Best Day Ever (Owl and Penguin), illustrated and written by Vikram Madan, published by Holiday House, ISBN: 9780823451517, ARC reviewed, to be released: June 6, 2023.
The supremely talented Madan follows the Geisel Honor winning Owl and Penguin up with this clever collection of five little stories about two feathered pals navigating the often fragile nature of friendship. This works both as an easy graphic novel and as a visually appealing easy reader, with the expressive characters doing everything from watching a scary movie together to learning to compromise when choosing a game to play. They often speak in emojis or in images, making the dialogue a joy to follow. Hilarious yet packed with heart.
Bibi, illustrated and written by Jo Weaver, published by Peachtree, ISBN: 9781682635537.
This story about the love a bunch of flamingo chicks have for an elder has the feel of a picture book classic, possessing a moving narrative arc the completely satisfies on an emotional level. Weaver knows how to tap into the cinematic nature of picture book storytelling, serving up panoramic views of the birds as they walk across a harsh landscape to find water. Along the way, the older Bibi starts slowing down, and the reader cannot help but feel compassion for the beloved bird. Misty imagery, reflections in water, faraway shots of the birds as shadowy figures. Weaver gives the reader a visual feast. Throw in a vivid text and you have an unforgettable story.
Little Land, illustrated and written by Diana Sudyka, published by Little, Brown and Company, ISBN: 9780316301763.
It’s easy to find yourself lost in Sudyka’s swirling, evocative illustrations. She creates unforgettable images and powerful double spreads. And although “little” appears in the title, her latest work tackles big ideas and epic themes about taking care of the planet and environment. And yet she creates a work that does not bog down the young reader. Her words and art have a beautiful, almost airy feel to them, inspiring the child to take action and make a difference. From upside down shots of a world gone gray to beautiful moments with children bringing green beauty back, Little Land sings with joy and hope.
The Rabbi and His Donkey, illustrated by Diana Renjina, written by Susan Tarcov, published by Kar-Ben Publishing, ISBN: 9781728445595.
Readers cannot help but cheer for the thoughtful, older donkey in this captivating moral-driven story (inspired by a quick passage written a long long long time ago by the medieval Sephardic Jewish philosopher Maimonides) that has the feel and mood of a classic Jewish folktale. A rabbi suddenly finds himself with a multitude of assignments, and decides that his beloved, loyal donkey trots a little too slow. So he chooses a superfast horse to ride instead, leaving the poor donkey in the dust. But soon the rabbi discovers what he misses when he soars along on this equine force of nature. Will there be a happy ending? Will lessons be learned? Beautifully illustrated and written.
The Song That Called Them Home, illustrated by Maya McKibbin, written by David A. Robertson, published by Tundra, ISBN: 9780735266704.
It’s amazing how much action and adventure the gifted Robertson packs into this picture book, inspired by Indigenous legends. I always tell older kids and adults who think they are too old for picture books, think again, give them a try. This book cooks as two siblings visiting their moshom (grandfather) suddenly find themselves encountering and then trying to outwit the tricky human-like creatures known as Memekwesewak. McKibbin’s images crackle with verve and energetic fluidity; just look at the body language as swim, sink, and later dance and let the ruckus being. An absolute blast.
When You Can Swim, illustrated and written by Jack Wong, published by Orchard Books (an imprint of Scholastic), ISBN: 9781338830965.
Wong presents his inspirational celebration in the second person, and this use of the word “you” brings a quiet urgency to the telling. It’s an immersive book. We feel as if we are watching or slipping into the ocean ourselves. As an illustrator, Wong delivers delightful image after image of people with various body types enjoying the waves. And he captures all kinds of moods in and around the water. Calm peacefulness, serene moments mix with more rollicking dives. Wong’s poetic language caresses the ear when read aloud. And there’s a sweet suprise ending that brings it all back home.
Mr. Brian's Picture Book Picks 