Little girl Fern senses that her grandma, Nanna, is not like she used to be. There’s no longer a sparkle in her eye, nor the warm smile on her face. Nanna needs more joy, and little Fern is determined to find it for her. Little Fern takes all of her best tools, and off she goes, searching for joy to share with her grandma. But little Fern doesn’t know what joy looks like, or where to find it. Have you ever seen joy before? Do you know all the secret places to look? And if Little Fern finds the joy that her grandma needs, will she be able to share it with her Nanna?
As you read this delightful tale, you will discover how Fern solved her dilemma of how to put more joy in her Nanna’s life.
Book reviewed by Darice C., Youth Services Assistant
The author of Raindrops Roll and Best in Snow has come out with another celebration of nature and its wonders. This book is full of stunning photographs and rich descriptive words. The back matter gives information on how to turn your “thank you” into actions—skipping straws, for example. Sayre also gives location and species detail for all of the photographs, in case you’re wondering WHAT or WHERE some of the amazing pictures are. Thank You, Earth is biology, ecology, math, and life lessons wrapped in a gorgeous package.
Book reviewed by Erin E., Youth Services Programming Coordinator
Levi is tired of being told what he can’t do, of having his mother and brother always hovering and worrying about him. He was born prematurely, and still has some health issues, but that doesn’t mean that he wants to be treated like a baby. His dad encourages him to try a new sport, and he discovers boxing. It turns out he LOVES it, but he can’t tell his mom or brother or they will freak out. This story is a novel in verse, or written in poetry, which makes it a fast read. Levi is a funny guy, who has found that if he clowns around, he will get people laughing with him, instead of at him. I enjoyed the concrete poetry, where the poem takes the shape of something, and Levi’s funny and determined attitude. Pick this book up if you are looking for a fun and fast read about sports, friends, and family.
Book reviewed by Claire B., Youth Outreach Librarian
Lena’s Shoes are Nervous, by Keith Calabrese, is a witty story about a young gal on her first day of kindergarten. Although she is anticipating a fun day, her little school shoes don’t want to go. What can she do? Well, she decides to consult her dad, and between the two of them, and some serious contemplating, they together come up with a creative solution. A must read.
Book reviewed by Darice C., Youth Services Assistant
This book begins with Omu (AH-moo) in her top floor apartment cooking a thick red stew in a big fat pot for her nice evening meal. Just before she sits down to eat it, there’s a knock at the door. It’s a little boy asking about the delicious smell. What do you think Omu does? Of course she shares her stew! But then, the smell drifts further, and another person comes knocking! And another, and another. Will there be enough stew for everyone? The warm colors on the pages match the warm & fuzzy feelings you’ll get from this sweet book about food, comfort, and community.
Book reviewed by Erin E., Youth Services Programming Coordinator
Little girl Fern senses that her grandma, Nanna, is not like she used to be. There’s no longer a sparkle in her eye, nor the warm smile on her face. Nanna needs more joy, and little Fern is determined to find it for her. Little Fern takes all of her best tools, and off she goes, searching for joy to share with her grandma. But little Fern doesn’t know what joy looks like, or where to find it. Have you ever seen joy before? Do you know all the secret places to look? And if Little Fern finds the joy that her grandma needs, will she be able to share it with her Nanna?
