion by providing food and shelter, comfort and companionship for six days to the 6000 stranded passengers who were anxious and hopeful to return home. This event of the ‘small town with the big heart’  is an epic story of connection and kindness. The story gained renowned with the musical production, Come From Away that was performed throughout the world.  This terrific picture book succinctly encapsulates the events of those six days and provides readers with insights into what made Gander and its citizens so special.   The painterly art work by Newfoundland artist Reilly Fitzgerald captures the setting and the relationships when the plane people encountere dthe big-hearted citizens of a community doing what they were supposed to do,  ‘just’  giving  care and hope when life tosses the unexpected in our way. Hooray to Nikki Bergstresser, Reilly Fitzgerald and Plumleaf Press for carrying forward this story of a. town that welcomed the world.

 

THE GOODBYE BOOK by Todd Parr / 2015  / Loss and Remembrance

Each and every one of Todd Parr’s 60+ publications is worthy of praise. His choice of  reevant topics, his use of repetitive, syntactic patterning and his super brightly  coloured pages that feature simple images that say a lot have made Parr an appealing, important, bestselling author.  I have a small Todd Parr collection (The Peace Book, The Kindness Book, Be Who You Are> It’s Okay to be Different, Reading Makes You Feel Good) and was delighted to see  the release of this book (originally published in 2015)  which invites readers to think about those they’ve said goodbye to for one reason or another.  Sharing this book with young readers is certain to ignite personal connections, prompting stories about moving away, death loss and remembrance and the feelings attached to those memories. The first part of the book talks about the sadness of saying goodbye (‘You might not feel like eating.’ ‘You might not feel like sleeping.’ ‘You might try to pretend it didn’t happen.’) but the later part of the book brings comfort as the fish (the readers)  recall special memories of those they miss and the happy times that were shared together. (‘You’ll remember how you laughed’). What is especially brilliant about this book, is Parr’s choice to feature fish in a fishbowl as characters who sometimes find it hard to say goodbye. This is another mighty resource to spur on social emotional learning ( being sad, mad, confused, joyful, loved). Todd Parr writes: “Of all my books, this was the hardest to write – because it’s never easy to say goodbye.” 5 starts from me!

 

I WILL JUDGE YOU BY YOUR BOOKSHELF by Grant Snider / graphic  / 2020

I love books. The title of this book and the peek-a-boo image on the cover caught my attention.  In this book, comic artist, Grant Snider has given a testimony to the importance of books in our lives. In one or two pages, Grant Snider presents a range of topics  (Stages of the Reader, A Writer’s Routine, Understanding Poetry, Ban This Book, Reader’s Block), through a range of genre (poetry, advice, anecdote, list, exposition, Grant Snider is very clever with words, terrific at brainstorming, a great graphic artist, He is insightful, witty, wise and hooray, hooray, he loves books This is a book lover’s book. I loved it.

Sample (alas, without visual images) / Perfect Reading Spots

Overstuffed chair, Morning sunbeam, Rush-hour traffic, Unusual trees, Yoga Class, Business Lunch, On the Beach, On he bus, Bookshop window, Attic crawl space, Secret Library Corner, Lover’s Embrace, Frustrating Hammock, Comfortable bed, Alone with my thoughts;, Ouside my own head.

 

MICHAEL ROSEN’S STICKY McSTICKSTICK: The Friend Who Helped Me Walk Again by Michael Rosen; illus. Tony Ross / 2021

In March 2020, Michael Rosen became very sick with Covid. His recuperation involved gaining  mobility with a walker, a wheelchair and diligent physiotherapy.  As he slowly progressed, he was given a walking stick to help give him more independence.  Step by step, Sticky McStickstick gave Rosen strength, independence and friendship. The author tells a remarkable story of tenacity and resilience.  Tony Ross’s wise and witty illustrations are a marvel, each image capturing Michael Rosen’s  journey to recovery with  poignancy.This is a very very special picture book about getting help and getting better. 

Excerpt

“Sticky McStickstick sits in a basket by the front door, just in case I need him. I often look at him on my way out, thinking of the time when he helped me learn how to walk. m/And he reminds me of the kind people who taught me all those things right from the time I couldn’t even stand up.”

 

A POLAR BEAR IN THE SNOW by Mac Barnett; illus. Shawn Harris / 2020

How do you create an illustration of a polar bear in the snow? Shawn Harris brilliantly illuminates the life of a bear who awakens and carries on living the life of a polar bear.: Is he going to visit the seals? Is he going to hunker in a cave? Mac Barnett’s spare text appears on each page accompanied  Harris’s cut-paper art work and snow-white (and then blue) images  of the polar bear make for a perfect picture book for young readers to think about – and wonder about the majesty of this Arctic creature. at home in his environment.  This one is a WOW! for its simplicity, adventure, pondering and learning. 

 

ORRIS AND TIMBLE: STAR STORIES  by Kate DiCamillo; illus. Carmen Mok / chapter book / 2026

This new release is the third in the trilogy (The Beginning; Lost and Found) . To say that KateDicamillo is a storyteller extraordinaire would be an understatement. The chapter book format provides her with a concise format to a mighty tale. Orris the rat and Tible the owl are friends, and when Timble invites his friend to fly with him and experience the world beyond the barn the  rat stubbornly replies “I can see teh sgrs, I can see the moon. I can read sorie, and I can talk with you. “That’s all enough for me.” How will Orris convince Timble to go on and adventure with him? How will Timple find the courage to trust his friend. Loyalty. Trust. Comfort. Conversations. Comfort. Stories, the wonders of flying and the story of stars make for another sublime  book for early readers by Kate DiCamillo. Carmen Mok’s  beautiful illustrations make reader a part of the two creatures’ lives. Perfection! Teachers/parents, please please introduce Orris and Timble to young readers (as well as her Norendy Tales trilogy).

 

REACH IN by Herve Tullet / 2026

This is the most recent publication by Herve Tullet, acclaimed artist/ author of interactive picture books for youngsters. His first claim to fame was the book Press Here which invited readers to follow instructions that lead to visual surprises of lively geometric images and bold colours. Tullet’s books (Mix it Up!; Let’s Play; Tap! Tap! Tap!) are experiential, interactive and magical and oh-so-playful.  Reach In is another exciting reading adventure  of lines, shapes, flips and folds from this talented French artist. Have fun!

 

 

 A CELEBRATION

THE STORY OF FERDINAND by Munro Leaf; illus by Robert Lawson / 1936

This year marks the 90th anniversary of the classic picture book The Story Of Ferdinand, first published in 1936 and  has since been translated in 60+ languages and has never been out of print.  The book is the story of Ferdinand, a little bull who would rather sit and smell the flowers rather than enter the bullring, which most other bulls dreamed of. Even though his moher his concerned about the loneliness of her son, she let him sit and be happy even though other bulls ran around ‘snorting and buttling, leaping and jumping’ hoping to get picked to fight in the bull fights .When Ferdiannd is stung by a bee he puffs, snorts and paws eh ground and the Banderilleros, Picadores, and Matadors were sure the found he fierces bull in Madrid. Refusing to be fierce, Ferdinand chose to sit quietly and smell the flowers.

First released in the 1930’s, Ferdinand was seen as symbol of fascism, pacifism and as a sit-down striker. Ferdinand was a ‘1930’s Rorschach test; sinister or benign, fascist or communist, subversive or patriotic. Or just a lovely story about animals and loners choosing their own paths. “(Sadie Steen, New York Times, Sunday June 7, p. 18). The story was inspired by an actual sweet-natured bull named Civilon. Generations of readers have responded to the story in different ways, whether they have heard it read to them or experienced as an independent read.  Whether it is seen as story of being an outsider being true to  oneself or a story about the sport of bullfighting, Controversial during war time, (Franco banned the book, Hitler ordered it burned). The Story of Ferdinand is a beloved story character who just wanted to live life smelling the flowers.

 

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GROUNDWOOD BOOKS x 3 / 2026

 

A FRIEND IS A FRIEND IS A FRIEND by Sara O’Leary; illus. Qin Leng 

First, there was A Kid is A Kid is a Kid and then came A Family is a Family is a Family and now the dynamic duo of Sara O’Leary and Qin Leng have created A Friend is a Friend is a Friend, a worthy companion to the two previous titles that depict the issue of inclusion and belonging. In this book, young campers share their thoughts on friendship (e.g., “If you want to make friends, it’s always good to ask questions.” ) The stories that each camper shares conveys a view and experiences of what it means to be a good friend. (e.g., “My new friend and I don’t speak the same language, but we do understand each other.” “My best friend likes all the same things as me.”)  Hats off to  O’ Leary and Leng and their Who We Are trilogy. 

 

FLY AWAY HOME by Betty Quan; illus. Akin Duzakin 

A little bird is hoping to find a safe place to call home and so it embarks on a journey encountering other birds (goldfinches, flamingoes, hummingbirds, magpies, larks, doves) and creatures (dragonflies, sea turtles, caribou) each on a migration path. Betty Quan effectively tells a story in four-line, non-rhymed verses, each repeating the opening line, “Little bird, little bird…” Akin Duzakin’s art work spectacularly captures the natural settings and the movement of each creature that Little bird meets. This is the perfect cross-curricular picture book to bring understanding of the mysteries of migration as well as the unexpected adventures that await when going on a quest. 

Little bird, little bird

Fly, steadfast

An exultation of larks

Plays with you on the grass

 

GRANDMA, CHO CHO AND ME by Morgan Christie; illus. Paulica Santos

Breakfast in a young girl’s house is a feast, made from recipes that Grandma learned when she was a child before emigrating from Jamaica. As dishes are being prepared, Grandma tells stories about life ‘back home’ and explains that big breakfasts honour the ritual of farmers tending to crops and the tradition of families gathering to enjoy fried dumplings, callaloo from the garden, and chunks of the light-green fruit known as the cho-cho. What a tasty book this is, filled with the savory and steamy delights of Caribbean cuisine. Grandma, Cho Cho and Me is a wonderful story about heritage, culture, and family love. The lively, colourful art work by Paulica Santos is sensational. 

 

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SHOUT OUT

FOREST OF READING AWARD WINNERS

When I’m unfamiliar with an author, I usually rely on reviews, recommendations from friends and book cover appeals to help me choose first novels by a authors, young and old.   This posting lists a dozen recently released debut novels. If truth be told, these readings were hit and miss. for me.  I liked some more than others and only in a few cases would I seek further publications by certain authors. I don’t usually do this but I’ve decided to give star ratings to these pieces of fiction. 

 

THE ARTIST by Lucy Steeds / 2025

> Waterstones Book of the Year / Waterstone’s  debut fiction prize  <

The Setting: Province, France, Summer, 1920 .. An artist’s residence

The Characters: Joseph: a journalist from Britain who has come to write a profile about the artist, 

                              Edouard Tartuffe: a reclusive artist of renowned, known for being the ‘master of light’

                              Ette: The artist’s niece who has been living with him, after her mother abandoned her

The Story:  Joseph is eager to prepare an article(s) for an arts publication but is up against a cantankerous, sometimes volatile artist who is reluctant to reveal any secrets. Joseph ends up sitting as a model for Tata’s painting ‘ Young Man with Orange’. When the painting is finished, Joseph is pleased to be given permission to stay on where he ends up falling in love with Ette. Ette is totally obedient to her uncle, cooking, cleaning and preparing all his artist tools. Ette has dreams of her own about becoming an artist but feels obligated to stay with the demanding, domineering Tats. And besides, being an artist is not part of a woman’s world.  When a romance with Joseph unfolds, Ette wonders if she is forever trapped to serve her uncle. Her secrets and mysterious behaviours add tension and intrigue to Ette’s life and her future.

Style: This was a compelling read. Lucy Steeds knows the French rural countryside well. She  expertly paints a picture of an artist’s painting pictures. The book is presented in alternative voices of Joseph and Ette. Steeds vividly portrays the lives and secrets and passions of each of her characters along with  digging into the pasts that haunts them.  I was transported into the the sun-drenched atmosphere, the dedicated creative process, the intriguing mystery , and the yearning love found within The Artist.  4 stars

Excerpts

“Voices, voices, voices. And Tata, he is laughing. He is growling. One eye is mirthful, he other angry. He is the god of light and shade and at this moment he is everything wrapped up in one., Fury. Passiob. Madness. Ecstasy.” (p, 186) 

>>>>>

“Why did you come? she whispers, and she is so close he can feel her breath on hgis skin.

Joseph finds the answer on the tip of his tongue without even realizing ir was there. “To feel alive,” he says.  (p. 197-198)

 

BUCKEYE by Patrick Ryan / 2025

This novel was on many 2025 top ten lists. It was recommended to me by a friend and I’m glad to have read it. Ryan seems to belong to the school of Elizabeth Strout, beautifully observing and capturing the day to day events of characters as well as capturing the connections and feelings of  these characters. The setting of a small town in Ohio provides a  backdrop of American history.  The narrative spans five decades and is centred on two couples and their sons whose lives intersect. Secrets and lies and the ripple effect of having an affair drive the narrative forward.   “That, as he saw it now, was his life’s work: trying to make right what he’d gotten wrong. Wasn’t that a fair measure of a person, what they did with their mistakes?” Seances, a homosexual affair, abandonment, war,  PTSD, confessions are some of the ingredients that comprise this sweeping story of love, loyalty and sacrifice.  Buckeye was a wonderful debut novel achievement and I look forward to reading other fiction by Patrick Ryan,  hopefully a bit shorter than this book! 4 stars

 

THE CORRESPONDENT by Virginia Evans * / 2025

When is the last time you wrote someone a letter? When was the last time you received a letter from someone? (Let’s not count email correspondents.) Throughout her life, Sybil Van Antwerpt has been dedicated to writing letterrs to friends, families, neighbours, authors, businesses etc.  and this book is written as a series of  Sybil’s letters (and yes, emails). Sybil , now in her sevenies, is living alone in Annapolis, Maryland and her letter writing provides her with the opportunity e to complain to the Dean of a college, to help a troubled young teenager deal with his mental health, reflect on a challenging relationship with her estranged daughter, learn some truths through DNA testing, recount her current romantic experiences and sometime helping others to cope with their life circumstances and carry on. Most of all, Sybil is haunted by memories of significant mistakes that  riddles her with guilt and she can’t seem to let go of. Virginia Evans gives us an unforgettable character whose secrets and opinions and worries we get to know through beautiful writing (Evans and Antwerpt). Her letters reveal Sybil to be a smart, kind, cranky, and honest character. The letters we write are often meant to be private but this epistolary novel invites readers into the world of an opinionated  senior citizen who looks back on her life, attempts to repair wrongdoings and confronts regrets, dreams and the reality of getting older (and losing her eyesight). Virginia Evans and Sybil Van Antwerp invite us to consider the relationships in our lives and think about  the small and large things, the could have been, should have been events that are part of our life journeys. I highly recommend this novel. It’s wonderful! 5 stars

 

THE CURE FOR DROWNING by Loghan Paylor / 2024

Loghan Paylor is a Canadian queer, trans author and their debut novel The Cure for Drowning was longlisted for the Giller Prize in 2024 and in 2026 it was notable honoured with the 2026 CBC Canada reads competition. In Part One,  the story begins in 1931 in a farm area near Orangeville Ontario and much of the narration comes to take place during World War II, until  we return to the Ontario farm in the late 1940’s. Kathleen/ Kit Macnair has been a changeling since she was ten years old and enjoys a daredevil life wearing boys clostes, much to the chagrin of her mother. Kit falls in love with Rebekah a beautiful girl who lives to town withe her parents.  However, Kit’s older brother Landon also is enamoured by Rebekah and a love triangle ends up tearing the McNair family apart. In Part II of the novel, Kit (Now Christopher) , Rebekah  (naval intelligence) and Landon (Navy).each play their part in the war. Paylor does a fine job of describing the development and  tensions of wartime. In Part III, we return to the farm where Rebekah hopes to find peace and love.  I admired the construct of the book told in alternates voices of Kit and Rebekah.  I was, however, somewhat disappointed in the journey of Kit as a non-binary character. As Christopher, we get little insights  of them and what it means for someone to assume a different gender identity. Curious, too, is in the later part of the book, the “they/ their” pronouns are used when speaking of Kit and this seemed to be an unbelievable conceit.  The element of magic realism also mystified me though it made for some appealing storytelling, particularly in the retelling of the Selkie story. For me, this was a well-told love triangle story,  a good example of WW II historical fiction but overall a disappointment in digging deep into queer love. 3 stars

 

THE HILL by Harriet Clark/ 2026

From the reviews, and the book jacket, I was intrigued to read this novel. I like coming of age stories. The story of a girl visiting her mother in a hilltop prison each week was an interesting premise, I thought, to present a narrative of mother-daughter relationships, past and present. The fact that this story was drawn from the author’s own experiences with her inprisoned mother was certain to bring some authenticity to the novel. A quirky relationship wih a yiddish  grandmother was another appeal.  However, this book did not hold its promise for me and I would say. alas,  it was one of the most unsatisfying debuts I recently encountered.  The book is divided into three part. Part One was rather a slog for me and I put it the book aside only to return to it a couple of weeks later but I continued to be bored (Except for a few quirky bits about the grandmother’s behaviour) and gave myself permission to abandon the book after 200 of its 271 pages.  I did skip to the last dozen pages which didn’t change my mind. I didn’t much care for the characters and found the telling of events to be fractured as the book went along. I expected to be more emotionally involved with a story about daughter, mother and grandmother (who refused to visit her daughter in prison. The Hill was not the book I expected to be and hoped to be. No tremcommended! 2 stars.

 

JEAN by Madeleine Dunnigan / 2026

The cover of this book caught my attention in the book store: A black and white photo of a rather attractive adolescent boy in a somewhat twisted position, lying on. beach.  The opening sentence of the book jacket told me that Jean was a seventeen year old Jewish boy. The setting is 1970’s London, a boarding school for boys with problems. He is described as dyslexic, antisocial and prone. At the school he is infatuated with Tom a confident charmer.  This is a coming of age story that Ii thought would appeal to me, but alas it was a disappointment. I found this to be quite boring and would have put it aside but at only 212 pages I decided to persevere. The story just didn’t build. The fact that Jean was a ‘Yid’ was neither here nor there. His sexuality was also seemed to be a taken for granted issue and I found myself not caring what was happening to the boy (not much I’d say, except for the fact that he smokes a lot of drugs).  To be honest, I’d say leave the coming of age stories to the YA novelists. And though I’m hesitant to see this, I’d point out  Madeline Dunnigan is straight didn’t help me much.  Her prose style is confident, but, except for a few incidents from Jean’s past, not that interesting. For me, this was not an auspicious debut. I guess you can’t always judge a book by its cover. 2 stars

 

MAZELTOV by Eli Zozovksy / 2025

The cover  of this debut novel captured my attention on a recent visit to a book store. The title intrigued. The book blurb motivated me into buying this book about  Jewish boy confronting his sexuality as about to have his bar mitzvah. The jacket description suggested that this would be a novel i’d enjoy: An adolescent character, a Jewish family, a chorus of different voices, the threat of war, ‘queer lust’ and a book less than 200 pages.  I only got to 100 pages. In recent years, I’ve given myself permission to abandon books and I though 100 pages would be a fair chance. We are told about Adam Weismann’s life from different perspectives but even at reaching half  the book presented in short story manner, I didn’t get to know this young adolescent and  found only glimpses of the narrative promised in the book blurb. A disappointment. Oh well!  2 stars

 

PICK A COLOUR by Souvankham Thammavonsa / 2025  > GILLER PRIZE <

This story takes place during a single summer day in a nail salon named Susan.  Anyone who has gotten a mani-pedi at any salon anywhere will know the atmosphere, the customers,  the manicurists,  the procedures, the conversations (in English or otherwise) described in this novel. Each of the employees (each with the name tag, ‘Susan’) buff and clip and polish and tweeze as they listen to stories and complaints  about husbands having affairs, online dating, taking care of children. Ning runs Susans with precision and acute observation (“I want to know, then realize there are some things I don’t need to know. I was there. I saw it all” (p. 165). As a retired boxer, Ning brings stamina and resilience to the workplace. Gossip abounds throughout the day, much of which is in a language that customers don’t know.  A short novel (180 pages) Pick a Colour brings strong insight into the life of an immigrant and the complexity of power dynamics. 3 stars

 

THE READING LIST by Sara Nisha Adams / 2021

I often introduce the literature courses I teach with an activity that invites participants to list any book titles that have been important to them in their lives. I have a handout entitled ‘The Book Shelf of My Life” where people are invited to record books – of any genre – that they would consider to be significant.  What picture books, novels, poetry, nonfiction academic titles would be on your list?

The Reading List is a wonderful  heartwarming story about how books come into our lives and give significance to our lives. The book is centred on Mukesh, a widower, who leads a quiet life in West London.  He his bereft after the passing of his dear wife and regrets not having participated in her life as a reader. His  three daughters are hoping that he will ‘move on’ and gain some independence in his life. Hoping to forge a relationship with his granddaughter who is an avid reader, Mukesh makes visit to the library and connects with Aleisha a somewhat troubled teenager who is working at the library for the summer.  Aleisha’s life is rather stressful.  She is no longer part of the social circle she once was and She and her brother Aidan need to balance their schedules in order to take care of their mother who is experiencing mental health issues. At the centre of the book is a mysterious list of novels that spurs Aleisha to investigate and read. The books offer Aleisha comfort and connections which she passes on to Mukesh. (“The books fill the space where there had once been silence.”  The reading list circulates amongst others in the community and each comes to discover how books can help to provide reflection, comfort and joy. (“Please try to remember that books aren’t always an escape; sometimes books teach us things. They show us the world: they don’t hide it.” (p, 319); “Books alway change as the person who reads them changes too.” (p  325)

In this debut novel, Sara Nisha Adams celebrates the magic and power of reading fiction for both readers who consider themselves to be avid readers and for those who may grow into the reading habit. You might know (have read) the books on the list but Adams does a fine job of providing a synopsis of the book and capturing the significance of the theme to those who choose to read the books. The Reading List may inspire readers to check out some of those titles, or consider their own personal lists to share with others. This book was recommended to me by a good friend. Isn’t it great to have good books recommended to you by good friends. Isn’t it great to read a good book about good books and those who love to read?  4 stars

The Reading List that frames this story features the following titles “Just in case you need it.”

To Kill A Mockingbird 

Rebecca

The Kite Runner

Life of Pi

Pride and Prejudice

Little Women

Beloved

A Suitable Boy

 

SHE WHO REMAINS by Rene Karabash / 2018 / 2026 (translation)

The opening words to this novel are “Sworn Virgin”.  Seventeen year old Bekija, living in a village high in the Mountains of Bulgaria which is ruled by the ancient laws of the Kanun (an ancinet and strict patriarchal code of honor and revenge). Bekija escapes an arranged marriage, by swearing toa virgin, renouncing her womanhood and live as a man. This Balkan tale of gender, law and survival and shattered family, first published in 2018,  was shortlisted for the  2026 International Booker Prize. The story unravels in nonlinear fashion and it is often challenging to figure out what is happening, what is real, what is a dream. what is past, what is present.  The poetic style  of writing also tended to slow down my reading.  She Who Remains bravely explores what it means to be a omen in a world defined by violence and archaic traditions. 2 1/2 stars

 

MIDDLE YEARS: 2 picture book authors publish their debut novels

 

THE INCREDIBLY HUMAN HENSON BLAZE by Derrick Barnes / 2025

Henson Blaze is the hero of Great Mountain Mississippi and in the first 100 pagess or so we learn how much he is admired and respected by the whitefolk citizens. After all, thirteen-year old Henson is a star football player and his prospects to play on he high school team are celebrated. When the narrative takes us to the season’s opening game where everyone cheers on the talented Henson, the young teenager learns of a horrific incident that involved police brutality over a young black boy who was a loyal friend to Henson. Henson is forced to make a decision: Football fame or fighting justice. While deciding to withdraw from the sport, the town is emphatically divided in their support.Henson’s father, a leader in the community helps his son think about his destiny and consider that greatness can mean different thing.  Also, the inclusion of heritage stories about  experiences from the past that appear throughout the book provide some meaningful contexts about the Black Experience and Anti-Black experiences.  Derrick Barnes tells a powerful story centred on a black ‘stars’ being responsible for the entertainment of others. (“This is a story about – along with other pertinent themes – America’s strange obsession with the Black body: for labor and entertainment” (author’s note, p. xi).  The Incredibly Human Henson Blaze  is more than a novel about community, self-discovery  and pursuing dreams. It is a  tale of “boyhood, manhood, sonhood and fatherhood and the blues.” (Sabaa Tahir). Derrick Barnes s picture books (Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut and I Am Every Good Thing) are rich tributes to the Black experience. Derrick Barnes you too are a hero. 4 atars

from the Author’s Note (p. xiv)

“Don’t force yourself to fit neatly and quietly into the perception of those who do not have your best interests at hear, in their narrow-minded definition of who they think you are supposed to be. Be who you want to be…Hopefully, Henson will live with you for a long time, and will motivate you to never stop growing, changing and being the best version of yourself every single day for the rest of your beautiful lives.”

 

A POTION, A POWDER, A LITTLE BIT OF MAGIC or LIKE LIGHTNING IN AN UMBRELLA STORY: A story out of order by Philip Stead / 2026

The jacket blurb helps to conveniently summarize what this novel is about: “It is a tale of precisely twent-four goats and how they became free of heir tiresome burden. It is a tale of a twelve-year old goatkeeper on a quest to save the life of her greatest friend . It is a tale of bravery. It is a tale of luck. It is a tale out of order – a tale whose first chapter is lost insdie the noggin of a once-extraordinary magician, in accessible not only to him, butto the author as weell. We can only hope it will be revealed in time.”

Yes, the chapters are out of order (that didn’t bother me too much since each chapter was filled with adventure and wit), Yes, there are twenty-four goats (one of them a three-legged goat), who together are given the burden of being the foundation upholding the king’s castle.  An old tree, that grants wishes transforms itself into a wheelbarrow. The Forest of Disappointment, The Mountain of Regret, a tollbooth, swamps, vultures, alligators, sea creatures all play a part in  young Bernadette the Brave’s quest to capture her turtle (named Perseverance) before it is turned into a meal for the king.  Latin phrases are spread throughout (e..g.,  ‘Omni mea culpa’ (It’s all my fault); ‘In media res’ (In the middle of things); ‘Finis Felix’ (a happy ending);  Morals abound: “Most stories have only one moral.Some have none at all. This story has several – twenty-four to be exact” (p. 24) . Throughout the book, the author  sits in  hut in mountain wonders what he could write, should write to be helpful and specific (“When writing a story it is important to be specific. Otherwise, the reader will have no choice but to address any lack of specificity with their own imaginations. This can lead o disastrous results.” (p. 129).  Yes, author meets his own disastrous adventure.  A Potion, A powder, A Little Bit of Magic or Like Lightning in an Umbrella Storm: a  story out of order, stands on the shoulders of The Phantom Tollbooth (Norman Juster), A Barrel of Laughs, a Vale of Tears (Jules Feiffer) And A Series of Unfortunate Events (Lemony Snicket) and anything by David Walliams.   I myself got somewhat bogged down by all that happened from story that jumped from page to page, paragraph to paragraph but I sort of hung in there. Philip Stead’s black and white illustrations are sublime (I probably would have liked some more full-page images throughout).   For those seeking something completely different, daring, whacky, puzzling, super-imaginative, mind-boggling and funny you’re in for a unique reading adventure. 4 stars

Some morals:

There is no use paddling in a river that cannot decide which way it is going.

Imprecise wishes lead to imprecise results.

Never hold your umbrella aloft in a lightning storm

It is never lucky to be unkind. 

It is better to do one thing well than two things poorly.

 

 

As spring days struggle to push through and settle in warmly, i found myself spending time with some great 2026 reads.  As it happens, some of my favourite authors have recently released books: Elizabeth Strout, Douglas Stuart, Colm Toibin, David Sedaris, Katherine Applegate< Kate DiCamillo  are authors whose books I choose to buy wihout hesitation. (I will have to wait until he fall to acquire John Boyne’s new book, The Weight of Angels,). I was also pleased to come across two recent publications by another two authors whose books i have enjoyed: Nicholas Butler, Rachel Joyce.  I was also able to dig into some publications by two great poets whom I admire (Mary Oliver and Michael Rosen). It’s been a great time with great books from great authors. Lucky me! 

 

FICTION

 

A FORTY YEAR KISS by Nickolas Butler / 2025

Charlie and Vivian split up after just four years of marriage, forty years ago. Now, Charlie, retired from the railroad, with sound finances and still an alcoholic returns to Wisconsin hopefully to rekindle the relationship he once had with Vivian. Vivian living  a humble life with her duaghter and 2 granddaughters. Can Vivian and Charlie pick up the pieces? Can people truly change from their past selves? Can love help a person grow and be more responsible, reliable and devoted. Charlie is determined to prove that he is a different person and this second chance love story evolves with romantic gestures and  growing commitment. A Forty Year Kiss is an optimistic  love story fo the ages, filled with kisses.  Every since reading Butler’s debut novel Shotgun Lovesongs I have been a fan of his books (e.g., The Hearts of Men, Little Faith).  Without fussy writing, he aptly captures the hearts and minds of macho men and while painting a vivid portrait of citizens of Wisconsin and Minnesota.

 

THE HOMEMADE GOD by Rachel Joyce / 2025

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry would certainly be one of my desert island books and since reading this debut novel by Rachel Joyce I have enjoyed other titles (Perfect,The Music Shop, Miss Benson’s Beetle, as well as sequels to Harold Fry (The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy, Maureen).  Rachel Joyce is a great storyteller and her 2025, The Homemade God was an engaging read.. Not long after meeting and marrying a much younger woman, a father, a once famous artist dies (not much of a spoiler alert).  His four children head off in the heat of the summer to his Italian villa to find out what exacly happened. Was he murdered? What happened to the last painting he announced that he was working on?  What part did Bella-Mae, his new wife, play in his life? in his death? This is a story about grief and legacy but ultimately it is the story of four siblings who, in seeking answers and confronting their wounds, are driven apart. The book unfolds much like a soap opera family, where each member has secrets, dreams, and flaws which are revealed chapter by chapter. Rachel Joyce’s writing is unfussy but she is rather gifted at painting emotional portraits of each of her characters. This was an enjoyable read about art, sibling rivalry and hanging on.  Heck, we’re in a villa by a lake in Italy. How bad could that be?

 

JOHN OF JOHN by Douglas Stuart

i was  completely wowed by this Scottish author’s two previous novels (Shuggie Baine(Booker Prize) and Young Mungo and eagerly awaited the release of John of John.  On the morning I received my copy of the book, I tuned into  CBS Mornings show and lo and behold there was Oprah declaring the book the 123 selection of her Book Club (“a complex and compelling tale that ultimately showcases the transformational power of love.”… “liberating for people who have been suppressing themselves”.)  I spent a  week reading this novel and found myself immersed in Stuart’s staggering storytelling of a young Scottish man who returns home to his family  in the fictional farming and textile town of Falabaw where loneliness and secrecy seem to shape each citizen who lives on the island.  John-Calum Macleod (Cal) strives to change his unfulfilled  life where he he has yet to find a home inside himself, and certainly not on the family croft where expectations  and obligations seem to smother him.   (He complete art school in Glasgow only  found him self to be jobless). Will Cal find happiness as a sheep farmer.and  a weaver? Will he and his father, John,  ever come to know each other/ understand each other? How will Cal’s grandmother, Ella, help John and John find peace with the life they’ve been dealt with, the dreams of finding truth in themselves. John, CaL and Ella are the central characters of this novel, but Stuart introduces a cast of characters who seem to be living unfulfilled lives  in this close-init island community in eh Outer Hebrides. Spoiler: both father and son are gay.  In this bleak island setting where  Presbyterian  expectations and day to day survival , we are left to wonder  whether the two repressed men ever find love with a man, or moreover within their own  family? Stuart brilliantly captures the life of the islanders – the church services, the lambing season rituals, the drinking customs, the swirling sea,  the grim, damp weather.   

I found myself reading the book at a slow and steady pace often re-reading some passages both for clarification of what has been told or often in awe of masterful writing. There is an unfamiliar word to discover on every few pages of the novel (a men’s balmaccan (p.227); the car juddered (p. 228); a slag bing (p. 241); dodgem  track(p. 241);  and Gaelic language is filtered throughout  but this unfamiliar language didn’t bother me but helped to add richness to the culture and setting.. Author Thomas Wolfe told us that “You Can’t Go Home Again.”  but it seems that no matter where Cal lives he will be unsettled until he finds a home within himself.  If truth be told, I didn’t enjoy this book as much as Stuart’s first two novels. John and John doesn’t particularly unfold in a linear narrative plot-driven novel but partaking in the despair and hope of the host of island characters made for another immersive. heavily researched read from a great British author.  

Excerpts

“I have to have something to show at the end of this life. If I’m for hell, then I deserve a love that was worth it.” (p. 233)

“The newborn was lying in its own mucus, its mother, inattentive to its needs, had simply walked away. The seagulls were never far druing the lambing but that morning a white-tailed eagle was circling. Cal was too far from the abandoned lamb as the sea-eagle slided through the sky, spreading its talons wide. It pierced the flesh with its locking jaws and ascended trimphant, dripping blood and amniotic fluid.” (p. 266)

“He passed an abandoned croft that was overrun with wildflowers. He stopped and gathered a fistful of harebell and saxifrage. As he worked, he entertained a juvenile fantasy where Innes would be so ovecome with the fear of losing him that he would confess his hidden feelings and beg hin to stay. He tidied the flowers into a ragged bouquet.” (p. 333)

John let go a sob that startled them both. It sounded like it had torn something inside him and as he fought to master it, it sent him into a fit of gasping. He sipped the air as if in one single cry had knocked the life from him. Then he howled with pain. Cal couldn’t ever recall his father crying over his mother. Thes tears were not how men cried for their friends.” (p. 392)

 

THE NEWS FROM DUBLIN by Colm Toibin / Short Stories

This short story collection is by an  author who’s work I’m drawn to (Brooklyn, Long Island, Nora Webster).  I read the stories in the order that they appeared and as is often the case, enjoyed some more than others.  They differ in length (from 5 pages to 98 pages),  in first perso , second person, and third person voices, in setting (Ireland, San Francisco, New York, Argentina and Spain) and in time periods and with characters sraight and gay. Several stories are centred on family relationships (a mother grieving over her son who has been killed in the war (‘The Journey to Galway’ which is the strongest story in the anthology);  (the strongest story), an undocumented father, forced to head back to Ireland  who must say goodbye to his daughter (‘Five Bridges’), a brother who seeks a cure for his brother who has tuberculosis (‘The News from Dublin’) and three sisters who have just inherited a property that once belonged to an aunt (‘The Catalan Girls’).  There is an overall theme of having characters move on from events of their past, whether it’s a pedophile who has been released from prison who leaves is home to seek freedom in a place where folks don’t know his story (‘A Free Man’) or a boy who must live with the consequences of having stolen money at his boarding school (‘A Sum of Money’). There is a sadness to many stories of love, loss and change.  Ultimately, what the nine stories have in common is the fine writing by a gifted Irish writer.

 

SHOUT OUT!! SHOUT OUT!

THE THINGS WE NEVER SAY by Elizabeth Strout

A masterpiece! Read it!!!

excerpt (p. 19)

“All of us live with a huge blind spot before our eyes, meaning that no matter what we think we know we can never fully understand how we appear to others.”

 

POETRY

 

DEVOTIONS by  Mary Oliver / 2020

I recently read – and very much enjoyed  -the novel One Time by Sharon Creech (2020). Miss Lightstone, a remarkable teacher offers students special free writing ‘experiments’.  This novel is introduced with a quotation from poet Mary Oliver “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” and concludes with another Oliver snippet. “I want to be improbable beautiful and afraid of nothing, as though I had wings.”  Though I’ve previously read poems by the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, I was inspired to seek out other of her brilliantly crafted verses in other anthologies. Where  to begin.? I was grateful to have discovered  the collection entitled Devotions which features two hundred poems selected and arranged by Oliver herself before. The works are presented in chronologically backwards order with choices from Felicity (2015) leading the way and finishing off with No Voyage and Other Poems published in 1963.  I spent a quiet spring day reading each poem, page by page. 

Most poems are single presented on single page pieces, sometimes spilling over to two. Oliver’s free-verse style is boh conversational and mindful, using language that is both vivid and accessible. We see the elements of nature that she depicts. We feel  the significance of the subjects she illuminates. Praiseworthy is Oliver’s devotion to the beauty and wonder of flora and fauna . Trees , rivers, stones are common artifacts that she revisits and her attentiveness to the glory of locusts, herons, snow geese, loons, wrens, mockingbirds, owls, roses, goldenrod, poppies,  is astonishing.  I found myself frequently turning the corners of pages, wowed by the way she seems to easily craft language to help us care about and pay attention to the world around us and I say to myself ‘What a wonderful world.’ And i say to myself, ‘What a wonderful wonderful poet.’ 

A Sampling: 

Instructions for living a life

Pay attention.

Be astonished. 

Tell about it.

~~~~~

Every day / I see or I hear/ something / that more or less

Kills me / with delight, / that leaves me like a needle

In the haystack/ of light. It is what I was born for – to look and listen.

~~~~~~

Have you ever seen/ anything /in your life / more wonderful

Than the sun, every evening, relaxed and easy, / floats toward the horizon…

 

~~~~~  (some questions)

How many mysteries have you seen in your lifetime?

What if the mockingbird came into the house with you and became your advisor? 

Tell me, what is it you plan to do / with your one wild and precious life?                                                

 

THE ADVANTAGES OF NEARLY DYING by Michael Rosen / 2023

At the beginning of 2020, Michael Rosen was hospitalized for 3 months in hospital whcih nearly seven weeks were in an induced coma. Rosen has writen about this ordeal and rehabilitation in two books, Many Different Kinds of Love: a story of life, death and the NHS and Getting Better: lifew lessons on going under, getting over it and getting through it..  The Advantages of Nearly Dying is a collection where he reflects upon and records the trauma of his illness as well as the politics of he pandemic. The poems are astonishing documents of time spent in the hospital, in waiting-rooms, being tested for  blood, brain-scans and eye tests. Most poems are only one page in length, some even presented in three or four lines,  Each piece offers a punch in the heart – often with wit – true to Michael Rosen’s extraordinary genius of writing poetry. Brilliant!

A Sampling

Today I forgot the word ‘antithesis’
I guess the antithesis of forgetting
Is remembering.

I had microbleeds in my brain
So now I can’t hear with my left eye
I can’t see with my left ear
And I get muddled.

The advantage of nearly dying
Is you get to see ahead of time
Which people will think kindly of you.

I dont’ think they’re too worried about by brain.
My appointment for my scan
Has been postponed from next Thursday to next year.

She asked me
What I had been doing
I said ’Trying not to die.’
I thought later
Actually I tried to die
But they wouldn’t let me.

(About the death of his son Eddie)
The silence after lasts forever
Quieter than a painting
There is nothing as quiet as this.
It is as quiet as nothing. 

 

 

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

SHOUT OUT

ESSAYS

THE LAND OF THE PEOPLE by David Sedaris

I’d say that David Sederasis is one of my very favourites of favourite authors. His books always make me smile. And think. And reflect. I am awed by his genius ability to observe life in all its absurditities. Im awed by his devoted commitment  to write write write write and then rewrite and rewrite. I’m awed by the life he lives around the world, his travels and plentiful speaking engagements (where he is committed to stay behind and sign books to each and every audience member who waits). I’m  awed by his family life and I’m awed by the special relationship he has with his, (dare I say it), husband, Hugh. For his honesty, his self-awareness, his timing, I am in awe. I confess that that I am more than ‘awed by Sedaris’s life and work. I am perhaps. jealous of the remarkable rich life he leads and the staggering appreciation he has for the unusual, whacky, the ordinary, the quirky, the disturbing, the awe of everyday  events of life and  behaviours of people. He does, however, inspire me to pay attention to things that go on around me  but I am awed/jealous of his talent to  appreciate and acknowledge their significance. And jealous of the author’s relentless dedication to work and living life a full life. I have a special shelf of David Sedaris books (I think Im missing one or two that I loaned to folks and never got back but I just re-bought Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk) .Mr. Sedaris, you make me happy, when skies are blue. I sure was exited to add the Land of The People to my DS collection such nuggets as being accosted on the street, going on safari, being bitten by a dog, going to therapy, Duolingo, ticks, AI, and finding he perfect pair of white cotton underpants. 

 

A taste:

I thoguht of a night in San Franciso when a man started walking behind m shouting, “I will make your spinal cord dance, mother fucker! (p. 21)

If I were to manufacture a perfume, it would smell the way that grass being ripped from the ground by elephants sounds – simultaneously soothing and astonishing – and simply everyone would have to have it. The problem is that it wouldn’t go with any of he perfume nmes I’ve come up wih over the years, the best being Obsequious. (p, 59)

Whenever I ran out of my personal material, I asked my therapist questions about herself. I thought tha a person in her position would have to remain opaque. “Let’s stick with you,” I expected her to say. But no. She was more than beerous with personal information. (p. 78)

If you were to say to me, “You can be in a room with either Chris Rock or the pope, I’d say, “Chris Rock, please.” Nothing against the pope, but he’s never made me laugh. (p 83)

Whatever our mother was to us, it’s too complex and momentous to ever fit onto a sweatshirt. A person would need a whole mountain. And then some. (p. 120)

I could hear voices on the ocean-facing porch and could tell my brother was there by looking at a large potato-chip bag propped up on the kitchen couner. No one but him would hva taken to the logo with the Magic Marker, chaging it from UTZ to SLUTZ (p. 150)

“Who’s the one person at this restarunat most capable of murder?” I ask Tommy, spotting my candidate – a hatchet faced grandmother – at the next table and then realizing that, actually, it’s probably me. (p.223)

 

>>>>>>>>>>>CHILDRENS LITERATURE<<<<<<<<<<<

 

How could i do a posting featuring favourite authors, without shining a light on acclaimed writers Katherine Applegate and Kate DiCamillo, 

 

ORRIS AND TIMBLE: STAR STORIES  by Kate DiCamillo; illus. Carmen Mok / chapter book / 2026

This new release is the third in the trilogy (The Beginning; Lost and Found) . To say that KateDicamillo is a storyteller extraordinaire would be an understatement. The chapter book format provides her with a concise format to a mighty tale. Orris the rat and Tible the owl are friends, and when Timble invites his friend to fly with him and experience the world beyond the barn the  rat stubbornly replies “I can see teh sgrs, I can see the moon. I can read sorie, and I can talk with you. “That’s all enough for me.” How will Orris convince Timble to go on and adventure with him? How will Timple find the courage to trust his friend. Loyalty. Trust. Comfort. Conversations. Comfort. Stories, the wonders of flying and the story of stars make for another sublime  book for early readers by Kate DiCamillo. Carmen Mok’s lovely illustrations make reader a part of the two creatures’ lives. Perfection! Teachers/parents, please please introduce Orris and Timble to young readers (as well as her Norendy Tales trilogy).

 

WOMBAT WAITING by Katherine Applegate / verse novel / 2026/  ages 9 to 12

Have you recently read any novels written for young audiences?  Have you experienced the joy of reading a novel in verse? Have you met any books by Katherine Applegate? In listing books by some of my favourite authors, I am more than glad to recommend a new release by this special author. 

Any new novel by Katherine Applegate is worth celebrating. I’m so fond of her work (Crenshaw, Home of the Brave, Wishtree, Odder, The One and Only Ivan (quartet).  I particularly love when her books are written in free verse style. Wombat Waiting is a gem. Wombat is a dog. A nameless dog. An orphan dog, a homeless dog. “Stout and sturdy, stubby-legged with silly ears that look like furry cookies” does in fact make her resemble a wombat. Wombat hear’s voices that hopefully guide the animal to her destiny: “The right way is the wrong way. The wrong way is the right way.” The setting of this story is Souther California and communities are being evacuated because of the danger of threatening fires. Those who have been forced to leave their homes have found some refuge in rescue shelters.  Wombat has found salvation on a bench in town but tends to avoid any association with passers-by, that is until he meets young Henry, who just might find a home, at long last, for Wombat (“Someone /Somewhere/ Someplace needed her).  Katherine Applegate has told a story about compassion and resilience. The free verse style works beautifully to not only capture the episodes in one stray dog’s life and her outlook on life  but to tell a story about dangerous fires that have threatened many communities.  This novel is another anthropomorphic gem , another moving story, from Katherine Applegate. 

Excerpts

“By late morning the fires seemed / to have changed course again, and the sky changed too. /An ugly ochre sun  /struggled to be seen  / through sickening / thick brown haze.” (p. 122)

“Barnabas had perfected the / art of waiting,/ Turns out if you don’t think about/ tomorrow or yesterday / if you focus on now / and now alone – /today will take care / of itself.” (P. 242)

 

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

MY FAVOURITE ARTIST

DAVID HOCKNEY

(1937 – 2026)

 

Like millions of others, David Hockney was a favourite artist. Last summer, I was lucky enough to have visited the Louis Vuitton Museum in Paris to see the most recent exhibit of Hockney’s work. I have been quite keen on finding out more about the life and work of this extraordinary, prolific figure and have sought out a number of resources to augment my understanding of his talent and to help  make a bigger splash on the way I look at art.  My posting on August 2025, highlights some of the publications about this artistic genius.  Here is one item: 

 

THE WORLD ACCORDING TO DAVID HOCKNEY / Thames & Hudson / 2020

By presenting over 200 of the artists’s remarks, this book, small in size, is a treasure not only for its ability to convey Hockney’s views as an artist but for its strength to  help us think about how we need to see the world around us but  how we understand  the world of creating art and viewing art. The book is divided into 9 sections with such titles as ‘Hockney on Life’; ‘Hockney on Inspiration’, ‘Hockney on Making Art’. Throughout the book we are blessed with a number of plates that show Hockney’s work at different stages of his career. But really it is  Hockney’s words that shine. Some epigrams are amusing, some profound or pithy, but each statement authentically gives insights into the world according to David Hockney.  

Here are a handful of favourite quotations that I found to be inspirational:

“On the chest of drawers at the end of my bed, because that’s the first thing I saw when I woke up, I painted ‘Get up and work immediately’.  (p. 20)

“It’s good to rest and read.” (p. 47)

“Pictures have been helping us to see for about thirty thousand years.” (p. 63)

“The Chinese say you need three things for paintings: the hand, the eye, the heart. Two won’t do.” (p. 88)

“Teaching someone to draw is teaching them to look.” (p. 98)

“I love life.” (p. 165)

 

 

 

Perhaps not as well-known in North America, British author Michael Rosen is a star. He is smartHe has written over 200 books including titles for children and adults. My first introduction to the author was his first poetry anthology for young people entitled Mind Your Own Business followed by Wouldn’t You Like to Know. The picture book We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, illustrated by Helen Oxenbury (1989) would likely be considered hs most popular book. From 2007 to 2009 he was appointed Children’s Laureate. Some recent publications that I acquired convey the range of his talent: One Day: A True story of courage and survival in the Holocaust, illustrated by Benjamin Phjillips (picture book); Out of this World (poems to make uyou laugh, smile and think) and two staggering autobiographical  accounts about his near death experiences surviving coronavirus; Getting Better: Life Lessons On,  Going Under, Getting Over it and Working through It and Many Kinds of Love: a story of life, death and the NHS.  Rosen is a journalist, a BBC broadcaster, a professor of Children’s Literature at Goldsmiths (University of London), an activist.   I can’t keep up with the author’s R prolific oeuvre and would  sure like like to have any/all of Rosen’s work in my reading brain, but I am so grateful to be able dig into any new releases such as Good Days. Years ago, I met Michael Rosen on a trip to Toronto when he came to participate in the Ontario Ministry’s rich Oracy Research project (David Booth, Richard Courtney, Gordon Wells).  I enthusiastically applaud Michael Rosen’s talent, storytelling, perseverance, intelligence, and humanity. And heart. You are a true hero, Mr. Rosen. Bravo!

 

      >>> PICTURE BOOKS

 

CHOCOLATE CAKE by Michael Rosen; ill. Kevin Waldron / 2017

Michael Roaen’s story poems are wonderful evocatioins of childhood experiences.  Chocolate Cake tells the story of a young boy addicted to this divine dessert. One night he wakes up and heads to the kitchen to just taste a crumb of cake and one crumb leads to another and another until the whole cake, of course,  disappears. This picture book, with its vibrant, comical  illustrations by Kevin Waldron, fun font displays on several pages (e..g. A- HA-HA! Gobble! Mmmm. Gobble!) and clever use of thought balloons (“yeah, its all right, OK.’) make for a delightful delicious read. Oh, how I love chocolate cake!

 

OH DEAR, LOOK WHAT I GOT!  illus. Helen Oxenbury/ 2025

In April, 2026, it was announced that Michael Rosen was the recipient of the Hans Christian Anderson Award for his huge contribution to children’s literature. Well-deserved, I’d say!

The award-winning picture book, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by the brilliant team, Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury was published in the year 1989 and has since sold more than 9 million copies worldwide. in 2025, author, Rosen and illustrated Helen Oxenbury teamed up once again to produce a terrific picture book that is a sensational  creation, is the perfect read-aloud story (that warrants many repeated re-visiting). The story involves a young boy who goes from shop hoping to get such ordinary items – a hat, a coat, a cake, a chair but each time is surprised (and disappointed) to be presented with an animal and the menagerie grows and grows, following the boy. This is another brilliant publication filled with the unexpected, told with a rollicking refrain pattern and filled with amusing illustrations. This title is ideal for the ‘me read to you’, ‘let’s read together’, ‘you read to me experience’ Rosen and Oxenbury have done it again with another perfect picture book.

 

I went to the shop

to get me a cake.

Oh dear, they gave me… 

a snake

Oh dear, 

look what I got!

Do I want that?

No, I do NOT.

 

THIS IS OUR HOUSE;  illus. Bob Graham / 1996 /2005

George has all kinds of reasons (excuses) why others can’t join him his cardboard playhouws (“This house is all for me!”) Selfish, mean George won’t let others because the house isn’t for girls, isnt for small people, isn’t for twins, isn’t for people with glasses. This is the perfect book to consider the world of child play and the concept of exclusion – and inclusion. 

 

ONE DAY: A True Story of Survival in the Holocaust, illus. Benjamin Phillips /2025

Acclaimed British author and poet, Michael Rosen was commissioned to write this story to honour the 2022 commemmoratiobn of Holocaust Memorial Day. The title One Day (repeated throughout) was chosen as the title since the phrase was the motto for that year.  Assuming the voice of Eugene Handschuh, Rosen tells the tstory of French citizens who deported Jews From Paris to Auschwitz. Based on research and interviews we  learn yet another story about the horrors of the Holocaust  when French Jews were being deported not knowing and the people in France had no news of what was happening to the Jews. Eugene Hanschuch was one of those Jews who, along with his father survived teh war. Michael Rosen’s aunt and uncle were on the very same convoy as Handschuh but they didn’t come return from the prison camp.  Michael Rosen tells this story with clarity and poignancy. The monochromatic art work by Benhamin Phillips is staggering by capturing images of arrests, starvation, harsh work, attempts to escape through a tunnel interrogation and massive crowds of scared and screaming men, women and children whos lives were changed ‘one day’ and get through’ the day and then on to he next. One day at a time. One day after another”.  Writing these words is giving me goosebumps. This isa masterful picture book publication by a masterful author a illustrator and about a true story about the Holocaust catastrophe.  What a book!

 

STICKY McSTICKSTICK : the friend who helped me walk again; illus. Tony Ross / 2021

A hearetfelt and humourous account of Rosen’s recovery fom Covid and his eventual return to his family with the support, guidance and friendship of walking stick which the poet names Sticky McStickStick.  This story gave Michael Rosen the opportunity to pay tribute to an artifact which gave him the strength to move on, step by step. 

 

Death Loss and Remembrance

‘Death Loss and Remembrance’ may be considered a tough topic to engage young readers with but there are many picture books and novels that have been written to help readers deal with loss and grief (see Teaching Tough Topics, Chapter 78). Award-winning British author Michael Rosen lost his son, Eddie.  The picture book The Sad Book was a way for Rosen to deal with and share the sorrow and sadness he experienced when his son died.  . Years have passed and Where Are You, Eddie?  provided the author to write another heartwarming story of remembrance and acceptance..

 

THE SAD BOOK illus. Quentin Blake / 2004

Michael Rosen’s son, Eddie suddenly died from menangitis in 1999 at the age of 18. The Sad Book is Michael Rosen’s artistic expression about the grief over Eddie’s passing. Though a personal story, the picture book speaks to everyone who knows what it’s like to feel deeply sad. This is an exceptional, heart-squeezing reflection about sadness, anger, and even laughter. Quentin Blake’s illustrations provide  a masterful representation of the author’s feelings and memories. 

Excerpts

“What makes me most sad is when I think about my son Eddie. He died. I loved him very, very much but he died anyway.

“Sometimes I ‘m sad and I don’t know why. Its just a clous that comes along and covers me up.”

“Sad is a place / that is deep and dark / like the space / under the bed.”

 

WHERE ARE YOU EDDIE? illus. Gill Smith / 2026

Michael Rosen’s son, Eddie died many years ago (1999) but has he really gone? In this exquisite picture book, the author visits places and people that were once part of Eddie’s life and in this way, Eddie is still here, alive in memories. Cleverly, the story is told as an imagined conversation with Rosen’s cat, Meg. I don’t think I will read a picture book this year that is filled with as much heart, page by page.  “Writing this book has helped me and my feelings. If you’re someone who is finding the loss of someone hard, I hope this book helps you.” (Author’s note). This is book is certain to ignite cherished memories and stories for any reader who has experienced loss  –  a book for everyone!

Excerpt

Eddies not coming back, is he Meg? Eddies not here. Here’s not there. He’s not anywhere. Is that the end?”

Meg looked up, “No, it’s the beginning,’ she said. “The beginning of what?” I asked

Meg replied, “Just wait and see. saying it’s the end will stop you seeing what’s there.”

… Meg went on. If you look for him, you’ll find him. Not the way he was, but he’ll be there.”

 

>>>  POETRY

Michael Rosen has written poems for young people, adolescents and grown-ups. His poetry soul is also evident in several picture books whether with a rhyme pattern or not. He is also a notable anthologist whos name appears on a number of poetry collections.  The following is a sampling of some of Michael Rosen’s perfectly leasing poem publications:

 

THE ADVANTAGES OF NEARLY DYING by Michael Rosen / 2023

At the beginning of 2020, Michael Rosen was hospitalized for 3 months in hospital whcih nearly seven weeks were in an induced coma. Rosen has writen about this ordeal and rehabilitation in two books, Many Different Kinds of Love: a story of life, death and the NHS and Getting Better: lifew lessons on going under, getting over it and getting through it..  The Advantages of Nearly Dying is a collection where he reflects upon and records the trauma of his illness as well as the politics of he pandemic. The poems are astonishing documents of time spent in the hospital, in waiting-rooms, being tested for  blood, brain-scans and eye tests. Most poems are only one page in length, some even presented in three or four lines,  Each piece offers a punch in the heart – often with wit – true to Michael Rosen’s extraordinary genius of writing poetry. Brilliant!

A Sampling

Today I forgot the word ‘antithesis’
I guess the antithesis of forgetting
Is remembering.

I had microbleeds in my brain
So now I can’t hear with my left eye
I can’t see with my left ear
And I get muddled.

The advantage of nearly dying
Is you get to see ahead of time
Which people will think kindly of you.

I dont’ think they’re too worried about by brain.
My appointment for my scan
Has been postponed from next Thursday to next year.

She asked me
What I had been doing
I said ’Trying not to die.’
I thought later
Actually I tried to die
But they wouldn’t let me.

(About the death of his son Eddie)
The silence after lasts forever
Quieter than a painting
There is nothing as quiet as this.
It is as quiet as nothing. 

 

Two additionalpoetry anthologies for grown-ups

DON’T MENTION THE CHILDREN / 2015

PEBBLES: Poetry Tweets by Michael Rosen / 2024

 

OUT OF THIS WORLD: Poems to make you laugh, smile and think   / 2024

This is a grand, brand new collection of poems by beloved British author and former Children’s Laureate, Michael Rosen. The twelve narrative free verse poems (with some splashes of rhyme) inspire thoughtful reflection, particularly when they are drawn from memories of our families. (e.g., The Schoch; Letters; Family Secret). Some poems display Rosen’s creative imagination (e.g. March 30, AD 3528; Time Travel; Red Blood Cell. The final poem, Riddles’, is a brilliant wrap-up of all the pieces we’ve encountered in the book. The black and white drawings by Ed Vere compliment the text. If I were to write a poetry book, I’d love to have Mr. Vere as my illustrator.  This collection is subtitled: “Poems to make you laugh, smile  and think”. Indeed they are! The title of this anthology is a perfect  review of Michael Rosen’s talent.  I look forward to reading Out of This World again. 

 

MICHAEL ROSEN’S BOOK OF VERY SILLY POEMS (editor) /1994/ 2018

This book is a collection of  fun, nonsensical,  traditional poems and rhymes that are yes, quite silly. . Michael Rosen has gathered a few dozen poems under Such chapter headings as  “Festering Food’, “Personal Pecularities’ and “Riotous Relatives’ provide a framework for some poems to make readers smile/ laugh as the following snippets reveal: “The king he baked a wedding cake with spiders and some honey.””I can’t do my bally bottom button up.” “Bugs go wild, simply wild, over me.” “The jelly wobbled, the turkey gobbled/ And after them the old cook hobbled.” “Tiffy taffy toffee/ On the flee flo floor.” “To Morrow, to Morrow, I hve to go to Morrow,/ The ticket collector told me that I have to go tomorrow.”

 

YOU WAIT TILL I’M OLDER THAN YOU/ 1996 / 2016

Michael Rosen is especially gifted writer of story poems where he looks into the rear-view mirror of incidents from his life, as a kid growing up or as a parent, recounting people, places, adventures that are part of the stories swimming in his head. Significance is brought to these events by  in writing about them, which he does brilliantly in free verse style in such books as Mind Your Own Business, Wouldn’t You Like to Know, Qucick, Let’s Get Out of Here.  Often funny, often poignant these pieces invite readers to join Rosen in his memory journey.  Readers may personally connect to these narratives and moreover, may choose to write their own story poems. Some samples from You Wait Till I’m Older Than You include two friends playing with a ‘nicked’ toy car (‘Stealing’); grocery shopping with a toddler who wants ‘bince bince bince’ (beans) (‘Eddie and the Supermarket’); a train ride adventure to a beach (without telling his parents) (‘Robin Hoods’ Bay’); and walking into England with trousers down (‘Trousers Down’). and finding spiders in the toilet (“Australia).

 

>>> GUIDES

MICHAEL ROSEN’S BOOK OF PLAY: Why PLay Really Matters and 101 Ways To Get More Out of It in Your Life / 2019

I teach a university course entitled ‘Play Language and Literacy’ and can’t think of a better resource to offer educators insight into the importance of play in their teaching and in their lives. Not only does Rosen provide reasons for the importance of play but offers 101 – count em 101 ideas – to bring playfulness into the cognitive, social and emotional development of young people but as a significant realm for bringing joy into our own lives. Play, it can be argued, can make us into more rounded humans and societies and Michael Rosen is a worthy ambassador for the theories, practices and enriching power  and fun of play beyond the early years. 

The table of Contents includes teh following headings:

Hello

The Art of Play

Wordplay

Making it up as we go along

The puddle is the ocean

Toys

Playful learning

Making space for play

 

WHAT IS POETRY? The Essential Guide to Reading and Writing Poems / 2016/2019

“Poetry belongs to all of us; everyone can read poems, make up poems, or share poems with othes. Though we often talk about poetry being dense or difficult, poems are able to present complicated or challening ideas in ways that we can carrry around in our heads. They help us ask questions about the world, how we use words and who we are.’ (Introduction

If anyone can provide an appealing book that talks about how to read, write, and listen to poetry, who but the talented poet, Michael Rosen would be the one to give advice to young writers and to teachers who are keen to teach poetry in meaningful ways. Content includes chapters such as ‘What is Poetry?”What can you do with a poem?’ ‘The writing process from Rosen’s personal experiences’. ‘Ways to start a poem (tips)’ ‘Technical pointers’.   Noteworthy is the inclusion of some renowned poems (as well as some of his own poems). Rosen’s analysis of these works help to provide meaningful, show don’t tell, demonstrations points  presented in each chapter about experiencing poetry. (e.g.. ‘A Word is Dead’ by Emily Dickinson; ‘Who Has Seen the Wind’ by Christina Rossetti; ‘Ozymandias’ by Percy Bysshe Shelley; ‘The Jumblies’ by Edward Lear and ‘Waltzing Matilda’ by Banjo Peterson.

Summary: What can Poetry DO?

Poetry can give an impression

Poetry can play with words

Poetry can be symbolic

Poetry can be personal

Poetry can borrow voices

Poetry can capture a moment

Poetry can make new sense

Poetry can make familiar things feel unfamiliar & unfamiliar things feel familliar

 

 

 >>>NONFICTION

GOOD DAYS: An ABC of Hope and Happiness  (26 essays) / 2026

From the introduction (p. 3)

“I’m going to make a big claim: we can’t do anything about the things that brign us don., if we are oppressed and depressed by hem. We have to have hope. We need to be hopeful creatures in order o live…

“I can’t make you feel hopeful. I can’t guarantee that you’ll be happy. What I can do (and it’s what ive tried to do is tell some stories and give some thoughts, which i hope, in themselves will give you a moment of cheer… I think having moments of cheer is one of the ways we can have hope. Happiness and hope are linked.” 

This is a book filled with wisdom, inspiration and biography.  Through 26 essays, Michael Rosen helps readers to consider how there is joy in living each day of our lives. Rosen’s musings are drawn from his experiences as a writer, teacher, father, brother, son, husband, academic and as a regular guy living from day to day. , The book is arranged alphabetically and to say the least the topics for each piece are unexpected. . (e.g. ‘A is for Arouet’ , apparently Voltaire’s real name ‘H is for Hummus’, ‘K is fof Kvell and Kvetch’, ‘V is for Van Morrison’.). Each essay stimulates reflection (Would that work for me?).  I chose to read the book in chronological order but such titles as ‘ I is for If’;   ‘G is for Grounded’,  ‘L is for LIttle by Little’,. ‘M is for Memory’, ‘N is for Nights’ may seduce readers into dipping into a single essay. On a practical level, Rosen offers suggestions a the end of each essay for readers to consider: (e.g., “As an experiment, you can try writing a line hat begins ‘Every day is…” (p. 19) “Find time to play -trial and error withoug fear of failure. Something joyful, or silly or purposeless in any medium you like.” (p. 159); “The basic one is in his section – make your own lists. Then there’s the motehr of all lists, the list of lists: explore the possibility that life is a list.” (p. 169). Whether we (I) take action to implement each of Rosen’s treasures, the book does help us (me) consider that each day is filled with treasure (s) that can make lift the spirits and make us believe in hope – and happiness. Rosen claims that his book is not a guide but is designed to spark inspiration and help us consider, “I cold give that a go’ or ‘I could do something like that.’  Good Days is a  wise and entertaining and funny book to make us appreciate what we have and do and to prod us into being optimistic and more fulfilled  by small things.  Shout out goes to Andrzej Krauze’s brilliant illustration that introduced each easy. 

Excerpt

“…To experiment, is to do something new, its to discover someEvents themselves dont’ have feelings attached to them. What makes us human is that we have those feelings. When we something in the world around us, it’s to discover something about A yourself.”And a big discovery (or it may be a reminder) is that we don’t have to be passive receivers of what the world thross at us. We can take any part of the world and experiment with it, see what happens if…” (p. 48)

 

GETTING BETTER: Life lessons on going under, getting over itl and getting through it / 2023

Michael Rosen was appointed Children’s Laureate (2007-2009) in the UK and is a renowned poet, performer, and broadcaster. Loss has been a part of Michael Rosen’s life. He has lived with a chronic hypothyroid  illness grieved over the loss of his mother and over the sudden death of his son due to meningitis (meningococcal septicaemia). During the Pandemic, Rosen was in a coma for 40 days and 40 nights, facing death in intensive care for 48 days in a London hospital and then recovering in rehab for three weeks.  Getting Better provides essays of how Michael Rosen, struggled to recover from trauma and grief and helps readers understand how we can find it within ourselves to live well again, during and after dark times.  The subtitle of this book is Life Lessons on Going Under, Getting Over it and Getting Through It.  What a brilliant writer, Michael Rosen is!. What a courageous soul. Michael Rosen  is so grateful for his writing, so grateful for getting through life’s shit that came his way. so grateful for the loving care of family and friends.  He may consider himself to be lucky. We are lucky to have him and his writing, especially for helping us  take a journey on the path to being better, getting better.

 

MANY DIFFERENT KINDS OF LOVE: A story of Life, Death and the NHS  / 2021

Shout out to Chris Ridell’s illustrations that introduce each of the 8 sections.

Stricken by coronavirus, British writer Michael Rosen hospitalized with an induced coma for six weeks and weeks then spent weeks of rehab and recovery. This is the story of that time period. How does he get to tell remember his experiences, when in a coma? The first part of the book presents transcripts of emails that his devoted wife Emma had written to friends and family reporting her husband’s progress.  Also, a notebook was kept by his bedside where the nurses who provided him with care wrote letters of hope, support and love. h of the book is presented as remarkable prose poems, where Rosen writes about his near-death experience and he many different kinds of love that spurred him on to survival. This is a beautiful beautiful book about the  that life might send our way, the trauma  of death hanging over our heads and the indomitable spirit and care of the National Health Service and especially the important people in our lives that carry us through dark times. This is a book of Health, Hope and Heart.  each with a capital ‘H’.  It is a sobering read that should be put in time capsule paying tribute to the resilience of those who suffered through Covid-19. This poetry memoir (published in 2021) is absolutely at the top of the list favourite reads this year.  You are a hero, Michael Rosen. From the back cover:

A doctor is standing by my bed

asking me if I would sign a piece of paper

which would allow them to put me to sleep pump air into my lungs.

‘Will I wake up?’

“There’s a 50:50 chance.’

‘If I say no?’: I say.

‘Zero.’

And I sign.

 

CARRYING THE ELEPHANT: A Memoir of Love and Loss / 2002

In this slim volume of anecdotes, Michael Rosen ponders and preservers episodes from his past in 72 prose-poems. Each piece is a snapshot of remembrances from childhood, travels, relationships, and grief, Together, these short pieces add up to tell a story of the author’s life up until the year 2002. Recording these memories  with honesty provided Rosen the opportunity to observe, to remember, to reflect on moments of significance as well as offer readers  insights into a very special author’s biography. 

Sample

My dead boy once made a clock. Instead of numbers, he put 12 letters tath spelled: How Time Flies. It fell off the wall and broke into pieces

– Hey, how time flies, he said.

Here are he pieces. I’ll stick them back together sometime. 

 

I don’t usually give star ratings for the titles I recommend, but the picture books listed below are exquisite examples of the merit of picture books and each would get 5 stars from Dr. Larry. 

 

BARBED WIRE BETWEEN US by Mia Wenjin; Illus. Violeta Encarnacion / 2026 / The Immigrant Experience

The author chose to tell a circulatory story about experiences  behind barbed wire. We are presented with two stories of immigration: One set in. a Japanese internment camp in Oklahoma dring World War II, drawn from the author’s own Japanese American family experiences, The parallel story is a contemporary migrant story set in the same camp  The form of this book is a reverse poem which tells a story in verse and uses the same verses, but in reverse, to tell a different story. The context of the two  narratives changes with the illustrations that accompany them.  This choice of writing demands much care and editing to make it work and Mia Wenjin along withe her illustrator. Violeta Encarnacion,  have done a masterful job of crafting the circular format that serves as a metaphor for history repeating itself.  The Barbed Wire Between Us demands re-readings. inspiring thoughtful reflection of the immigrant experience., yesterday and today.I predict awards for this stellar picture book achievement achievement. 

Excerpt

“We created beauty with what little we had.

In this time of despair, we experienced the kindness of strangers.”

 

DEAR ACORN, LOVE OAK: Letter poems to friends by Joyse Sidman; Illus. Melissa Sweet / 2025 / Poetry

I’m always on the look-out for books of poetry that ignite the imagination and feeling and invite us to observe and appreciate things, large or small in the world around us. I am appreciative of the recommendation by a colleague to this wonderful book. In this publication, Joyce Sidman sends messages to such topics as bubbles, clouds, pebbles, buttons, toes and sea turtles.  The free verse poems are written as letters and what is especially clever is that the page that follows each artifact provides a back-and-forth mirror poem as a response to the letter. For example: ‘Toes’ sends a message to ‘Dear Child’ and in the subsequent spread, child writes To My Toes’. Any book illustrated by Melissa Sweet is worth paying attention to. Her fragmented, collage-like, brightlyy colured fragmented images are brilliant poems of art in themselves. A special bonus of this publication is a final page that invites students to write letter poems of their own. The step by step procedures is sure to lead to successful poetry writing in the classroom. 

Sample

 

Button:

Not sure what’s 

ahead

but I’m all about

warmth

and you 

hold things together

so let’s greet

what’s next

 

with open arms, 

Hugs

   Coat

 

THE SEA WE CALL HOME by Dominique Demers; Illus. Gabrielle Grimard

Little Gnouf and Mirabelle are off to the sea for the first time and upon arrival they were enchanted to witness “bright blue sky, silky blue water with golden sun sparkling on the waves.”  However, they were troubled when they encountered a baby whale lying in the sand trapped in a fishing net. Desperate to get the creature back into the water, the two friends and with the help of a sand crab, seagulls, the baby whale was returned to its mother. The reunion is celebrated with mother whale and baby taking both Gnoufs deep into  sea to encounter the enchantment of fish and sea creatures of all sizes.  Like the two characters in this story, young readers will consider the perils that creatures may encounter but also delight in the wonders of sea life.   Pardon the pun, but this is a ‘whale of a picture book’ that offers a powerful rescue story, information about whales and a journey into the world under the sea. Dominque Demers storytelling is told with simplicity, adventure and compassion. Gabrielle Grimard’s remarkable illustrations beautifully capture story events and present a beautiful catalogue of a sea environment.  This is a captivating picture book to treasure!

 

NOTE: Three  wonderful Pajama Press nonfiction picture book titles have recently been released in new formats

> SECRET GARDENS: Growing a Community and Healing the Earth by Maija Hurme and Lina Laurent / 2021/2025 / (paperback)

> WAIT LIKE. A SEED by Erin Alladin; illustrated by Tara Anderson / 2025 (paperback)

> A WORLD OF KINDNESS  from the editors and illustrators of Pajama Press / 2018 /2026

 

SOMETIMES I CRY x2

I am interested in collecting books that deal with Social Emotional Intelligence. The act of crying is the result of a range of emotions: sadness, joy, embarrassment, hurt, surprise frustration etc. The following three books offer stories and illustrations that help young readers consider the times they might shed tears whether they weep, bawl, howl, whimper, or sob. 

SOMETIMES I CRY… SOMETIMES I LAUGH by Kristin Mareilla Fridjonsdottir; Illus. Una Lorenzenm/ 2019

This is a back to front, front to back book that acknowledges and respects emotions that make us cry and/or laugh. 

 

SOMETIMES I CRY by Sherri Sutton-Johnson /  2024 / Death, Loss and Remembrance

This book chronicles the life of a young girl who reflects on the painful and joyful memories of her beloved mother who died.

 

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SHOUT OUT

Death Loss and Remembrance

‘Death Loss and Remembrance’ may be considered a tough topic to engage young readers with but there are many picture books and novels that have been written to help readers deal with loss and grief (see Teaching Tough Topics, Chapter 78). Award-winning British author Michael Rosen lost his son, Eddie.  The picture book The Sad Book was a way for Rosen to deal with and share the sorrow and sadness he experienced when his son died.  . Years have passed and Where Are You, Eddie?  provided the author to write another heartwarming story of remembrance and acceptance..

 

THE SAD BOOK by Michael Rosen; Illus. Quentin Blake / 2004

Michael Rosen’s son, Eddie suddenly died from menangitis in 1999 at the age of 18. The Sad Book is Michael Rosen’s artistic expression about the grief over Eddie’s passing. Though a personal story, the picture book speaks to everyone who knows what it’s like to feel deeply sad. This is an exceptional, heart-squeezing reflection about sadness, anger, and even laughter. Quentin Blake’s illustrations provide  a masterful representation of the author’s feelings and memories. 

Excerpts

“What makes me most sad is when I think about my son Eddie. He died. I loved him very, very much but he died anyway.

“Sometimes I ‘m sad and I don’t know why. Its just a clous that comes along and covers me up.”

“Sad is a place / that is deep and dark / like the space / under the bed.”

 

WHERE ARE YOU EDDIE? by Michael Rosen; Illus. Gill Smith / 2026

Michael Rosen’s son, Eddie died many years ago (1999) but has he really gone? In this exquisite picture book, the author visits places and people that were once part of Eddie’s life and in this way, Eddie is still here, alive in memories. Cleverly, the story is told as an imagined conversation with Rosen’s cat, Meg. I don’t think I will read a picture book this year that is filled with as much heart, page by page.  “Writing this book has helped me and my feelings. If you’re someone who is finding the loss of someone hard, I hope this book helps you.” (Author’s note). This is book is certain to ignite cherished memories and stories for any reader who has experienced loss  –  a book for everyone!

Excerpt

Eddies not coming back, is he Meg? Eddies not here. Here’s not there. He’s not anywhere. Is that the end?”

Meg looked up, “No, it’s the beginning,’ she said. “The beginning of what?” I asked

Meg replied, “Just wait and see. saying it’s the end will stop you seeing what’s there.”

… Meg went on. If you look for him, you’ll find him. Not the way he was, but he’ll be there.”

 

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SHOUT OUT

THE CANADIAN CHILDREN’S BOOK CENTRE

What are some of your favourite Canadian Picture Book titles published over the past five decades?

For 50 years, the Canadian Children’s Book Centre (CCBC) has celebrated stories that come from the minds and hearts of Canadian writers and illustrators. You will find many of them included in our 50 Must Read Canadian Picture Books: Recommended by the CCBC in Celebration of our 50th Anniversary