The  13 titles listed below specifically for ages 10-14 are TERRIFIC! It was a bit of a challenge to choose only 4 books that deserve special ‘shout out’ recognition since each of these selections have great appeal and are certainly worthy of getting into the hands (and minds) of Middle Age Readers (and others). 

 

SHOUT OUT

AIN’T BURNED ALL THE BRIGHT by Jason Reynolds and Jason Griffin (ages 12+)

Jason Reynolds is a popular – important – author of books for young people. I always look forward to a new title by this award-winning author. Ain’t Burned All the Bright is targeted for teens. but it is a book for those inside and beyond adolesence.  From the book jacket: “this firece-vulnerable-brilliant-terrifying-whaiswrongwithhumans-hopefilled, hopeful-tender-heartbreaking-heartmaking manifesto on what it means not to be able to  breathe, and how the people and things at your fingertips are actually the oxygen you most need.” I stand on the line to say that this is the best book produced this year, YA, or not. It is a marriage of two artists creating a ‘manifesto’ of Black Lives Matter, of the Pandemic, of Climate Change. For me the book is  is about the need to take a deep breath in times of trouble. The book is divided into three Sections: Breath One; Breath Two; Breath Three and each section is one sentence written by the brilliant Mr. Reynolds. The multi-media art work is fiery and explosive and evocative of the words. There is art in Jason Reynold’s poetry. There is poetry in Mr. Griffin’s art (I would love to own any one of these illustrations).The formatting and production value deserves special kudos. 

If I had buckets of money, i would make sure that every black teenager owned a copy of this exquisite book Heck, make that ALL teenagers. They may not immediately ‘get it’ but let the book sit on a shelf, let them return to it in a week, in a decade ahead. Let them turn to a friend and share what they did get out of it, how they connected to the book, and how the book raised questions for them about their identity, race, climate,. The book invites them pay attention to what they see/ hear on the news,  to slow down and consider what is going on in the minds of their family and friends and to think about what is happening in their today world. The book is dedicated “For everyone we lost and everything we learned in the strangest year of our lives – 2020.

It will take not so very many minutes to go through this book, page by page. It will invite re-reading immediately and in days ahead. It will foster reflection as readers make meaning and think about what is happening in their head and heart.  Thank you , thank you J&J for this  special work of ART.

A masterpiece. 

Excerpt (opening)

 

I’m sitting here wondering shy

my mother wont’ change the channel

and why the news won’t 

change the story

and why the story won’t change into something new

instead of the every-hour rerun

about how we won’t change the world

or the way we treat the world

 

FRIENDS FOREVER by Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham (graphic memoir)

This is the third book in the trilogy (Real Friends; Best Friends) where the author brings her middle years days to life. In this book, Shannon is in grade 8 and the events, relationships and BIG emotions are drawn directly from her life experiences as a thirteen- year old, where like many young people growing into adolescences, goes through many physical and psychological changes with a sharpened awareness of who they are and who they might want to be. Tweenagers will absolutely identify with Shannon as they take part in her Junior High Classes, wonder with her in her bedroom, delight in outings with friends and of course, interactions with ‘boys’.  Shannon has no problem joining clubs, campaigning for school president, and making friends, but as the book unfolds (and from author’s notes) we learn that she has mental health challenges living with undiagnosed anxiety disorder and mild obsessive compulsive disorder as she struggles with getting approval from those in her life and questions her worth and the meaning of happiness. We know, from the huge success of her terrific books that things turned out OK  for Shannon Hale, but gazing into the rear-view mirror into her life in the late 1980’s appeals and identifiable for the universal up and down world of being a young teenager.  A great read! (Will we meet you in high school?)

HOW TO FIND WHAT YOU’RE NOT LOOKING FOR by Veera Hiranandani

The author of The Night Diary tells the story of a twelve-year0ld girl, Ariel Goldberg, the only Jewish Girl in her grade six class. This is a story of a family with problems. Ari has s strong relationship with her older sister, Leah, who has eloped with a Raj, a Hindu man from India. This causes a great rift in the family, when Ari’s prejudicial parents refuse to have anything to do with their daughter. The family are proud owners of a Connecticut bakery named Gertie’s which is facing financial trouble. Being diagnosed with a learning disability (dysgraphia, a writing disability), encounters with an Antisemitic boy in her class, and keeping the poems that she writes hidden from others, add Ari’s  problems but when she learns that her sister is expecting a baby she is more determined to reunite and to bring the family together. This story takes place in the late 1960’s and the Vietnam War, the Loving v. Virginia, Supreme court decision banning interracial marriage is declared unconstitutional and the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. are significant events that today’s readers can learn about.  The narration is intriguing with the use of second person narrative. (“You walk over to the flowers in the garbage and pluck out the largest rose. You put your nose in the centre of the flower and breathe.”)A beautiful story about conquering prejudice, family bonds and finding who you are and what you’re not looking for. 

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DAD by Gary Paulsen (2021)

Carl lives alone in a trailer with his unusual, quirky, resourceful dumpster-seeking, garage-sale loving, father. Its time, Carl thinks for things to change and when he discovers a puppy-training pamphlet, he is determined to make changes. This is a funny side – a very funny side of Gary Paulsen as he details  the comical adventures that Carl Hemesvedt experiences (along with his pitbull dog, Carol  and his best friend Pooder.  And if he doesn’t transform his dad, SP (‘Subject Puppy’) into a more stable lifestyle, how will Carl ever impress, Peggy, the girl of his dreams. Paulsen sure knows how to create farcical cinematic scenes and  indeed how to paint a good picture of characters 

Excerpt (page129)

“Pink-bibbed, poop-covered, straw-hatted, red-eared-and-nosed, your basic complete clown costume – headed for the dumpster riding shotgun in a beat-up more-than-half-a-century old truck next to a pit book that kept smiling at me while she studied my right eye.” 

THE LAST  CUENTISTA by Donna Barba Higuera

This is a wonderful wonderful novel that I didn’t very much enjoy reading. Disclaimer: Science Fiction is not my genre of choice and this one is a remarkable piece of Science Fiction writing that is certain to quench the thirst of 10- 14 year olds eager for books set in the future.  When the planet Earth is destroyed by a comet, Petra’s family has been chosen for a mission to begin life anew on a new plant. But the aboard the spaceship, the sinister Collective  wants to take over and control the destiny of humanity – no matter the cost to human lives. I continued to read this book because of the fact that it was the Newbery Award winner 2022 and because the power of holding on to our memories and our stories was an important theme throughout the b0ok. Any story that promotes story intrigues me, so I hung on. But I was very aware that I was reading this book differently than other novels I choose to read. I found myself rereading sentences more than once, I was stumped by invented/scientific vocabulary thus stretching my inference skills, I did lots and lots of visualizing and lots of lots of questioning but the narrative didn’t always come as clear to me as it likely would a devoted Science Fiction reader.  I asked myself: ‘Why am I continue to dig through this book I’m not enjoying the experience and I have piles of titles awaiting me?’ I also wondered about my Bill of Right not to defend my tastes (thank you, Daniel Pennac). Congratulations to Donna Barba Higuera for a fantastic journey to a new planet, for providing us with a character who carries stories of the past drawn from Mexican folklore, given to  PetraMexican abuelita, for serving the world of children’s literature a compelling, engrossing Science Fiction read. 

Excerpts

A mountain-lion roar drowns out the computer’s voice. Metal clanks like a rattling silverware drawer for a long time, before it stops and levels off into a steady purr. “Gravity shell activated,” the ship’s voice says, meaning we’ve moved beyond Earth’s atmosphere. (page49)

The Corposcope speaks in rigid tone:Ocular disease. Diagnosis: retinitis pigmentosa.” (page 80)

Rubio pokes his finger at a creeping green glow. “Interesting. It’s difficult to observe if its chemiluminescent vertebrae or bioluminescent bacteria.” He pulls the atmospheric reader out of his bag. “This may take a while __” (page 286)

THE MANY MEANINGS OF MEILAN by Andrea Wang

Andrea Wang (winner of the Caldecott Medal for her book Watercress) has written a mighty book about anpre-teen Asian girl who struggles to find a place of belonging while holding on Chinese identity. When her family is forced to move from Boston’s Chinatown to small town in Ohio. she meets injustice and racism heads-on. Her first encounter with the principal of her new school lets Meilan know what she’s in for when he claims that is best to not use her Chinese name and from now on should be known as Melanie.  But there are many meanings of Meilan, each inspired by a different Chinese character with the same pronunciation of her name (i.e., Mist, Basket, Blue).  Meilan holds on to each part of her self as she befriends a boy named Logan, as she embarks upon a school Veteran’s Day project, as she learns about her grandfather’s past as he tries to support her parents as they adjust to a new. When she is accused of destroying school property, she is determined to return to her old home in Chinatown where she felt a place of belonging with family members.  Throughout the book, the adults speak in Mandarin, mostly providing Meilan with Chinese proverbs to bring wisdom. Highly recommended. 

“i’ve gone to Chinatown schools all my life, surrounded by Asian, Black, and brown faces. I never imagined there could still be classes like this one, where I’m one drop of paint on a white canvas.” (page 69)

 

NORTHWIND  by Gary Paulsen

After reading Hatchet, The Island, The Winter Room and Dogsong, and other coming of age narratives, I knew that Gary Paulsen was a very favourite author of mine and over the years, I think I’ve any purchased new Paulsen releases in hardback. I’ve got quite a lovely collection. Years ago, at a conference I lined up at a table at a Language Arts conference to have Mr. Paulsen sign one of his books (his autobiography Eastern Sun, Western Moon). What do you say to a guy who’s writing you so admire. As I handed the book over to him (he in denim, me in a smart navy blazer), I uttered, “Mr. Paulsen,  you are my hero.” He signed the book, ‘To Larry, Also a hero.” Sadly, Gary Paulsen passed away at the age of  82 on October 13, 2021.  This weekend I spent time with his final published title, Northwind, the story set centuries ago, telling the story of a young teenager’s battle to survive against the odds. A small plague (cholera) has struck the fishing camp and Leif is forced to journey in. cedar dugout canoe, northward. Leif is challenged with finding food, meeting bears, whales, ravens and eagles,  going through wild fiords,  conquering crashing waves, always connecting to the ‘hearbeat of the ocean’. Like Brian in Hatchet, Leif, struggles to live with nature, combat nature and survive and grow up. The episodes of boat survival are drawn from the author’s personal adventures – and what adventures they are. The natural world is so inside the author’s soul and when describing Leif’s quest, he writes, “It’s as if the outside had become his inside.” True that for the character, for the brilliant author. As I write these words, I am getting goosebumps, because I realized that Gary Paulsen took me  – and millions of readers  – outside to worlds we might never encounter except in books. Mr. Paulsen, you are a hero. 

Excerpt (page 196)

That simple. 

You lived or you died.

And in between the two, if you kept your mind open and aware and listened and smelled…

In between you learned. 

OUT OF MY HEART by Sharon M. Draper

Readers first met supersmart Melody, a girl who can’t walk, or can’t talk because she has cerebral palsy, in the novel Out of My Mind. In this sequel, Melody is a year older and when she learns about a summer camp for young people with Special Needs she sets her mind to going and convinces her parents that everything will be ok. Readers accompany Melody on her camp adventures that include swimming in a pool, a boat cruse, a hike in the woods, creating art, horseback riding, balloon soccer and zip-lining. The topper seems to be dancing with a boy that she has quickly grown fond of.  Melody approaches each new venture with both scepticism and bravery and happily grows into the experience of enjoying friendships, freedom and maturing. It is a book of possibilities, discoveries and maturing which many tweenagers experience but when life is lived in a wheelchair, it is especially uplifting arousing compassion and cheers for this remarkable character. Thank you Sharon M. Draper for this fine sequel that re-introduces Melody Brooks and opens our our minds and hearts to her world.

RED, WHITE, and WHOLE by Rajani LaRocca

It is 1983, and she’s thirteen and Reha is a girl who just wants to have fun. However, Rhea feels somewhat disconnected because she has ‘two lives One that is Indian and one that is not’. Reha is devoted to her mother and father but feels that her parents have different values about how a thirteen year old should behave. Reha is a bright, talented girl, who has dreams of becoming a doctor even though she feels woozy when encountering blood.  What a beautiful book, a story that will resonate for many students who feel that they are torn between two worlds because of their culture, a story that will touch the heart of many readers because of the way it deals with a parent dying of cancer. The book is told in free-verse style which perfectly suits the questioning, reflective voice of the character while highlighting the narrative events that take place in the home, at school and in a hospital. A Newbery Honor book, 2022.  Well-deserved.  

Excerpt (page 2)

I am Reha,

born in a pool of my mother’s blood,

proper, prim, obediently alive

as she lies close to death. 

SHOUT OUT

STEP by Deborah Ellis

I received an Advanced Reading Copy of Deborah Ellis’s STEP short story collection featuring characters from around the world who on the occasion of turning 11 years old who are each connected to family, friends or community and consider how their 11th birthday marks the first day of the rest of their lives as they STEP forward into a life of independence and change. A boy walks a dog, a girl takes a camping trip on her own, a boy volunteers in a soup kitchen, a boy learns that his father is a Neo Nazi, a  girl is hopeful of survival while sailing on a rubber raft with other refugees. Remarkable stories,  each with a one word title (e.g. Smash, Alone, Rock, Rubber, Shoes) guaranteed to inspire compassion and connection, reflection and hope for middle years readers. 

All royalties from the sale fo STEP will be donated to the United Nations High Commissioner or Refugees (UNHCR) which works to aid and protect people forced to flee their homes due to violence, conflict and persecution. 

excerpt rom Story #8: “Free”

Then we stepped through the gate.

And into the land of the free.

PAX: JOURNEY HOME by Sara Pennypacker; illus. Jon Klassen

This is a sequel to Pennypacker’s wonderful novel, Pax that told the story of the bonding of a boy and his pet fox. In this book, we Pax is now a father and is devoted to loving his kits. Thirteen-year-old Peter is struggling with grief over the loss of his mother and his father and is unwilling to let love enter his life. Peter leaves his adopted home with Vola to join the Water Warriors whose mission involves the healing of the land and water contamination. The book is told in alternating narratives of Peter and Pax, each on a journey.  When Pax’s daughter falls ill, he ends up relying on Peter for salvation. Pennypacker’s writing is exquisite and she does an expert job of drawing on events and relationships from the first book.  In particular, the final section of the book is more than just an adventure as the two narratives intertwine. The final pages  arouse emotion as Peter lifts the stones of his heart to rid himself of past guilt, coming to the realization that he is not alone and as a father fox makes a strong sacrifice for the sake of family and love.  As sequels go, this one is sublime. 

WHEN WINTER ROBESON CAME by Brenda Woods

Winter (so-named because he was born on the first day of winter) is from Mississippi visiting his cousin Eden’s family in Los Angeles. Winter makes a list of things he’d like to accomplish in his life and #1 on his listen is to find out who disappeared ten years earlier of L.A. Eden and Winter become detectives to find the whereabouts of J.T. Robeson. It is August 1965 and the world of Black citizens explodes in clashes with the police in Watts an area predominately Black. Spoiler alert: Winter and his father are united (about 1/2 way the novel). Though this is a joyful reunion, the turmoil of the Watts Rebellion that lasted for 6 days hangs heavy on Winter, Eden and their neighbours. Brenda Woods, through fiction, through free verse style brings a stark incident from the past to contemporary readers, who would perhaps connect the riots from  over 50 years ago to current turmoil with police and the Black Lives Matter movement.  

SHOUT OUT

TIGER, TIGER BURNING BRIGHT,  A poetry collection

edited by Fiona Waters; Illustrated by Britta Teckentrup

This remarkable anthology presents “An Animal Poem for Each Day of the Year”.  Imagine 365 poems by international authors. The poems can be read, day-by-day (I read the book in 12 days, digging into each month OR can be dipped into by choosing poem by length, by poet or of course by choice of animal you wish to meet. Sometimes there is one poem to fill a two-page spread, sometimes two or three poems about the same animal.  If a poem-a-day was read to, with or by a young person, imagine the literacy immersion ignited by each piece. A sea of poetic forms, vocabulary, information, puzzlements and imagination.. As with any poetry collection of this sort, some works may be mystifying, some sparking chuckles, some providing comfort and some activating prior knowledge, prior experience and connections to the world of no-legged, two-legged, four-legged, many legged creatures. This book is a gift. (and will be a gift). If I had my own classroom, there would be no need to plan poetry curriculum. Each poem is a lesson in word power, in meaning-making and wonder. And each of Britta Teckentrupss astonishing illustrations is visit to the art gallery. 365 Poems to ponder, to treasure.  WOW!

The Small Brown Bear (April 29th) by Michael Baldwin.                            Baby Orangutan (February 26th) by Helen Dunmore

The small brown bear.                                                                                           Bold flare of orange-

fishes                                                                                                                          a struck match

with stony paws                                                                                                       against his mother’s breast

eating ice salmon

all waterfall slippery                                                                                                he listens to her heartbeat

till his teeth ache.                                                                                                      going yes yes yes

 

This posting features an outline of some recent award winning Children’s Literature titles. Sometimes an award label is a great motivator for digging into a book. Sometimes not. (see article referenced below)

 

THE LAST  CUENTISTA by Donna Barba Higuera

winner of the Newbery Medal 2022

When the planet Earth is destroyed by a comet, Petra’s family has been chosen for a mission to begin life anew on a new plant. But the aboard the spaceship, the sinister Collective  wants to take over and control the destiny of humanity – no matter the cost to human lives.  Congratulations to Donna Barba Higuera for a fantastic journey to a new planet, for providing us with a character who carries stories of the past drawn from Mexican folklore, given to  PetraMexican abuelita, for serving the world of children’s literature a compelling, engrossing Science Fiction read. 

“A mountain-lion roar drowns out the computer’s voice. Metal clanks like a rattling silverware drawer for a long time, before it stops and levels off into a steady purr. “Gravity shell activated,” the ship’s voice says, meaning we’ve moved beyond Earth’s atmosphere.” (page49)

LAST NIGHT AT THE TELEGRAPH CLUB by Malindo Lo (YA)

Winner of the National Book Award, 2021, Young People’s Literature

It is 1954,  Is it safe for two girls to fall in love, especially in Chinatown, San Francisco.

“Lily was thirtee, and she couldn’t remmber if she’d seen a group of Chinese girls like this before: in bathing suits and high heel,s their hair and makeup perfectly done. They looked so American.” (prologue)

THE LIBRARY BUS by Bahram Rahman; illus. Gabriele Grimard
Winner of the 2021 Middle East Book Award, Picture book category

In Kabul, Afghanistan, the library bus, with no bus seats, but chairs and tables and shelves and shelves of books, Pari becomes her mother’s helper and yearns to go to school to learn English, and join other Afghan girls who are in pursuit of education.  

“Pari, when you go to school next year, I want you to study hard. Never stop learning. Then you will be free,. Tell me now,” she adds with a wink, ‘how does learning make you feel?”

OUR LITTLE KITCHEN Written and illustrated by Jillian Tamaki

Winner of Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award, 2021

Resourceful neighbours come together revery Wednesday to prepare meals from garden produce and make a difference for those suffering from housing and economic insecurity.

A SKY-BLUE BENCH  by Bahram Rahman; illus. Peggy Collins

Congratulations to Bahram Rahman, Peggy Collins and Pajama Press for the 2022  honour winner of The Schneider Family Book Award, for books that emobody an artistic expression of the disability experience for children (Young Children category)

A young girl in Afghanistan is worried about sitting all day on the hard floor of her classroom with her new prosthetic leg. 

“It was right before dawn when a brave new idea came into her mind. ‘I’ll build myself a bench. surely that will help.”

WATERCRESS by Andrea Wang; illus. Jason Chin

Caldecott Medal Winner, 2022

The family of a young girl stops alongside the road to pick watercress which inspires a tender memory story of life in China, inspired by the author’s story.

“I look from my uncle’s hollow face to the watercress on the table and I am ashamed of being ashamed of my family.”

 

Caldecott Winners, Announced January 24, 2022

Medal: Watercress by Andrea Wang; illus. Jason Chin

Honor Books:  Have You Ever Seen a Flower? by Shawn Harris

                           Mel Fell by Corey R. Tabor

                           Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre by Carol Boston Weatherford; illus. Floyd Cooper

                           Wonder Walkers by Micah Archer

Newbery Winners, Announced January 24, 2022

Medal: The Last Cuentista by Donna Barba Higuera

Honor Books: Red, White and Whole by Rajani  LaRocca

                          A Snake Falls to Earth by Darcie Little Badger

                          Too Bright to See by Kyle Lukoff

                          Watercress by Andrea Wang; illus. Jason Chin

 

SIX WINNERS FOR THE 2021, CANADIAN CHILDREN’S BOOK CENTRE PRIZES

(announced on Friday October 29th):

• The Barnabus Project, written and illustrated by Terry Fan, Eric Fan and Devin Fan (Tundra Books), won the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award ($50,000)
• Our Little Kitchen, written and illustrated by Jillian Tamaki (Groundwood Books), won the Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award ($20,000)
• Powwow: A Celebration Through Song and Dance, written by Karen Pheasant-Neganigwane (Orca Book Publishers), won the Norma Fleck Award for Canadian Children’s Non‐Fiction ($10,000)
• The Paper Girl of Paris, written by Jordyn Taylor (HarperTeen), won the Geoffrey Bilson Award for Historical Fiction for Young People ($5,000)
• Facing the Sun, written by Janice Lynn Mather (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers), won the Amy Mathers Teen Book Award ($5,000)
• No Vacancy, written by Tziporah Cohen (Groundwood Books), won the Jean Little First-Novel Award ($5,000)

FYI: Article: 100 years of the Newbery Award

The Newbery Medal is 100. It smuggled some real duds onto our library shelves.  by Sara L, Schwebel and Jocelyn Van Tuyl

SLATE: January 21, 2022

This article presents a fine overview of the impact of awards by considering the past, the present and future winners. 

https://slate.com/culture/2022/01/newbery-award-100-racism-childrens-books.html?sid=5388d0c3dd52b8417a009fdb&email=a389424e6f9bc53e3a28af8e80184c0b241f3925a8dd264f279dde82f868c161&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&utm_content=TheSlatest&utm_campaign=traffic

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There’s no Dr. Larry Awards but these two lists shine a light on some of my favourite children’s literature titles, 2021

PICTURE BOOKS

A KID IS A KID IS A KID by Sara O’Leary; illus. Qin Leng
MILO IMAGINES THE WORLD by Matt de la Pena; Illus Christian Robinson
OUR LITTLE KITCHEN by Jillian Tamaki

UNSPEAKABLE: The Tulsa Race Massacre  Carole Boston Weatherford; illus. Floyd Cooper
WE ALL PLAY by Julie Flett

MIDDLE YEARS NOVELS

THE BEATRYCE PROPHECY by Kate DiCamillo
BURYING THE MOON by Andree Poulin; illus, Sonali Zohra
GROUND ZERO BY Alan Gratz
LINKED by Gordon Korman

YUSUF AZEEM IS NOT A HERO by Saadia Faruqi

Many of the Middle Years novels I choose to recently read are framed by understanding of social justice, diversity and equity issues. The 12 titles listed below provide readers with insights into differences, economic, socially and culturally. Each book is about young people finding a place of belonging.

 

ALINA IN A PINCH by Shenaaz Nanji (Racism)

Alina has moved to a new school and is teased because of the lunches she brings.  When Alina’s parents are forced to travel to Africa, her grandmother comes to take care of her and the two enjoy cooking Afro-Indian meals together. From her Nani, Alina learns that ‘we are all the same, yet different: ‘different colored balloons flying under one sky… Each of us has hopes, fears., and dreams. We all want to be love and to be accepted.” Alina is determined to find the cruel bully culprit who makes fun of her. She is also determined to audition for the Junior Chef competition by creating a healthy treat. This chapter book will guide readers into diversity and equity and acceptance… and not just because of the food we eat. 

THE CASE OF THE BURGLED BUNDLE by Michael Hutchinson (Indigenous)

This is the third book in the Mighty Muskrats Mystery Series by Cree author, Michael Hutchinson. A bundle ceremony is an Indigenous ritual in which the oral histories and philosophy of a nation are passed down through generations. “It is the experience that is the message”. In this novel, the author once again creates the fictional Windy Lake First Nation. The National Assembly of Cree Peoples has gathered together for a four-day-long ceremony and when the treaty bundle is stolen, the Might Muskrats, cousins Chickadee, Atim, Otter, and Sam set out to find the culprit(s). Hutchinson not only gives readers with an intriguing whodunnit, but provides rich detail and information of the Cree nation. 

FIREFLY by Philippa Dowding (Homelessness)

When Firefly’s drug-loving, baseball-bat-wielding mother has been taking to rehab, the young teenager is sent to her Aunt Gayle’s house which is certainly a better home than the park she’s been forced to live in. Aunt Gayle’s shop with seven million costumes adds a variety and colour to Firefly’s life as she strives to cope with a new school, a new home, and some new friends.   Firefly is a great character and one that readers will absolutely root for – and learn about resilience from. Winner of the 2021 Governor General’s Award for Children’s Literature.

GANGSTA GRANNY STRIKES AGAIN by David Walliams, illustrated by Tony Ross 

At least once a year, a new title by David Walliams comes my way and I’m always quite pleased to add another hard-back edition to my DW bookshelf.  As always there’s a cast of wild characters: Mum, a ballroom-dancing superfan; Flavio Flavioli, heart-throb star of Strictly Stars Dancing; Mr, Parker, a nosy neighbour; Edna, resident of an old folk’s home who enjoys a good game of Scrabble and The Queen (yes, that Queen). There’s also  a wild plot (the theft of King Tut’s mask,  The Crown Jewels, The World Cup) and as always hilarious, outrageous,  inventive writing – and art. This book is the very first sequel from the world-famous author, a great fun-filled companion to Gangsta Granny. Will there be forthcoming companions to Demon Dentist, Awful Auntie, Billionaire Boy?

THE GENIUS UNDER THE TABLE: Growing up Behind the Iron Curtain; written and illustrated by Eugene Yelchin  (Anitsemitism)

An illustrated memoir of the author’s live in the Soviet Union. The story takes place in Leningrad in the 1970’s and Yevgeny lives with his family in one room of a communal apartment surrounded by a mixed-bag of neighbours Little Yevgeny sleeps under the dining table and is kept company with the one family pencil that belongs to his father. Each night the boy steals the pencil, covering the underside of the table with secret drawings. Although we don’t get to see beneath the table, Yelchin presents drawings that bring characters life with humour. The family is under the oppressive situation as Jews under Communism (the father is obsessed with Russian poetry; the mother is a fan of Mikhail Baryshnikov, brother Victor is a star figure skater and young Yevegny struggles to survive amongst  political demands bu escaping through his art and thriving and surviving ‘under the table.’ A very funny and poignant story.  I enjoyed this book a lot, but  I am not sure what young people would make of a childhood story in Cold War Russia, of the defection of a Russian ballet dancer and Jews who were considered to be enemies of the people. 

A KIND OF SPARK by Elle NcNicoll (Autism)

Addie is autistic. She is not a girl with autism – she is autistic (as is one of her older sisters). When Addie learns about he witch trials that took place in her hometown in Scotland, she is determined to find out the truThis is a remarkable story of family and identity and resilience centred on a girl who know exactly who she is and is able to rise above all those who think that she is oddly different.th of who these ‘witches’ really were and even more convinced that the town needs to establish a memorial for these ‘outsiders’.  This book was voted the 2021 Waterstone’s the children’s book of the year. It is deserved of the recognition. 

THE PANTS PROJECT by Cat Clarke (Homophobia / Transgender Issues)

Liv (Olivia) has entered a new school and is upset with the school uniform rule that states that girls must wear pants. This is a big problem for Liv because even though he was born a girl, he was definitely a boy. With the help a new-found friend he is on a mission to challenge the dress code and change the mind of the school administration – and the mean girls who bully her. Liv is likeable Trans hero and Cat Clarke has presented an engaging novel that examines fickle friendships, faithful families and  LGBTQ issues.

RED WOLF by Jennifer Dance (Indigenous / Residential Schools)

At a very young age, Red Wolf is forced to attend a residential school far from the life he knows.  The author paints a stark and unsettling/ brutal portrait of life for Indigenous children taken away from their families under the Indian Act of 1876. The fear alienation and powerlessness of thousands of First Nation children. The story is balanced by the narrative of Crooked Ear, a wolf being forced from the land who throughout the story helps Red Wolf to survive. The author has a passion for equality and justice and as a non-native has dedicated her writing and research to presents a vivid and informative portrait of Anishnaabe, language, beliefs and culture. Other titles by the author: Paint; Hawk.

ROOM TO DREAM by Kelly Yang (Chinese family; Big business, Friendships)

This is the third book in a trilogy by Asian American author Kelly Yang. Mia Tan is  wise, feisty character who has proved herself to be a determined young girl growing up in California in the 1990’s. Mia’s adventures are drawn from the author’s personal experiences of her family’s immigration to America where they acquired The Calivista Motel in Anahiem and where Mia took charge sitting at the Front Desk. In Three Keys, Mia and her friends fight for immigration rights when they learn that In this new book, Mia and her family take a vacation to Beijing, China where she reunites with her cousins and grandparents and witnesses big changes that the country is going home. Big changes are also happening in Anaheim California where a conglomerate wants to take over The Calivista and offers big money to turn the modest motel into a boutique hotel. Mia isn’t going to stand for that and once again puts up a strong fight to do what she feels is right. Room To Dream is also a story of friendships and loyalty. Mia’s best friend, Lupe is taken classes at the high school and Jason is determined to win the cooking championship for young people.  As a young tweenager, Mia is also learning about infatuation (and a first kiss). A strong feature of this novel is the fact that Mia has been chosen to write a weekly column, Diary of a Young American Girl,  for the China Kids Gazette  about life as a middle school student. These columns (based on the author’s own experiences) become very popular in China. In the novel, these publications are  being kept a secret from Mia’s California friends which causes more problems for Mia. Throughout the book, we get to read Mia’s columns, helping gain insights into Mia’s life, the turbulence of being a teenager and the importance finding a room to dream.  Kelly Yang is a terrific author. This is a terrific book. 

STUNTBOY: IN THE MEANTIME by Jason Reynolds; drawings by Raul the Third (Social Class; Bullying)

Any newly released book by Jason Reynolds puts a smile on my face. This book takes Reynolds into a somewhat different direction with a wildly episodic, funny, fantasy and reality adventure. In order to deal with his FRETS (anxieties/ ang-ZY-uh-tee), Portico Reeves invents himself into a Stuntboy superhero (at least in his own head) where he can help conquer bad things from happening to those in his neighbourhood. But even a superhero doesn’t have the power to solve the impending separation of mother and father and the arguments (ARGH -uments) they have about dividing property.  Meet a cast of wild characters who live in an apartment building called Skylight Gardens “where behind every door is a new TV show”. A best friend named  Zola, a bully villain named Herbert Singletary the Worst, a cat named “A New Name Every Day”, graphic episodes of a television series named “Super Space Warriors”, commercial breaks (e.g., How To Tell Your Cat is Scared)  add to the mix of Stuntboy’s quest to save himself (and others). The dynamo art work by Raul the Third are splashed throughout both in black and white (sometimes blue) drawings as well as colourful graphic art. This is a hybrid of text and illustration sure to enthral middle-age readers when reading this book (and companion titles to come). 

WHEN FISHES FLEW: The Story of Elena’s War by Michael Morpurgo, illus. George Butler (Refugee experience)

When she finishes high school, Nandi, travels from her home in Australia to Ithaca to learn about her heritage. Most of all she wants to learn the true story of her great aunt Elena, her marriage and how she became an unsung hero of WW II. When Nandi arrives on the island she learns that her beloved aunt has disappeared and Nandi becomes even more determined to learn about who her aunt truly is and why she’s being considered a hero by all the citizens of Ithaca. It is through the friendship of an unusual flying fish that Nandi learns the truth Greek history of her Aunt Elena’s heroism.  Morpurgo is forever a master storyteller and this newest title stands brightly on this author’s bookshelf. 

WHEN THE SKY FALLS by Phil Earle (War; Animal Rights)

The setting is 1941, WWII, Britain. The skies are filled with bombers and there is destruction everywhere. Joseph an angry boy sent to live with Mrs. F. a somewhat cantankerous woman who doesn’t seem to be too fond of children.  Amidst the chaos, Mrs. F. is responsible for the upkeep of the zoo and the care of any remaining animals, especially, Adonis, he mighty silverback gorilla. Over time, each character digs into the truths of their past, each story filled with sorrow and grief. Over time, bonds between the two troubled characters deepen. The sites, smells and sounds of a war-torn city are starkly -and cinematically portrayed.  The climax of the story is as harrowing as any can be found in a novel for young people.  A gripping, compassionate read.  

Items, narrowed down to five, are listed alphabetically, by title.

PICTURE BOOKS

A KID IS A KID IS A KID by Sara O’Leary; illus. Qin Leng
MILO IMAGINES THE WORLD by Matt de la Pena; Illus Christian Robinson
OUR LITTLE KITCHEN by Jillian Tamaki

UNSPEAKABLE: The Tulsa Race Massacre  Carole Boston Weatherford; illus. Floyd Cooper
WE ALL PLAY by Julie Flett

MIDDLE YEARS NOVELS

THE BEATRYCE PROPHECY by Kate DiCamillo
BURYING THE MOON by Andree Poulin; illus, Sonali Zohra
GROUND ZERO BY Alan Gratz
LINKED by Gordon Korman
YUSUF AZEEM IS NOT A HERO by Saadia Faruqi

YA 

COUNT ME IN: 15 stories about immigration and finding home by Adi Alsaid (ed.0

EVERYTHING SAD IS UNTRUE (A True Story) by Daniel Nayeri
GONE TO THE WOODS: Surviving a Lost Childhood (biography) Gary Paulsen

UNDER THE IRON BRIDGE by Kathy Kacer
HERE THE WHOLE TIME Vitor Martins

GROWN-UP FICTION

THE ECHO CHAMBER by John Boyne
FIVE LITTLE INDIANS by Michelle Good
KLARA AND THE SUN by Kazuo Ishiguro
OH, WILLIAM by Elizabeth Strout
*SHUGGIE BAINE by Douglas Stuart

GROWN-UP NONFICTION

THE ANTHROPOCENE REVIEWED: Essays by John Green
IS THIS ANYTHING? by Jerry Seinfeld

PUTTING IT TOGETHER by James Lapine
TINY LOVE STORIES: True tales of love in 100 words or less by Daniel Jones & Miya Lee (eds.)
UNSTOPPABLE (biography of Siggi B. Wilzig) by Joshua M. Greene

MOVIES

BELFAST
DON’T LOOK UP
GUNDA
PROMISING YOUNG WOMAN
TICK… TICK… BOOM!

LIVE THEATRE

BLINDNESS (Toronto)
DANA H. (New York)
INTO THE WOODS (Talk is Free Theatre)
THREE TALL WOMEN (Stratford)
WEST MOON (Rising Tide Theatre, Newfoundland)

TV (series)

LANDSCAPERS
MUM
MARE OF EASTTOWN
SHTISEL (season 3)
SQUID GAME

CD’s (yes, CD’s)
 
TONY BENETT & LADY GAGA / Love for Sale

KEITH JARETT / The Melody At Night, With You

DIANE KRALL / This Dream of Y0u

STING / Duets

BILLY TIPTON / Jazz 1955

OTHER

CHRIS BOTTI CONCERT (Roy Thomson Hall)

CONSTELLATIONS (Donmar Streaming) with Omari Douglas & Russell Tovey

FIRE BURN UP MY BONES (Met Live Opera)

FOLLIES (Concert / Koerner Hall)

MATTHEW BOURNE’S “THE NUTCRACKER” (Sadler’s Wells, London)

Quite a range in these 10 books that includes two award-winners, one poetry collection, one script, and two by favourite authors (John Boyne, Elizabeth Strout). 

ALEC by William Di Canzio

The author re-imagines the E.M Forester classic book Maurice, and provides new narratives for Maurice and Alec, iconic gay lovers who fell in love with determination, courage and passion. Di Canzio invents a past for the gamekeeper (Alec) and the upper- class Maurice Hall and follows their lives through their courtship, front lines of battle and family issues. This book could be read as a stand alone (I’m curious to re-read the Forster novel) but oh-what a clever feat to bring these iconic queer characters back to life for a now generation.

AFTER LEAVING MR. MACKENZIE by Jean Rhys

Alan Cumming claimed in the New York Times that this was slim novel was one of his all-time favourite reads and so I decided to acquire copy of this 1931 title about a forlorn woman seeking adventure (and love) in interwar Paris and London.  Julia Martin is a sad sad soul who struggles to pay the rent, maintain a charming image, and depend on the kindness of strangers, after leaving Mr. Mackenzie.  This desperate character didn’t much appeal to me (Sorry, Mr. C) but it did keep me company on an overnight plane ride to London. 

CONTROLLED DAMAGE by Andrea Scott (script)

This play explores the life of Canadian icon Viola Desmond. The incident in a Nova Scotia movie theatre, where Viola was removed from the first floor seat, starts a ripple effect of racism, social justice, and civil rights.  First performed in Halifax, 2020, the play will have a production  performed  Grand Theatre in London Ontario in 2022. (and will likely be produced on Canadian stages in future years).

THE ECHO CHAMBER by John Boyne

Boyne is a favourite author of mine and I always look forward to a new release. I loved The Echo Chamber, but I realize that ot everyone will because the characters are not particularly likeable. This is a terrifically sharp satire on the age of social media and political correctness that we’re living in. I found the book to be very funny (often laugh-out-loud funny),  farcical (if you like that sort of thing) and I was totally intrigued with the life (in five days) of the unlikeable characters of the Cleverley family: George a television host, Beverley, a novelist, Nelson, a frustrated teacher, Elizabeth, addicted to twitter, and Achilles, a scam artist.  And an aged tortoise.  Be prepared to delve into a world of the privileged, Racism, Transphobia, lepers, a phantom pregnancy, a ghost writer, blackmail, speed dating, a Ukranian stud, cancel culture, gender bending, an aged tortoise who’s addicted to After Eight chocolates, and a big batch of lies. A great, fun read!

THE FOUR QUARTETS by T.S. Eliot (poetry)

I was inspired to read this book because I had booked a ticket to see a performance of the poems by Ralph Fiennes in London. Can’t pretend to have understand these spiritual, philosophical of the four linked works.  Something about the passing of time. Something about God. Something about nature. Was ok with the opening lines, “Time present and time past /are both present in time future/ And time future contained in time past” but got lost from page 6 onwards “Garlic and sapphires in the mud/Clot the bedded axle-tree” but I guess I can’t argue with the brilliance of T.S. Eliot. I rather preferred Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. I was thrilled to have seen Mr. Fiennes astonishing dramatization of The Four Quartets. Perhaps a re-read (and another re-read of the book might help. Perhaps. 

THE LISTENERS by Jordan Tannahill

I am fond of Jordan Tannahill’s work as a playwright and was pleased to dig into his new novel, short listed for a Giller prize. A middle-aged woman named Claire hears THE HUM, an incessant sound, that causes her mental and physical distress. Who else hears The Hum? How can she convince others (husband, daughter) that this is really happening? Will The Hum go away? What causes The Hum? When Claire, a high school English teacher discovers that one of her students is haunted by the same sound the plot thickens. Eventually Claire and Kyle fall into a group of neighbours who meet regularly for support, help and inquiry.  There is a thriller quality to this book, framed by a Science Fiction premise, but in the end it is a story of community, connecting, relationships and mental health.  A fine writer you are, Mr. Tannahill.  What a mind!

SHOUT OUT

OH WILLIAM by Elizabeth Strout.

We’ve met Lucy Barton previous titles by this special author (My Name is Lucy Barton; and Anything is Possible (short stories) and in this new novel, Lucy, an author, meets up with her ex-husband, William, and joins him on an adventure to uncover a family secret he just discovered. That summarizes the plot, but oh, how the author digs into emotions through a network of anecdotes drawn from memories of Lucy’s life as a young girl living in poverty, as a wife, mother, and widow. The author has conversations with her readers but moreover has therapy-like conversations with herself as she tries to make sense of the bonds that hold people together, the influence of the past on the present,  the things we know about ourselves, the things we are trying to figure out and the fact that ‘”we are all mythologies, mysterious. We are all mysteries”. Oh, Elizabeth, I so love your writing.  This is absolutely one of my favourite reads of 2021. 

POISON FOR BREAKFAST by Lemony Snicket

Make no mistake… this book is not targeted to the usual reader audience of 9 to 11 year olds who are enthralled with the author’s  Series of Unfortunate Events. I noticed this title in the children’s section of a local book store and the title Poison for Breakfast (and the author) enticed. The jacket blurb reads This book is “different from other books Mr. Snicket has written. It could be said to be a book of philosophy, something almost no one likes, but it is also a mystery, and many people claim to like those”. In the opening chapter the protagonist (the author) is enjoying his breakfast but then notices a note slipped under his door “You had poison for breakfast’. And thus begins a journey to uncover the mystery and the author sets out find some answers to the note – and to the meaning of life (and death). The word ‘bewildered’ appears on many pages and this is a book of bewilderment, rambling, literary references (I often returned to the notes  section at the end of the book) – and egg recipes. I noticed in tiny print that the book was printed by Penguin Teen Canada.  Grownups who have been inspired by Lemony Snicket may now want to meet up again with this author of adventures and bewilderment. 

THE PROMISE by Damon Galgut

Three funerals. Three decades. Three siblings. One family. One country. Told in 4 sections. Remarkable writing, with often out-of-synch narrative which tested my inference skills. Thought 269 pages, it too me somewhat longer to read than it should have but I hung in there and sometimes cared about the feckless older brother, the unhappy middle sister and the off-on-her own younger sister. The promise made to the  Swart’s family’s black maid Salome that she will be given property rights due to her, hangs over, but doesn’t seem to predominate, as the title might suggest. The politics of a changing South Africa hangs over the story, like the backdrop of a play, always there, sometimes deserved of attention. Winner of The Booker Prize 2021,

WHAT STRANGE PARADISE by Omar El Akkad

A powerful and vivid story of the refugee experience. The narrative is told in alternating chapters, alternating  time periods: Before (describing the experiences of migrant passengers on an ill-equipped boat) and After (the rescue  of a Syrian boy by a teenager)  The migration story is centred on Amir who is washed up on the shore of a small island. Omar El Akkad paints a vivid (and grim) portrait of those forced to flee and describes specific and dire circumstances they face aboard a vessel (Before). The relationship between Vanna and Amir,  complete strangers, adds a suspense to the narrative as Vanna attempts to save Amir from being caught (After).   Winner of the Giller Prize, 2022.  

I am very fond of each and every picture book listed in this posting. Diverse books by diverse authors about diverse young people who make a difference.

 

BIRDS ON WISHBONE STREET by Suzanne Del Rizzo

Young Sami, who just arrived from Syria, isn’t quite ready to talk about his past until he is called upon to use his experiences taking care of birds.

“Does the new kid have stories from far away too?…Does he like churros, birds, and snow forts too?”

BORN ON THE WATER: THE 1619 Project by Nicole Hannah-Jones and Renee Watson, illus. Nikkolas Smith

Grandma gathers the whole family together to learn about 1619, the time their Black ancestors were stolen and brought to America by European enslavers. Told in lyrical poetry. 

“They knew how to mix the old with the new,/ how even an ancient people always had more to learn.”

CHANGE SINGS by Amanda Gorman; illus. Loren Long

An inspirational poem by Presidential inaugural poet and activist,  Amanda Gorman

“I can hear change humming/ In its loudest, proudest song. I don’t fear change coming, And so I sing along.

G MY NAME IS GIRL by Dawn Masi

Girls from 26 countries from Argentina to Zambia are delightfully and thoughtfully celebrated in this A-to-Z tribute to global girlhood. 

“O my name is ORIT, and my teacher’s name is OMEMA. We come from OMAN and we are OUTSPOKEN.”

THE LONGEST STORM by Dan Yaccarino

A strange storm forces a family to stay inside and find a way for each member of the family to connect with one another, 

“Being home together like that all the time, felt strange. But soon it went from strange to bad, to worse.”

MY SKIN by Laura Henry-Allain Mbe; illus. Onyinye Iwu

A fine and clear introduction to race, racism and empowerment.

“if someone is racist to you, it is not your fault.”

RED AND GREEN AND BLUE AND WHITE by Lee Wind; illus. Paul O’ Zelinisky

Isaac’s family is Jewish and Teresa’s family is Christian. Both children look forward to the holiday season and have fun preparing for festivities until one night, someone smashes the window in Isaac’s house.

“Blue and white/ Menorah light/ From two homes tonight!”

A SKY-BLUE BENCH BY Bahram Rahman; illus. Peggy Collins

A young girl in Afghanistan is worried about sitting all day on the hard floor of her classroom with her new prosthetic leg. 

“It was right before dawn when a brave new idea came into her mind. ‘I’ll build mysefl a bench. surely that will help.”

THE SORRY LIFE OF TIMOTHY SHMOE by Stephanie Simpson McLellan; illus. Zoe Si

Timothy always causes trouble for everyone around him and his father has his son write letters of apology which Timothy does grudgingly. A story of mischief, anger and acceptance told mostly in letter format.

“Dear Great-Nanny Gough,

I’m sorry you got trapped in the corner when Mom went to buy milk. In my defences, no one told me our house is a little crooked.”

SOMETHING GOOD by Marcy Campbell; illus. Corinna Luyken

A school custodian finds something bad written on the bathroom wall . Who would do that? Why?

“We missed the days before the bad-something appeared, because everything was different now. Some of us felt worried or confused or sad or angry. No one felt nothing.” 

THE SOUR CHERRY TREE by Naeem Hrab; illus. Nahid Kazemi

A touching story about loss and remembrance of a beloved grandfather who spoke Farsi loudly and English quietly. 

“My baba bozorg forgot to wake up yesterday. He lived alone, so no one was there to bite him. I really wish I’d been there.”

WATERCRESS by Andrea Wang; illus Jason Chin

The family of a young girl stops alongside the road to pick watercress which inspires a tender memory story of life in China, inspired by the author’s story.

“I look from my uncle’s hollow face to the watercress on the table and I am ashamed of being ashamed of my family.”

WHEN WE SAY BLACK LIVES MATTER written and illustrated by Maxine Beneba Clarke.

 A black child’s parents explain why Black Lives Matter. 

“Darling, when we sing that Black Lives Matter, and we’re dancing through the streets, we’re saying: fear will not destroy our joy, defiance in our feet.”

Each title listed in this posting is so different from the one beside it, but the theme of ACCEPTANCE  and  MAKING A DIFFERENCE weaves these 10 novels together. 

SHOUT OUT

THE BEATRYCE PROPHECY by Kate DiCamillo; illus. Sophie Blackall

I only need to see Kate DiCamillo’s name on a book cover to know that I’m in for a great read. I’m so fond of her books (The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, Raymie Nightingale, The Tale of Desperaux, Flora and Ulysses) that I looked forward – and enjoyed reading this new novel, where a wise and headstrong goat has to look out for herself and the wounded child in her care. Beatryce is a young girl hunted by the prophecy of a king that who feels threatened by being unseated by her. A cast of characters, (A timid monk, an orphan boy, a bearded stranger, a mermaid) a part of the tale of discovery, tragedy and love. “Love here is built on the deceptively simple belief that other beings in the world are fully our equals, sharing the same inherent worth, with as much right to life and joy, – with sorrow a certain outcome for us all.” (Naomi Novik, New York Times, review, Sept 19, 2021). I agree with the  Novik’s review when she says that Beatryce, ‘both the character and the book, are easy to love’. As is the author, Kate DiCamillo. 

BORDERS by Thomas King; illus. Natasha Donovan (graphic)

This book presents Thomas King’s short story “Borders” (1993) as a graphic novel. When his older sister moves from Alberta to Salt Lake City, a boy and his mother decide to visit her. The border guards asks a simple question: Are you Canadian or American and the mother answers “Blackfoot”. After being detained in both border patrols, the mother refuses to change her answer. This is a story powerfully extols the truth of identity and belonging from an Indigenous perspective.

BORN BEHIND BARS by Padma Venkatrama

Since the day he was born, Kabir has been living in an Indian jail living with his mother who is serving time for a crime (she didn’t commit). When the nine-year-old boy  is told that he is too old to stay in jail, he is released –  without is mother.  Left.to fend for himself on the streets of a crowded city in India, Kabir learns about the dangers of the world that doesn’t value low-caste kids.  Luckily, he befriends, Rani, ( Roma) another street kid who gives Kabir advice and courage to make the best of life. More than anything, Kabir seeks being reunited with family and won’t give up in attempting to get his mother released from jail. The author of The Bridge Home has written another emotional ,hopeful novel about survival, poverty and resilience, about families lost and families found. 

SHOUT OUT

BURYING THE MOON by Andree Poulin; illus. Sonali Zohra

“Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth.” ~ Buddha

Narrative? Nonfiction? Poetry? This wonderful free-verse novel is a beautiful – and powerful – work of art both verbally and visually. The story is set in Rural India and events are seen through the eyes of pre-puberty Latika who wants to bury the light of the moon that shines brightly on the field of Shame where women have to ‘do their business’. With no toilets in the village, many girls are taken out of school once they reach puberty. When a government representative visits her village, she bravely meets up with him, hoping to arouse compassion and change for girls. Poulin, through a series of titled poems, shines a light on the lack of access sanitation facilities that affects over 4 billion people worldwide (one in five schools in the world don’t have toilets). I certainly wasn’t aware that World Toilet Day Takes place every year on November 19th to raise awareness of this significant public health issue.  Thank you Ms Poulin for this important , heartfelt story. Thank you Sonali Zohra for your lively spot-art and full-page illustrations that convey a sense of place, people and events in one small Indian community. This is certain to be at the top of list of favourite children’s literature reads for 2021.

FRANKIE AND BUG by Gayle Forman

This is an engaging story about a boy/girl friendship. Correction and Spoiler alert…Frankie  is questioning his gender identity and though born a female now identifies himself as a boy, information that we learn about halfway into the book. Frankie was sent to Venice California to live with his uncle for the summer and he connects with 10 year old Bug who only wants to spend time at the beach. There are several subplots and adventures that emerge as the book unfolds: Bug’s brother is caught up in participating in physical exercise at Muscle Beach, the two protagonists are convinced they can catch the Midnight Marauder a criminal on the loose in the LA area; itis the time of AIDS and Uncle Phil is the victim of Gay bashing;  when Aunt Teri visits we learn that she is homophobic: Bug comes eventually comes to learn about her Salvadoran heritage and the death of her father. The setting is Venice California and the author offers a cast of colourful characters (Skinheads, a Hungarian refugee, a hermit, a cross-dresser) who add character to life in and around the beach. Friends, family, acceptance, tolerance are themes woven into this appealing coming-of-age story. 

MY NAME IS KONISOLA by Alisa Siegel

When life becomes unsafe for them in Nigeria, nine-year-old Konisola and her mother move to Canada, in search for refuge. When the mother is diagnosed with cancer, the two become separated.  Young Konisolo is a stranger in a strange land, with no family, no friends, but it is the compassion of a remarkable Canadian nurse who provides some comfort, some relief and some hope for a better future. This book is based on a true story, that is sure to  touching readers hearts and cheer on mother and daughter on as they deal with medical procedures,  refugee procedures and  adoption procedures. 

ONCE UPON A CAMEL by Kathi Appelt

Imagine a novel with an aged female camel as a protagonist. Zada seems to be the last of the camels wandering through the desert in Texas. Low and behold, two tiny kestrels nest atop Zada’s head, hoping to be reunited with their missing parents were taken away by a huge dust storm, the size of a mountain. ? How will Zada keep these two birds protected? Will the kestrel family be reunited. How will Zada help pass the time until Beulah and Wims meet up again with Pard and Perlita?  But Zada, who has lived and survived over 60 years has many stories to tell and tell them she does: Stories of camel races for the Pash of Smyrna, of crossing the ocean, of leading army missions with her camel friends, of outsmarting a mountain lion of giving camel rides.Aplet alternates narratives from the year 1910 and 60 years earlier and provides readers with encyclopedic information about the life of a camel and kestrels.  What a writer! What a storyteller! From the Author’s notes: “We are, all of us, story beast made to tell stories, built for them. Like the little kestrels, we need our stories to create room for laughter and sadness, joy and sorrow, to help us make sense of the world, even a world that feels crazy and full of dust.”

PIECE BY PIECE: The Story of Nisrin’s Hijab by Priya Huk (graphic novel) (11+)

Nisran, a Bangladeshi American girl, living in Oregon has experienced a hate crime for wearing a headscarf for an eighth grade  school cultural project. The experience has traumatized the young teenager. However, when she enters high school she is determined to wear a hijab to high school, even though her family disapproves. Struggling to fit in, Nisran continues to be a target, but she is resolved to discover more about Islam, her family’s relationship with it, and the reasons they left Bangladesh. The author creates some vivid and sometimes stark images through dynamic (and sometimes dark) panels. Many graphic novels invite readers to infer what has happened between panels. I felt that the addition of narrative captions might have helped to make the storytelling clearer. Though the story is set in 2002, the depiction of Islamophobia resonates today and the account of a young teenager growing up, struggling finding a place of belonging, questioning her identity and staying true to her convictions is a universal.  A short guide to Bangladesh culture is provided as an afterword to the book. 

PONY by R.J. Palacio

This novel set in the mid 1800’s is written by the author of the marvel book Wonder, but the story is a far cry (almost) from the Auggie Pulman’s world. A good author is still a good author and Palaccio’s newest book presents twelve-year-old Silas, a motherless boy,  reveal her fine storytelling skills and in this case, extensive research capacities. In the book’s opening, three horseman come to take Silas’s father, a bootmaker and photographer with hopes that he will help them with their criminal counterfeiting scheme. The bulk of the book, takes Silas, his companion Mittenwool (who happens to be a ghost) and Pony into the woods on a dangerous journey to reunite with his father. in the end, (no spoiler alert), this is a story about loyalty and love and, like Wonder, is a story where kindness prevails. The adventures when finding and capturing the villains is cinematic. The final part of this book is full of heart as Silas leans more about his past. Ghosts, villains, a violin, daguerotypes,  sheriff,  a golden treasure , and a devoted Pony named Pony assemble to make this a compelling read. 

WHAT LANE? by Torrey Maldonado

Stephen’s father is Black. Stephen’s mother is white.  Stephen has a group of Black friends. Stephen has a group of white friends. As a mixed kid, he feels like he needs to follow different rules – lanes – to find a place a belonging. Part of Stephen’s coming of age is learning about living alongside those who have racist attitudes. (He is accused of steeling a cookie in a supermarket while his white friend is ignored for the same act). In Chapter One of my book Teaching Tough Topics, I provide some strategies and resources to build understanding of  race and diverse cultures.  Was surprised (very pleased) to read the following in the Maldonado’s Acknowledgements: “Tough topics can be tough. Sometime it’s too tough to connect “eye to eye”. This book is for everyone who wants to try – even if it means connecting “shoulder to shoulder” as we walk with young people into better tomorrows.”

SIX WINNERS FOR THE 2021, CANADIAN CHILDREN’S BOOK CENTRE PRIZES

(announced on Friday October 29th):

• The Barnabus Project, written and illustrated by Terry Fan, Eric Fan and Devin Fan (Tundra Books), won the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award ($50,000)
• Our Little Kitchen, written and illustrated by Jillian Tamaki (Groundwood Books), won the Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award ($20,000)
• Powwow: A Celebration Through Song and Dance, written by Karen Pheasant-Neganigwane (Orca Book Publishers), won the Norma Fleck Award for Canadian Children’s Non‐Fiction ($10,000)
• The Paper Girl of Paris, written by Jordyn Taylor (HarperTeen), won the Geoffrey Bilson Award for Historical Fiction for Young People ($5,000)
• Facing the Sun, written by Janice Lynn Mather (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers), won the Amy Mathers Teen Book Award ($5,000)
• No Vacancy, written by Tziporah Cohen (Groundwood Books), won the Jean Little First-Novel Award ($5,000)

The ten titles presented offered here are varied in theme but are informative and inspiring and serve as sources for rich response in the classroom. ‘Shout Outs’ should go to each and every one of these books and I predict some  of these 2021 titles will be on top ten lists / award lists by year’s end.  (note: Our Little Kitchen by Jillian Tamaki has already been deemed an award-winning book (The Marilyn Baillie best picture book prize). A list of New York Times best illustrated picture books is provided at the end of this posting. 

 

BRIGHT STAR by Yuyi Morales

The art is astonishing. The story is of the migrant experience and the impact of  border barriers is important. The Mexican-American author/illustrator weaves the tale of a fawn making her way through a desert landscape that is both beautiful and dangerous. The frightened animal is urged onward by voices that help the fawn confront her fears and obstacles (“Child you are awake. Breathe in, then breathe out, hermosa creatura, you are alive.”). Eventually, the fawn is replaced by a young girl who stares out at the reader.   From the New York Times review (11/14/2021) “Bright Star does what very few picture books can do: “captivate the child while moving the adult who is reading to her.”  A Spanish version of the book has been published under the title Lucero. 

DEAR EARTH: From your friends in Room 5 by Erin Dealey; illus. Luisa Uribe

Sometimes, when I decided to buy a picture book, i recognize it to be ‘teacher friendly’, inspiring response and modelling writing procedures. The kids in Room 5 write letters to Earth asking what they can do to help save our planet and Earth writes back, each month, offering giving information, and about being caring citizens of the environment.  This book is a useful mentor text for letter writing and can serve inspire writers in classrooms a) to write letters and b) Earth Heroes who take care of the planet. 

I WISH YOU KNEW by Jackie Azua Kramer; illus. Magdalena Mora

There are things we keep inside, that others likely don’t know about us. Sometimes we like to keep these secrets. Sometimes we’d like to share our stories, our feelings but don’t feel comfortable revealing them until we know that we can trust others. In this picture book Estrella’s father and undocumented immigrant is forced to leave his family. behind. Estrella wishes others know how these circumstances affects her at home, at school. The author, with simple poetic text, has presented a story that many readers can connect to perhaps sharing their own “I wish you knew…” thoughts. 

SHOUT OUT

OUR LITTLE KITCHEN by Jillian Tamaki

Winner of the Marilyn Baillie best picture book of the year

When jurors meet to decide on an award-winning book, It’s rather tough choosing the best.  Our Little Kitchen, the story of a mother and son who volunteer in the local soup kitchen, is a gem of book Lively illustrations, recipe instructions,  varied font size enhance the narrative. Tamaki is an illustrator and comics artist and the vibrant graphic power of this picture book comes through in speech bubbles and word display (e..g.,  Peel! Splash!, Squish!, Splash! ) A joyful and inspiring story about food, about community and about giving. Yes, deserved of an award. 

SHOUT OUT

SEA LIONS  IN THE PARKING LOT: Animals on the move in a time of Pandemic by Lenora Todaro; illus. Annika Siems

A collection of twelve fascinating, real-life stories, to educate and inspire readers to help wildlife by fighting habitat loss.  We meet Sika deer ambling around a parkland romping on a subway in Japan; flamboyant flamingos roosting in the wetlands of India;  sea turtles hatching on an abandoned beach in Brazil, mountain gorillas iin Uganda, wild boars in Haifa, and sea lions sheltering in a parking lot in Argentina.  playful and stark one-page illustrations to introduce each story, and staggering double-page spreads to accompany each story add power to this picture book.  An introduction, epilogue and notes on habitates, biomes and wildlife behaviour help to make this a top-notch nonfiction, scientific picture book, helping young people to think about becoming a citizen scientist, helping to combat climate change.  What an artful, informative and entertaining book!  

THIS IS HOW I KNOW: Mii maanda ezhi-gkendmaanh by Brittany Luby; illus Joshua Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley

A child and her grandmother explore the natural wonders of each season (wildflowers, bees, blueberries, hibernating bears, forest mushrooms, deer, birds and peepers. This book is presented as a bilingual story-poem written in Anishinaabemowin and English. A lovely tribute to childhood memories and Indigenous Knowledge Keepers. The illustrators vivid colour palette and use of black outline, portray landscapes and animals from fall, winter, spring, and summer. 

UNSPEAKABLE: The Tulsa Race Masacre by Carole Boston Weatherford; illus. Floyd Cooper

On May 31st June 1st, 1921 a mob of armed white attached the thriving African American Community of Greenwood Oklahoma, looting homes, and burning business to the ground. As many as 300 African Americans were killed and in this powerful picture book, recounts what was one of the worst incidents of racial  violence in US history. Weatherford has dedicated herself to documenting events from American history to inform readers of events and figures from African American struggles.  Floyd Cooper has written and illustrated his own books (e.g., Juneteenth for Mazie, Coming Home, Jump)  but has also provided evocative illustrations for  such titles  as The Blacker the Berry (Joyce Carol Thomas), Grandpa’s Face (Eloise Greenfield)  and Frederick Douglas: The Lion Who Wrote History (Walter Dean Myers). Unspeakable was hailed by the New York Times as one of the top ten illustrated books of 2021. It is sure to be recognized on future award lists (Caldecott?). Floyd Cooper died on July 16, 2021. 

A WALK IN THE WOODS by Hudson Talbott

When growing up, the author/illustrator Hudson Talbott found reading to be HARD. A ‘slow’ reader, he eventually came to read at his own pace ‘using familiar words as stepping stones to guide him into a story.’ This autobiographical story tells the tale of a young boy, drawn to drawing stories, who felt alone and lost in a world of words. His walk into the woods of words helped young Talbott to look for words that he know, jump over words he didn’t know, and overcome a fear of reading, a world where curiosity took over, a world where he could could tell a story with pictures, searn for new words and learn to ‘paint with words’. This is a book that honours struggling, reluctant readers and their literacy journeys.

SHOUT OUT

WHAT THE KITE SAW by Anne Laurel Carter; illus. Akin Duzakin

It is war time. Soldiers fill the town and taken away the father and brothers of a young boy. who is left to stay inside his home, while tanks invade the streets.  However, at curfew time, the boy is allowed to visit the neighbourhood park and ply with his friends. One day a breeze, inspires the boy to fly kites, and so he prepares a gold-coloured, star shaped kite to dance and rise above the streets. Soon, other coloured kites rise and float until shot down by gunfire. The boy has a story about everything the kite saw.as it flew over the land. The shadowy, monochromatic art creates a mood for the story. The author notes: “This story was inspired by Palestinian children. It could take placer anywhere children love to fly kites and are threatened by war.”  A powerful  story of contrasts, of bullet sounds, a flying kite, a flying boy! 

THE WORDY BOOK by Julie Paschkis

When writing my book WORD BY WORD, I investigated many picture books that celebrated vocabulary, word collecting, and word power. In this book, artist, Julie Paschkis fills each page with words that delight and words that can be savored for their ‘sound and shape as well as for its meaning. Staggering illustrations where words are hidden within images (e.g., hovering, reverie, majesty, preyed, softening). Throughout the pages, the author poses questions to ponder (‘Does brown have a sound?’; ‘What tells me more – an if or an or?’; ‘What lies beyond beyond?’) Words that inspire , recognition and knowledge, curiosity and delight, wonder and art. I’d be surprised if this book doesn’t win recognition / awards for best illustration. I love the art, I love the design, i love the end pages, I love The Wordy Book.

 

Each fall, the New York times publishes a list of TEN BEST ILLUSTRATED BOOKS, judged purely on the basis of artistic merit. Here are the winners listed in the NY Times book section, November 14, 2021 (i only own ONE of these titles)

(If they’d  ask Dr. Larry:  Sea Lions in the Parking Lot by Lenora Todaro; illus. Annika Siems , The Wordy Book by Julie Paschkis, Bright Star by Yuyi Morales, Wishes by Muo Thi Van or anything by Julie Flett! We All Play; On the Trapline)

 

I Am the Subway written and illustrated by Kim Hyo0-Eun

It Fell from the Sky written and illustrated by Terry Fan and Eric Fan

Keeping the City Going written and illustrated by Brian Floca

The Little Wooden Robot and the Log Princess written and illustrated by Tom Gauld

The Night Walk written and illustrated by Marei Dorleans

The Other Side of the Forest by Nadine Robert; illus. Gerard DuBois

Time is a Flower written and illustrated by Julie Morstad

Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre by Carole Boston Weatherford; illus. Floyd Cooper

Vamos! Let’s Cross the Bridge by Raul the Third, colors by Elaine Bay

While You’re Sleeping by Mick Jackson; illus.John Broadley

 

The twelve picture books listed below are all Canadian, several published in the last couple of years. Acceptance is the key theme of these books whether its about puffins, sneezing cows, a little red shed or kids who are nervous about fitting in to a new school, a new home. 

 

ATLANTIC PUFFIN: Little Brother of the North by Krisin Bieber Domm; illus. Jeffrey C. Domm

I purchased this book during a recent trip to Newfoundland at the end of August, in preparation for a trip to a puffin colony in the Bonavista Peninsula. This book is filled with information about this amazing bird and is a good example of fact-filled nonfiction picture books. (Alas, the puffins had already headed out to the Atlantic for the winter and I only saw a few flying overhead on the rock. (Puffins webbed feat aand beak turn orange in the spring; Puffins eat a lot of capelin, herring and sand lance; Puffins have a bathroom in their burrows which the young use in an area near the front of the tunnel).

THE COW SAID BOO by Lana Button; illus. Alice Carter (2021)

When Cow catches a cold, her familiar “Moo” sounded like a “Boooooo!” through her stuffy nose. When Cow gets entangled in a clothesline her animal friends mistake Cow for a ghost and run away from her. An amusing, rhythmic barnyard adventure.

GREETINGS LEROY by Itah Sadu; illus. Alix Delinois

When his family moves to North America, Roy sends an email to his friend, Leroy,  back in Jamaica, describing his new home and his nervous feelings about coming to a new school. A celebration of making new friends – and of Bob Marley. 

HELLO, DARK by Wai Mai Wong; Illus Tamara Campeau

To help overcome his fear of the dark, a little boy, re-imagines bedtime darkness as a new friend by talking to it “I hear the creaks you make around the house.” / “The starry sky and moon shines brightly thanks to you.”  A book that will likely bring comfort to many youngsters, who too might be afraid of the dark.

THE HOMESICK CLUB by Libby Martinez illus. Rebecca Gibbon

Monica misses her home in Boliva. Hanna misses her home in Israel. The two become friends and form The Homesick Club to build connections from those who have come from far away (including their teacher). 

SHOUT OUT: A KID IS A KID IS A KID by Sara O’Leary; illus. Qin Leng (2021)

Being the new kid in school can be hard. The children in this school are bewildered by the questions that come their way (Are you a boy or a girl? Where do you come from? Why are you so small? Why was your sister born different?) and hope that their classmates will learn about the important and interesting things about themselves. Told with simple, text accompanied by lively playful illustrations this title is one of a favourite new acquisition. It will be the first picture book I will read to my grad class entitled Play, Language and Learning and I look forward to sharing it in classrooms to help students think about differences and acceptance. The dynamic duo who wrote A Family is a Family is a Family have given us another picture book gem. Love it!

LISTEN UP! TRAIN SONG by Victoria Allenby (2021)

A celebration of trains, with vivid photographs=, rhymes and sounds that sing of the railroad (Whooosh! Swooosh! / Rattle-Tattle, Rattle-tattle; Hisss! Fissss!)

THE LITTLE RED SHED by Adam and Jennifer Young; illus. Adam Young

Once white, the little red shed, her fellow sheds thought she being different and didn’t belong. Little Red Shed sets out on an ocean voyage and comes upon a whale, a new friend who helps her see how special she really is. A story from Newfoundland that celebrates differences.

MALAIKA’S SURPRISE by Nadia L. Hohn; illus. Irene Luxbacher (2021)

The creators of Malaika’s Winter Carnival reintroduce the charming Malaika Who enjoys playing carnival.  When she learns that her mother is expecting a baby, Malika is worried that she might be forgotten. A kind new school friend helps Malaika deal with her fears,

MY FRIEND by Elisa Amado; illus. Alfonso Ruano

A young girl moves from Mexico to Brooklyn and makes a new ‘best’ friend who she then invitees to dinner with her family. At dinner, the guest feels somewhat uncomfortable with exposure to new cultural experiences.  A story about fitting in and about being true to who you are. . 

ON THE LINE by Kari-Lynn Winters; illus. Scot Ritchie (2021)

The Moore family is best known for producing hockey heroes in their small town. But young Jackson feels like a potato on skates and feels that he doesn’t live up to the Moore reputation. But hockey heroes can be more than goal-scorers as Jackson finds out with a game plan to help his team who is at risk of losing the tournament with a shortage of equipment. A delightful story.

VIOLET SHRINK by Christine Baldacchino; illus. Carmen Mok

Many young readers will empathize and sympathize with Violet who is anxious about being in crowds with others. With a family reunion fast approaching Violet needs courage to join the party. 

 

The list of ten titles below provides quite a range of settings and plots – and characters, i.e., A member of Hitler youth, an Indigenous orphan, a mediaeval heroine, a ultra-shy tweenager, a Muslim boy who is a robot fanatic, a megamonstger, a fantasy (real?) friend. 

SHOUT OUT

UNDER THE IRON BRIDGE by Kathy Kacer

Kathy Kacer is a very special author who brings Holocaust history to today’s middle-age+ readers. She does her research. She is an expert storyteller. Kathy Kacer is a model author of historical fiction.  The setting of this book is Dusseldorf, Germany 1938. The story is centred on Paul who is under pressure to join the Hitler Youth which challenges his ethical beliefs and leads to some decisions that has an impact on those who are important to him including school friends, parents and Jews. Kacer presents the true story of the rebel group known as the Edelweiss Pirates  who were set out to undermine Nazi t power. Kacer has written over 20 books that focus on stories of the Holocaust ( The Secret of Gabi’s Dresser, The Brave Princess and Me, The Brushmaker’s Daughter, Broken Strings (with Eric Walters). I’m so fond of this new book, not only because it emotionally took me into the history and cruelty of Nazi threats but it was a story of taking the courage to stand up and fight for what you believe in, a theme that resonates for today’s and tomorrow’s generation.  “I am a passionate advocate for stories about the Holocaust. I think the lesson we can learn – lessons about hatred and power, but also lessons about compassion, strength, and selflessness – are lessons for the ages?” (from Teaching Tough Topics, 2020, page 69)

THE BARREN GROUNDS: BOOK ONE of THE MISEWA SAGA by David A. Robertson

Publisher’s synopsis: Narnia meets traditional Indigenous stories of the sky and constellations in an epic middle-grade fantasy series from award-winning author David Robertson.

Morgan and Eli, two Indigenous children forced away from their families and communities, are brought together in a foster home in Winnipeg, Manitoba. They each feel disconnected, from their culture and each other, and struggle to fit in at school and at their new home — until they find a secret place, walled off in an unfinished attic bedroom. A portal opens to another reality, Askí, bringing them onto frozen, barren grounds, where they meet Ochek (Fisher). The only hunter supporting his starving community, Misewa, Ochek welcomes the human children, teaching them traditional ways to survive. But as the need for food becomes desperate, they embark on a dangerous mission. Accompanied by Arik, a sassy Squirrel they catch stealing from the trapline, they try to save Misewa before the icy grip of winter freezes everything — including them.

THE BEATRYCE PROPHECY by Kate DiCamillo; illus. Sophie Blackall

I only need to see Kate DiCamillo’s name on a book cover to know that I’m in for a good read. I’m so fond of her books (The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, Raymie Nightingale, The Tale of Desperaux, Flora and Ulysses) that I looked forward – and enjoyed reading this new novel, where a goat has to look out for herself and the wounded child in her care. Beatryce is a young girl hunted by the prophecy of a king that who feels threatened by being unseated by her. A cast of characters, (A timid monk, an orphan boy, a bearded stranger) a part of the tale of discovery, tragedy and love. “Love her is built on the deceptively simple belief that other beings in the world are fully our equals, sharing the same inherent worth, with as much right to life and joy, – with sorrow a certain outcome for us all.” (Naomi Novik, New York Times, review, Sept 19, 2021). I agree with the  Novik’s review when she says that Beatryce, ‘both the character and the book, are easy to love’. As is the author, Kate DiCamillo. 

BLACK BOY JOY (edited by Kwame Mbalia) (short stories)

A collection of 17 stories celebrating black boyhood, each written by an acclaimed Black male author. Stories include a nonbinary gender reveal, an intergalactic adventure, first love composing a song, a tribute to black boy joy told in graphic stylec and a jar filled with bubbles of joy to be spread around. 

50 WAYS TO SCORE A GOAL: And other football poems by Brian Bilston (poetry)

A collection of  60 funny, informative and whacky poems about those who are enamoured with football (i.e. SOCCER) and/or POETRY. I’m fond of this poet’s work and very pleased he’s published an appealing anthology for young readers. An array of rhyming and non-rhyming poetic forms. Some poem titles: Football is…;  Keepie-Uppies; A Ball Speaks Out; Every Day is Like a Cup Final Lucky Bobble Hat and 11 Football Haikus….

We’ve signed a legend.

He is half-human, half horse.

Plays centaur forward. 

HOME HOME by Lisa Allen-Agostini (ages 12+)

Fourteen year old Kayla suffers from clinical depression and anxiety disorder. After being hospitalized for a suicide attempt in Trinidad, her mother sends her daughter to Canada where she lives with her lesbian Aunt and her partner.  Life in Edmonton is very different for this black girl but a loving family, new friends and counselling give Kayla hope for a better future as well as a resistance to return Home Home to a life and culture she is accustomed to. This short novel (149 pages) is a powerful story that exposes Mental Health Issues through the eyes of an adolescent who suffers from anxiety attacks.

THE KALEDIOSCOPE by Brian Selznick

There’s no doubt that Brian Selznick is one of the most dazzling illustrators of children’s literature, renowned for his heavily visual books (The Invention of Hugo Cabret, Wonderstruick, The Marvels).  His images interweave fantasy and reality worlds. Kaleidoscope is a collection of 24 short stories, each no more than 8 pages, each a memory, each a mystery, each a dream (correct me if I’m wrong but the word ‘dream’ appears in each (all) of the narratives. The book is divided into three sections, Morning, Afternoon, Evening but those divisions don’t particularly seem to add to the sequencing of narrative events.  I was a somewhat frustrated trying to relate the stories to one another and didn’t really settle in to what Selznick was attempting until I encountered the second section (Afternoon). A character named James, beloved by the narrator provides a link to the tales, but did James really exist? Is he a fantasy friend? Surprise magical events, many questions, left to be answered by the reader’s mind and imagination.  For me,  Kaleidoscope  stands on the shoulders of the brilliant The Mysteries of Harris Burdick by Chris Van Allsburg who presented staggering black and white images accompanied only by a title and one line of text. In this collection, each story is introduced by an enlarged kaleidscopic black and white design fragment (no colour needed) followed by a pictoral image related to the tale to be told (e.g. a key, a sliced apple, a tunnel gate, an angel.  Unlike, Van Allsburg, Selznick gives us stories to accompany his art and chapter titles which provide invitation enough to step into imagined worlds: A Trip to the Moon; The Spirit Machine; The Last Time it Happened; The Museum, The Lightning-Struck Tree; The Book of Dreams, The Mind of God.

Author’s Note

As I worked, certain themes and images kept reappearing: Gardens and butterflies, apples, angels, fires, trees, friendship, islands, keys, shipwrecks, grief and love. That’s why I decided to call this new version of the book Kaleidoscope, because each of these elements, like a bit of colored glass, turn and transform and rearrange themselves into something new. And like looking into a kaleidoscope, the view is alway changing and only you can see it.”

LILY’S PROMISE by Kathryn Erskine

Lily is a very shy, anxious 11 year=old who made a promise to her dying father to ‘Strive for Five’ to stand up and speak up five times because he said that each time, it would get easier. After being homeschooled Lily attends public school and the experience will test her courage – and promise. Newfound friends, curling-loving Hobart and recently-immigrated, Dunya,  give Lily support and hope as she is challenged to find a place to belong, even with the threats of the school bully. Kathryn Erskine not only provides a narrative of mental well-being, but deals with Islamophobia, the immigrant experience (Dunya’s father was a translator in Afghanistan), poverty, and social relationships of pre-adolescent students. The school election takes up the final portion of the story. A clever device the author introduces is that of the character of LIBRO who comments on the way the author tells the story. Libro’s metacognitive observations are interwoven between each of the novel’s narrative chapters.  Lily’s Promise good example of realistic fiction of the times as well as universal insights into the desire to be included and stand up for what you believe in. 

MEGAMONSTER by David Walliams

David Walliams has a formula to his books.  That’s not a bad thing.  Preposterous, ludicrous, wild characters caught in preposterous, ludicrous wild adventures. The setting of THE CRUEL SCHOOL with cruel teachers provides a backdrop for hilarious and some would say thrilling events that include, a secret cave, a Monsterfication Machine, sharks, lava, an evil cat, a lady in a drawer, and a  giant, green stick Bogey Man and a Monster Gang (Dino Girl, Giant Jelly, Meteor Man, Glug Monster, Atomic Amoeba).  The plot: Larker is determined to  take on Megamonster save  Cruel School students from the wicked Doctor Doktur.  Fun fonts, lively, thrilling Tony Ross illustrations,  fast-paced dialogue and gross ingredients are part of the Walliams formula. This one wasn’t my favourite.. but I’m eager to read whatever comes next from the Walliams and associates. 

SHOUT OUT 

YUSUF AZEEM IS NOT A HERO by Saadia Faruqi

Yusuf, a young Muslim Boy lives in a small town in Texas and living in a small town in Texas is not always easy. As he begins Middle School, he is assaulted with hate messages in his locker. You suck says one note: Go home says another. Who would do this? Why? Yusuf and his family (his father runs a dollar store) just want to live peacefully amongst their neighbours but The Patriot Sons are determined to take back the town; to take back the country. How should the Muslim community revolt against those who want them to “Go Home” when America is their home? Yusuf’s involvement in the regional robotics competition lifts shows him to be a committed, collaborative student. Saadia Faruqi introduces a journal written by Yusuf’s uncle describing the fears and anxieties of Muslims following the 9/11 terrorist attack. Journal entries, which are spread throughout the novel, help Yusuf to learn about history and to understand that hatred has been and continues to be a part of society. This book is highly recommended to learn about the culture and identity of Muslims and the shadow and threat of Islamophobia. 

 

>>>>>. <<<<<

NOTE: The following list  of recommended was prepared to accompany a webinar presntation on October 4, 2021 for the Association of Jewish Librarians – Canada. Panel included, Sydell Waxman , Larry Swartz, Kathy Kacer.

COMBATING ANTISEMITISM THROUGH CHILDREN’S LITERATURE

Monday October 4, 2021

AJL-CANADA /Website: http://www.ajl-canada.org/

 

Presenters

KATHY KACER / info@kathykacer.com

LARRY SWARTZ / larry.swartz@utoronto.ca / WEBSITE: Dr. Larry Recommends

SYDELL WAXMAN / sydellbw@gmail.com

 

STORIES Of ANTISEMITISM

 

Changing the Pattern by Sydell Waxman

The Incident at Massena by Saul S. Friedman

Jacob and the Mandolin Adventure by Anne Dublin

My Mannequins  by Sydell Waxman, illustrated by Patty Gallinger

Oskar and the Eight Blessings by Richard Simon and Tanya Simon, illustrated by Mark Siegel

When Jessie Came Across the Sea by Amy Hest, illustrated by P.J. Lynch

 

PICTURE BOOKS: Jewish Identity and Culture

 

The Chanukah Noel: A true story by Sharon Jennings; Illus. Gillian Newland

Chicken Soup, Chicken Soup by Pamela Mayer; illus. Deborah Melman

Chik Chak Shabbat by Mara Rockliff; illus. Kyrsten Brooker

Mrs. Katz and Tush by Patricia Polacco

Saving Lady Liberty by Claudia Friedell; illus. Stacy Innerst

 

ANTISEMITISM:  Middle Years Fiction (ages 11-14) 2021

 

Finding Junie Kim by Ellen Oh

The Good War by Todd Strasser

Linked by Gordon Korman

Wednesday Wars Gary D. Schmidt (2007)

What We’re Scared Of by Keren David

 

KATHY KACER: Recent Titles

 

The Brave Princess and Me, illus. Juliana Kolesova (picture book: Second Story Press)

Broken Strings (with Eric Walters) (Penguin Random House)

The Brushmaker’s Daughter (Second Story Press)

Louder than Words (Annick Press)

Under the Iron Bridge (Second Story Press)

 

OTHER

 The Poisonous Mushroom (Der Giftpitz) (1938) by Ernest Heimer; illus. Philipp Rupprecht (Nazi Propoganda)

Teaching Tough Topics: How do I use children’s literature to build a deeper understanding of social justice, equity, diversity by Larry Swartz (Pembroke Publishers)