Media Mix
Imagine a WOLF, What Do You See?
Written and illustrated by Lucky Platt
“Close your eyes and imagine a wolf. Do you have a picture of a wolf in your mind? OK, you can open your eyes. Am I what you imagined? SIGH ... I didn’t think so,” begins one wolf’s sad story.
This wolf doesn’t look or behave like other wolves. She wears an apron with open-toed espadrilles and likes to knit. Not exactly the image of a wolf portrayed to children in other books. Like wolves who show their big, bad teeth all pointy and glistening white, which are all the better to eat children with!
Therein lies the beautiful message behind this debut picture book. Things aren’t always as they seem, and even though we may have preconceived expectations of someone, it’s always better to look past the surface and keep an open mind.
Speak Up
Written by Miranda Paul, illustrated by Ebony Glenn
This important picture book encourages children to use their voice in many different situations during a typical school day. Situations like correcting a teacher who mispronounces their name, squelching a hurtful rumor or speaking up when noticing someone is lonely. These examples empower children to stand up and make a difference using their voice, a sign or a smile.
The Author’s Note in the back of the book tells the story of real kids who spoke up. Malala Yousafzai’s story is told, as is Thurgood Marshall’s. The author also shares a list of ways children can speak up and examples of when it is an appropriate time to speak up (someone may get hurt) and when it is not appropriate (the situation is harmless).
The illustrations are vibrant and celebrate diversity.
An important conversation starter for talking with children about their “voice.”
And Then Comes Summer
Written by Tom Brenner, illustrated by Jaime Kim
“When the days stretch out like a slow yawn, and leaves and grasses sparkle with dew, and the cheerful faces of Johnny-Jump-Ups jump up … Then throw on flip-flops and breathe the sweet air,” begins the melodic tribute to childhood’s favorite season.
School is out, and cubbies have been swept clean of cookie crumbs and eraser bits. Extra daylight pushes bedtime back, and children play hide-and-seek until dark! It’s time to enjoy all the trappings summer has to offer.
From lemonade stands and ice cream trucks to Fourth of July bicycle parades and trips to the lake, sweet summer traditions are highlighted and celebrated.
Jaime Kim’s illustrations are colorful and fun and will leave readers pining for the lazy, warm days of summer.
Other books by Tom Brenner include And Then Comes Halloween and And Then Comes Christmas.
Sandy Foster lives in Grain Valley and is a Bookstagrammer (@picturebookapotamus), freelance writer and mother of two. You can find children's book reviews and resources at HappyBeingMom.com.