I’ve got some great new books for you this month! I always like to look for accidental themes in my picks, and this month it’s family. From learning to take on new roles and responsibilities to appreciating time with loved ones, these books all touch on the importance of family.
Picture Books
“Little Big Man” written by Varian Johnson and illustrated by Reggie Brown
Elijah is looking forward to flying his new kite with Daddy this weekend! But a newborn baby in the house means everyone has a bit more work to do — and Daddy asks Elijah if he can be his helper. The little big man steps up and helps Daddy as they complete various jobs around their house and for their neighbors. Finally, Elijah reminds Daddy that it’s important to take breaks sometimes, too, and the whole family enjoys time outside together flying their kite. A lot of new sibling stories focus on feelings of jealousy or uncertainty, but I love that this book addresses positive ways to take responsibility and show love to others. The father is a fantastic role model for his son, guiding him adeptly through big life changes.
“Next to Me” by Daniel Salmieri and Sophia Haas
A child narrates what they observe throughout their day. When Mama and their two dogs arrive after school, the child says, “I see PEPPER/ Next to PEANUT/ Next to MAMA!” As they continue home, they see “the TWISTY SLIDE/ Next to SWINGING SWINGS/ Next to BIG KIDS playing BASKETBALL.” The observation lists continue throughout the evening and bedtime routines, until it’s “SOFT/ Next to SOFT/ Next to SOFT” and time to fall asleep. The collage illustrations and child’s perspective are charming, and the pattern of observations invites young readers to participate. As I’m writing this, I see sky next to trees next to flowers! I have a feeling this will provide lots of fun for my family, especially on our next road trip.
Chapter Books
“The Burning Season” by Caroline Starr Rose
Opal lives with her mom and grandma in a fire tower in the Gila Wilderness. Now that she’s turned twelve, she’s ready to begin official training to become a fourth-generation female fire lookout. The problem is that Opal is secretly terrified of fire after a wildfire claimed her father’s life two years ago. She’s torn between wanting to follow in her family’s steps and longing to live like a normal kid in town and go to school with friends…far from fire. When Mom is delayed by a washed-out road after a trip to town, and Gran doesn’t come back from a walk through the wilderness, Opal needs to learn how to work through her fears when she spots her first smoke. This is a novel in verse, which perfectly captures Opal’s emotional journey as well as the gripping survival story. The author also skillfully incorporates information about wildfires and indigenous land management, which she expands upon in an author’s note. Great for fans of Alan Gratz.
“Return to Sender” by Vera Brosgol
A year after his dad died, after bouncing from house to house with relatives, Oliver and his mom inherited a Manhattan apartment from his great-aunt. His mom gets a job as a custodian at a fancy private school, and Oliver is thrust into a new world of rich kids with nannies and tutors and bodyguards. When he discovers a mysterious mail slot in his apartment that grants wishes, he feels like he’s found the answer to fitting in. He writes his wish and drops it in, then finds a paper with instructions to follow to see his wish come true. The wishes start small but grow more extravagant, and Oliver soon realizes that the price may not be worth it. This book expertly balances humor and grief, magical whimsy and stark realities. It’s illustrated throughout by the author, whose graphic novel style serves the story well. I read an excerpt online, and it was quite hard to put down!
