What’s on My Nightstand, Sunday Evening Edition: “Dream,” by Matthew Cordell; “Lead the Way,” written by Ace Landers, illustrated by Garrett Taylor; “Feminist Baby,” by Loryn Brantz; “Welcome: a Mo Willems Guide for New Arrivals”; “Night Night, Groot,” written by Brendan Deneen, with pictures by Cale Atkinson
“Dream,” by Matthew Cordell (Disney-Hyperion, 2017, $16.99): Cordell is an old favorite of mine (“hello! hello!”, “Special Delivery,” “Wish” and other titles.) He has a nice style. Approachable. This one, just in time for Father’s Day, is about a gorilla family, so happy to be together. “I dreamed of the many stars in your small eyes. Of the music in your voice surrounding everything, everyone, everywhere.” Beautiful story, lovely art, and a gentle touch.
“Lead the Way,” by Ace Landers, illustrated by Garrett Taylor. (Inspired by the “Cars” movies, Disney Press, 2017, $16.99): This inspirational book for the younger set is sweet. You need “somebody who reminds you that when you can’t do something right the FIRST time, KEEP PRACTICING. YOU’LL GET IT EVENTUALLY.” OK, the ALL CAPS make me wanna tear the pages out and tack them up on the wall, but THAT’S OK. We all need a little inspiration sometimes. :)
“Feminist Baby,” by Loryn Brantz (Disney-Hyperion, 2017, $12.99): Here’s a wacky little board book about an “irrepressible” feminist baby. Oh, yes she is. Don’t mess with her. She loves to dance, says no to pants, likes pink and blue, and “sometimes she’ll throw up on you!” Well, there you have it.
“Welcome: A Mo Willems Guide for New Arrivals” (Hyperion Books for Children, 2017, $15.99): You know my (imaginary) friend Mo Willems, don’t you? Piggie and Elephant and that crowd? Here’s a title that’s a little unusual. This board book contains not one, but two mirrors, and lots of sweet and serious sentiments for the new arrivals. “You are a unique combination of Love + Time + Luck” and… “We anticipate that you will encounter both drawings of cats and actual cats during your stay. And not just cats. There are: MOUNTAINS + FRIENDS + BAGELS + INFINITE REMARKABLE THINGS.” #truth. Additionally, I love that Mo Willems’ bio on the back cover describes him as “a former baby, now a New York Times #1 best-selling author and illustrator.” Give this one for a baby present, or for any other occasion. It’s different, fun and original.
“Night Night, Groot,” written by Brendan Deneen, with pictures by Cale Atkinson (Marvel, 2017, $12.99): This is a “Guardians of the Galaxy” thing, I am told. It’s cool, even though 1) I don’t really know how “cool” is defined anymore. I’m still calling this “cool.” The art is lively, the story is good, and I think the kiddos will enjoy it.