Book Review: 'The Tree That's Meant To Be' written & illustrated by Yuval Zommer

✰✰✰✰✰ A little tree has high aspirations; however, the little tree worries that it’s not as tall or full as the others. As the seasons pass, the little tree accepts that it is different from the others. Then one day all the other trees are chosen to be taken home to become Christmas trees. Only the little tree is left behind. Feeling all alone, the forest animals know just what to do. The animals get to work, and the little tree discovers that it was never alone. With the help of friends, the little tree is transformed into something special. Check out this holiday treat to discover the magic of the season.

The Bottom Line: In this story of acceptance and learning to celebrate who you are, readers will connect with their own story and find their own way to shine. This large sized, beautifully illustrated book with captivating pictures in wintry hues is easy to read and relate to. Highly recommended for storytimes for kindergarten through grade 1 and for bedtime reading with your little one.

Details: The Tree That’s Meant To Be written & illustrated by Yuval Zommer. Hardcover picture book published by Doubleday Books for Young Readers in 2019. 32 p. ISBN: 978-0-593-11967-9 

Book Review: 'Stumpkin' by Lucy Ruth Cummins

✰✰✰✰✰ A few days before Halloween, the pumpkins were waiting to be picked and taken home where they will be transformed into amazing jack-o'-lanterns. All the pumpkins were excited, except for Stumpkin. He was perfect in every way, but one. He was missing his stem. But what’s a stem when he had so many other great qualities to offer? One by one all the other pumpkins are picked until it’s only Stumpkin and the gourd. Who will get picked, and who will get left behind?

The Bottom Line: This darling seasonal book highlights the old adage that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” Illustrated in traditional Halloween colors with gouache, pencil, ink, and brush marker, the sweet ending will have you seeing things in a new light. Highly recommended for storytimes for kids in grades Pre-K - 2.

Details: Stumpkin written & illustrated by Lucy Ruth Cummins. Picture book published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers in 2018. 56 p. ISBN: 978-1534413627

Book Review: 'Veronica's Room: A Melodrama' by Ira Levin

✰✰✰✰✰ It’s 1973, and a young couple is enticed to visit a mansion. The young woman, Susan, is asked to play a simple role to ease the mind of a dying woman. All she has to do is pretend to be someone else for a few minutes, and there’s only one line to say. Susan is intrigued, but hesitant. Who is this Veronica that she would be pretending to be? Wanting to be helpful, Susan ignores the red flags and dresses up as Veronica. The resemblance is uncanny, and Susan is sure she can pull this off. However, the tables are turned when she finds herself locked inside Veronica’s bedroom. With everyone now insisting that it’s 1935 and that Susan is actually Veronica, Susan starts to question reality. Is she Susan, a student at BU? Or is she the insane Veronica, who needs to be kept locked up? The ending will shock you.

The Bottom Line: I was actually searching for a copy of The Stepford Wives, when I stumbled upon this gem. This slim volume is a real attention getter, and it will keep you guessing right up to the very end. With just a few characters, this play blurs the line between fantasy and madness. It actually gave me chills, and I would love to see this performed at the theatre. Highly recommended for fans of dramas, thrillers, horror, and mystery.

Details: Veronica’s Room: A Melodrama by Ira Levin Hardcover published by Random House in 1974. 87 p. ISBN: 0394491459 

Book Review: 'Very Scary' by Tony Johnston

✰✰✰✰✰ The biggest pumpkin in a patch soaks up the moon, and shines bright. Shining so brightly, it gets a lot of attention from creatures of the night, and one witch, who wants to bake it. The pumpkin tries to look scary, but the witch isn’t buying it. Just as she reaches for it, some children swoop in and transform the pumpkin into a jack-o'-lantern. Will it be enough to scare the witch away? Turn the pages to find out.

The Bottom Line: Featuring festive watercolor illustrations on vellum paper, this seasonal tale is a fun read. In case you missed it, look closely, there are hidden faces, shadows, and hints on the pages, so go back and have a second read. Enthusiastically recommended reading with your little one aged 4 - 7.

Details: Very Scary written by Tony Johnston & illustrated by Douglas Florian. Picture book published by Harcourt Brace & Company in 1995. 32 p. ISBN: 0-15-298625-4

Book Review: 'Snow Bunny's Christmas Wish' by Rebecca Harry

✰✰✰✰✰ A wee little snow bunny is happy in the forest, but longs for just one thing, a friend. With Christmas on the way, she writes a letter to Santa asking for one. Alas, she misses the post and decides the deliver the letter to Santa herself. After all, it's not that far away, and all she has to do is follow the North Star. Just in case, she packs some essentials for the trek. Along the way she gives away her supplies to animals that need them. When she finally reaches the North Pole, she is cold and hungry. Santa invites her to deliver Christmas gifts with him. When the little bunny asks about her request, Santa surprises her with the best gift of all. Check out this wonderful, classic tale of kindness and friendship to find out what it is.

The Bottom Line: This sweet story of a little bunny wishing for a friend is a keeper. In the spirit of the season, the wee bunny discovers how her actions of kindness are returned. Highly recommended seasonal reading with little ones in Pre-K - K. Harry's wintry color palette is enhanced by thoughtfully placed silver foil throughout, resulting in dreamy illustrations.

Details: Snow Bunny's Christmas Wish written & illustrated by Rebecca Harry. Hardcover picture book published by Orchard Books in 2013. 32 p. ISBN: 978-0-545-54103-9 

Book Review: 'I Got the Christmas Spirit' by Connie Schofield-Morrison

✰✰✰✰✰ A young African American girl is full of holiday spirit. She’s been waiting all year to sparkle, shine, and sing her way through the season. When she finds a family in need, she looks for a way to shine even brighter and help people along the way. Join in as she sings, skates, and jingles her way through the festive, wintry city.

The Bottom Line: This sweet tale of finding the holiday spirit is sure to inspire anyone who is searching for theirs. Cheerful art with rich colors created with oil on canvas brings this story to life. Enthusiastically recommended holiday reading with your little one ages 4 - 7.

Details: I Got the Christmas Spirit written by Connie Schofield-Morrison & illustrated by Frank Morrison. Hardcover picture book published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books in 2018. 32 p. ISBN: 978-1-68119-528-5 

Book Review: 'Red and Green and Blue and White' by Lee Wind

✰✰✰✰✰ This holiday season read the story about how love can overcome hate when friends stand up for one another. As the holidays approach, families of different faiths decorate their houses with pride…red and green for Christmas and blue and white for Chanukah. When Isaac’s house is vandalized, his best friend Teresa decides to draw a Menorah and put it in the window. Soon the idea grew, and more and more people put up drawings of a Menorah in their Christmas window displays. As more people participated, the spirit of the holidays shined through and a true sense of community grew.

The Bottom Line: Inspired by real events and real people in Billings, Montana in 1993, this story shines a light on those who chose to be UPstanders instead of BYstanders. This book illustrates that a movement can grow from just a few into a community of friends who can respect one another and demonstrates that love can overcome hate. Bold illustrations in contrasting holiday colors reinforce the message of community and holiday spirit. Highly recommended holiday reading for children and adults of all faiths.

Details: Red and Green and Blue and White: Inspired by a True Story written by Lee Wind & illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky. Hardcover picture book published by Levine Querido in 2021. 32 p. ISBN: 978-1-64614-087-9 

Book Review: 'A Whisper in the Snow' by Kate Westerlund

✰✰✰✰✰ One rabbit of a trio heard a whisper in the snow. While the others were skeptical, they agreed to search along with their mouse friends. They didn’t know what they were looking for, but when they found it, they knew they had to help. They wondered what to do with the frozen little teddy bear. Only one animal in the forest would know what to do. With a sweet treat as a bribe, the animals got to work sprucing up the teddy bear. The only problem now was how to find the teddy’s lost owner. Will the animals be able to find the teddy’s lost human in time for Christmas? Read on to find out.

The Bottom Line: This sweet tale of animals helping a lost teddy bear go home for the holidays is sure to be a classic. Illustrator Feridun Oral’s wintry art is dreamy and wondrous; the illustrations really put the reader in a snowy holiday mood. This gentle story demonstrates what a little love, teamwork, and Christmas spirit can accomplish. Heartily recommended holiday reading for kids ages 5 - 8.

Details: A Whisper in the Snow written by Kate Westerlund & illustrated by Feridun Oral. Hardcover picture book published by minedition in 2018. 32 p. ISBN: 978-988-8341-52-8 

Book Review: 'The Gift of the Tree' by Alvin Tresselt

✰✰✰✰✰ A grand oak tree has stood in a forest for a very long time. Home to birds and animals, the tree is beginning to lose its limbs one by one. Over time, the tree completely falls apart. However, even in death, there is new life in the forest. Check out this fantastic story of renewal and rebirth.

The Bottom Line: This entire picture book is a work of art illustrating the circle of life through an oak tree. Originally published under the title The Dead Tree, this informative classic takes the reader from stage to stage as the old tree dies and becomes part of the Earth again. Highly recommended for kids in grades 3 & 4 who are interested in science and biology. As a fan of natural science, I would have adored this as a kid.

Details: The Gift of the Tree written by Alvin Tresselt & illustrated by Henri Sorensen. Hardcover picture book published by Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books in 1992. 32 p. ISBN: 978-0-688-10684-3 

Book Review: 'Trick or Treat, Bugs to Eat' by Tracy Gold

✰✰✰✰✰ Follow an adorable little bat as it goes "trick-or-treating" to find yummy bugs to munch on. He searches high and low to find the crunchy Halloween treats up in the sky and down on the ground. With large print and rhyming words, this book is perfect for kiddos just learning to read.

The Bottom Line: This adorable little picture book with rhyming verse and digitally created full color art is sure to please little ones. It's just so cute and a tiny bit spooky. And as an added bonus, the back of the book features several pages with awesome facts about bats. Check out this super adorable book for some seasonal, fall fun.

Details: Trick or Treat, Bugs to Eat words by Tracy C. Gold & pictures by Nancy Leschnikoff. Hardcover picture book published by Sourcebooks Explore in 2021. 40 p. ISBN: 978-1-7282-3329-1 

Book Review: 'We're Going on a Goon Hunt' by Michael Rex

✰✰✰✰✰ On a spooky night a family goes looking for a goon. Not any goon will do. They are looking for a green one. The goon hunt takes them through a pumpkin patch, swamp, graveyard, and more as they search for the bald, green one. Along the way, the family feels more and more scared, but together they continue. Will they be brave enough to find it?

The Bottom Line: With repeating lines and subtle changes in text, beginning readers will enjoy reading this aloud over and over again. The engaging illustrations feature digitally colored pencil drawings resulting in sharp lines and cool colors. As a companion book to Goodnight Goon, this one is both funny and fun. Highly recommended seasonal reading with your little one or for storytimes.

Details: We’re Going on a Goon Hunt: A Petrifying Parody by Michael Rex. Hardcover picture book published by G.P. Putnam’s Sons in 2020. 40 p. ISBN: 978-1-9848-1362-6 

Book Review: 'The Cat Who Saved Books' by Sosuke Natsukawa

✰✰✰✰✰ Nerdy Rintaro Natsuki is a high school hikikomori (a person who has decided to shut themselves away from society). All Rintaro wants is to be left alone, so he can read books. However, when is grandfather dies shortly before Christmas, Rintaro suddenly finds himself more alone than he ever thought possible. Soon he'll be expected to pack up his home and his grandfather's bookshop to go live with a distant aunt he barely knows. As Rintaro finds solace in stepping into his grandfather's shoes and managing Natsuki Books, he is startled by an ordinary looking tabby with an extraordinary skill. The cat can talk, and it needs Rintaro's help. Rintaro is intrigued, and because he has nothing to lose, he agrees to help. He follows the cat into a labyrinth and is confronted by a challenge in a seemingly different dimension. Although Rintaro is plagued by self-doubt, the cat is there to bolster his confidence. 

As Rintaro completes each labyrinth, he learns to believe in himself more and more. And although not everyone can hear the cat talk, it turns out there is someone else who can, his classmate, Sayo. As they pair up with the cat to solve more challenges and rescue more books, Rintaro comes out of his shell. Just when he thinks the adventure is over, it turns out the most challenging labyrinth awaits, and the stakes are higher this time. Rintaro must solve the challenge alone if he wants to save his new friend. With time running out, Rintaro must use every bit of knowledge, courage, and feeling he has or risk losing it all. 

The Bottom Line: I don't often read fantasy fiction; however, this book reignited my interest in the genre. This quick read whisks one away to a completely differently world filled with riddles, young love, angst, self-doubt, and learning to find your calling. The main character is an unwitting hero as he helps save books from an awful end. Along the way he learns to trust his gut and also learns to trust others. This book was enjoyable and the translation kept some Japanese words, which I appreciated. This story is a bit reminiscent of Greek mythology with the use of the labyrinths as well. Highly recommended reading for those who enjoy Fantasy, Japanese literature, and mysteries. I would love to see this made into a movie. 

[Note: Added notes from both the translator, Louise Heal Kawai, and the illustrator, Yuko Shimizu, were interesting, and I wish more books included this kind of additional information.] 

Details: The Cat Who Saved Books: A Novel by Sosuke Natsukawa. Translated by Louise Heal Kawai. Hardcover English translation edition published by HarperVia in 2021. [Original published as Hon wo mamorou to suru neko no hanashi by Shogakukan in 2017.] 208 p. ISBN: 978-0-06-309572-4 

Book Review: 'Spiritual Activator' by Oliver Niño

✰✰✰✰✰ Presented in an easy to follow format, world-renowned energy healer, Oliver Niño, leads you through five steps to help you learn how to protect, clear, and raise your energy. For beginning and advanced students of energy work alike, this book is approachable and informative. The tips and exercises are easy, fun, and practical. You will wonder: Why didn't I think of that? You already have the tools you need, but sometimes we need a little help learning how to use them. This book is for anyone who has been told they are 'overly sensitive' to energy, who feels uncomfortable in crowds, or who can sense the vibration of places and events. The information presented here may give you more clarity and peace as you learn to protect your energy. 

The Bottom Line: Oliver's book is wonderfully easy to follow and fun. His writing style is engaging; you can probably read through this in a weekend. However, the exercises and steps may take awhile as you learn to implement the practical tips presented here.  You will learn about yourself and others as you work through the exercises and meditations. You will discover that you held the keys to your personal development all along. And don't forget to access additional content on Oliver's website. Enthusiastically recommended for anyone who has the desire to learn about energy, both their own and that of other people and places. [Note: I actually read this book a year ago. I waited to write my review because I wanted to see if I felt the same way over time, and I do. I'm currently reading the book a second time, to reinforce what I've learned because the tools included here are so approachable and positive.]

Details: Spiritual Activator: 5 Steps to Clearing, Unblocking, and Protecting Your Energy to Attraction More Love, Joy, and Purpose by Oliver  Niño. Hardcover published by Hay House, Inc. in 2023. 200 p. ISBN: 978-1-4019-6771-0 

Book Review: 'A Joyful Christmas' by James Ransome

✰✰✰✰✰ This beautiful treasury is one that you will want to have on your bookshelf for years to come. It is divided into two parts: Soul and Heart, with a bridge story about the history of Christmas. Selections include both new stories as well as classics along with spiritual themes. This book takes a look at what makes Christmas special to so many. Also, this compilation of stories, songs and poems focus on the historical significance of this Christian holiday.

The Bottom Line: This Christmas treasury features a little of everything: songs, poems, and stories old and new. With beautiful, seasonal illustrations, this book is sure to be enjoyed by the young and the young at heart. Highly recommended holiday reading throughout the season.

Details: A Joyful Christmas: A Treasury of New and Classic Songs, Poems, and Stories for the Holiday collected and illustrated by James Ransome. Hardcover picture book published by Henry Holt and Co. in 2010. 80 p. ISBN: 978-0-8050-6621-0  

Book Review: 'A Turkey for Thanksgiving' by Eve Bunting

✰✰✰✰✰  Thanksgiving is best when shared with friends. As Mr. Moose sets out chairs for Mr. & Mrs. Goat, Rabbit, Sheep, and Porcupine, Mrs. Moose reflects that it would be nice to have a real turkey for Thanksgiving. Mr. Moose sets out immediately to find one. With the help of his friends, Mr. Moose finally spots Turkey down by the river.  Alarmed, Turkey tries to make his escape, but alas, he is too fat. As Mr. Moose marches Turkey back to the house, Turkey knows he is doomed. He's in for a surprise though when Mrs. Moose sets her eyes on him. 

The Bottom Line: This seasonal tale if perfect for a holiday story time. With a surprise twist ending, this endearing picture book celebrates friendship. Illustrated in full-color watercolors in a pleasing autumnal palette, this picture book is a classic. Enthusiastically recommended holiday reading for families with little ones ages 4 - 7. 

Details: A Turkey for Thanksgiving written by Eve Bunting & illustrated by Diane de Groat. Hardcover picture book published by Clarion Books in 1991. 32 p. ISBN: 0-89919-793-0 

Book Review: 'The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt' by Riel Nason

✰✰✰✰✰ There once was a little ghost who was a quilt. While most ghosts are white sheets, including his mom and dad, this little ghost was a beautiful patchwork of squares. The little ghost who was a quilt was frustrated because he just wanted to be like other ghosts. He couldn't even fly as fast as them because his quilt was too heavy. However, there was one special day that made him happy every year, and that day was Halloween. And this year something special happened that made him the talk of the other ghosts.

The Bottom Line: Sometimes it's difficult to be different. However, as the little ghost who was a quilt found out, sometimes being different can be a gift too. Beautiful illustrations by Byron Eggenschwiler accompany this sweet tale of self-discovery, diversity, and gratitude. Highly recommended for little ghosts everywhere.

Details: The Little Ghost Who Was a Quilt written by Riel Nason & illustrated by Byron Eggenschwiler. Hardcover picture book published by Tundra Books in 2020. 48 p. ISBN: 978-0-7352-6447-2 

Book Review: 'Indigo Hours: Healing Haiku' by Nancy Stone

✰✰✰✰✰ When the author's husband was diagnosed with "likely Alzheimer's," Stone turned to poetry and art to try to make sense of it all. In this book, she covers five years of challenges in the role of caregiver as she lays bare her feelings of sadness, grief, anger, fear, and sometimes little joys along the caregiving journey. Told with brutal honesty, humor, and compassion, the author shares little snippets of their life together post-diagnosis.

The Bottom Line: Caregiving is a role most of us wouldn't choose. Unfortunately, many of us, including me, are finding ourselves doing just that. Artist and author Nancy Stone has channeled both the joys and the challenges of caregiving into a beautiful book of haiku poems. Although based on her experience of caregiving for her husband, who has "likely Alzheimer's," this book would be helpful to anyone struggling with long-term caregiving regardless of diagnosis. Stone's haiku cover the entire spectrum of emotions that one faces as the loved one's illness progresses: anxiety, fear, compassion, care, kindness, anger, grief, frustration, sadness, loneliness, and resolve. Highly recommended for anyone who finds themselves in this situation and in search of wisdom. Stone's inspirational poetry, along with her playful illustrations, will simply soothe your soul.

Details: Indigo Hours: Healing Haiku written & illustrated by Nancy Stone. Paperback published by Rootstock Publishing in 2023. 104 p. ISBN: 9781578691425 [NOTE: I received a free, uncorrected proof in exchange for an honest review. This was made possible via the publisher and the Early Reviewers program at LibraryThing.]

Book Review: 'With Winning in Mind' by Lanny Bassham

✰✰✰✰✰ Lanny Bassham is an Olympic Champion and motivational author. His systematic approach to mental preparation is recognized around the world. Through his personal journey to become an Olympic medalist, Lanny discovered and honed the Mental Management System. Whether you are looking to take your sport to the next level or simply wanting to make a change in your life, you too can find success by applying this method.

The Bottom Line: The format of this book is easy to read and follow. Bassham walks you through the system step-by-step. Filled with examples and exercises, this book will help you realize your goals. Whether you want to win at sports, work, or life this is the book for you. Highly recommended for anyone interested in personal development and career development as well as for athletes (of any sport) looking to improve their performance.

Details: With Winning in Mind (Third edition) by Lanny Bassham. Paperback published by Mental Management Systems in 2012. 182 p. ISBN: 978-1934324264

Book Review: 'Great Joy' by Kate DiCamillo

✰✰✰✰✰ As a little girl prepares for the Christmas pageant at church, she looks out the window and notices an organ grinder and his monkey. She wonders where they go at night when it’s cold and snowy, but no one else seems to care. On the eve of the pageant she invites the duo to church. When it’s time to say her single line, she just can’t; it just doesn’t seem right. All the little girl can think about is how cold it is and how sad the organ grinder looks. As everyone in church waits, the doors open, and the little girl knew it was time.

The Bottom Line: This gentle tale exemplifies the true spirit of Christmas. Ibatoulline’s luminous illustrations in acrylic gouache are stunning. Highly recommended for children in grades K - 2.

Details: Great Joy written by Kate DiCamillo & illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline. Picture book published by Candlewick Press in 2007. 32 p. ISBN: 978-0-7636-2920-5 

Book Review: 'The Twelve Days of Christmas' illustrated by Gennady Spinn

✰✰✰✰✰ A popular song around the holidays, “The Twelve Days of Christmas” is brought to life in this picture book. Each time the reader turns the page, they are treated to another line of the song illustrated in stunning detail with watercolor and colored pencil. With each day, the focus of the illustration moves out to include more gifts. The celebration begins with the partridge in a pear tree and continues with golden rings, carolers, maids, geese, drummers, pipers and more.

The Bottom Line: I could look at these amazing illustrations in this picture book for hours on end. This book includes the song along with a fascinating note about the song’s origins. This beautiful book is a treasure you will want to keep. Highly recommended for everyone.

Details: The Twelve Days of Christmas illustrated by Gennady Spirin. Picture book published by Marshall Cavendish Children in 2009. 40 p. ISBN: 978-0-7614-5551-6