A girl and her mother watch a friendship between their pony and a starling grow from season to season–until a snowstorm looms. The girl puts the pony safely in the barn, but the starling stays outside as the weather threatens. This story explores an unlikely friendship across the seasons from afar. The art is absolutely beautiful, elevating the story and transforming it into a cozy, idyllic depiction of rural life with a focus on two animals. There are no names attributed to the characters nor the setting, giving the story a timeless feel. As it is framed by the girl and her mother’s point of view, the central part of the story –the pony and starling’s relationship–can only be viewed from a distance. It is a narrative that invites in readers' interest and empathy into the lives of animals, domesticated and wild, which is valuable in the context of the immense environmental destruction caused by climate change. The Pony and the Starling is a good choice for public library collections.

Zeke is starting at a new school, but one thing plagues his mind–what if someone calls him the N-word? Zeke goes through his day anticipating being called the slur at any moment, just like at his old school. He knows that this is going to be the worst day ever. However, as the day progresses, Zeke realises there is more to life than anticipating the worst. Not only does he make a new friend, but not once is he called the N-word. In response to her grandson asking her the very same question Zeke asks himself, Norma Charles, with the help of her daughter Andrea Charles, wrote this beautifully illustrated book to help address a very big concern that many Black children face when going to school. The authors address this serious topic well and in a way that is developmentally appropriate for young children. A note in the backmatter includes some ways to address bullying and racism for caregivers, teachers, and students. The One and Only Question would be a great addition to any school, public or home library.

The voices of characters Henry and Greta alternate in this historical fiction, bringing readers into their past love story and present-day lives where secrets, regrets (and perhaps love?) are still poignant. The Day I Left You tells the story of Greta’s mysterious departure, set against a political backdrop of the German Democratic Republic before the fall of the Berlin wall. This book would be suited for readers aged 12 and up, though older readers may better appreciate the novel’s complex political themes. The Day I Left You is an excellent read for those who enjoy romance, historical fiction, and complex characters.

Shy Me is the perfect picture book for any child dealing with shyness. Whether it be an “I don’t know how” shy or a “don’t look at me” shy, all children will be able to identify with the young child in this story. All different kinds of “shy” are discussed, along with the message there is nothing wrong with being shy, that children have many other parts to them than their shyness, and a small reminder to try to be brave so they do not miss out on anything. With bright colours and collage-like illustrations, Shy Me would be a good tool to use in social–emotional learning for young children at home or in the classroom and would make a wonderful addition to any children’s library.

Marcel with a Splash is a tender introduction to children with Down Syndrome. From the time he is brought home to making friends at school, we see Marcel through his parents’ lens. We follow him as he hits milestones at his own pace, makes friends as someone who is neurodiverse, and meets someone else with Down Syndrome. Despite his differences, we learn that Marcel is also just like any other baby or child. The illustrations are drawn in pencil crayon with soft strokes. For a picture book that is supposed to celebrate the joys of having a child like Marcel, there is quite a lot of black and grey in the illustrations. Perhaps it is to highlight both the joys and sorrows that come along with having a child who is neurodiverse. However, as it is a book that is marketed to such a young audience, livelier illustrations and colour may have been a better choice. There is also quite a lot of text for young children. Consequently, I would recommend this book more for children aged 5 to 8. Despite its challenges, Marcel with a Splash would serve as a great tool in discussions of diversity and inclusion in the classroom, and would make a good addition to school libraries.

A child goes to the pool with their mother and encounters a world of bellies. Behind every interesting belly is an even more interesting story. Big, small, round, flat, textured, smooth–all types of bodies and people are illustrated in this lovely picture book by Toronto-based author/illustrator Thao Lam. The spirited illustrations are collages created using different coloured and textured paper. The collages really help to emphasize the different colours and textures bodies have. Everybelly would serve well in an SEL (social–emotional learning) unit on inclusivity and body positivity in the classroom. In a world where children are constantly bombarded with societal expectations and unrealistic beauty standards in the media, this book can help young children see that not only is every body beautiful, there is so much more to the people who have these bodies than their appearance. Due to the amount of text, Everybelly would be better suited for children a little older than the recommended age range of 3 to 6 years old–perhaps for children around age 4 or 5. Everybelly would be a fantastic addition to public, school, and home libraries alike.

In this hilarious and heartwarming rom-com, eighth-grader Birdie is determined to make this year unforgettable–she and her best friend Deve are going to rule eighth grade by getting into relationships with popular kids. Two problems: Birdie’s overprotective mom and the fact that Deve is totally against her plan. Birdie thinks her problems are solved when Anansi, a West African trickster god disguised as a new girl, grants her three wishes. The comical fallout from Birdie's wishes has her cursing the day she ever trusted a trickster. Jones' As You Wish expertly blends tween angst and humour, with witty dialogue and an immersive world that is sure to pull young readers in. The novel beautifully explores the nuanced relationship between a daughter and her mother struggling with severe anxiety, the challenges of divorce, and the complexity in developing more-than-friends feelings for a best friend. The bond between  best friends is presented as a heartwarming, supportive, and healthy example of love for young readers.

This is not just another run-of-the-mill pandemic novel. Neal Shusterman (Scythe, Dry) takes us on a page-turning thriller full of fascinating characters and unrelenting plot twists. The action takes place in the not-too-distant future, where the COVID-weary face yet another highly contagious virus–except this virus leaves the survivors with a life-changing sense of well-being. Rumours of the wealthy abandoning their riches and survivors gathering in like-minded communes give pause to the rich and powerful. Three teenagers navigate moral dilemmas while they work to save the world, either by fighting the virus, or embracing it. Told from multiple diverse perspectives, the story will command your attention to the shocking conclusion. Highly recommended for all readers (12 and up).

Words with Wings and Magic Things is a whimsical illustrated poetry collection for young readers. Divided into thematic sections, including “Wonders”, “Whoops & Wallows”, and “Whispers & Well Wishes”, this book contains over 50 poems showcasing the author’s love of language, words and rhyme. Readers can’t help but smile at its combination of silliness and heart. Burgess’ poems are a playful celebration of imagination, being yourself, and making magic out of the mundane. “Things You Can Do”, “Alligator on the A Train”, “The Tiger in My Belly”, “Me in This Tree”, “Flowerful”, and “Voice” are particularly lovely pieces. Salati’s colourful and dynamic illustrations are positively delightful and perfect companions to the text. While not for every reader, this book is an excellent choice for young wordsmiths and poets, especially when read aloud.

Pal and her parents have recently moved to New York City. Her older sister, Naomi, already lives there at an old establishment called the Rehearsal Club, where young women in pursuit of an acting career board. While visiting Naomi one night, Pal stumbles across a box of old Rehearsal Club documents from the 1950s–among them, a picture of Olive and Posy, and a document indicating Posy’s dismissal from the Rehearsal Club. Intrigued, Pal is determined to find out why Posy was dismissed while coming to terms with mistakes she’s made in her own past—and brings with her the friends she's made along the way. Switching between the present and the 1950s, this novel’s straightforward writing and classic mystery structure make it appropriate for children ages 9-12 years old. Themes of forgiveness, sisterhood, and intergenerational friendship are present. There are no illustrations.

The Immortal Woman spans multiple generations, beginning with Lemei, a student Red Guard leader in 1960s Shanghai. As a journalist, she witnesses an act during the Tiananmen Square protests that sparks her determination for her daughter, Lin, to move to America and remove all trace of her Chinese identity. In America (and later Canada), Lin attempts just this, but eventually faces the reality of being a Chinese-born immigrant in North America and what it means to erase her heritage. While character development is at times lacking and the vocabulary choice occasionally jarring, Su Chang paints a complex picture of intergenerational trauma and the meaning of home. This book assumes a certain level of historical knowledge, and contains some violent and sexual content, appropriate for readers 17+. There are no illustrations. A PDF guide with discussion questions is available on the publisher's website.

Constructed in three mini storylines divided by intermission-like sketches, Cranky Chicken is a graphic novel that follows Chicken (who is generally cranky) and their friend Speedy, a worm. The first act depicts the two of them accepting a new family member, Wags, the turtle. The second act shows Chicken attempting to be non-cranky and supporting Speedy through an injury. In the third act, Speedy changes Chicken’s mind about camping. The illustrations propel the storyline and keep to a soft colour palette of purple, red, and yellow, while the dialogue is simple and easy-to-follow. Overall, this is a light-hearted read that humorously addresses themes of found family, familial support, and the ability to change your mind. Suitable for ages 6-9.

Sunny not only lives with her parents and grandparents, but also with her aunts and uncles. Although she has such a big family, she often feels lonely being the only child amongst adults. When a neighbour knocks on her door, Sunny soon lea rns that while it is fun to have other children to play with, being alone also has its advantages. Author/illustrator Katty Maurey does a great job of introducing elements of her Chinese heritage into the story while making the focus an everyday topic any child can relate to in some way. Sunny Wants to Play can be a useful discussion tool for an only child struggling with loneliness. It delves into the struggles of only children in an easy way for them to understand, serving as a reminder that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side—there are perks to being an only child! The simple sentence structure and short text make this beautifully illustrated picture book a good first read for young learners and an excellent addition to any child’s library.

If you are in the process of writing a book or simply curious about the publishing world, Safekeeping is an incredible resource for any writer's toolkit. This non-fiction journal invites readers to prioritize their own essence as writers through self-reflective prompts and practical advice to get their book finished and published. Chelene Knight invites readers to reflect upon important questions that every writer should ask themself before, during, and after the publishing process, and each chapter invites readers to set intentions and affirmations to help them never lose sight of their core values. Prompts include space to write underneath that encourages readers to transform the book into a personalized resource they can revisit throughout their writing journey. As someone interested in publishing a book of my own, I found this to be a wonderful tool because it prompts writers to self-reflect, question every aspect of the writing process, and learn to set boundaries. However, its inclusion in a library might not be ideal due to the blank spaces intended to be filled in by the reader.

Mistaking a rock for food, a seagull bullys the rock, trying to make it doubt its sense of self. Whether the seagull sees it as an ordinary stone or a pebble destined to be washed away, the rock remains unmoved, asserting itself as what it is–a rock. A child playfully approaches and chases the birds away–they see the rock for how truly special it is. This story is written with so much care that each page makes the reader feel what it is like to be criticized and how we can stand firm in who we are despite it. The illustrations of this picture book are vibrant and emanate a childlike wonder, making it suitable for those ages 3 to 6 years old. I believe this would be an excellent addition to any library, especially because its universal message highlights just how important it is to stay true to ourselves while reminding us that those who matter will appreciate us for who we are.

The City of Lost Cats novel centres on Fiona, a 12-year-old who is not happy with her summer camp and runs away, only to discover an abandoned house full of stray cats (and a couple of birds). The story is told in the third person from a variety of perspectives, indicated by chapter headings: Fiona, a demolition worker, three cats and the parakeets (who uniquely speak in verse). While the reader is privy to the thoughts and conversations of the animals, there are no talking animals in Fiona's world. Flyers, emails, and other inserts appear between chapters, add interest, and supply information and foreshadowing. While the main plot is whether Fiona will be able to save the building from demolition, there are enough plot twists and side stories to keep readers' interest to the final resolution. The City of Lost Cats is a satisfying story about community, touches on homelessness (both animal and human), and will appeal to young animal lovers everywhere.

Today is Sunday, and Sundays are for feasts! Excited, Yasmine offers to help her family prepare. Unexpectedly, Yasmine is tasked to help make the hummus, which she has never made before. Daunted by the task given to her, Yasmine worries she will mess it up and that her finicky Ammou Farouk will hate it. She has seen her Baba make it before... perhaps she can recreate it? This adorably illustrated picture book is relatable, as we have all faced tasks that have daunted us at one point in our lives. Seeing Yasmine struggle with uncertainty and self-doubt is something anyone can empathize with. This story could serve as a tool for children who suffer from performance anxiety, as it ends with a message that what matters is that we try our best and not focus on what could go wrong, and that our efforts are recognized, whether we are successful or not. A glossary of terms and a recipe for hummus for all to enjoy are included at the end of the story. Sundays are for Feasts is perfect for any home, school or public children’s library.

River of Spirits is Shana Targosz’s stunning debut novel and the first book in The Underwild series, perfect for fans of Percy Jackson. The story follows Senka, a girl raised between the realms of the living and the dead who dreams of becoming a Ferryer like her mentor and father figure, Charon. But when she breaks sacred Ferryer rules to help a grieving girl named Poppy, the two are swept up into a perilous journey through the Underworld where Senka uncovers long-buried secrets about her past. As Senka navigates the Underworld, she begins to question who she is outside of Charon’s guidance, finding her own agency. Balancing eerie encounters (gods, spirits, and monsters) with hilarious dialogue, River of Spirits explores themes of grief, identity, and the afterlife. The novel’s stream-of-consciousness prose creates an intimate connection between Senka and the reader. With a diverse cast and a richly imagined setting, this thrilling and witty adventure is a must-have for any library or school!

Alice and Mrs. Nobody are friends who love to play games and make mischief, but they usually do what Mrs. Nobody wants. When Alice and Mrs. Nobody disagree about what game to play next, it leads to a fight, and Mrs. Nobody gives her friend the silent treatment. Alice doesn’t want to fight, but she also doesn’t want to do what Mrs. Nobody says all the time! This is a creative story about a girl learning to set boundaries and assert herself. The illustrations are absolutely beautiful, with an array of (stuffed?) animals acting as silent side characters, complete with fantastical outfits and backdrops. There is an added level of visual storytelling when Alice’s clothing changes to mirror Mrs. Nobody’s marvelous fits as she asserts herself and learns to say “no”. The book’s creativity and whimsy give the impression that this story could be taking place in a kid’s imagination. Mrs. Nobody is a good addition to a public library collection.

I Would Give You My Tail is a delightful and heartwarming picture book by famed Inuk throat singer and writer Tanya Tagaq. It tells the story of Kalluk, a young Inuk boy who travels to his grandparents’ camp when his mother is in labour. On his way, he meets many creatures and asks them what makes them happy. Each response teaches him a new lesson and reminds him of all he is grateful for as he journeys back to meet his new little sibling. Tagaq’s story is deeply moving, encouraging both child and adult readers alike to reflect on their relationships with other people, animals, and the environment and to consider what we can offer each other. Manumie’s illustrations are simple, whimsical and imaginative, and perfectly compliment the text. Full of gentle wisdom and an Inuktitut translation and pronunciation guide, I Would Give You My Tail is a truly special book that belongs on every bookshelf.