Murray Christmas (Abrams) by E.G. Keller has earned another starred review, this time from School Library Journal. The review says “”Keller reinvents the goodwill chaos of Christmas, with its decorations, traditions, and beliefs, through Murray, a canine who does not understand why his humans are changing his world with this joyous upheaval. Murray’s sole job as “Patrol Dog” is to love his humans and home, and he is determined not to let anything stand in his way.” It goes on to say the book is “a perfect Christmas read-aloud; children will want to take this book—and Murray—home.” Pre-order the book here
Let’s Be Friends/ Seamos Amigos (Holiday House) by René Colato Laínez, illustrated by Nomar Perez, has won a Gold Medal at the International Latino Book Awards for Best Children’s Fiction Picture Book – Bilingual. Congratulations Nomar! Get the book here
Kirkus has given a starred review for Black Gold (HarperCollins) by Laura Obuobi, illustrated by London Ladd. The review says “Ladd’s acrylic paint and collage artwork is richly textured, layered with color and shadow for an intense visual treat full of movement and depth.” It also calls the book “A stunning work of art.” Congratulations London! The book will be on sale October 11. Pre-order it here
Kirkus has praise for Murray Christmas (Abrams) by E.G. Keller, calling it “a delightful Christmas tale that shows a dog’s perspective on the holiday and all its trappings.” The book will be published September 27, 2022. Pre-order it here
Publishers Weekly has a great review for Stop and Smell the Cookies (Putnam) by Gibson Frazier, illustrated by Micah Player. The review says “Player’s bright digital drawings depict Dash’s highs and lows with a verve that elevates Frazier’s well-intentioned storytelling.” Read the full review here Get the book here
Queen of Kindergarten (Nancy Paulsen Books) by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton is #10 on the August 21 New York Times Best Seller list for Children’s books. This sweet story about a confident little Black girl having a fantastic first day of school is a companion to the New York Times bestseller The King of Kindergarten. Get the book here See the full list here