AS EDWARD IMAGINED: A STORY OF EDWARD GOREY IN THREE ACTS, by Matthew Burgess and Marc Majewski, Knopf Books for Young Readers, Sept. 17, 2024, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 4-8)

Learn about creative genius Edward Gorey in As Edward Imagined: A Story of Edward Gorey in Three Acts, by Matthew Burgess and Marc Majewski.

Discover the unique childhood and life of the enigmatic and eccentric Edward Gorey whose artwork and books had a profound impact on creators such as Neil Gaiman, Lemony Snicket, and Tim Burton.

Even as a young boy, readers learn that Edward constantly forged his own path, passions, and pursuits never forsaking his individuality for fame.This brilliant picture book biography is paired with a whimsical art style that captures the unrelenting creativity Edward brought to his playfully macabre creations. —Synopsis provided by Knopf Books for Young Readers

I’ve been a fan of Edward Gorey since I was a kid, and my older sister gave the three of us still living at home Amphigorey: Fifteen Books. The book fascinated me, and it was read on repeat. So, I was very excited to see a picture book biography about this beloved writer/illustrator.

As Edward Imagined follows Gorey’s life from childhood up until his death in April 2000. It explores his motivations, personal flair and how he lived “the life he imagined.”

Author Matthew Burgess brings Gorey to life with his expressive prose:

“At three and a half, Edward
taught himself to read.

His father gave him permission
to prowl his personal library,

and Edward stalked the shelves
like an inquisitive cat,
pawing this and reading that.”

It would have been easy for artist Marc Majewski to emulate Gorey’s style. Instead, his illustrations are acrylic paintings on paper that truly tell Gorey’s story rather than copy the artist’s work. Majewski captures Gorey’s free spirit and creativity.

As Edward Imagined is a joy to read. I plan on passing it on to my daughter along with a new copy of Amphigorey (the old one was worn out years ago) so that she can fully delve into Gorey’s life and work.

About the creators:

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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DOÑA FELA’S DREAM: THE STORY OF PUERTO RICO’S FIRST FEMALE MAYOR, by Monica Brown and Rosa Ibarra, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, Sept. 3, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Learn the story of Puerto Rico’s first female mayor in Doña Fela’s Dream, written by Monica Brown and illustrated Rosa Ibarra.

Though she was born before women on her island were allowed to vote, Felisa Rincón de Gautier did not let that stop her from becoming the first female mayor of San Juan, Puerto Rico, in 1946. Easily spotted on the streets of San Juan by her flair and the jasmine flowers braided into her hair, she radiated style and grace. Doña Fela, as she affectionately came to be called, loved her city.

Doña Fela was always ready to listen to problems and find solutions. With determination and resilience, she brought lasting change to the island. Doña Fela’s inspiring story as a visionary leader is brought to life on the page through stunning paintings that evoke the vibrant colors and culture of Puerto Rico. —Synopsis provided by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

Doña Fela’s Dream tells the story of a trailblazing woman that is often overlooked in discussions of how Latin American figures have shaped our country. To be honest, I was a history major, and I had no idea who Doña Fela was before reading this book. And now I want to know even more. The same holds true for my 10-year-old, who loves biographies.

It’s easy to see how Doña Fela’s Dream would appeal to lots of young readers, especially girls. The idea that Doña Fela believed love, not just politics, that got things done resonates.

Author Monica Brown’s text is clear and inviting. And illustrator Rosa Ibara’s oil on canvas paintings set the tone. Her use of color and patterns truly give readers a sense of what Puerto Rico is like.

Doña Fela’s Dream is a fascinating nonfiction picture book that is sure to inspire.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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THE SHAPE OF THINGS: HOW MAPMAKERS PICTURE OUR WORLD, by Dean Robbins and Matt Tavares, Knopf Books for Young Readers, Aug. 20, 2024, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 4-8)

The Shape of Things, by Dean Robbins and Matt Tavares, explores how mapmakers through the ages have helped people understand the world around them.

How did the first people explore the land they lived on? How did civilizations expand their boundaries and chart courses into new lands? Learn about the history of cartography across cultures in this ode to mapmaking through the ages.

Join history’s first mapmakers as they explore the wonders of the world! In these pages, you’ll find the tools ancient people used to depict their surroundings, methods different cartographers developed to survey new lands, and how we’ve arrived at modern mapmaking today. Above all else, the thread that runs throughout thousands of years of civilization is the spirit of exploration that helps us measure the shape of things around us, the world we all share. —Synopsis provided by Knopf Books for Young Readers

I always love a good cover, and the cover of The Shape of Things is great. You can’t see it without wanting to know more, and it sets the stage for a fantastic history of mapmaking.

Author Dean Robbins starts at the beginning, when early humans used cave art and tusks to map the way. Robbins takes readers to the Americas, Egypt, Babylonia, Greece, China and Polynesia. He highlights what mapmakers got right — and what they sometimes got wrong. And Robbins does this in relatively few words. Words that are wonderfully paced and nice to read aloud.

Artist Matt Tavares’ digital illustrations perfectly compliment the text, transporting readers to different points in time and place. His images set scope and make you excited for what is to come.

Excellent backmatter includes a timeline; author’s note; illustrator’s note; information on mapmaking tricks and tools; a list of what mapmakers love; and a bibliography.

About the creators: 

Dean Robbins is a journalist and children’s book author. His previous books include, The Fastest Girl on Earth!, Two Friends; Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass, Miss Paul and the President, and Margaret and the Moon. He lives in Madison, Wisconsin, with his family. To learn more, visit https://deanrobbins.net/

Matt Tavares is a New York Times bestselling author-illustrator of over twenty titles. His books have been featured in: ALA Notable, Parents’ Choice Gold Awards, and twelve were chosen for the Society of Illustrators Original Art exhibit. His artwork has been exhibited at the Brandywine River Museum, the Eric Carle Museum, and the Mazza Museum. Matt lives in Maine with his wife, Sarah, and their two daughters. Visit his website: matttavares.com

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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ODE TO GRAPEFRUIT: HOW JAMES EARL JONES FOUND HIS VOICE, by Kari Lavelle and Bryan Collier, Knopf Books for Young Readers, July 30, 2024, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 4-8)

Ode to Grapefruit: How James Earl Jones Found His Voice tells the story of how the famous actor overcame his stuttering to become one of the best-known voices in the world.

Before there was Mufasa…Before there was Darth Vader… There was a young boy names James Earl Jones, who spoke with a stutter and dreaded having to talk in class.

Whenever James tried to voice his thoughts, his words got stuck in his throat. But James figured out a solution for his shame: if he didn’t speak, he wouldn’t stutter.

And so he was silent…until he wrote his own poem, Ode to Grapefruit, and found a love for poetry.

Lyrical text, stunning art, and compelling backmatter about stuttering pair together for a remarkable picture book about how a boy who refused to speak for eight years learned to manage his stutter through poetry—and grew up to become an EGOT-winning performer with a voice few could forget. —Synopsis provided by Knopf Books for Young Readers

James Earl Jones has a voice you never forget. Whether you first hear it in The Lion King or Star Wars or even The Sandlot, you can’t help but stop whatever you’re doing and listen.

When James was young, his stutter made him silent, but when he found the rhythm and meaning behind words, he was able to find his voice.

Author Kari Lavelle’s prose is such that you feel the weight behind it. You can almost hear James say the words. It, too, has a smooth cadence to it. Artist Bryan Collier’s watercolor and collage illustrations have a lovely texture, perfectly pairing with the text.

Excellent backmatter includes further information about James Earl Jones through author and illustrator notes and information about stuttering.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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A MIND OF HER OWN: THE STORY OF MYSTERY WRITER AGATHA CHRISTIE, by Robyn McGrath and Liz Wong, Beach Lane Books, May 28, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (Ages 5-10)

Learn about detective novelist Agatha Christie in A Mind of Her Own: The Story of Mystery Writer Agatha Christie, by Robyn McGrath and Liz Wong.

Before Agatha Christie became the greatest mystery writer of all time, she was a girl who loved books, make-believe, and puzzling out problems. She was a keen observer, always noticing the secrets hiding in the shadows and the clues just waiting to be uncovered. More than anything, Agatha loved detective stories. She longed to write her own mysteries, but she struggled when she put pen to paper. The letters came out jumbled, the words twisting and snagging. Writing became a new puzzle for her to solve.

Her family and teachers chided her for being lost in her head, but Agatha wasn’t lost…she had a mind of her own! —Synopsis provided by Beach Lane

When my daughter was in third grade, she asked me if she could read Agatha Christie books. I told she’d have to wait a year, and she now has The Mysterious Affair at Styles on her bookshelf. She’s fascinated by anything Agatha Christie, and has read A Mind of Her Own multiple times. Like so many readers before her, Christie’s work calls to her.

Author Robyn McGrath’s present tense prose adds an immediacy to A Mind of Her Own. It’s a treatment that pairs well with the biography of arguably one of the most famous mystery authors of all time. Though well researched, A Mind of Her Own feels almost conversational, drawing readers in.

Illustrator Liz Wong listened to Christie’s audiobooks while working on the art for A Mind of Her Own. This inspired Wong to include references to her life and novels in the illustrations. It’s a nice touch to her already engaging illustrations.

Backmatter includes more about Christie; author and illustrator notes; mystery vocabulary; and a bibliography.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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WAT KEPT PLAYING: THE INSPIRING STORY OF WATARU MISAKA AND HIS RISE TO THE NBA, by Emily Inouye Huey and Kaye Kang, Shadow Mountain, March 5, 2024, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 3-8)

Learn about the first person of color to play in the NBA in Wat Kept Playing: The Inspiring Story of Wataru Misaka and His Rise to the NBA, by Emily Inouye Huey and Kaye Kang

As the child of Japanese immigrants, Wataru “Wat” Misaka often felt like he didn’t fully belong in either Japanese or American culture. He was sometimes excluded, treated differently, and bullied, even though he was born in the United States. As he grew up, however, Wat discovered he had a very special talent for playing basketball. Even at just five foot seven, he was unstoppable.

After leading his high school team to a state championship, Wat played for the Utah Utes and helped the team win the 1944 NCAA championship. Wat kept playing even as Japanese Americans from the West Coast were sent to incarceration camps for the duration of World War II. Then, after two years serving in the United States Army, Wat returned to basketball, leading the University of Utah to Madison Square Garden and winning another national championship. The cheering crowd recognized Wat the way he wanted to be seen — as a person who was both Japanese and American and an amazing basketball player. Talent scouts from the New York Knicks were so impressed, they drafted Wat to their team. Wat’s undeniable talent changed history as he became the first person of color to play in the NBA. —Synopsis provided by Shadow Mountain

Wat Kept Playing is an inspiring story of determination and grit in the face of racism. Author Emily Inouye Huey captures Wat’s drive with clear text that drives the story forward. And illustrator Kaye Kang’s use of space and silhouettes expertly conveys emotion. This is a book that will appeal to a large cross-section of readers — fans of history, basketball, WWII, etc. It’s a compelling picture book biography.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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Guts for Glory: The Story of Civil War Soldier Rosetta Wakeman, by Joanna Lapati, Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, Feb. 27, 2024, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 7-12)

Learn about one of the women who secretly served as soldiers during the Civil War in Guts for Glory: The Story of Civil War Soldier Rosetta Wakeman, by Joanna Lapati.

In 1862, the war between North and South showed no signs of stopping. In rural New York, 19-year-old Rosetta Wakeman longed for a life beyond the family farm. One day she made a brave, bold choice: she cut her braid and disguised herself as a man. No one suspected that “Lyons” was a woman—not even when she signed up to fight for the Union. As Rosetta’s new regiment traveled to Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Louisiana, she sent letter after letter home to New York. Army life wasn’t easy, but Rosetta knew it was where she belonged— supporting her family and serving her country. —Synopsis provided by Eerdmans Books for Young Readers

In 2000, author Joanna Lapati began researching women soldiers who served in the Civil War. During that research, she came cross The Uncommon Soldier, by Lauren Cook Burgess. That sparked a 12-year interest and inspired Guts for Glory.

Private Rosetta “Lyons” Wakeman’s letters are the only ones written by female soldiers to survive and offer a unique point of view. Lapati includes excerpts in this picture book biography.

Lapati’s writing is smooth and accessible and forms a framework for her gorgeous illustrations, which she crafted out in scratchboard. These intricate illustrations are full of texture and movement, providing a look that echoes the time period in which they are set.

Lapati’s extensively researched book is presented in chronological order and follows Rosetta’s time in service. Rosetta died June 19, 1864, from dysentery. Excellent backmatter includes glossaries, author’s note, a timeline and more about Rosetta and the Civil War.

Guts for Glory is one of those books to which young readers will instantly be drawn.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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NOTHING: JOHN CAGE AND 4’33” by Nicholas Day and Chris Raschka, Neal Porter Books, April 2, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

What does nothing sound like? Learn about the offbeat history of John Cage’s 4’33,” a musical composition of blank bars, by Nicholas Day and Chris Raschka.

One night in 1952, master pianist David Tudor took the stage in a barnlike concert hall called the Maverick. A packed audience waited with bated breath for him to start playing. Little did they know that the performance had already begun.

A rain patters.
A tree rustles.
An audience stirs.

David was performing John Cage’s 4’33”, whose purpose is to amplify the ambient sounds of whatever venue it inhabits. That shocking first performance earned 4’33” plenty of haters; and yet the piece endures, “performed” by the smallest garage bands and the grandest symphonies alike, year after year. Its fans hear what John Cage hoped we would hear: “Nothing” is never silent, and you don’t need a creative genius, a concert hall, or even a piano to hear something worthwhile. All you have to do is stop and listen. —Synopsis provided by Neal Porter Books

Nothing is one of those books that you’d love to read to a classroom of kids. To see the wheels turn. To understand what composer John Cage is suggesting. There are so many jumping off points for learning: What is music? What sounds do you hear when asked to listen for 4 minutes and 33 seconds? What is silence? Why did the artist choose to illustrate this book in this way? The possibilities are endless.

Beyond that, Nicholas Day’s text is light and funny and a joy to read aloud. His pauses allow for readers to think, to fully absorb what they are learning. His text paired with two-time Caldecott Medalist Chris Raschka’s pencil-on-watercolor artwork are perfection. Raschka’s almost childlike illustrations help convey the intention behind Cage’s piece.

Nothing would make a great addition to a home or school library.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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TELL ME ABOUT OCEANS, by Lisa Varchol Perron and Jennifer Falkner, Little Simon, April 16, 2024, Board Book, $8.99 (ages 2-5)

A child gets answers to their many questions about the ocean in this rhyming, fact-filled nonfiction board book.

Tell me why the ocean moves
in waves that splish and splash.

Wind on water makes those waves
that hit the shore and crash!

A child asks their grownup many questions about the ocean. From what creates waves, what lives in the deep sea, what makes the ocean blue, and more, scientific facts are conveyed in accessible language. Sidebars on each spread provide even more information for every question asked and answered. —Synopsis provided by Little Simon

Tell Me About Oceans is a beautifully illustrated board book that little readers will be drawn to. Simple text works as a great introduction and more detailed sidebars provide further information as little ones ask for more clarity.

SHELLS… AND WHAT THEY HIDE INSIDE: A Lift-the-Flap Adventure, by Helen Scales and Sonia Pulido, Phaidon Press, April 17, 2024, Board Book, $14.95 (ages 2-4)

In this board book companion to What a Shell Can Tell, award-winning marine biologist and documentary maker, Helen Scales, introduces children ages 2-4 to the wonders of shells. With over 40 flaps to lift creating interactive opportunities on every page, stunningly lifelike illustrations, children are encouraged to observe, engage with, and understand a range of shells and environments. From where shells are found and who lives in them, to what a shell’s look and feel can reveal about its inhabitant and environment. —Synopsis provided by Phaidon Press

Children are naturally drawn to shells, and this book expands on that interest through interactive flaps, bright colors and stunning illustrations. The lift of each flap reveals new illustrations and more information about each shell’s purpose. The book’s heavy-duty construction means it will stand up to heavy use. It’s one of the better nonfiction board books available.

THIS WOLF WAS DIFFERENT, by Katie Slivensky and Hannah Salyer, Beach Lane Books, March 5, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 3-8)

Inspired by natural history, this picture book imagines how humans and wolves first came together, exploring individuality and how true friendship means embracing differences.

Long ago, a wolf pup was born in a forest. This pup was a wolf, and so were her brothers and sisters. But this wolf was different. She liked staying close to the den instead of hunting and chasing her tail instead of chasing other animals. She wished she were more like her siblings—more like a real wolf.

Then she meets a new kind of creature, no more like the other wolves than she is. As a new friendship blossoms, the wolf discovers that it’s okay to be different and, better yet, it’s a gift to be something new. —Synopsis provided by Beach Lane Books

Though This Wolf Was Different is fiction, it is based on sound research. It offers readers a plausible explanation of how dogs became domesticated. This gentle story is warm and full of life. And beautiful illustrations provide a sense of time and place. Extensive backmatter features scientific information about how wolves and humans first connected.

BEHOLD THE HUMMINGBIRD, by Suzanne Slade and Thomas Gonzalez, Peachtree, April 2, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Hummingbirds are tiny and pretty, so you might find yourself taking them for granted. But these little birds are remarkable, fierce, and talented. In Behold the Hummingbird, readers will learn about species that can hover like a helicopter, fly backwards and upside down, and consume half their body weight in a single day. —Synopsis provided by Peachtree

Behold the Hummingbird is two glorious books in one. The first, is a simple lyrical read that will hold a little one’s attention. The second, is an informative read that compliments the first. For example, a spread about “humming” explains how the hummingbird gets its name. Each spread features a different species of hummingbird rendered in glorious pastel, colored pencils and airbrush. The stunning artwork is such that you wouldn’t mind framing it and hanging it on the wall. Excellent backmatter explains how to find hummingbirds and how to help them.

ONE DAY THIS TREE WILL FALL, by Leslie Barnard Booth and Stephanie Fizer Coleman, Margaret K. McElderry Books, March 26, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Discover how a tree’s wounds and decay bring new life to the forest ecosystem in this nonfiction picture book.

When a tree falls, is its story over?

There are many ways a tree’s story could end: Gobbled up by a bird as a tiny seed. Damaged by wind or ice or fire. Chopped down and hauled away. But some trees—this tree—survives. And grows old. Riddled with scars, cracks, and crevices, it becomes a place creatures large and small call home.

One day, after standing tall for centuries, this tree will fall. But even then, is its story over? Or will it continue to nurture the forest and its creatures for many years to come? Complete with additional information about the role trees play in a forest ecosystem, this sweeping story invites readers of all ages to celebrate the incredible life cycle and afterlife of trees. —Synopsis provided by Margaret K. McElderry Books

If ever there was a perfect book for reading aloud in a classroom, this one might be it. It features lyrical text that is a joy to read aloud; big, bold illustrations that can be seen from afar; and excellent backmatter that explains how a tree’s story never ends. This book will prompt questions, illustrations and further discussion, making it a great option for both home and/or classroom libraries.

IS THIS A HOUSE FOR HERMIT CRAB? by Megan McDonald and Katherine Tillotson, Neal Porter Books, Feb. 13, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Follow a hermit crab on the perilous journey to replace his outgrown shell in this classic picture book by the author of the popular Judy Moody and Stink series.

Hermit Crab has outgrown his shell, and it’s time for a new home to keep him safe from predators. The beach is strewn with possible choices, but none are quite right. A rock is too heavy; a tin can is too noisy; a fishing net has too many holes.

He stepped along the shore,
by the sea, in the sand . . .
scritch-scratch, scritch-scratch

When a giant wave sends Hermit Crab careening toward a hungry porcupine fish, will he find a hiding place in time? —Synopsis provided by Neal Porter Books

First written in 1990, Megan McDonald’s text gets a new look with Katherine Tillotson’s captivating watercolor, acrylic, finger paint, and collage artwork. Extensive backmatter includes a note from the author and two-page spread featuring more information about hermit crabs.

ANGELA’S GLACIER, by Jordan Scott and Diana Sudyka, Neal Porter Books, Jan. 2, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Angela listened to the glacier; the glacier listened to Angela.

As soon as she’s born, Angela’s father introduces her to her glacier. He carries her on his back up the icy expanse as the wind makes music of the snow and the water underneath. Over time, Angela gets big enough to walk beside him, and then, to go alone. She tells her glacier everything, and it answers.

But then, life gets busy. Angela’s days fill up with school, homework, violin and soccer and friends. Until one day, Angela’s heart doesn’t sound right anymore. Luckily, Angela’s dad is there to remind her what she needs: a visit to her ancient icy friend. —Synopsis provided by Neal Porter Books

Angela’s Glacier was inspired by the author’s friend who grew up in Northern Ontario and emigrated to Iceland in 2011. It’s a story of home, growing up and discovering what’s most important to you. It’s told through lyrical text and magnificent illustrations that make you want to visit the glacier yourself. An afterword from the real Angela highlights the tragic threat climate change poses to our planet’s frozen marvels.

CHANGE IS IN THE AIR: CARBON, CLIMATE, EARTH, AND US, by Debbie Levy and Alex Boersma, Bloomsbury Children’s Books, March 5, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 5-8)

A nonfiction picture book about ways that the Earth removes carbon from the air, and ways people can help.

The Earth has a problem: there’s too much carbon in the air.

Luckily, the Earth also has amazing powers to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere-like the power of kelp, mangroves, and dirt. Although these powers alone cannot get us out of the climate crisis we’re facing, the Earth has another important power: the power of people! People have the power to change, protect, innovate, and invent.

In this informational picture book, Debbie Levy and Alex Boersma paint an encouraging yet honest picture of the problems at hand and some of the ways that we can address them. Thanks to the power of nature and the ingenuity of people, change is in the air! —Synopsis provided by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

At this point, there’s no point in denying climate change, but there is hope, and Change is in the Air offers it. Through fairly simple words and more detailed illustrations, readers are offered an accessible look at what can be a complex subject. Younger readers will be drawn to the artwork, while older ones will garner more from the text. Strong backmatter includes an author’s note on the problem and the Earth’s power to heal.

INCREDIBLE: STARS OF THE PLANT WORLD, by Benjamin Flouw, Twirl; 1st edition, Feb. 20, 2024, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 5 and up)

Towering sequoias, giant Saguaro cacti, prehistoric plants, incredible palms and many more fill the pages of this large format book. The detailed illustrations are accompanied by fascinating facts about each plant. It features supersized spreads with eye-catching illustrations, bite-sized descriptions about each plant and educational content reviewed by experts. —Synopsis provided by Twirl

This big, bold book will appeal to kids who like to wander their way through pages. Bold, stylized illustrations immediately grab attention and small sections of text make it more accessible. It’s not a book that has to be read front-to-back, which is a major bonus. A lovely world map tagged with each featured plant is included at the end, giving readers a sense of place. This is the sort of nonfiction book that you’d happily display on the coffee table but would also make a great addition to any classroom library.

SONA SHARMA, LOOKING AFTER PLANET EARTH, by Chitra Soundar and Jen Khatun, Candlewick, Feb. 13, 2024, Hardcover, $15.99 (ages 6-9)

Sona is determined to get her whole suburban Indian neighborhood to help fight climate change in this second Sona Sharma story.

When Sona learns about the climate crisis at school, she worries nobody is doing enough to combat it. So, she takes up the challenge herself! But her family isn’t amused when Sona suddenly gets rid of her sister’s diapers and turns off Thatha and Paatti’s cooling fan during their nap. Sona finds a better way to implement change, at a family meeting where everyone helps make a list of ways to conserve. Energized, Sona sets her sights on the rest of the neighborhood. When she learns many of the kolams—traditional art that people draw in front of their homes to celebrate the festival season—are not eco-friendly, she makes plans for some even bigger changes. Can Sona convince everyone to get involved—even her own strong-willed grandmother? —Synopsis provided by Candlewick

At 120 pages and full of charming illustrations, this is a good option for stronger chapter book readers looking for something a little different. With a likeable main character and timely topic, it’s a fun read.

Copyright © 2024 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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NOT YET: THE STORY OF AN UNSTOPPABLE SKATER, by Hadley Davis, Zahra Lari, Sara Alfageeh, Orchard Books, Feb. 6, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

A universal story about courage and determination that is loosely based on the life of five-time Emirati National Champion, Zahra Lari, who was the first figure skater to compete internationally in a hijab.

After watching an ice-skating movie, young Zahra sets her mind to learn how to ice skate even though her family and friends doubt her abilities. After all, she’s too old to learn, the rink is too cold, and figure skaters don’t look like her… not yet at least! Illustrated with Sara Alfageeh’s energetic lines and colors that pop right off the page, we follow Zahra’s story as she glides across the floors of her house in her socks all the way to the ice rink… and as she repeatedly says ”not yet” to naysayers — including herself — who try to convince her to stop pursuing her dream. An inspiring tale of self-empowerment and perseverance as we see the refrain — not yet — grow from a low, meek mumble to a mantra and promise filled with determination. —Synopsis provided by Orchard Books

LOVE IS IN THE AIR: THE STORY OF AVIATION PIONEER NANCY HARKNESS LOVE, by Dee Romito and Vivian Mineker, Aladdin, Sept. 26, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Take off with Nancy Harkness Love, first female pilot to serve in the Army Air Forces and founder of the Women’s Auxiliary Ferrying Squadron (WAFS) during World War II, in this picture book biography perfect for readers of Fly, Girl, Fly! or Fearless Flyer.

In 1930, when Nancy Harkness was sixteen years old, she took a ride in a biplane and fell in love with flight. But at that time, women weren’t encouraged to pursue careers in aviation.

Despite the barriers, Nancy took to the air and earned her pilot’s license. She continued to fly in college, becoming known as “The Flying Freshman.” After traveling to Boston for a job, she met her future husband and fellow pilot, Bob Love, and began her official career in aviation, eventually becoming director of the WAFS during World War II.

By pursuing her dreams, Nancy paved the way for other female pilots to soar. —Synopsis provided by Aladdin

YOU ARE A STAR, JANE GOODALL, by Dean Robbins and Hatem Aly, Scholastic Press, April 4, 2023, Paperback, $8.99 (ages 5-7)

It’s Jane Goodall like you’ve never seen her before!

Using a unique mix of first-person narrative, hilarious comic panels, and essential facts, Dean Robbins introduces young readers to an scientific trailblazer. The second book in an exciting new nonfiction series, You Are a Star, Jane Goodall focuses on Jane’s lifelong mission to understand the chimpanzees and protect the planet.

Hatem Aly’s spot-on comic illustrations bring this icon to life, and engaging back matter instructs readers on how to be more like Jane! —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press

SMARTY MARTY TAKES THE FIELD: A PICTURE BOOK, by Amy Gutierrez, Anika Orrock, Alyssa Nakken (Afterword), Harry N. Abrams, March 19, 2024, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 6-9)

Smarty Marty Takes the Field is an inspiring picture book from Emmy Award-winning sports journalist Amy Gutierrez—better known as Amy G—and award-winning author/illustrator Anika Orrock about the courage it takes to break down gender barriers in the world of sports and beyond.

Having proven her baseball chops in Smarty Marty’s Got Game, this time Marty is making a play for manager, something no girl has ever done in her town’s Little League history. Unfortunately, not everyone thinks she can do it, but a chance encounter with a very special trailblazer gives her the courage to turn her fear into opportunity.

Complete with plenty of baseball knowledge and go-get-’em-girl empowerment and a special interview with Alyssa Nakken, this story is sure to inspire young readers to ask themselves, “If not you, who?” —Synopsis provided by Harry N. Abrams

THE LIFE-CHANGING MAGIC OF SKATEBOARDING: A BEGINNER’S GUIDE WITH OLYMPIC MEDALIST SKY BROWN, by Sky Brown and Shaw Davidson, Magic Cat, March 26, 2024, Hardcover, $14.99 (ages 6-10)

Drop into the beginner’s guide The Life-Changing Magic of Skateboarding, with secrets from world champion Sky Brown!

Meet Sky Brown, the youngest person to win a medal in skateboarding at the Olympics and discover how she fell in love with the sport. Then, give it a try yourself as she offers tips to get you started.

Learn how to start . . . and stop. Then follow along as Sky takes you through ollies, kick turns, nose grabs, and more.

This practical biographical handbook features:

• • • A joy-filled introduction to the sport of skateboarding presented in an engaging graphic-novel style
    • Practical tips and inspiration from Sky Brown
    • Illustrated step-by-step instructions of basic and advanced skateboarding tricks
    • Advice on safety and how to get back up after a fall —Synopsis provided by Magic Cat

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