(Photo by Rawley with permission of the author; use with permission only, please)

Good morning, friends and readers! Have fun reading the reviews (mostly kid and young adult books), leave a comment if you’d like, and please follow me on:

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Bon appetit and have a lovely day.

WM

Proposal Rock/Neskowin, Oregon; photo by Rawley/use with permission only, please

Hello, dear ones, I’m taking the rest of the month off from writing, but I found a load of review books, plus another stack of good titles from the Little Free Libraries I’ve hit lately. OK, maybe I’ll write another post or two soon, but I’d like to just read for a change, ha.

The bookshelves, nightstand, coffee table and yes, dining room table where I work, are all overflowing. I don’t make any cash from my book reviews, but it’s pretty nice to have more books than I can possibly read from now until the end of my days. I must say. Plus? Lots of copies to leave in Little Free Libraries and donation centers, gift to friends, and keep. So here you go, in order of little kid to big kid:

A charming new picture book from author Bruce Littlefield will be out July 7, aimed at ages 3 and up. It’s called “Everything You Need to Know About Life You Can Learn from a Dog,” and truer words have never been spoken. Maribel Lechuga did a stellar job on the playful (of course they’re playful), happy and colorful illustrations. (Nancy Paulsen Books/Penguin Young Readers. $18.99.)

“The Chismosas Only Book Club” is a delightful new novel all about four friends (Cat, Sofia, Ana and Mari), an amazing book store called Milagro’s Books, and a little magic. (G.P. Putnam’s Sons/Penguin Random House, 2026, ages 10 and up, $9.99.) Perfect for a summer book club for the neighborhood kids.

Just starting an advance copy of “Legally Yours, Violet Lopez,” by Elba Luz (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers; skedded for release Oct. 20, 2026; ages 12 and up). It’s a young adult novel being described as “a beloved screwball comedy with modern flair.” Sweet and hilarious. I love all the new fiction that’s been coming our way lately. Fun.

Reading Barbara Kingsolver’s “Prodigal Summer” still, again. (Perennial/HarperCollins, 2000, 444 pages.) (I love the flyleaves on this one… pretty butterflies.) I fall asleep now when I’m reading grown-up novels, no offense to any of the authors I read. But I will keep at it, y’all. It’s a fine book. I’ve liked Kingsolver since I read “The Bean Trees” in college. Another great novel. I used to be able to stay awake for books when I was younger, but now? Reading is a little too relaxing sometimes. Lol spells LOLL. There’s a lot I enjoy about the whole “aging process,” but randomly getting sleepy? Not on my list.

Daniel James Brown’s “The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics” is one I picked up at a LFL. There is an audiobook as well as a young readers’ adaptation, too. (Penguin Books, 2013, 403 pages.) I’ve heard this one is good and am looking forward to reading it.

We have another World War II-themed book in “The Spider Strikes.” This is the third title in Michael P. Spradlin’s “Web of the Spider” series, historical fiction set in pre-war settings. Really strong series, I think readers will find it engaging. This title (the final one in the series) is set in Salzburg, Austria, where Joshua and his family, along with a couple of Joshua’s friends, are vacationing for the summer. Members of the Hitler Youth darken the mood and bring conflict. (Margaret K. McElderry Books, 2026, all ages, 136 pages, $17.99.)

“City Spies: Europa” is the seventh book in the James Ponti series (Aladdin/Simon & Schuster, 2026, all ages, 378 pages, $18.99). The little wild spies are racing around again, this time all over Europe to keep their enemy Umbra from doing more harm. Popular series and who doesn’t love a good caper?

Last but not least, a sugar cookie recipe I improvised from Betty Crocker’s Cooky Book (General Mills, 1963 — one year older than moi — 156 pages). This classic has lived in my kitchen for my entire life, dog eared and stained, now with xeroxed pages stuffed into the front. Great book, highly recommend, and here’s what I’m baking for myself instead of a cake:

Nancy’s Best Birthday Frosted Sugar Cookies

1 1/2 cups powdered *or* granulated sugar

1 cup softened butter

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon almond or orange extract

2 1/2 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

Cream butter together with sugar, add eggs, vanilla, and almond (or orange) extract, mix. Sprinkle in the soda, mix again. Add flour, half a cup at a time. Chill to make cut-out cookies, or drop by teaspoonfuls if you can’t wait. Bake at 350 degrees, don’t overbake. Let cool, then frost with vanilla or chocolate frosting and yes, sprinkles. xoxoxo Bon appetit WM

Photo by Rawley/use with permission only, please

Hi readers, I have a few questions for you. Where and when do you read? Does it help you get to sleep? Does it help you wake up? Does it scare you sometimes?

Can you read by the pool? Or in the tub? What if the book gets splashed and all the ink runs? Leave a note if you’d like, answer a question if you feel like it, or just say hey. Here are a few new titles I found that I think you will enjoy this summer.

1) “Becca and Bubbe’s Bucket List” is a new sweet treat of a picture book from author Laura Gehl (who has written several of my favorite books, including “I Got a Chicken for My Birthday” (a work of genius and humor) and illustrator Sarah Lynn Baker. (Rocky Pond Books/Penguin Random House, 2026, all ages, $18.99.) I love the way the author includes Yiddish and Hebrew words, and a glossary, and yes, mishegas (MISH-eh-GAHS, silliness) is my new, best word. A granddaughter and her bubbe (BUH-bee, grandma) decide to spend their summer on their creative and personalized bucket list, which includes eating something called a “Trash Can Sundae.” This book is special and is my Wacky Mommy Pick of the Week.

2) Author/artist Alex Willan continues with his whimsical “Worst” series with his latest, “Monsters are the Worst!” Gilbert the Goblin returns, with his bud, Chicken (they’re going camping! It’s summertime). Add bright, original and fun art, a kooky story and lots of intrigue… success. (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers; pre-order now, scheduled for a July 14, 2026, release; all ages; $19.99.)

3) And now for some fun fiction for teens: “The Last Best Quest Ever,” by F.T. Lukens in a book that is being described as a “cozy, subversive YA romantasy.” I’ve read the first few chapters, it’s hooked me, and I concur. Romance + fantasy = romantasy, indeed. Meet 17-year-old Ellinore, whose accomplishments are impressive, but who may be hiding some secrets; her wild twin bro, Zig; Aven, Ellinore’s arch-rival; and a supporting cast who also bring the drama and adventure. Whimsical and engaging summer read. (Margaret K. McElderry Books/Simon & Schuster, 2026, grades 9+, 314 pages, $19.99.)

4) Reading… more for ages 8 and up: An advance copy of “The Underwild: Relic of Thieves,” by Shana Targosz. This one was released March 24 of this year, but I’m sorry to say that I missed the publication. Enjoying the advance copy very much, though. It’s awfully good (this is Book Two of the series). Fantasy/adventure with our hero, Anya, a girl grieving because her best friend, Lizzie, has moved out of town. Intrigued, she follows a girl she doesn’t know, who appears to head into the home of the “town witch.” Then things get even more complicated. Great story, and writing that pulls you in and won’t let go. (Sort of like the Underwild does.) (No spoilers.) (Aladdin/Simon & Schuster, 2026, reads like teen fiction, but younger kids reading at higher levels will enjoy.)

5) Last but not least: Also reading (well, it’s kind of scaring me, y’all, but I’m trying!) Neal Shusterman’s “MindWorks: An Uncanny Compendium of Short Fiction” (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2025, ages 12 and up, 592 pages, $29.99 hardcover, $19.99 paperback). Cool collection of Shusterman’s published short fiction, including two pieces set in the world of the author’s classic, “Arc of a Scythe.” Scary, creepy, terrifying, the kids will love it.

Enjoy, read a lot, play and have fun. Bon appetit! Oh, and a disclaimer.

WM

Photo by family/use with permission only please

Hello there, dear readers. How about some summer books? Something to gaze at other than your phones, the television, the tablets and the laptops… yes? Yes. Let’s go.

“Milton Makes a Move” is a sweet new book (which is, I’m happy to say, an autobiographical picture book) about a brave lil pug named Milton, and his adventurous new friend, Jonathan. I love A Boy and His Dog books almost as much as I love A Girl and Her Dog Books. Big, happy sigh, y’all. My blonde dog, aka my BFF, will be very happy when I share this book with her. It has all the feels, a great story, and really nice illustrations. (Author: Jonathan Graziano, whose other books include “Noodle and the No Bones Day.” Illustrator: Dan Tavis, who illustrated the Noodle books and “Common Critters: The Wildlife in Your Neighborhood.” Margaret K. McElderry Books; scheduled for release Aug. 4, 2026; 32 pages; all ages, share the love; $19.99.)

Here is a cool new series from author Matthew J. Gilbert: “The New Norm (Book 1)” and “The New Norm: Pranks and Prejudice (Book 2)” (Simon Spotlight/Simon & Schuster, 2026, ages 8-12, $7.99 apiece). Alexander (Norm) Norman is a regular kid, a student at Meadowview Middle School. In Book 1, his dad makes a video… of Norm. Being goofy at the dentist’s office. And when the reel goes viral? Well, that’s a surprise. In Book 2, a few innocent sticky notes turn into first a mess, then a bigger mess? Great chapter books that the kids will enjoy, and Norm is a relatable character. Well-written and fun.

“The Shark Prince,” a fantasy novel for the same age group (8 and older) is an engaging novel from author Malia Maunakea. A Hawaiian boy, Nohea, is half-human, half-shark. Wait. What? How is this going to mesh with his love of surfing? What will happen if his secret gets out? We shall see, readers, we shall see. Skillfully written and lively, and a fun way to learn about Hawaiian culture and other topics. Good read. (Penguin Workshop/Penguin Young Readers, 2026, 366 pages, $18.99.)

The Muslim Mavericks series, spotlighting in chapter books important and inspiring Muslim people, kicks off with “Maysoon Zayid, the Girl Who Can Can.” (Author: Dr. Seema Yasmin. Illustrator: Noha Habaieb. Salaam Reads, for ages 6 and up, 72 pages, $17.99). Zayid’s name may be new to some of us, but she is a well-regarded (and funny) actress and comedian from Palestine. She also has cerebral palsy. The book introduces us to this amazing person and talks about all aspects of her life. Unusual, uplifting, and a really different story. Will be glad to see this series on the shelves. This title is my Wacky Mommy Pick of the Week.

More soon, stay out of trouble and have a great summer! Bon appetit. Oh, and a disclaimer.

WM

Photo by Nancy Ellen Row Rawley/use with permission only, please

Hello, dear readers. Fast and furious here with a little round-up of everything that’s on my coffee table this week, aka all of the books I’ve started/finished/or am trying to finish in between phone calls, taking care of the dog/cats/chickens/house/appointments/work. (Priorities!)

Busy woman here, but lately (especially lately) reading needs to take precedence. Yes? Yes.

Disclaimer. Love you. Bon appetit and bye! WM

“When You’re Brave Enough,” by Rebecca Bendheim, is at the top of the stack. First, the cover is nice. Cheerful, glowing, warm, and it drew me in, I love it. The story and characters do not disappoint (theater kids, baked goods, cool settings). This is an enjoyable young adult novel (for ages 10 and older) about love, coming out, friendships and all the intricacies of being a young person. Lacey has moved from Austin, Texas, to Rhode Island, leaving her best bud Grace behind. But new adventures await. A little bit of culture shock, a little bit of sadness at all the changes. This book tugs at the heartstrings, I’m a fan. (Viking Books for Young Readers/Penguin Random House, 2026, 298 pages, $18.99.)

You’ll find another lively read in “A Practical Guide to Dating a Demon” (Written by Hannah Reynolds, G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers, 2026, 339 pages, $12.99.) Meet Naomi, a smart, lovely, creative scholarship student at the magical Lyceum. Wants to focus on her students. Bugged by the male students and comes up with… Sorry, guys! Dating a demon. Oh, this is going to be fun.

Found a beautiful, sacred and thoughtful new picture book in “Stories are the Heart of the World” (Simon & Schuster; scheduled for release May 5, 2026; 40 pages; all ages; $19.99). Laurel Goodluck wrote the coming-of-age story, which weaves together several stories that are based on historical events). Goodluck draws from the traditions of the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Navajo/Diné tribes. Goodluck is from intertribal roots as an enrolled member of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation, and is also an Alaskan Native Citizen of the Tsimshian tribe. The bright and detailed illustrations, which reveal more the more a reader looks at them, are from Nicole Neidhart, who is a Diné (Navajo) multidisciplinary artist. Just a deep, rich book that readers are sure to enjoy.

Switch up for the toddlers: Jonny Lambert’s “Bear and Bird: Find a Footprint,” is a sweet new search-and-find adventure. (D.K. Penguin Random House, 2023, ages birth-4, $15.) Look for the pawprints, forest creatures, nature facts and more. Reminds me of Eric Carle, the kids will love the animals and the details.

And… how about a cookbook for the big kids? I’m ready to dig into this one because hello, copycat recipes are my jam. So to speak. Kelly Jaggers delivers with “Secret Sauce: 200 Copycat Recipes to Re-Create Your Favorite Restaurant Sauces, Dips, and Dressings.” (Adams Media/Simon & Schuster, 2025, 272 pages, $17.00) So welcome, welcome, Chipotle Roasted Chili-Corn Salsa, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar Spinach & Artichoke Dip, Benihana Mustard Sauce and 197 others, thank you, thank you. Look for Jaggers’ food blog at Evil Shenanigans.com

Last but not least:

Looking forward to author Tracy Wolff’s fantasy/Greek mythology/magical tale, “The Aftermyth” (Aladdin/Simon & Schuster, 2026, ages 8 and older, $18.99). Penelope Weaver and her twin, Paris, head to Anaximander’s Academy, where they hope to explore and bring to life Greek mythology.

“Heiress of Nowhere” is a new historical gothic mystery from Stacey Lee. An orphan, Lucy Nowhere (great name) inherits an estate on Orcas Island, circa 1918; becomes vulnerable; and works to find the killer of local seals… and her former employer. Wild ride, this one. (Sarah Barley Books, 2026, ages 12 and older, $19.99.)

Bon appetit, see you next time, have a great weekend, love you all.

WM

A disclaimer. And some reviews.

Photo by Nancy Ellen Rawley. Use with permission only, por favor.

We were talking last time about books where kids can learn about money, start their own businesses, allow their parents to retire early… and yay! Found another one:

• Amina Banana and the Formula for Making Money, from author Shifa Saltagi Safadi, is an engaging, easy read for kids age 6 and up, and they can learn a few financial tricks along the way. The illustrations are by Aaliya Jaleel. Amina’s family is struggling financially, and she decides to help. This is the third in the series of Amina books. (G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers, 2026, 128 pages, $6.99.)
• The Worst! series, by Alex Willan, continues with his newest title, “Valentines are the Worst.” I’m sorry I missed the holiday on this one, btw, it’s an awesome book. Buy it as a belated gift, an anytime gift, or buy it now and save it until next year. The cover, bedazzled with cupids, Gilbert the Goblin, and a sprinkling of hearts, is bright and hilarious, and the story, like Willan’s other reads, is so much fun. Cupids, says Gilbert, “They’re all, ‘Look at me, I have perfect hair and tiny wings and beautiful hair and magic love arrows and luxurious hair.’ Well, I say, NO THANK… YOU.” LOL, Gilbert, let’s be friends. (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2025, all ages, $19.99.)
• Author/illustrator Gianna Marino’s latest picture book, “We All Belong,” will be released later this month. Mule, Rabbit, Beaver, Bear and their friends celebrate their similarities and differences in this sweet story. The illustrations are so detailed and real that the reader can almost reach into the pages and pet the characters. (Philomel; March 24, 2026; all ages; $18.99.) Be sure to check out Marino’s other books as well, including “Night Animals.”
• Also look for the “Ordinary People Change the World Series.” Gymnast Simone Biles is the latest person to be profiled in this inspiring biography. Brad Meltzer wrote the story; Christopher Eliopoulos did the bright and lively illustrations. (Rocky Pond Books, 2026, $16.99.)
• Woo-hoo! Here’s a fun one: “Bookie & Cookie Turn the Page,” by Blanca Gómez. (Rocky Pond Books/Penguin Random House, 2026, ages baby-5, $18.99.) “Maybe we’ll find a bright sunny day!” I loved the cheerful, happy illustrations.
• Would you believe it if I told you that an author named A.B. Peele wrote a book titled “Go Bananas!” Cuz it’s the truth, lol. Big, goofy, hilarious illustrations by Lala Watkins. (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers; March 24, 2026; all ages, $19.99.) “Bananas of the world unite!”
• This one won’t be released until May, but I’m calling it a classic right now. “Notre-Dame: The World’s Cathedral” is a stunning work of art and historical document by author Lynn Curlee. He was schooled in art history and employed as a fine artist before he started his career as an author/illustrator. This is part of the Wonders of the World series, so look for the other titles, which include “Seven Wonders of the Ancient World,” “Brooklyn Bridge,” “Mythological Creatures” and many others.

All for now! Leave a comment if you’d like, bon appetit, and see you soon.

xo

WM

(Solar eclipse, 2017, photo by moi. Use with permission only, por favor.)

I’m playing a new game today. It’s called, Let’s Review All the Books in This Huge Pile on the Table. ? Listo? I’m ready.

First up, a disclaimer. Second, books!

• A super cute and yummy board book is top of the heap, and it’s about… sheep. So I’m thinking it’s a bedtime book. Let’s see… “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Sheepy,” by Lucy Ruth Cummins, with illustrations by Pete Oswald and yes, it’s “A Sleepy Sheepy Story.” OK, that’s adorable. (Flamingo Books; scheduled for release 2/17/2026, ages baby-3; $9.99.) Little Sheepy would rather pogo through the house, read in bed, bug the parents, anything other than sleep. So the parents get creative.
• “Adventures in the Friendly Forest,” by Amanda Jass, with pictures by Katya Longhi, is a 30-day storybook devotional for kids, and is a way to teach the little and bigger kids about faith. “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path,” Psalm 119:105, for example, introduces the chapter on “Flora and the Wheelbarrow Disaster.” This is a bright and cheerful book of inspiration. (WaterBrook/Random House Children’s Books; scheduled for release 2/10/2026, ages baby and up, 140 pages, $15.99.)
• “One for the Dogs,” a new title from the “Startup Squad,” is a cool graphic novel for kids ages 8 and older. Preteens and teens who are interested in going into business for themselves, or with partners, will find it a good read. It contains lots of tips, info and fun. Brian Weisfeld and Bonnie Bader wrote the story, with colorful and creative comic art from Nadia Hsieh. Readers will feel like they really get to know the characters, Teresa (Resa), Indira (Didi), Amelia, Harriet and Resa’s awesome Abuela, herself a business owner in Brooklyn. Lively, engaging read. (Harold Martin Company, 2026, 171 pages, $22.99.)
• You’ll find more bright, gorgeous art in the new picture book, “Leo’s Lobo.” This one is written by Hispanic marine biologist Melissa Cristina Márquez, who based the story on a Mexican tale about alebrijes, wild and fun, gloriously fantastical creatures. Brazilian illustrator Maria Gabriela Gama truly makes the characters come alive. (They’re often made from wood, papier-mâché, or other materials, but the ones in this book? All too alive and real.) Enjoy! (Penguin Workshop/Penguin Random House, scheduled for release 2/10/2026, all ages, $19.99.)
• And now for the big kids… If you’re a fan of the show “Supernatural,” and I know I am, you’ll like Melanie Dale’s new middle grade/high school and up novel, “Girl of Lore.” Scary, creepy, ingenious and it’s so good. (Aladdin Books; scheduled for release 2/21/2026; says 10 and up but it depends on the 10-year-old, I suppose.) Dark magic/dark creatures/paranormal happenings are all on the rise in London, Georgia, and Mina, our hero, seems to be smack dab in the middle of it. OK, don’t scare yourself, y’all.
• Celesta Rimington’s new middle-grade book is so good, and not quite as scary as “Girl of Lore.” “Reach” introduces us to Denver, who is almost 13. His mom has recently remarried, and yeah, plans have changed. Denver was hoping for a fun summer but instead? He’s stuck at a mountain lodge all the way to here and gone, taking care of his younger brother(step), Harlan, while his mom and new dad work. All I can say is the reality of our world today makes me long for a trip. A journey far, far away, and the mountains would be fine. Just saying, Denver. Wait. The white pines at this lodge can talk? And Harlan is maybe going to get turned into a tree? That’s not the vacation I’d be hoping for, either, dude. Creative and fun writing, and good characters. (Nancy Paulsen Books, 2026, ages 10 and up, $17.99.)
• Ying Ping Low’s “Song of the Yellow Dragon” won’t hit the shelves until this May, but please add it to your list. (G.P. Putnam’s Sons, ages 5th grade and up, with art by Yujie Huang.) Like Denver, our hero, in this case two heroes, are on the verge of turning 13. Mengayo has dreams of becoming a Divine Healer, and is trying to hang onto hope. Kai, a young emperor, is in hiding, trying to avoid death. This is a story that grabs you from page one and takes you along for the ride.

Be well, bon appetit and have a really good weekend whenever you get there.

xo

WM

Photo by Nancy Rawley/use with permission only, please and thank you I really do love books, can you tell? I’ve been writing reviews here for years now. It’s kind of funny, the years and books just keep rolling along. More coffee, please. Presenting… more new releases, just in time for the winter holidays. All of the books included in this post were sent to me free for review purposes. Disclaimer here. Thank you for reading and see you next time! WM

1. 1. Simon & Schuster Kids has come out with a cool paperback collection of Christmas books for kids. The covers are engaging, the art jumps off the front. And the stories inside are as good as ever. Classic, really. (Smiles.) It’s like I used to tell my students, “You don’t have to love books as much as I do, that’d be weird. But if you love them even half as much as I do? That would be enough.” Srsly these kids don’t want to read. Maybe they’ll be won over by this new “vintage” set that includes “The Nutcracker,” “A Christmas Carol” and “Twelve Classics of Christmas,” including works by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the Brothers Grimm and other writers. Happy gift-giving, folks. Think inside the box. (2025, ages 8 and up, $7.99 per title.)

1. 1. My early Christmas gift arrived in the shape of the 100th anniversary edition of A.A. Milne’s “Winnie the Pooh and the House at Pooh Corner.” I can’t find this exact version online, I’m sure you will, though. So that’s a link to a super cute Piglet and Pooh “rain puddle print” umbrella that you may like. (I’m all, hey, Wacky Mommy is a gift guide now.) The cover is beautiful, yellow and black, soft and fuzzy like Pooh. I’m in love with this edition, it’s perfect. It was originally released in 1926, followed by the release of “The House at Pooh Corner” in 1928. This book contains both titles, with original artwork by Ernest H. Shepard. His line drawings contain so much detail and warmth. (Aladdin, all ages, 361 pages, $10.99.)

1. 1. “Keeping the Light: A Story About Letting Your Light Shine,” is a new book from Ali Gilkeson, with lively and bright pictures by Lee Wildish. I like this little guy, Fynn, he makes the day happier. “He lives with his family in a lighthouse by the sea. (I mean, all lighthouses are by the sea or near a body of water. I’ve never seen a lighthouse in the middle of a city or at the end of a cul-de-sac. Have you?” the author begins.) And a fine story it is. (Waterbrook/Multnomah/Penguin Random House, ages 3 and up, $14.99.) (I reviewed Gilkeson’s last title, “My Lighthouse: A Story of Finding Your Way Home,” last year.)

1. 1. And now for “Little Monsters,” a playful spoof by Maire Roche, wherein the March sisters from Louisa May Alcott’s “Little Women” became, yep. Monsters. Not sure how I feel about this twist, but I know the kids will get a kick out of it, so there you go. It’s not scheduled for release until next summer, so we have some time to puzzle it over. Oh-ho! Roche’s other new title, “Bromantasy,” a “cozy, queer fantasy” about young people and love, is scheduled to hit the shelves in May. Ahhhhh… this is a whimsical, creative author. Thanks, Maire. (Aladdin Books/Simon & Schuster.)

1. 1. Speaking of monsters and magic… (see how nicely I segued there?) “A Mastery of Monsters,” by Liselle Sambury, is out now. This is the first book in what’s being described as a “dark academia fantasy series” for teens. August’s mother has gone missing, and now her brother, right before his sophomore year. She knows something is wrong and vows to find the truth and save her family. Great read. (Margaret M. McElderry Books/Simon & Schuster, 2025, high school and older, 580 pages, $24.99.) Sambury is a Trinidadian Canadian author whose works covers a lot of genres, including fantasy, horro and sci-fi. Rock it.

“Whitaker Ponds, Portland, Ore.” Photo by Rawley, use with permission only, please.

Hey, I was thinking about ways to get kids reading. Then I decided I needed to clean house and never got back to it. Then I made a cup of tea, gulped it down and didn’t get back to it. Then I worked on the leaves in the yard (there are a lot) and… you get the idea. I’ll do practically anything to avoid writing, avoid thinking, avoid doing something I don’t know how to do. Kids and their grown-ups are just not reading as much as they used to.

It’s a challenge, ya? Ya. How to encourage others to read is a huge challenge. So here I am, listening to old Elton John songs from the ’70s and thinking about music, reading and writing. If you have kids, your own, someone else’s children, students, whoever, model for them. Put on some music and pick up a book, instead of staring, eyes glazed over, at your television, your laptop (that’s me, right now), a tablet, or that little computer you call a phone. Don’t put on YouTube, just please skip the reels and the videos, and read a book. Turn off the news and read to the old folks, read to the young folks, buy books and more books for the babies and toddlers, spread those titles around like they’re sprinkles on ice cream.

I think what I’m actually trying to avoid here is the bigger world, or as we called it in school: Current Events.

Let’s have a great fall and winter, in spite of it all. These are not the easiest times in the world, anywhere on Earth. “Oh, he’s my brother/let us live in peace…” — “Border Song,” Elton John

So peace, love, and Bobby Sherman, and Elton, of course, xo WM

All of the books included in this post were sent to me free for review purposes. Disclaimer here. Thank you for reading and see you next time!

1. Baby Ballena, hello friend! This new picture book swims up courtesy of author Ben Gundersheimer (Mr. G) and illustrator/illustrado por Marcos Almada Rivero. (Nancy Paulsen Books/Penguin Random House, 2025, $18.99.) To be a baby gray whale (my favorite of all the whales), born as big as a boat and drinking more than 50 gallons of mama’s milk daily. But the many dangers Juana, our hero, faces traveling north and south and north again with her pod. So many hazards. They go between Mexico and Alaska, dealing with fishing nets, vessels, orcas and other threats. This is a beautiful, educational read-aloud for all ages, really, with text in Spanish and English. The illustrations are precious, and so are my grays. Safe travels, family.

2. You don’t need words to show you love someone is the theme of “My Dog Smudge,” a sweet new picture book from author/illustrator Sujean Rim, and dedicated “to the real-life Smudge.” Aw. (Caitlin Dlouhy Books, 2025, ages 4-8, $18.99.) There are flaps! Flap books are excellent. And a page of chickens for me. Chickens are excellent, too! Fun way to practice “speaking like the animals” with the kids. Enjoy.

3. “Cocodrilos Por Todos Lados/Crocodiles Everywhere” is another great Spanish-English picture book for young readers. Estelí Meza did a beautiful job with the art and words for this one. (Rocky Pond Books/Penguin Random House, 2025, $18.99.) A young girl’s best friend moves away, and we know that sometimes imaginary friends find their way to kids who are struggling. But crocodiles? “The crocodiles arrived so quietly, I didn’t even notice at first.” And that, dear readers, is what we call a “perfect sentence.” Crocodiles as imaginary friends, and the art is perfect, too. Great title for helping kids with grief and problem-solving.

4. Are you a fan of visiting the doctor, the clinic or the hospital? How about your kids? It is not, to be honest, one of my favorite things. But you gotta do what you gotta do, eh? “What Medicine Can Do” is a great how-to picture book from author Gabrielle Balkan and illustrator Alberto Lot. (RISE x Penguin Workshop, 2025, all ages, $19.99.) It explains “symptoms,” “diagnoses,” “vital signs,” “medicine” and all kinds of other terms. Handy book, with kid-friendly descriptions.

5. And now… a great little new board book version of an Eric Carle classic: “The Very Lonely Firefly/La luciérnaga muy solitaria.” “As the sun set a little firefly was born. It stretched its wings and flew off into the darkening sky.” Lovely, happy story and in Spanish and English, both. Perfecto. (Penguin Random House, 2025, ages newborn and up, $11.99.)

(“Whitaker Ponds, close-up of a tree,” fall 2006; photo by Steve Rawley, use with permission only)

I’ve been collecting some cool new kids’ books for autumn. Let’s review a few, shall we?

1. First, an oldie but goodie: “The Witches,” by my man Roald Dahl, with art by the incomparable Quentin Blake. A keeper of a chapter book, and perfect for the season. (Originally published 1983, set in Norway and England.)
2. “The Snowman Code,” by Simon Stephenson, with art by Reggie Brown. This book has nothing to do with fall, or the winter, even. It’s more of a spring/summer book, so I’m putting it in the “all seasons” category. I’m in love with this chapter book for young readers. It’s about an ambitious little girl, Blessing, age 10 1/2, whose mother suffers from severe seasonal depression. Is winter ever going to lift? Can the snowmen help, or will they hinder? Love, too, that it’s set in London. (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers; scheduled for release Dec. 16, 2025; ages 8 and up; $17.99.)
3. Helloooooo, “Narwhal Vs. Kindergarten,” we are ready. Vanessa Roeder wrote and illustrated this sweet and perfect picture book about Hugo, a big and tall guy who is trying so hard to fit in. (Dial Books for Young Readers, 2025, ages 2 and up, $18.99.) Read Roeder’s other books, too: “The King Penguin,” “The Box Turtle” and “The Stack.”
4. And a fun one, the latest in the Oona series… “Oona Bramblegoop’s Sideways Magic: When Fairies Go Too Far,” written by Kate Korsh, with illustrations by Marta Altés. (G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2025, ages 6 and up, 138 pages, $17.99.) Get ready for more light-hearted times with Oona and her friends.
5. Diana López has written the third title in her popular Los Monstruos series: “Ava and the Owl-Witch” (Kokila/Penguin Random House, 2025, ages 8 and up, 242 pages, $17.99). Tres Leches is a South Texas town with a history of terrifying monsters. But Minerva, aka La Lechuza, is there, too, and she’s a shape-shifter. Her daughter, Ava, is struggling with her own battles, but is willing to step in to help. Great Mexican folklore, magic and drama. (López has a great list of books to her credit, and many are available in both Spanish and English.)

All of the books included in this post were sent to me free for review purposes. Disclaimer here. Thank you for reading and see you next time!

WM

(“Whitaker Ponds/Portland, Ore.”/ Photo by Rawley/ use with permission only, please) You know, all of a sudden it’s fall, and the long, hot summer is over. It wasn’t the best summer here. It wasn’t the worst. But I miss those long, hot summers from when I was a kid. Fall books make it all better.

• “America Gives Thanks” is a new picture book from author Bob McKinnon, with lovely illustrations from artist Thai My Phuong. (Penguin Workshop/Penguin Random House, 2025, all ages, $19.99.) This book made me smile because it starts out: “Have you ever wondered why people complain so much?” I just did complain, but dang it, it was a long, hot, pretty miserable summer here in the Willamette Valley on the West Coast of America. I don’t wanna talk about it, I’m over it. Back to the book… Mr. Downs is taking his class to Washington, D.C. on an East Coast school field trip, and some of the kids are not excited. Statues? Paintings? Politicians fighting? So let’s see how this goes. Great story, beautiful autumn colors, and the students? They actually learn a lot along the way. And so do we.
• “Pablo Neruda: Poet of the People,” by Monica Brown, with illustrations by Julie Paschkis (Henry Holt and Company, 2011, all ages, $17.99). I love this picture book, and I love poetry. Very fond of Neruda. It’s always fun to find a new way to introduce this form of writing to children young and old. “Once there was a little boy named Neftalí, who loved wild things wildly and quiet things quietly,” our story begins. He lived in Chile, and when he hit his teens, changed his name to Pablo Neruda and began publishing his poems. (His full given name was Ricardo Eliecer Neftalí Reyes Basoalto, and he was born in Parral, Chile, in 1904.) Awesome biography, glad I came across it. Highly recommend. Great list of resources in the back of the book, for further reading.
• “The Sacred Stone Camp” is another picture book for all ages that I think you’ll enjoy. Rae Rose wrote this profile of indigenous activist and historian LaDonna BraveBull Allard, her family and the Standing Rock Lakota Nation. Aly McKnight illustrated with colorful and detailed drawings that bring the story to life. (Dial Books for Young Readers; scheduled for release Oct. 7, 2025; $18.99.)

My pick of the week is: “The Sacred Stone Camp.”

All of the books included in this post were sent to me free for review purposes. Disclaimer here. Thank you for reading and see you next time!

WM