Book Review: The Return of the Christmas Witch by Dan Murphy and Aubrey Plaza Illustrated by Julia Iredale

By Kaylie Seed

When I found out that Dan Murphy and Aubrey Plaza were releasing a sequel to The Legend of the Christmas Witch, I knew I needed to get my hands on a copy. I adored the first one with its gorgeously illustrated pages and fun storytelling, so my hopes were high for the second and it did not disappoint.

At the end of The Legend of the Christmas Witch, we are left wondering what is going to happen to Kristtörn as she has been frozen in ice. Centuries later, we finally have the answer. Kristtörn has finally woken up but is realizing that the world she once knew is no longer around. Readers find that the joy and magic of Christmas is gone and left in its wake is a very dull and boring place.

Just as the first, the illustrations in The Return of the Christmas Witch are simply magical and have a great amount of detail. Both younger and older readers will find joy in this story and be enchanted by the stunning pictures that go along with the plot. Iredale’s work is very reminiscent of traditional storybook illustrations that will likely bring nostalgia to older readers as they enjoy this beautifully told story alongside younger readers. While this is a very Christmas-focused book, there really is no wrong time to read this one—it can be enjoyed at any time of the year!

Similar to the end of The Legend of the Christmas Witch, The Return of the Christmas Witch ends by setting up the possibility of a third story in what could become a series. I am definitely looking forward to the idea of there being a third installment. Readers who enjoy Christmas, witches, or just great storytelling, will enjoy The Return of the Christmas Witch.

Thank you, Penguin Random House Canada, for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: The Wolf Suit by Sid Sharp

By Meghan Mazzaferro

The Wolf Suit is a graphic novel that follows Bellwether, an anxious sheep who just wants to live comfortably in his house doing crafts and enjoying his own company. But every once and a while he needs to brave the forest in search of food, and after one too many close calls where Bellwether’s quest for lunch almost winds up with him becoming lunch, he decides he is done living in fear and puts his crafting skills to the test to build himself a wolf suit. Unfortunately for Bellwether, pretending to be a wolf isn’t easy, and he just might run into some real wolves on his travels.

This graphic novel chapter book is suitable for children six and up and is absolutely delightful. The story follows timid Bellwether as he pushes himself to be brave and leave the comforts of home in spite of the potential dangers. The plot takes a fun twist on the sheep versus wolf dynamic, and I enjoyed how Sharp took the time to let the story breathe. Bellwether is fleshed out as a character and each step of his journey feels well explored while still having a quick pace and a simple story to keep young readers entertained. This book would be great to read as a family, but the pages are also well organized, and the words are easy to read if the young reader in your life wants to dive into the story on their own. The book is also divided into short chapters, which means you can read the story as quickly, or slowly, as you want.

On top of the fun and exciting plot, the art style of this book stands out. It is relatively simple and not too cluttered with enough detail to keep the reader visually engaged. I particularly loved the contrast between the indoor and outdoor spaces and enjoyed how the visuals in the story contradict the narrator at times—while Bellwether feels safest inside, the minimalist and dark space seems so empty once the reader is introduced to the vibrance of the rest of the forest. The simple designs also highlight the important plot devices visually—particularly Bellwether’s window—which I loved.

I also found the character designs absolutely wonderful. Bellwether is a delight to look at, and there were several times when I had to pause and admire a particular expression (typically ones where Bellwether is especially stressed out or flustered because they were just too relatable). Likewise, I found the wolf characters both fun and scary to look at. It felt like we were seeing the wolves the way Bellwether would, and I found the claws in particular to be really well done. I appreciated how the art was interesting enough to hold readers of all ages’ attention while still being designed to not be too scary for the target audience. The art does an excellent job of complementing the writing and telling a complete story, and you can’t have one without the other.

Overall, I absolutely loved this book and the story it told. It does a great job of exploring a character type that most readers are familiar with while telling a fresh story in a fun and visually stimulating way, and I really appreciated the book’s overall message. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good graphic novel no matter their age, though I definitely think it would be especially fun to read as a family.

 Thank you to Annick Press for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: Rick the Rock of Room 214 by Julie Falatko Illustrated by Ruth Chan

By Christine McFaul

Rick the Rock of Room 214 is a humorous new picture book by author Julie Falatko and Canadian illustrator Ruth Chan.

For as long as he can remember, Rick the Rock has sat with acorn, moss, and bark on the Nature Finds shelf in Room 214. Room 214 is an exuberantly busy classroom, and Rick can’t help but feel a little jealous of all the exciting things the students get to do. Then the teacher starts a new unit all about rocks—rocks that explode, rocks that hold up the world, and rocks that sit majestically on top of mountains—and Rick gets really jealous.

It seems like outside of the classroom, rocks are spending their days doing all manner of exciting things. While all Rick gets to do is sit in a very boring and decidedly non-majestic manner on the Nature Finds shelf. So, when an opportunity presents itself for Rick to escape, he takes it. He tips off the shelf and into an open backpack and makes up for lost time by doing all the things that rocks in the real world get to do. Except it turns out, in the great outdoors, most of what rocks do is just sit! The other rocks aren’t very friendly, it rains, and Rick soon finds himself in danger—of becoming really, really lonely that is. Suddenly, Rick would give anything to get back to his old shelf. But how can a stationary rock make its way back to Room 214?

Falatko’s writing is simple and humorous. It finds a unique way to explore the universal experience of thinking “the grass is greener on the other side” while also being informative and including fun facts about rocks that are perfectly digestible for the picture book age range.

Chan’s illustrations are colourful and child friendly. Packed with tons of clever details that help to propel the story and amp up the humour. In one spread (my favourite one), Chan even manages to make a field of rocks hilarious.

Rick the Rock of Room 214 is fantastic. The illustrations are smart and expressive. The writing is funny and heartwarming (which, if you follow my reviews, you’ll know is a combination I am completely powerless to resist!). So, of course, I loved this book. Special shout-out for a great cover—bright, uncrowded, and fun, with a mix of textures and a small but charming gold star detail.

This book would make an especially great choice for picture book readers who are experiencing a class environment (so pre-school or J/K+). This way, they can best appreciate the school elements presented in the story. 

Thank you, Simon & Schuster Canada, for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: Iceberg by Claire Saxby and Jess Racklyeft

By Kaylie Seed

Claire Saxby’s Iceberg: A Life in Seasons is an adorable children’s book that takes young readers on an adventure following an iceberg through its life cycle. The iceberg makes its way through the Antarctic seasons, experiencing all of the beautiful things that this mystical land has to offer. Young readers will have the chance to see different wildlife that call the Antarctic home during the different seasons.

Saxby’s prose is poetic and easy to follow. Though recommended for readers 3-6, older readers will also appreciate this non-fiction book as it sheds light on part of the planet that may not be thought of as somewhere to explore. Saxby’s writing is the perfect length for younger readers while also detailed enough to explore what is happening in each scene. Older readers will be able to ask younger readers questions while also discussing what they see.

Illustrator Jess Racklyeft has brought such vibrancy to a land that we often associate with being desolate. Teaming with wildlife, both Saxby and Racklyeft bring so much wonder to the Antarctic, which is bound to keep young readers wanting to learn more about this cold land. There is a flap that opens up near the middle of the book where readers will be able to see a beautifully designed underwater scene. This was one of my favourite things about Iceberg—it was so delightful and easy to pick out the different animals.

On the last page, Saxby has included more information about the polar regions on Earth and what global warming is doing to these ecosystems. Additionally, a glossary is available for some uncommon words so that older readers can talk to younger readers about what these words mean. Overall, I would highly recommend this to any parent who has a young reader interested in animals or ecosystems, or to those who are wanting to expand their knowledge on what the Earth has to offer.

Thank you, Groundwood Books, for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: In The Clouds by Elly MacKay

By Kaylie Seed

When a bored little girl begins using her imagination, she has a bird fly her up into the clouds where she asks questions that young readers may be wondering themselves. In the Clouds by Elly MacKay is a delightful title for ages 5–7 that is intended to get children thinking about the world around them and use their imaginations.

The pages throughout In the Clouds are glossy with soft, muted colours that give a warm feeling to the reader. Each page only has one or two sentences, and most are questions intended to spark a young reader's imagination. While the pages are short, adult readers have the opportunity to ask younger readers the same questions to help build that imagination muscle.

At the end of this adorable book MacKay has added answers to some of the questions that were asked by the young girl throughout In the Clouds. This is such a great way to continue to pique a child’s interest, especially if they have been asking these questions as well. On the last page readers can find an illustration of different clouds so that young readers can learn to identify them on their own.

Thank you to Tundra Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House Canada, for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: All Cats Welcome by Susin Nielsen Illustrated by Vivian Mineker

By Kaylie Seed

Susin Nielsen’s All Cats Welcome is a children’s story that will make readers young and old feel warm and fuzzy. Leonard the cat gets bored when his human has to leave during the day. One day, Leonard notices that there is a cat across the street who looks lonely too. When Leonard meets Mariposa they realize that even though they speak different languages they can still be good friends and go on exciting adventures together.

All Cats Welcome is meant to show young readers that we can meet others who are different from us and still become friends and have fun. This is a great book that teaches empathy, understanding, and acceptance. Nielsen has managed to bring forth these topics through simple sentences for young readers and the story is bound to touch the hearts of older readers as well.

Vivian Mineker’s illustrations are beautiful. Each page is full of colour, filled with Leonard’s adventures and different facial expressions. Older readers can have younger readers point out different emotions that they see throughout All Cats Welcome as well as describe what Leonard and Mariposa are doing. Children’s books don’t pull at my heartstrings often, but this one certainly did. All Cats Welcome is a reminder to accept those around us, be empathetic, and have fun!

Thank you to Simon and Schuster Canada for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: The Language of Flowers by Dena Seiferling

By Kaylie Seed

If you want to tell someone they are your friend, give them a cornflower! Inspired by the Victorian practice known as floriography, where flowers were used to communicate unspoken feelings, The Language of Flowers is an enchanting story about the relationship between flowers and bumblebees. The Language of Flowers is Canadian author Dena Seiferling’s debut picture book and it does not disappoint. Readers young and old will delight in the story of the bumblebee Beatrice, who learns the language of flowers and is able to speak with them. This story highlights how bumblebees are important because they bring pollen to flowers.

The illustrations are lovely. Seiferling gives human-like qualities to both Beatrice and the flowers. The pages are not your typical bright and colourful ones that are normally seen in a children’s picture book and instead are soft and dark, managing to make the reader feel warm as they make their way through this story.

At the end of The Language of Flowers, Seiferling has included drawings of the different flowers found throughout the book along with their names and what they mean. Young readers will have fun identifying these flowers in their own backyards and neighbourhoods. Seiferling has written a story that is both important and magical, mixing the importance of flowers and bees with all the kind things we can say to one another.

Thank you to Tundra Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House Canada, for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: Friends are Friends, Forever by Dane Liu Illustrated by Lynn Scurfield

By Christine McFaul

Friends are Friends Forever, is a new picture book (2021) written by Dane Liu and illustrated by Canadian artist Lynn Scurfield.

It is Lunar New Year’s Eve. Snow is falling. Grown-ups are bustling around the kitchen cooking silky noodles, crunchy vegetables, and batches of dumplings. Young protagonist, Dandan, and her best friend, Yueyue, are busy with their own New Year’s Eve tradition— - cutting snowflakes out of red paper and turning them into glistening frozen ornaments. For Dandan, New Year’s Eve has always been a special night. But this year, it is all the more special because it’s the last one she will celebrate in Northeastern China. The next day Dandan and her family are moving to America. Dandan has many worries about the people and traditions she will have to leave behind when she moves, but Yueyue is especially hard to say goodbye to. Dandan and Yueyue don’t know when, or even if, they will see each other again. But Yueyue reminds Dandan that no matter where they may end up, “friends are friends forever.”

For Dandan, life in America proves to be unfamiliar and lonely…at first. But when she remembers the parting gift that Yueyue gave her— - a stack of red paper to make their frozen snowflake ornaments— - Dandan finally finds a way to connects with a new friend. And though the next Lunar New Year’s Eve is not exactly like the one that came before, it is still special. It has become a hopeful mix of friends and traditions both old and new.

Liu’s writing is incredibly sensory, evoking the tastes, scents, sounds, sights, and feelings of each moment that she describes. The strength of friendship and tradition is a powerful force throughout the story and balances the author’s exploration of the complex and often bittersweet feelings associated with starting over in a new country. Liu also includes in her back -matter a personal note about her own immigration experience, as well as instructions for how to make an ice snowflake just like Dandan’s (my girls loved trying this one out!).

Scurfield’s illustrations are vibrant, soft, and full of energy. Packed with clever details and subtle emotions, she has a knack for pulling out just the right moments to bring to life— - the poignancy of a hug between two friends saying their goodbyes, a glistening ice ornament hanging from a tree, and family crowded around a table to celebrate traditions.

Friends are Friends Forever is a beautiful and hope- filled book. Given the age of the protagonist (though not stated, she appears to be about six or seven years old) and a slightly higher than average word count, I would recommend this book for the older end of the picture book age range.

Thank you to both Chronicle Books and Raincoast Books for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: A Gift for Nana by Lane Smith

By Carly Smith

A Gift for Nana is a sweet, heartwarming tale about a rabbit on the hunt for the perfect gift for his nana. In the book, a young rabbit decides to go on an adventure after a discussion with a crow to find a gift for his nana that’s just right. On his journey, the rabbit comes across a moon, a stickler, a fish, a volcano, and a cave. Each encounter prompts a thought or memory of his nana and helps the rabbit reminisce about his relationship with her. It’s clear that they have a very special connection. Finally, after a long search and much contemplation, the rabbit finds what he thinks is the perfect gift and proudly returns to bring it to his nana.

This beautifully illustrated picture book is a sweet story to read when a little one misses their grandparent, if they have an extra special connection with a grandparent or elderly person, or as a bedtime book when a grandparent is the grownup in charge. Smith, who both authors and illustrates this book, uses a unique style of art to complement the storyline; the pictures are somewhat scratchy, and lines aren’t always clear. This is a refreshing change from children’s book illustrations that are often very clear-cut or cartoony. This captivating and uncommon technique really adds to the adventure element of the plot.

Although the message of the story and the illustrations are attractive, there are components of A Gift for Nana that I revisited several times with the intention of better understanding. Firstly, I found the writing to be choppy at times. When reading it both in my head and aloud to my child, I frequently fumbled at the syntax—it often seemed that words were missing or arranged oddly. Secondly, I think there could have been a more appropriate choice for font, text layout, size, and colour. The text choices seemed somewhat haphazard, and the effort it took to track sentences and read the words detracted from the actual experience of enjoying a picture book.

A Gift for Nana will bring smiles to the faces of those experiencing the book, whether reading or listening. In an academic setting, this book is excellent for helping young students infer and use their imagination. It is a great choice for little ones who have a special connection with someone who may be older than a traditional parent or guardian, such as a grandparent or great grandparent, great aunt or uncle, or elderly neighbour. A touching tale, A Gift for Nana will leave readers’ hearts full and their imaginations fuller.

Thank you to Random House Kids for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: Little Witch Hazel by Phoebe Wahl

By Kaylie Seed

Author and Illustrator of Little Witch Hazel: A Year in the Forest, Phoebe Whal, has created an adorable children’s book about a witch who lives in the forest. Hazel is loved by all the animals who live in the forest and appreciate the helping hand she is always willing to lend. While at first this may seem like a simple story, Whal has incorporated themes such as comfort and intimacy through nature that is bound to teach young readers about the importance of nature through the four seasons while invoking a love for the outdoors.

Split up into four sections, Whal takes the reader through a year in Hazel’s shoes as she makes her way through each season, completing different tasks. From spring to summer to autumn and winter, Whal has illustrated beautiful scenes that will help young readers appreciate nature and the four seasons we experience each year. Each section has Hazel focused on completing a task, and while all the sections are their own smaller story not necessarily impacted by the other sections, the central theme of helping and tending to nature is present throughout. Whal has sectioned this 96-page story into four parts, but it can still be read and enjoyed all at once. Parents will appreciate that there are shorter sentences that Whal has written instead of long paragraphs, and young readers will find joy in the beautiful illustrations as the tale goes on.

It's clear that Whal has a love of nature and wants to share that love with young readers. Parents who are hoping to instil a love of the outdoors will appreciate what this book has to offer. Young readers will enjoy pointing out different animals and seasons as they make their way through this book. Little Witch Hazel can be enjoyed at any point in the year, and while intended for readers aged 4-8, readers of all ages will find something to love in this children’s book that is clearly an ode to nature.

Thank you, Tundra Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House Canada, for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: The Legend of the Christmas Witch by Dan Murphy and Aubrey Plaza Illustrated by Julia Iredale

By Kaylie Seed

When I was researching books to read and review, I came across The Legend of the Christmas Witch and just knew I needed to read it. I have long been fascinated by witches, and with winter being my favourite season, I felt that this would be a children’s book that I would enjoy—I was right.

The Legend of the Christmas Witch tells the tale of Kristtörn and her twin brother Kristoffer who were abandoned in a forest. They each end up leaving with very different adults who ventured into the forest on that fateful day. Kristoffer ends up with a family whose last name is Kringle and thus begins the legend of Santa Claus in the same breath that we see the lesser-known legend of the Christmas Witch. Kristtörn decides to search for her brother after the village figures out that she is a witch, and while on her way to the North Pole, Kristtörn ends up in the South Pole. Kristtörn makes it her mission to find her mysterious brother and reunite after all this time apart.

Dan Murphy and Aubrey Plaza have created a children’s book that is both eclectic and entertaining. The Legend of the Christmas Witch is very different from other children’s books I’ve read, and I mean this in the best way. Intended for children ages 5-8, The Legend of the Christmas Witch is a story that can be enjoyed by all ages. I found this tale to be easy to follow and felt like it flowed nicely. Being that this is a 50-page children’s book, this would be best read as a bedtime story over a couple of nights as there are natural breaks in the story that would offer a cliffhanger for the next evening.

As The Legend of the Christmas Witch takes place in a Scandinavian country, Murphy and Plaza have done an excellent job incorporating both real life and legend from this part of the world. While the name implies that this should be read at Christmas time, The Legend of the Christmas Witch is a story that can be read and enjoyed at any point in the year.

Julia Iredale’s illustrations are gorgeous and really help tell this story of long lost twins. The pages are thick and glossy, making them easy to turn and beautiful to look at. Iredale has taken great care to include details that older readers will appreciate while maintaining a look that younger readers will find fun to look at while being read to.

All in all, I recommend The Legend of the Christmas Witch to anyone who appreciates Christmas, witches, or just a good old fashioned legend. Easily a book that you can read more than once, The Legend of the Christmas Witch is bound to invoke a love for this lesser-known tale.

Thank you, Viking Publishing, an imprint of Penguin Random House, for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: Out Into the Big Wide Lake by Paul Harbridge and Josée Bisaillon

By Kaylie Seed

Paul Harbridge wanted to write a children’s story that focused on bravery, confidence, independence, and empowerment for young children. Out Into the Big Wide Lake does just that. Based on Paul’s real-life sister, the main character Kate has Down syndrome but that does not stop her from being the independent, feisty, smart, and lovable character that she is. In fact, you would only know that Kate has Down syndrome from reading the synopsis for Out Into the Big Wide Lake and I believe that this was done intentionally. Kate is more than her Down syndrome and it clearly shows as this story progresses.

In the beginning we see Kate going to stay with her grandparents for the summer, where she helps her grandpa out by going on grocery runs for people who live on the lake. Kate is nervous about getting to help but quickly takes on the challenge. With the lovable dog Parbuckle by her side, Kate learns she can do anything she puts her mind to. When Kate’s grandpa gets sick one day, it’s up to Kate to do the deliveries all on her own, and she does it with ease. Harbridge never mentions to the reader that Kate has Down syndrome because that is only a small part of who she is; it is not meant to be focused on. Instead, the reader sees a brave, smart, and determined young girl willing to take on new challenges, something that young readers will admire.

The pages in Out Into the Big Wide Lake are thick, glossy, and colourful, which helps enhance the reading experience. Bisaillon captures Harbridge’s words in beautiful illustrations that are bound to draw young readers in to the story. I would say that this is a great story to read to children ages 5–7 who are learning what it means to be independent and brave.

Thank you to Penguin Random House for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review!

Book Review: Forest Magic by Sarah Grindler

By Christine McFaul

Forest Magic is a delightful nonfiction nature guide for little explorers (ages 4-8), words and illustrations by Canadian creator Sarah Grindler. On a personal note, this book landed within my four-year-old’s most requested books this past summer, and in my opinion, there is no higher compliment than the child requested repeat-read!

Grindler’s guide opens with a question: “What do you notice when you are walking in the forest?” To answer this question, it prompts readers to take note of the sights, smells, sounds, and feel of the natural world around them. The pages that follow are informative, interactive, and even whimsical in places, showcasing all manner of flora and fauna commonly encountered in North American forests. Each new page offers a compelling mix of facts, musings, explanations, and beautiful new vocabulary. It won’t be long before readers are able to identify a nurse log, turkey tail mushrooms, lungwort lichen, and maybe even a pixie (…pixie cup moss, that is!).

But the narrative is not all facts, being scattered throughout with open-ended questions sure to spark imagination and further discussion. Questions like, “If you planted a sapling today, would it grow faster than you?” and “Which wildflower is your favourite?” As a parent, I very much appreciated two pragmatic spreads that Grindler chose to include near the end. These spreads outline “things that are safe to touch” and “things that are not safe to touch” while exploring in the woods, reminding us to take into account not only the safety of ourselves but also the wildlife we encounter. Grindler also includes brightly coloured illustrations of each item she lists, making it easy for even the youngest audience to identify what can and cannot safely be touched. 

And on the topic of illustrations, Grindler’s pictures are lovely and bring this guide to life. Her palette showcases the many shades of nature, with a predominant theme of soft greens and browns. Grindler plays with light to advantage, often having it stream through her illustrations, invoking the lush peace of quiet forest glens. She also includes detailed closeups of leaves, flowers, animals, and insects. My favourite of these pages is one full of mushrooms, a highly underrated vegetation, and as Grindler’s art so perfectly proves, can be as varied, fascinating, and beautiful as any wildflower.

Forest Magic is the perfect introductory guidebook for young explorers, managing to impart its wisdom without sacrificing the imagination; to teach while never feeling boring or didactic. Reading this book truly feels like taking a walk in the woods with a fellow nature lover. I highly recommend this book and have already put a library hold on Grindler’s first book, Seaside Treasures (2019). 

Thank you, Nimbus Publishing Ltd., for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: The Secret Fawn by Kallie George and Elly MacKay

By Christine McFaul

The Secret Fawn is a quiet picture book by Canadian children’s book creators Kallie George and Elly MacKay.

The story begins with a missed moment when the protagonist, who is young (appears to be about four) and therefore slower to dress than the rest of her family, isn’t with them when they spot a deer. The disappointment of which is sure to be understood and felt in the hearts of all young readers. 

“This morning, Mama saw a deer. Dad and Sara saw it too.” 

This moment is closely followed by a poignant montage of other experiences the protagonist has missed because she was either too young or too small to fully participate. So, she heads out with a sugar cube, determined to find the deer on her own. The story then leads the reader on a soft and simple forest adventure. In the end, it isn’t the deer the protagonist finds, but something even more special.

“A fawn. A baby deer. Golden and soft like the sunlight.” 

There is a moment of recognition that the fawn is “little like me” before both young ones head back to their mamas. The writing is gentle, spare, and beautifully brought to life by MacKay’s illustrations.

For anyone unfamiliar with MacKay’s work, it is incredible, and I urge you to check it out Butterfly Park and Red Sky at Night, which are two of my personal favourites. Created using paper, ink, light and camera, the result is reminiscent of vintage puppet theatres and a standout in the current picture book market. In The Secret Fawn, MacKay pairs her signature illustration techniques with a dreamy dawn palette; buttery yellows, golds, pastel pinks, and forest greens. The resulting images are light-filled and ethereal. For me, they are the star of this book. 

The Secret Fawn is a lovely bedtime read, perfect for easing little ones to sleep. I think it is particularly suited to readers on the youngest end of the picture book age range. 

Thank you, Penguin Random House, for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: I Lost My Talk written by Rita Joe and illustrated by Pauline Young

By Kaylie Seed

Content warning: residential schools

Rita Joe’s I Lost My Talk is a simple yet powerful children’s book about the children who were forcibly taken from their families and sent to residential schools in Canada between 1870–1996. These children lost who they were—their culture, their words, their families, their way of life—and were forced to assimilate to the ways of the Catholic Church. I Lost My Talk is a fantastic book for parents to introduce their children to what the residential schools did in the most basic of descriptions.

Joe uses little words throughout I Lost My Talk, yet they are extremely powerful, as she is able to describe what was taken from her without using much detail. Joe also brings up how she just wanted to use her words to share everything about herself, something that was forbidden for Indigenous children to do while in residential schools. Books like I Lost My Talk are a great place to start for parents who are trying to teach their young children about the horrors that happened at the residential schools.

I encourage and urge fellow settlers like myself to continue to educate not only yourself but the children in your life about residential schools and the devastating impact it has had on countless generations within various Indigenous communities.

*I am not an #OwnVoices reviewer and I encourage you to seek out #OwnVoices reviewers for this title.

*Thank you to Nimbus Publishing for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: What the Kite Saw by Anne Laurel Carter and Akin Duzakin

By Ashliegh Gehl

What is more freeing than a kite floating high in the sky, teetering on the wind, gazing upon the world with an envious bird’s-eye view? It’s a feeling Anne Laurel Carter’s words and Akin Duzakin’s pictures evoke in What the Kite Saw, a 32-page picture book published by Groundwood Books.

War is often filled with loss, uncertainty, and unknowns. It’s a challenging, emotionally charged concept difficult to convey so clearly in picture books—and yet here we have a work of art navigating the middle ground with a fleet of kites taking flight. It’s the perfect position from which to invite young readers, ages four to eight, into a fiction that is tethered so tightly to reality. A fiction illuminated by the power of imagination during a time of great distress.

It’s also a shared reality because war is war, regardless of where it surfaces. The heartbreak of loss paired with fear slithers in the storyline’s darkest shadows only to be thwarted by a lantern of hope.  

What the Kite Saw was inspired by Palestinian children. It’s very timely and relevant given the resurgence of unfortunate conflict in Gaza. In this narrative, Carter centres the story around a young boy’s point of view. From the first spread, with the streaks of red stratus-like clouds marching with the soldiers in the streets, the story is instantly in motion. You feel the isolation associated with occupation and the devastation imposed on the little boy and his family as his father and brother are taken away. Duzakin’s use of colour in bleak, unbearable moments tells a visual story of separation and what may have transpired.  

It’s through the lifting of curfews—small breaths of air—that the story softly lightens and shows children coming together. It’s a space for the boy to mobilize his friends, to inspire them to create make-shift kites. Shaped like stars and strewn from rooftops, the kites can see the world in ways the boy and his friends cannot. It sees the city, in all of its entirety, and can find the place where the boy’s father and brother have gone. While the small joy of kite flying is but a flicker, quickly deflated by gunfire, it is through the release of a kite, one which escapes and lifts off toward the stars, that the child can see, if only in his mind, his father and brother again. 

When reading this book, read it three times. First, the words and pictures. Second, just the words to absorb the precision of Carter’s pacing and then revisit it a third time by only reading the art. There’s a story in each spread which not only complements Carter’s words but deepens the reader’s understanding of the child’s delicate perspective in ways that will strongly resonate with visual learners. Every movement in Duzakin’s art is a strategic decision to further communicate the story, unlocking another layer of emotion and truly taking this story to another level. As much as it is a story of war and loss, it upholds what we know to be true. Imagination prevails in the darkest of hours and builds just enough resiliency to carry us through to a brighter tomorrow.

Book Review: Malaika's Surprise by Nadia L. Hohn

by Ashliegh Gehl

Nadia L. Hohn builds on her children’s literature legacy with Malaika’s Surprise, her third picture book published by Groundwood Books. 

Hohn, a Toronto-based writer, educator, musician and artist, threads the breadth of her expertise through this memorable series to present a heartwarming narrative enriched by Irene Luxbacher’s stunning illustrations. It’s fair to say that Hohn and Luxbacher are a dream team making culturally-rich picture book magic that will stand the test of time.

If you’re new to Malaika’s world, prepare to be enveloped in the warmth of her strong, beautiful voice which is a blend of standard English and Caribbean patois. Malaika was born in the Caribbean, her mother is Afro-Caribbean, and her step-father and step-sister are White French-Canadians. The series’ linguistic stylings embody a diverse community wrapped in inclusivity. The glossary of Caribbean, French and Arabic terms in the frontmatter give a sneak peek to the book’s vibrancy.

What’s great about this series, is that Malaika’s Costume, Malaika’s Winter Carnival and Malaika’s Surprisehave the strength to stand on their own as independent reads. However, when read together, they soar even higher, reaching new heights as Malaika changes and develops. Children and adults alike can believe in Malaika, and empathize with her challenges and understand her worries. 

In Malaika’s Surprise, Hohn strategically builds on the robust foundation of her storyline while preserving Malaika’s observant, curious and caring nature. When Malaika spies a new neighbour, she instantly translates it into the possibility of making a new friend. A friend who speaks Arabic and, much like Malaika, is new to Canada. Within the beauty of differences are the roots of similarities. Through their gestures and interactions is a friendship taking shape. One which the reader hopes to see more of, possibly in future books, as this budding relationship flourishes and blossoms. 

The heart of this series is tethered to family and in Malaika’s Surprise surfaces thoughts about purpose and place. When Malaika learns that she’s about to be a big sister to Émile, her forthcoming baby brother, she wonders how her family will change, and how it will alter the relationship she has with her mother. The idea of a new baby fills Malaika with curiosity, but also with hesitation, worry and doubt. 

Hohn’s writing is deep and immersive. The reader doesn’t think of the writer, but hears and feels Malaika as she navigates her circumstances and the emotions they summon. Only when the book ends, and Malaika is left between the pages, does Hohn’s mastery of the craft command a standing ovation. 

Book Review: Skunk and Badger by Amy Timberlake, pictures by Jon Klassen

By Christine McFaul

A roommate? Not possible! Yet, here is Skunk, knocking persistently on Badger’s door and insisting they are meant to be housemates. Despite Badger’s best efforts to stop the inevitable, Skunk and his dilapidated red suitcase manage to charm their way across the threshold of Aunt Lula’s brownstone…and a classic odd couple is born.

Skunk is lively. He bounces. He skips. He whistles tunes and clangs pans. He refuses to stay put in Special Guest Closets or to respect the boundaries of private Rock Rooms. How can Badger, a serious geologist, be expected to complete Important Rock Work under such conditions?  

The main plot contemplates this dilemma while subplots provide beautiful moments along the winding journey to friendship. The subplots, at turns silly (such as the saga of “rocket potato”  complete with theme song, or the mysterious exploits generated by the silent music from Skunk’s chicken-whistle) and at turns profound (such as a “hope-filled” debate over Shakespeare’s Henry V, or a subtle contemplation of the effects of abiding loneliness) create erudite layers within a deceptively simple story of friendship.  

When the reader, along with Skunk and Badger, have made their way through a grand adventure, a spray gone wrong, and more chickens than one would expect to encounter in such a tale, they will, undoubtedly, realize that despite significant differences (or perhaps because of them), great friendships are indeed possible.

With shades of Arnold Lobel’s Frog and Toad and Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows, Timberlake’s Skunk and Badger has the feel of a throwback. The plot creeps up slow and subtle, the humour is dry as toast, and the story proves Timberlake a master of language. Klassen’s line drawings are perfectly paired, complementing the classic feel of the text and bringing the warmth and humour of these quirky characters to life.

Certain to delight readers of any age, Skunk and Badger is a great option for a chapter-by-chapter read aloud. It would also be an excellent choice for confident readers in the recommended 7–10 year-old age category. 

Bonus: An audiobook version of Skunk and Badger is also available and generating buzz for being particularly well done!

Book Review: Crazy Cat by Marta Pona

By Ashliegh Gehl

Marta Pona tapped into her daughter’s love of furry animals and her son’s weekly karate classes for inspiration for Crazy Cat, her debut picture book published by FriesenPress in 2019. 

“His black-belt test was the most excruciating, endurance-testing 3-hour experience of his life at the time, and heart-wrenching for me to watch! Oh, but a character-building event,” writes Pona, on her Goodreads profile, about her son’s experience. 

In this 24-page read, Pona focuses on a dashing feline’s not-so-cat-like characteristics. Bike riding? Crazy Cat does that. A master at karate? Crazy Cat is a master among cat masters. Dogs that are new to the neighbourhood quickly learn that Crazy Cat can’t be pounced on when she lazily relaxes in the sun. Crazy Cat is a fighter and stands up for herself. She’s not afraid to unleash those sharp claws and take a swipe. 

The warm illustrations aptly depict Crazy Cat as she is – free spirited, adventurous, fearless (puddles and sharks aside), and confident.   

By focusing on what makes Crazy Cat different, Marta invites the reader to self-reflect and acknowledge their own unique differences. It’s a base for self-discovery and self-appreciation. At the back of the book there are prompts which position the reader to go beyond the page and think about animal behaviour. The normal and the not-so-normal (we all know a Crazy Cat), and how our differences are often our strengths. 

Pona is a certified Ontario educator who has taught students from Kindergarten to Grade 8. She lives with her family in West Lincoln, Ontario, and is currently working on her second book, The Lonely Lion. Take a mouse-hunting cue from Crazy Cat, and be on the lookout for Pona’s next story.