• The Escape Artist: A True Story of Octopus Adventure

    The Escape Artist: A True Story of Octopus Adventure

    written by Thor Hanson, illustrated by Galia Bernstein

    32 pages, 4–8 years; published 2025 by Green Willow Books/Harper Collins

    The Escape Artist is one of those stories kids would enjoy if it were fictional, but they’ll enjoy it all the more when they realize it’s true. What could be better than an octopus escaping from an aquarium! Thor Hanson does a great job describing Inky and his personality while weaving in many octopus facts. Galia Bernstein’s illustrations take things further with expressive eyes and intriguing scenes. Back matter provides details about the real Inky along with several unique octopus facts. Rhyme keeps this story light-hearted and keeps readers rooting for Inky long after he’s gone.

  • “A children’s story that can only be enjoyed by children is not a good children’s story in the slightest.”

    —C.S. LEWIS

  • Magic in a Drop of Water: How Ruth Patrick Taught the World about Water Pollution

    Magic in a Drop of Water: How Ruth Patrick Taught the World about Water Pollution

    written by Julie Winterbottom, illustrated by Susan Reagan

    48 pages, 6–9 years; published 2025 by Rocky Pond Books/Penguin Random House

    Julie Winterbottom nails the opening line of Magic in a Drop of Water: “When Ruth Patrick was five years old, she fell in love with pond scum.” This biography shows how Ruth’s father nurtured her interest in nature and science. She went on to do groundbreaking research that proved the health of a river could be measured by the presence of diatoms (microscopic algae). The watercolor illustrations by Susan Reagan pair beautifully with this topic and contain marvelous details of aquatic life. Ruth Patrick’s fortitude against gender discrimination among scientists will inspire readers of all ages. This picture book highlights the power of persistence in following your dreams.

  • “A word after a word after a word is power.”

    —Margaret Atwood

  • Life After Whale: The Amazing Ecosystem of a Whale Fall

    Life After Whale: The Amazing Ecosystem of a Whale Fall

    written by Lynn Brunelle, illustrated by Jason Chin

    48 pages, 4–8 years; published 2024 by Neal Porter Books/Holiday House Publishing

    Life After Whale: The Amazing Ecosystem of a Whale Fall shares an incredible amount of scientific information. Lynn Burnell expertly weaves facts into a story about a whale’s life that never feels didactic and yet offers the reader so much to learn about a marine ecosystem. Jason Chin’s detailed paintings amplify the beauty of this life cycle and bring clarity to a complex subject. Additional back matter organizes the information for in-depth teaching or deep conversations with inquisitive kids. This book has won several awards and lives up to them all. 

  • “That’s the thing about books. They let you travel without moving your feet.”

    —Ashoke from The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri

  • Jonty Gentoo: The Adventures of a Penguin

    Jonty Gentoo: The Adventures of a Penguin

    written by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler

    40 pages, 4–8 years; published 2024 by Scholastic Press

    Given Donaldson’s reputation for outstanding rhyme, I thought Jonty Gentoo would be a fun read-aloud, and it did not disappoint. This story entertains readers with delightful phrases about Jonty’s journey in search of his true home and also includes many facts about penguins. The bright illustrations from Scheffler add to the enjoyment (plus an image of the Gruffalo!). I love the diversity of both humans and animals in the scenes, and kids will too. Another marvelous picture book from a dynamic duo!

  • “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.”

    —Margaret Fuller

  • Summer is Here

    Summer is Here

    written by Renée Watson, illustrated by Bea Jackson

    40 pages, 3–6 years; published 2024 by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

    Watson writes a lovely ode to summer that speaks of it like a cherished friend. A young girl wakes to a sunny morning seeking all the joys the day can bring. This includes splash time at the pool and a picnic in the park. Jackson’s illustrations pop off the page with bright colors and an infectious warmth. Her dynamic compositions draw the reader in and delight us with their varied vantage points. Summer Is Here welcomes the warm season with open arms and will be a comfort to read later on once she’s past.

  • “We read to know we are not alone.”

    —C.S. Lewis

Categories