Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Dalmartian: A Mars Rover's Story by Lucy Ruth Cummins

I loved the play on words found in the title for today's read. And the green spots. So cute and clever! This is a science fiction picture book and promises to bring in quite a few familiar aspects, while shooting off into alien dreams. In other words, I have no idea what to expect but hope it will be fun. 

Get ready because I have a feeling that these aliens aren't exactly what one might expect!


DALMARTIAN
A Mars Rover's Story
by Lucy Ruth Cummins
Simon & Schuster
Picture Book
48 pages
ages 4 to 8

COMING MAY 7th!!!

From the bestselling creator of Stumpkin and Vampenguin comes a whimsical picture book about the unexpected friendship that blooms between a boy and a dog of intergalactic origins.

A visitor from outer space comes to Stephen’s yard one night. It may look like a Dalmatian, but it certainly doesn’t act like one. At first, Stephen and the visitor get off on the wrong paw. They quibble over kibble, debate sleeping arrangements, and must abandon earth dogs’ approach to bathroom breaks altogether to keep the peace. Is a shared love of bacon a strong enough foundation for this ordinary earth boy and extraordinary out-of-this-world canine to learn to live in harmony?



MY TIDBITS

A story of the forming friendship between a boy and a dog takes on a eye-brow-raising and spacy twist.

One night, visitors comes to Stephen's yard, the kind found in a spaceship. Their mission is simple: collect specimens and head home without being noticed. But Stephen does notice. Before he can step outside, the visitors are gone. Mostly. One was accidentally left behind. While this visitor might look quite a bit like a Dalmatian, it soon becomes clear that it is not...and not only because of its green and not black spots.

The science fiction direction adds a fun twist to this tale about friendship. Plus, the dog is very cute...although it, maybe, wouldn't agree. It begins with a night scene, where a flying saucer lands in the yard behind a white house. This brings smiles to the adult readers, as it does bring a sense of nostalgia. After that, this tale heads into friendship and alien fun. Not only do the green-spotted Dalmartians grab attention, but the Dalmartian's 'human' side brings many pokes of humor and surprises. Stephen and the Dalmartian need to find middle-ground as they discover more about each other and learn to balance with the world around them. It's a give and take with growing concern and respect, which forms a wonderful message surrounding friendship, acceptance, and sacrifice.

The illustrations carry this read almost more than the text and are well done. They add little details, which bring humor and also help strengthen the main message. Young listeners can flip through these and revisit the story on their own. The text flows well and stays short, when needed, or offers more to reflect the situations. There's never a boring moment, which makes this a lovely read-aloud for even more impatient audiences. Part of me hopes that there might be, at least, another adventure with these two to come.



And here she is...

Lucy Ruth Cummins is an author, illustrator, and art director of children’s books. She was happily paired with Jean Reidy for both Truman, which was named a New York Times Best Children’s Book of 2019, and Sylvie. She is also the author-illustrator of StumpkinVampenguinDalmartian: A Mars Rover’s StoryOur Pool, and A Hungry Lionor A Dwindling Assortment of Animals. Lucy has swum in creeks, streams, gorges, rivers, swimming holes, pools (above- and in-ground), lakes (both Great and Finger), decorative fountains, and oceans. Her very favorite place to swim, however, is at her community pool in Brooklyn with her sons and her neighbors.

Tuesday, March 26, 2024

The Wildcat Behind Glass by Alki Zei

I've really been looking forward to today's read. It's set in Greece in the 1930's and takes a look at the country's switch from a democracy to a dictatorship and Fascism at that time. It was published originally in Greek in 1963, was translated once into English around 1968, and is finally getting another, fresh run in the English language. It has been published in many languages since then and has received many awards. Plus, it should weave fantasy along the border of reality, while diving deep into a difficult part of history. 

I do hope this one is as good as it seems to be because...well, who doesn't love a good read?



THE WILDCAT BEHIND GLASS
by Alki Zei
Translated by Karen Emmerich
Restless Books
Middle Grade Historical
240 pages
ages 8 to 12 (and older)


COMING...
MAY 21st!!!







After its original publication in Greece in 1963, and the 22 translations, 39 editions, and many awards that followed, Wildcat Under Glass remains a beloved children’s classic. This translation by Karen Emmerich is the first in more than 50 years and breathes new life into the timeless story. 

Wildcat under Glass follows a young girl and her family as they adapt to life on a Greek island during the 1930s under a Fascist regime. Melia and Myrto are two sisters from an Aegean island who enjoy listening to their grandfather’s tales and share a secret language. Yet, what they truly cherish are the fascinating accounts of the wildcat's adventures told by their cousin Nikos. The wildcat in question is a stuffed feline that resides in a glass cabinet in their living room, with a blue and a black glass eye, which Nikos tells them he alternates based on his mood. One summer day, their lives abruptly change, leaving them to wonder who could be behind the potential harm to their beloved wildcat. Melia’s perspective provides a unique and childlike outlook on the historical period, with a dialogue that balances playfulness and introspection. 

The book analyzes and explores social issues while maintaining a universal appeal that transcends time and place. Despite being a historical narrative, the account has a timeless quality that makes it relatable to readers from all backgrounds. Since its initial publication 61 years ago, the book continues to be recognized and loved by readers and critics alike. Wildcat Under Glass (Restless 2024) will be the second-ever English translation of the book from the Greek, and the first one since Edward Fenton’s translation in 1968. 

This iconic piece of Greek literature has stood the test of time and continues to be enjoyed by both new and old generations. Its significance has been recognized internationally, with multiple awards, including the 2007 Premio Andersen – Il mondo dell’infanzia (Italy) and the 1970 Mildred L. Batchelder Award (U.S.).



MY TIDBITS

This is one of those rare reads, which masterfully weaves emotions and thoughts using imagination and harsh reality to deliver a tale that transcends age and time. 

Melia can't wait until their cousin Nikos returns and continues his stories about the stuffed wildcat, which stands in a glass case in their living room. It was killed after swimming across the ocean from the mainland to their Greece island and has two, differently colored eyes, always showing only one according to its mood...according to the stories. This time, Myrto is exceptionally excited about Nikos arrival because life around them is getting a little strange. The adults whisper and gossip about the king, dictators, and possible unrest, and Myrto is told to watch what she says or her father might lose his job. When Niko arrives, he tells his stories and plays with Myrto and the rest like always...but something's changed. His tales no longer are fueled by fantasy but carry information about the world. When he speaks about a war in Spain and possibly leaving for good, Myrto knows something's not right, but that's nothing compared to the shift in the atmosphere of everyone around her. The king has declared dictatorship, and while life still continues, it's nothing like before.

Myrto is a very playful girl, who isn't sure what she thinks of school, enjoys spending time outside, gets impatient during 'adult' events, and looks forward to the annual return of her favorite cousin. Her relationship with her sister, relatives, neighbors, and those around her comes across naturally. She's easy to relate to, and the author does a wonderful job at keeping the entire read as if it truly is through her eyes, the eyes of a middle grader. While she does have an active imagination and loves to have fun, like every other kid that age, she also picks up on the adults' worries, concerns, and mumblings...but then, what kid doesn't? While she doesn't understand everything that is going on, she does see and feel the changes, which gives this read its true impact. It's innocent, holds humor and playfulness, and weaves in imagination to create a potent mix.

The messages and historical aspects head in a serious direction, and there are moments which hit with emotion and tug at the heart. There is more than a little food for thought, and plenty of aspects can be used for discussions and offer material for classroom settings. Not only does the book dive into the historical, political and cultural aspects, but even the literary side offers many gems. Especially the symbolism surrounding the wildcat is a treat.

 Most importantly, this is a fun read. The humor and imagination keep a light playfulness humming along while the harsher side pokes in the background. I'm going to be tossing this read into my homeschooling line-up for next year because it's one that shouldn't be missed.


As an extra bonus...

Since there is so much to enjoy in this read on so many levels, the publisher offers a discussion guide packet for free! Head on over to learn more:

https://restlessbooks.org/discussion-guides/wildcat-behind-glass


And here they are..

Alki Zei, born in Athens in 1923, studied philosophy at the University of Athens, drama at the Athens Conservatory, and screenwriting at the Moscow Cinema Institute. She got her start in publishing by writing YA short stories for the Greek magazine Neaniki Foni.


During the Second World War, she was actively involved in the struggle for freedom and democracy and against the German occupation of Greece. Because of it, she became a political refugee in the Soviet Union from 1954 to 1964. Three years later, she was exiled once again, but this time to Paris, France. From 1974 until her death in 2020, she lived in Athens.


Zei penned books for mostly children and YA audiences, but her unassuming and straightforward method of writing, along with her narrative skills, has allowed her work to be enjoyed by all ages. Her books Achille’s Fiancée, The Wildcat Behind Glass, and Petros’ War are among the best-sold titles in contemporary Greek literature. 


Besides being a prolific writer, she was also a translator of children's books from French, Italian, and Russian, and was the Greek translator of authors Gianni Rodari and Vera Panova.



Karen Emmerich is a translator of Modern Greek poetry and prose. Her translations include Rien ne va plus by Margarita Karapanou, Landscape with Dog and Other Stories by Ersi Sotiropoulos, I’d Like by Amanda Michalopoulou, Poems (1945–1971) by Miltos Sachtouris, and The Few Things I Know About Glafkos Thrassakis by Vassilis Vassilikos. She is the recipient of translation grants and awards from the NEA, PEN, and the Modern Greek Studies Association. Recently, Emmerich was awarded the 2019 National Translation Award for What’s Left of the Night by Ersi Sotiropoulos. She is an associate professor of comparative literature at Princeton University. 

Monday, March 25, 2024

God's Rainbow by The Bible Tells Me So Press




GOD'S RAINBOW
The real meaning of the rainbow!
by The Bible Tells Me So Press
Picture Book / Early Reader
ages 4 to 8

God's Rainbow is a delightful children's book which presents the truth in the Bible about the rainbow, and what the rainbow really means. This beautifully illustrated book is sure to spark a loving and meaningful family discussion about the wonders, beauty, and meaning of the rainbow! Because rainbows are bright and beautiful, they are claimed by many companies, clubs, and clauses, with each one trying to define what the rainbow means. But what does the rainbow really mean? The Bible gives us a clear answer to who made the rainbow and why. It shows us that the real meaning of the rainbow is as beautiful as the rainbow itself.

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON    /    PUBLISHER


MY TIDBITS

Lovely illustrations are accompanied by an easy-to-read text, perfect for beginning readers.

This book dives into rainbows. Beginning with a short, cheerful introduction into how interesting and beautiful rainbows are, these pages then explore the meaning of the rainbow as found in the Bible. While I thought this would head into the story of Noah, it doesn't outside of a quick glance. Instead, it takes a more general view and looks at what the rainbow means from a Christian point of view. It embraces care, love, and the important promise, and encourages readers to remember these things whenever they see one.

The text is short, carries a bit of a poetic flow, and is appropriate for beginning readers, who are fairly sure of their words. The illustrations are bright and colorful, radiating cheerfulness and joy with every page...but then, this atmosphere tends to accompany rainbows. It's a wholesome read with more than a few positive vibes, and doesn't feel overly preachy. 

It makes a nice read not only for those, who want to try reading on their own, but also works well as a read-aloud in a group setting.


More about the publisher...

The Bible Tells Me So has over 36 English books in print with many available in several other languages, including Spanish, Dutch, German, Polish, Ukrainian, and Italian. We are in the process of converting print to ebooks.

We also have over 500 songs and over 200 videos on our website www.TheBibleTellsMeSo.com. Please visit!

Sunday, March 24, 2024

Happy Book Birthday, Closet of Dreams by Mark Ukra and Tara Mesalik MacMahon!

It's happy book birthday time! As usual, I'm a little off...and screaming this one out 2 days in advance...but I do enjoy book releases. This one caught my attention due to the mix of baseball, a closet of dreams, and a boy facing several problems. First, books which take a sport direction seem to often be popular in the middle grade realm, and secondly, I have a sneaking suspicion that this one slides into a magical realism category, which is often fun.

Anyway, let's take a look and see if this one invites to wonderful fantasy or not. 


CLOSET OF DREAMS
by Mark Ukra & Tara Mesalik MacMahon
Illustrated by Donna Dyer
Booklogix
Middle Grade
220 pages
ages 8 to 12


COMING MARCH 26th!!!




Meet a nine-year-old boy named Child who has big dreams-so big, he's actually got a Closet of Dreams in his home! But Child's fears are really big too, and his path is lined with curve balls, especially those spun by class bully, Eddie.

Follow along with Child's adventures as he discovers the secret powers of his Closet of Dreams and of his incredible animal friends from Kids Park-Ele the elephant, Sister Sue the hippo, and Clarence the bear-all under the guiding paw of Hilda the dachshund. You might just be in for a surprise!


GOODREADS   /   AMAZON   /   B&N


MY TIDBITS

Using the playful border between reality and imagination, this is a fun with meaningful moments.

Child has a lot to deal with, especially thanks to a bully at school, who believes he ratted him out to the principal. Child does his best to avoid the boy, which works sometimes better than others. Child does enjoy living with his Gamma, where he helps her take care of retired zoo animals at the park. But it's a simple life, and they only have enough money because Gamma's work allows them to live in a basement for free. To escape everything, Child plays in the closet, where Gamma stores all sorts of wonderful things, including a baseball jersey which reflects his own baseball dreams. 

While this is sold as a middle grade novel, the plot and text ease it into a category, where well-versed chapter book readers will even feel comfortable picking it up. The plot is straight-forward and the vocabulary works well for the lower end of the middle grade audience. Older middle graders might find it a bit too simple. While the two hundred pages might seem daunting for this level, it's a quick, easy read with short chapters, easy sentences, and enjoyable illustrations sprinkled in. The pacing stays steady, as well, and the plot moves right along.

Child is an easy character to identify with. His worries and thoughts steer around a school bully and desire to, maybe, play baseball. He deals with the situations in a wholesome way, but then, also has the wonderful support of his Gamma. The retired circus animals add a lovely twist, especially since some of them still don aspects of their circus costumes. While this part of the tale begins with both feet in reality, it slowly shifts with Child's imagination until the animals take on a more fantastical role. 

When I read this, I couldn't help but remember the movie Field of Dreams, although this book has very little in common with it. Still, the dream of baseball, facing difficult circumstances, and having a fantastical team (in this case, the animals) create a read full of goodness. 

Saturday, March 23, 2024

Keeping Pace by Laurie Morrison

 

KEEPING PACE
If Winning Isn't Everything... Then What Is?
by Laurie Morrison
Amulet Books
Middle Grade Contemporary
304 pages
ages 8 to 12

COMING...
APRIL 9th!!!


Laurie Morrison’s Keeping Pace is a poignant middle-grade novel about friends-turned-rivals training for a half-marathon—and rethinking what it means to win and what they mean to each other.

Grace has been working for years to beat her former friend Jonah Perkins’s GPA so she can be named top scholar of the eighth grade. But when Jonah beats her for the title, it feels like none of Grace’s academic accomplishments have really mattered. They weren’t enough to win—or to impress her dad. And then the wide, empty summer looms. With nothing planned and no more goals or checklists, she doesn’t know what she’s supposed to be working toward.

Eager for something to occupy her days, Grace signs up for a half-marathon race that she and Jonah used to talk about running together. Jonah’s running it, too. Maybe if she can beat Jonah on race day, she’ll feel OK again. But as she begins training with Jonah and checking off a new list of summer goals, she starts to question what—and who—really matters to her. Is winning at all costs really worth it?

Engaging and heartfelt, Keeping Pace is about wanting to win at all costs—and having to learn how to fail.




MY TIDBITS


Grace is determined to beat Jonah and become the top scholar of the eighth grade, but unexpected, tiny incidents throw her out of her groove, and she loses to him. Again. It's an on-going competition between the two, and Grace is determined to beat him at something. When her best friend creates a summer-to-do-list for her, Grace makes sure to add the half-marathon to her list. After all, Jonah is taking part and this might just be her chance to prove she can beat him at something. Despite determination and a solid work-out plan, other things keep popping up to make Grace's life more challenging, including a baby-sitting job for her father's latest girlfriend's son. As she struggles to keep everything going, she's also discovering more about her own desires and emotions...and it might mean that what she's fighting for isn't really what she wants after all. 

The interactions between Grace, her friends, her family, and those around her come across extremely natural, making this an easy story to sink into. The dialogue flows with the finesse of usual conversation and lets the personalities shine through. There are ups and downs, heart-warming moments and clashes. Many of these will come across as familiar to readers and create situations they can sympathize with. Add Grace's determination and good moral compass, and she's a character to identify with and root for.

While Grace's desire to defeat Jonah drives the main plot, it's more like icing on a thicker cake as the subplots weave in more difficult themes. Grace's desire to win isn't simple and might hang more on her parents' divorce a couple years before. Her problems steering between two parents' lives will hit home with many readers, and the toss-in of baby-sitting the girlfriend's child adds a difficult twist, while offering new insights Grace needs. There are also things to be worked out between relatives and friends, but all of this includes wholesome moments and lots of growth. So, there are many great messages packed into this read. And there's a hint of romance, which will delight as well. 

The only weakness I found...and it's more of a personal opinion than a true weakness...is in the message of not being defined by your accomplishments. Grace hears this message over and over again, especially in connection to her grades. It hits strongly and while it is important to realize reaching high goals isn't everything, it almost undermines the idea that it's still important to try and give the effort. But as said, that's just me and it's still a very lovely read.

All in all, I found this to be a wonderful and extremely well done read, and believe it will connect with quite a few readers in a valuable way.