Paletero Man (Harper Collins) by Lucky Diaz, illustrated by Micah Player has earned a starred review from School Library Journal. The review says “Filled with life and joy, this story is an upbeat, multi-sensory experience that honors the breadth and harmony of multiculturalism in Diaz’s LA hometown. ” Paletero Man will be on sale June 1, 2021. Pre order your copy here Read the full School Library Journal review here
Born Ready (Penguin Random House) by Jodie Patterson, illustrated by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow was published April 20, 2021. Publishers Weekly says the book is “A heartening true story for children that offers guidance to caretakers”, and in a starred review, Kirkus says “This representation of a Black family and transgender child shines with joy and affirmation… A triumphant declaration of love and identity.” Congratulations Charnelle! Get the book here
Yahoo Entertainment and Delish have announced that Chef Carla Hall’s first picture book Carla and The Christmas Cornbread illustrated by Cherise Harris will be published by Simon & Schuster in November. In this heartwarming tale inspired by her childhood, superstar chef and TV host Carla Hall shares the story of young Carla, who eats a sugar cookie meant for Santa on the night before Christmas and tries to make things right. Read the Yahoo Entertainment announcement here Read the Delish Article here Pre-order the book here
We Laugh Alike (Charlesbridge) by Carmen T. Bernier-Grand, and illustrated by Alyssa Bermudez was published on April 13, 2021. Kirkus Reviews calls this bilingual picture book A sweet demonstration of how friendship can transcend language barriers, and Booklist says Colorful illustrations showcase the similarities among the racially diverse kids, who easily find ways to connect that go beyond language. Congratulations Alyssa! Get the book here
The first two books of the Mrs. Frogbottom’s Field Trips series (Aladdin), I Want My My Mummy, and Long Time No Sea Monster, written by Nancy Krulik and illustrated by Harry Briggs were published April 13, 2021. The series is described as The Magic School Bus meets The Magic Tree House and is about a teacher who uses a magical map to take her class all over the world to face mythical creatures and learn about the places they call home. Learn more about the series here
“Toasty”(Holiday House) is featured in a New York Time’s article titled “8 Picture Books about Imagination and Identity”. In the article, Jennifer Krauss commends author and illustrator Sarah Hwang for her “smart, subtle yet laugh out loud wit”, and calls her “a young author to watch”! Meanwhile in a starred review, School Library Journal says that Toasty’s tale is as uplifting as the come! Read the full New York Times article here Read the School Library Journal review here Pre-order Toasty here
