For the past 30 years, the Mazza Museum has been putting on a Children’s Literature Summer Conference.
In case you are not familiar with the Mazza Museum, it’s the first and largest museum of original art from picture books located on the campus of University of Findlay — a true gem! The conference features children’s book creators who share the behind-the-scenes stories about the work they do. This month’s review showcases some books created by this year’s guest speakers. These books and many more will be available for purchase and autographing during the conference which will be held July 15 - 17. For more information about conference registration, go to www.mazzamuseum.org .
Picture Books
‘Wonder Walkers,’ written and illustrated by Micha Archer. Nancy Paulsen Books. Ages 4-8. $17.99
This Caldecott Honor book about two curious siblings, follows their journey as they explore the world around them. Each page is a feast for the eyes with intricate, collage illustrations depicting various natural settings in glorious detail. As the children navigate wondrous places like caves, beaches, and treetops they ponder big, bold ideas. “Are seashells the shore’s necklace?” “Is dirt the earth’s skin?” These are just some of the fascinating queries posed by the duo that will cause readers to reflect on natural phenomena in novel fashion. A great book to inspire conversation and exploration.
‘Me & Mama,’ written and illustrated by Cozbi A. Cabrera. Denene Millner Books. Ages 4-8. $18.99
A day in the life of a preschool child is delightfully recounted in this beautiful Caldecott Honor book. Through the eyes of a young child, whose mother is the center of her world, familiar activities are seen with a fresh focus. Cabrera captures the admiration radiated by the little girl as she carefully emulates her mother, while still recognizing her individuality. Simple tasks like choosing her favorite cup — which is plastic, not glass like mama’s — brushing her teeth with her petite toothbrush, and putting on kid-size rainboots become folly for her assessment. The vibrant illustrations add a warm aesthetic making this charming story even sweeter.
‘Hello Day,’ written and illustrated by Charlie Mylie. Abrams Books. Ages 4-8. $18.99
A father walks his young son to the library for story time, and wonders if they will ever arrive at their destination as they pause to observe and interact with just about everything in their path. The boy discovers stones to “plink, plunk, plip, plop” down a storm drain, sticks that “clink” on metal poles, and a puddle to “high five” splash. All the while dad cajoles him toward their destination with familiar parental nudges. A rhythmic and rhyming treat for reader and listener with bold illustrations that perfectly portray the playful yet frenetic feel.
‘Secret Tree Fort,’ written and illustrated by Brianne Farley. Candlewick Press. Ages 4-8. $16.99
When sisters are sent outside to play, the younger sister, with an outrageous imagination, feels ignored by her big sister, initiating an epic, attention-seeking tale. She crafts a description of a mind-blowing secret tree fort complete with special compartments for snacks, trapdoors for stargazing, walkie-talkies, and a roof made of candy! Even her big sister can’t deny the magnificence of this colossal concoction, but it doesn’t exist… unless they build it! A terrific story to arouse creativity and teamwork.
‘Ada and the Galaxies,’ written by Alan Lightman and Olga Pastuchiv and illustrated by Susanna Chapman. MIT Kids Press. Ages 4-8. $17.99
A young girl from the big, bright city goes to Maine to visit her grandparents in hopes of finally being able to see the stars in the night sky. Ada and her grandparents fill the day with nature walks — observing woodlands, walking along the beach, and telling time by the rising of the tides, but when the sun goes down, the fog rolls in ruining their view of the stars. Thankfully, Ada’s grandpa has a book full of amazing photos of galaxies in space and she’s transported to a celestial tour with his knowledge as her guide. Once the fog clears, Ada’s research serves her well allowing her to appreciate the stellar scene with new knowledge.
Young Adult
‘Flamer,’ written and illustrated by Mike Curato. Henry Holt. Ages 14-18. $17.99
A fictional graphic novel based on the real-life experiences of the author/illustrator, Mike Curato. Set in 1995 at a summer camp for Boy Scouts, the story’s main character struggles to fit into the mold of what the other scouts consider acceptable. Bullied, tormented, and depressed, the young scout contemplates a way to end his pain. Fortunately, his inner-self fights for life and wins. A digression from Curato’s typical books meant for very young children, this book deals with harsh realities in a tender and compassionate way, serving as a guide for those in need of a stirring, hopeful message.
Most Popular
Comments / 0