Humor

July 16 – Wild About Wildlife Month

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About the Holiday

The theme of this month-long holiday is simple: it’s all about wildlife. Whether you like mammals, birds, fish, or insects best, July is the time to celebrate the wondrous diversity of our planet’s wildlife. We may be halfway through the month, but you and your kids still have lots of time to explore the wildlife in your area and learn about the creatures that populate all parts of our world. Today’s book takes a humorous look at what you might expect—or not—during your explorations!

Thank you to Tundra Books for sending me a copy of this book for review!

Whale, That Was Unexpected

Written by Casey Lyall | Illustrated by Kathryn Durst

Every day of her long, long, long life, Maude—a bit cranky after all these long, long years—fished the “open sea.” Today was no different as she and her dog, Claude, stepped aboard the “trusty little boat” and left the harbor. “After all these years, Maude had seen everything,” that is until she, Claude, and their boat were swallowed by a whale. Inside the dark recesses of this behemoth, Maude lifted her lantern and took stock of the flotsam and jetsam floating below.

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Kathryn Durst. Text copyright © by Casey Lyall. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

Maude knew just what to do. She strung decorations, brewed tea, made snacks, and painted a sign that read: “Farewell Maude + Claude.” She unfurled the sign from the bridge and asked the narrator to “do the honors” for their going away party. The narrator obliged—barely. “Farewell, Maude. Farewell, Claude.” Maude was unimpressed. The narrator obliged—better: “Farewell, Maude, a grand old dame. Farewell, Claude, sixth of his name. Farewell, trusty little boat.”

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Kathryn Durst. Text copyright © by Casey Lyall. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

But the whale wasn’t satisfied with crusty Maude and faithful Claude, and their boat was, apparently, too little. It sucked in an octopus and a crab, each requiring their own eulogies. The whale swallowed again . . . and again. It was getting tricky updating the sign. Even the narrator was slowing down. But once more, from the top, the party got into full swing. As the whale quieted, though, Maude decided “that’s all she wrote.” She lit the candle on the celebratory sandwich, which made the whale “Ah, ah, AH”—sneeze! Through the blowhole, the little boat shot into the air and safety. But is there something else lurking?

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Kathryn Durst. Text copyright © by Casey Lyall. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

Casey Lyall’s nautical treasure sails along on deadpan humor, fueled by Maude’s cantankerous intrusions into the narrator’s storytelling and blasé acceptance of each newcomer. The cumulative eulogy is all the funnier for the interruptions and shenanigans of the growing crew, and both kids and adults will have a blast starting and restarting this hilarious send-off. Maude’s prompt for the narrator to speed up makes reading Lyall’s perfectly rhyming and rhythmic ode even more fun.

As kids set out to sea with Kathryn Durst’s sturdy Maude and her sidekick Claude, they’ll be charmed by and completely invested in this humorous duo. Durst gives them all the comforts of home on their “trusty little boat” as tea is formally laid on a barrel table and a tufted armchair and bucket footstool await calm seas. The first view of the whale is cleverly ominous, building suspense. The pair’s farewell pathos will have readers giggling, and as the doomed crew expands, their resigned acceptance of their fate provides plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. The final scenes just off the lovely coastal town offer surprise and delight.

Whale, That Was Unexpected is the catch you don’t want to let get away. Funny and loaded with personality, this fresh read aloud is one that kids and adults will love to share over and over.

Ages 4 – 8

Tundra Books, 2026 | ISBN 978-1774883617

About the Author

Casey Lyall lives in Southwestern Ontario where she also works at her local library (and waits for management to discover they’re actually paying her to have fun). When she’s not writing, Casey loves to bake, doodle and learn extremely groan-worthy jokes to tell her friends. Casey is the author of the humorous middle-grade mystery series Howard Wallace, P.I. and books A Spoonful of Frogs and Vampire Jam Sandwich. Visit her at caseylyall.com.

About the Illustrator

Kathryn Durst is a graduate of Sheridan College in Ontario, Canada. She has a background in animation, having interned with Pixar Animation Studios. Kathryn has illustrated numerous children’s books, including You’re In Good Paws, the Polite Predators books and the #1 New York Times bestseller from Paul McCartney, Hey Grandude! When she is not illustrating books, she can be found playing the accordion, growing vegetables, folk dancing or putting on shadow puppet shows. She lives in Toronto, Canada, with her grumpy mini dachshund named Chili Dog. Follow her on Instagram.

Wild About Wildlife Month Activity

Whaley Cute Bookmark

Don’t go fishing around for the last page you read! Use this Whaley Cute Bookmark instead!

You can purchase Whale, That Was Unexpected from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Picture Book Review

June 14 – National Mac & Cheese Day (Delicious Duos Series)

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About the Holiday

Is there any more universally loved dish than macaroni and cheese? This tasty combo makes a perfect meal or side dish, one beloved by generations of gourmets. In fact, Thomas Jefferson was known as a mac & cheese aficionado, even importing parmesan cheese and macaroni for his Virginia estate after eating it in Italy and France. Going back a little farther, cooks in medieval England also relied on this staple, making a familar-sounding cheese and macaroni casserole called makerouns. And the boxed dinner we love so well? That was the brainchild of James Lewis Kraft, who answered a need for a satisfying meatless dish during the Great Depression. Who knows how far back this delicious concoction goes? Perhaps the moon really is made of (macaroni and) cheese!

Thank you to Orchard Books for sending me a copy of this book for review!

Mac & Cheese: The Origin Story

Written by Michael L. Benner | Illustrated by Alison Hawkins

Even though Mac lived in Pastaland and was surrounded by noodles all the time, he couldn’t find a friend. He even twisted himself out of shape, and while this did attract more attention, it didn’t make him happy. He decided to “set sail across the Sea of Snacks” to try and meet a friend. He traveled from island to island, but none of the Snacks he encountered liked his jokes, his silly songs, or his games. He was just as sad as before. “My name should be Macalonely!” he told himself. Still, Noodles never gave up, so with the help of a sturdy pretzel stick, he climbed Mt. Cheddar, hoping to find a friend on the other side.

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Alison Hawkins. Text copyright © 2026 by Michael L. Benner. Courtesy of Orchard Books.

“Meanwhile . . . in Quesoland, Cheese was king.” Cheese reigned over all kinds of quesos, from sweet to nutty to smelly to even cheese in a can. But among all these quesos, King Cheese had no friend. “I feel so provolonely,” he told himself. He thought that becoming softer would help, but that only led to chaos. Being mature and firm didn’t work either. Finally, the king “boxed himself up in the Royal Cottage of Cheese” feeling blue.

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Alison Hawkins. Text copyright © 2026 by Michael L. Benner. Courtesy of Orchard Books.

But one day a stranger came to Quesoland, and the townscheeses needed their king. He was whisked off to meet . . . Mac! Someone thought he was “an impasta.” Another could only exclaim, “Holy macaroni!” But Mac broke out his jokes, and the quesos laughed! They thought he was “pasta-tively hilarious!” He melted right into their community, and King Cheese, himself, showed Mac around. Mac thought Quesoland was a perfect fit for him and so did the King. In fact, they both discovered what they’d been looking for!

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Alison Hawkins. Text copyright © 2026 by Michael L. Benner. Courtesy of Orchard Books.

Michael L. Benner cuts straight to the humor in his pun-tastic story that reveals how Mac & Cheese came together to create the enduring dynamic duo, who saves mealtime every time! With plenty of jokes, witty repartee, and—did I mention puns?, Benner riffs on all varieties of food, inviting kids to find their favorites in his funny tale. Underpinning themes of friendship, perseverance, and staying true to yourself add depth to the story for a satisfying read aloud.

Alison Hawkins’ delectable illustrations begin under the dust jacket as the front and back covers open up to create a vibrant map of Mac’s journey from Pastaland to Quesoland. Inside, Hawkins eye-catching pages will keep kids’ eyes roving from signs to landmarks to the characters, themselves, to catch all of the clever puns and jokes this book serves up. Hawkins charming flair for details makes Pastaland and Quesoland delicious destinations for all readers.

For kids who love puns, visual humor, and, of course, everyone’s favorite comfort food, Mac & Cheese: The Origin Story will be asked for again and again, making it a delicious pick for public, school, and home libraries.

Ages 4 – 8

Orchard Books, 2026 | ISBN 978-1546140764

About the Author

Michael L. Benner finds a story in every food pair he sees (and eats)! He loves to write humorous, punny picture books that make kids and adults laugh, and maybe groan a little, too. He lives and writes in Central Texas with his wife, son, and dog (who acts like a cat). Visit him at michaelbennerwritesbooks.com.

About the Illustrator

Alison Hawkins is an illustrator based in Durham, North Carolina. She started her career as a graphic designer, and went on to work as a product designer, illustrating for apparel, toys, and greeting cards. Some of her clients include American Greetings, Universal Standard, Target, and Discover Durham. Visit her at alisonhawkinsportfolio.com.

National Mac & Cheese Day Activity

Mac & Cheese: The Origin Story Activity Pages

Kids will love digging into these Mac & Cheese: The Origin Story activity pages to satisfy their craving for creativity!

You can purchase Mac & Cheese: The Origin Story from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble (B&N Exclusive Edition) | Bookshop

Picture Book Review

July 6 – National Anti-Boredom Month

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About the Holiday

Are your kids already starting to say “Now what do I do?” Or perhaps you’re hearing the ever-popular “I’m bored!” Having extra time on your hands can be a good thing, often leading to unexpected adventures, surprising creativity, and exciting discoveries. Reading is a wonderful way to incorporate all of these while introducing kids to new ideas, people, places, and experiences. With today’s book, kids can log their journey from “ho hum” to “that’s cool!” as they discover that some things are so much more than they could ever imagine.

Thank you to Ten Speed Young Readers for sending me a copy of this book for review!

I Am Not Boring: The True-Life Story of a Log

By Lena Podesta

Want to hear a story? A boring story? Perhaps the most boring story ever told? You’ve come to the right place! This story—”hundreds of years long”—is about “a log that doesn’t do anything but sit in a forest doing nothing.” Sounds boring, right? Yet despite this, the log has an attitude—and rightly so. Because despite the dismissiveness of the narrator bringing you this story, the log proves it’s worth watching.

Text and illustration copyright © 2026 by Lena Podesta. Courtesy of Ten Speed Young Readers.

Sure, the log may not have flashy talents—it can’t even move on its own. Buuut . . . if, say, a bear would come along and roll it over, then you’d see! You’d see all of the critters hiding there and dining on its bark. And when you take a tour around the log, you’ll find that this humble log provides a home for a diverse population of nature’s wonders. You’ll also discover that the log is patient and resolute year after year, in the snow and the rain. It’s a quality that allows for some quiet, pretty amazing, even “glorious” and “life-changing” things to happen right before your eyes. If only the narrator would notice. But you, dear reader, are sure to!

Text and illustration copyright © 2026 by Lena Podesta. Courtesy of Ten Speed Young Readers.

Back matter recounts the various ways in which a fallen tree acts as a nurse log, fostering plants, creatures both small and large, and even seeds to contribute to the life of a forest. Lena Podesta also includes an Author’s Note in which she reveals her fascination with nurse logs and encourages readers to seek out logs where they live and learn their secrets.

Text and illustration copyright © 2026 by Lena Podesta. Courtesy of Ten Speed Young Readers.

Lena Podesta drops readers into the midst of a quibble between a testy narrator and a log who’s just minding its own business in her humorous and educational story about nurse logs and their importance to forest ecosystems. Children will giggle as the log turns the table on each of the narrator’s complaints about its character with good cheer backed up by remarkable and observable facts. A mix of speech bubbles and regular type distinguish the log’s dialogue from the narrator’s.

Kids will cheer on the adorable log as page by page Podesta reveals more and more the plants and creatures that rely on it. Her bright, uncluttered illustrations give children plenty of details to point out and talk about, from a wide-range of insects, amphibians, fungi, and animals. One vertical page and a final two-page spread of the forest will delight kids, invite closer study, and inspire their own observations in nature.

I Am Not Boring: The True-Life Story of a Log is a top pick for young nature lovers to explore with throughout the year and would be a favorite on any library or home bookshelf.

Ages 3 – 7

Ten Speed Young Readers, 2026 | ISBN 978-0593838297

Lena Podesta has been working as an artist in the animation industry and as an illustrator for more than two decades. Her work has included picture book illustration, editorial illustration, character development, design for animation, directing, story boarding, and character animation. Visit her for more on her books plus lots of activities for kids at lenapodesta.com.

National Anti-Boredom Month Activity

I Am Not Boring: The True-Life Story of a Log Activity Pages

Shake off the boredom and get cracking with these fun I Am Not Boring: The True-Life Story of a Log Activities from Lena Podesta! You’ll find coloring pages, a maze, a word search puzzle, games, and more to add excitement to any day on Lena Podesta’s website!

You can purchase I Am Not Boring: The True-Life Story of a Log from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Picture Book Review

July 2 – National Pickle Month

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About the Holiday

July is made for picnics and picnics are made for pickles! If your sandwich or hot dog is just not the same without the tang of pickles or you love nothing more than biting into a crunchy gherkin, dill, or other variety, then this holiday is for you! Instituted in 1949 with encouragement by the Pickle Packers, this observance celebrates the popularity of pickles. An eye-popping 5,200,000 pounds of pickles are eaten in the US every year! Pickles have a storied history, going back thousands of years to 2030 BC, when pickling was used as a preservative. Even Cleopatra and Julius Caesar lauded the beauty and strengthening properties of pickles! So, if you relish pickles by themselves or incorporated into your favorite dish—enjoy!

Thanks to Tundra Books for sending me this book for review!

The Wise Pickle

Written by Sarah Howden | Illustrated by Sabina Hahn

One day, a pickle appeared “on the side of the road, against the wall of a dry cleaners” and, speaking into the ether, took stock. “‘I am a pickle on the side of the road. . . I have lived a lot of life.'” Hearing this, animals began to gather and seek answers from the pickle’s seemingly vast store of knowledge. A rat propped the pickle upon a pillow, and from there it made pronouncements, both philosophical and mystical. When a mouse offered the pickle a crumb, the pickle said, “‘I’m here to feed others, not to eat.'”

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Sabina Hahn. Text copyright © 2026 by Sarah Howden. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

Over hours and days, this gherkin guru’s followers hung on its every word, even as their mentor shriveled in the hot sun. Their questions ranged from the proverbial “‘Why are we here?'” to the more pointed “‘How did you get here?'” The pickle was generous with its answers, revealing that it “‘used to live underwater . . . in a salty brine like the sea, but with more garlic,'” and sharing its inauspicious, yet shocking, past and its last wishes.

As the pickle’s prospects grew bleak, the animals accommodated its final desire and gathered to say goodbye. But this extraordinary pickle’s mission is not finished. In fact, its influence may just be taking off.

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Sabina Hahn. Text copyright © 2026 by Sarah Howden. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

Smart, funny, and steeped in the tart and tangy pleasures of absurdism, Sarah Howden’s ingenious story will keep kids and adults laughing at its melding of droll humor, parody, and endearing characters. Her deft touch with straightforward storytelling amplifies her beguiling descriptions and laugh-out-loud dialogue, leaving readers happily enlightened. Howden’s enigmatic hero is one readers will never forget.

From the moment the pickle bounces onto the scene, Sabina Hahn’s deadpan graphite pencil and watercolor illustrations hilariously trace the pickle’s elevation from sidewalk curiosity to enthroned guru. The pickle’s wide, staring eyes express subtle emotions as the animals gather, their paws clasped in reverence as they lean in to learn his story and absorb his wisdom. Infused with sincerity, Hahn’s simply composed images are as charming as they are farcical, a perfect match for Sarah Howden’s story.

The Wise Pickle is a hilarious, contemplative story that all ages will eat up and request again and again. It is a must for any library or home collection and would make a delectable gift for any child.

Ages 4 – 8

Tundra Books, 2026 | ISBN 978-1774886984

Sarah Howden is the author of several books for children, including Cone Cat, Cone Dog and The Tunnel. Her poems have been published in Grain and Jones Av., and stories in Chirp and Chickadee magazines. Sarah is also an editor at Orca Book Publishers, where she enjoys helping other writers sculpt their stories. She works out writing conundrums on walks around her neighborhood or by distracting herself with snacks (she won’t say no to a crunchy pickle). Having grown up in the Niagara Region, she now lives in Toronto with her husband, daughter, and two mischievous cats. Follow her on Instagram.

Illustrator, animator and sculptor Sabina Hahn has been a voracious reader and an unstoppable doodler her whole life, which has led her into the world of children’s books. She loves stories, tall tales and most importantly, pickles. Sabina grew up in Riga, Latvia, and now lives in New York. Visit her at sabinahahn.com.

National Pickle Month Activity

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-pickle-maze

Pack a Peck of Pickles Puzzle

The pickle jar has toppled over! Can you pick up the pickles in the maze to pack them in the jar again?

Pack a Peck of Pickles Puzzle | Pack a Peck of Pickles Puzzle Solution

You can purchase The Wise Pickle from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Picture Book Review

June 22 – International Being You Day

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About the Holiday

Sometimes people find it hard to show their true, even quirky parts of themselves when they’re trying to live up to expectations or fit in with a certain crowd. International Being You Day invites everyone to disregard these pressures and celebrate their individuality. The holiday encourages self-acceptance, and the courage to acknowledge and show your real personality, whether that’s flashy or quiet; take part in activities that speak to you, not just the group; and to believe in your own skills and knowledge—to be confident and authentic. Today’s book puts a humorous and ultimately sweetly poignant spin on the holiday.

Thanks to Scholastic for sending me this book for review!

The Mystery of the Lost Cape (The Terrible Trio #3)

Written by Swapna Haddow | Illustrated by Minky Stapleton

Our intrepid friends Zeb the zebra, Marge the penguin, and Barry the lemur have settled into their roles as the most unlikely of superheroes as Zeb’s power is blending in with a crosswalk, Marge can make mac ‘n’ cheese from anything, and Barry has very nice handwriting. It’s tidying up day at their official lair—the Superheroes Café—and Zeb suggests sorting out the dress-up box. Only, it’s not a dress-up box, it’s the Lost-and-Found box, and Barry’s scandalized that Zeb and Marge want to play with other animals’ belongings.

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Minky Stapleton. Text copyright © 2026 by Swapna Haddow. Courtesy of Scholastic.

As Barry begins matching items with their possible owners, he finds a polka-dotted cape and just has to try it on. As soon as he ties it around his neck, he begins flying! Barry wants to try it out, but he’s conflicted. If he just borrows it, though, just to see what it’s like to be a real superhero, that would be okay, right? He dons a pair of goggles and soon he’s flying over the city. In no time he helps apprehend a wolf gang of bank robbers.

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Minky Stapleton. Text copyright © 2026 by Swapna Haddow. Courtesy of Scholastic.

The “Masked Crusader” is all over the news, and Marge and Zeb can’t stop buzzing about him. They aren’t the only ones obsessed. Barry, himself, can’t seem to let go of his new alter-ego. He takes on just one more mission, then another and another and . . . When Barry finally comes back to the café, Zeb discovers the cape and remembers that Emu is offering a $50,000 reward for its return. He calls—only too late remembering that Emu has two superpowers—flying and butt kicking. Each of our intrepid heroes are afraid of getting their booty kicked, and they skirmish over who should hand over the cape and . . . Riiiiippp!

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Minky Stapleton. Text copyright © 2026 by Swapna Haddow. Courtesy of Scholastic.

After Zeb fails to fool Emu with a similar-looking tablecloth, Barry takes the rap. But before he gets his butt kicked, he tells Emu that he only used the cape to become a real superhero like her. Suddenly, Emu breaks down, admitting that she’s only a flying—and butt-kicking—superhero because of the cape. The three are surprised, reminding her that she “almost kicked Barry’s butt a moment ago” without wearing her cape and reassuring her that their butts were all terrified and are “still a bit frightened.” Emu takes their words to heart (and to her booty-kicking feet). She leaves happy and more confident than ever. The whole experience has given Barry a new idea—one that will make use of his true superpower, help their superhero community, and add another offering to the Superhero Café.

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Minky Stapleton. Text copyright © 2026 by Swapna Haddow. Courtesy of Scholastic.

In this this third—and final—book in her The Terrible Trio series, Swapna Haddow follows up The Not So Superheroes and The Day the Mac ‘n’ Cheese Ran Out with the equally charming and hilarious The Mystery of the Lost Cape. Haddow’s signature silliness is magnified with clever misdirection and comical cluelessness, and Zeb’s retelling of how the cape got torn is laugh-out-loud funny. Layered with witty running-gag subplots and character arcs, the story pulls them all together in a heartening and satisfying ending.

Loaded with rollicking action and evocative facial expressions as well as favorite comedy and mystery tropes, Minky Stapleton’s incredibly detailed illustrations immerse readers in this world where laughter is their superpower. Stapleton exuberant interactions among these lovable characters will keep readers riveted to this fast-paced story. Her dynamic, easy-to-read text mimics the characters’ quirky dialogue, highlighting emotions through size and special effects.

A joy to read and a winning finish to this standout series, The Mystery of the Lost Cape: The Terrible Trio #3 is a must for graphic novel fan as well as for any library or home collection. This series would make a wonderful gift to start off summer reading or for any occasion.

Ages 7 – 10

Scholastic, 2026 | ISBN 979-8225045043

About the Author

Swapna Haddow grew up in the UK and wrote her first book at age eight. She wishes she’d kept it, but it seemed like a good idea at the time to trade it for two stickers and a couple of marbles! Her first published book was the hilarious junior novel Dave Pigeon, which grew into a laugh-out-loud, award-winning series. She has since written many funny, colourful, and much-loved picture books as well as further junior fiction series. Swapna loves to write stories filled with boisterous animals causing mayhem, with friendship and humour consistently at the heart of her work. Swapna now lives in Dunedin, New Zealand, with her husband, son, and their dog. Her first homegrown tall tale with Scholastic New Zealand is But Then… the almost true story of an overdue book. Visit her at swapnahaddow.com.

About the Illustrator

Minky Stapleton is a multi-faceted illustrator with a range of styles, all with a dash of humour. An award-winning Art Director and Creative Director originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, Minky gave up advertising to follow her first love, illustration. She now resides in Auckland, New Zealand, where she balances illustration projects with running classes for kids on how to design scary monsters. Minky has illustrated many titles for Scholastic, from hilarious picture books to historical fiction and high-energy, heavily illustrated junior fiction. Visit her at minkystapleton.com.

International Being You Day Activities

The Terrible Trio Coloring Pages and More

You can find lots of The Terrible Trio activity pages for kids to enjoy, including coloring pages, drawing pages, a page for finding your own superpower and animal, and Marge’s Mac ‘n’ Cheese recipe to download on Swapna Haddow’s website!

The Mystery of the Lost Cape Teachers Guide

Teachers, homeschoolers, and other educators can find an exciting and detailed Teacher’s Guide developed by Scholastic that’s full of comprehension questions and fun, thoughtful activities for individuals or a whole class on Swapna Haddow’s website.

You can purchase The Mystery of the Lost Cape (The Terrible Trio #3) from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Picture Book Review

June 12 – National Pet Appreciation Week

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About the Holiday

Pets give us so much love and joy that we often want to do something special for our furry friends in return. The first full week of June gives us the opportunity to show our pets how much we appreciate them! Why not spend a little extra time walking or cuddling with your pet? This week is a great time to pamper them with a few extra treat or a new toy. Another way to show how much our pets mean to us is to make sure they’re up-to-date on their annual check-ups and vaccinations. However you celebrate, you know your pet will appreciate it!

A Wickedly Evil Pet: A Branches Book (Super Villains in Training #2)

Written by Kailei Pew | Illustrated by Estrela Lourenço

Vicky von Evil loves going to school at SVT—Super Villains in Training—even though the work may be harder for her than for most of the students. You see, her “parents and little brother, Henry, aren’t wicked at all.” Still, they support her because her “extended family is full of baddies!” In fact, her Granny Dina-mite has come for a visit to give Vicky some tips on becoming evil.

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Estrela Lourenço. Text copyright © 2026 by Kailei Pew. Courtesy of Scholastic.

One reason Vicky loves SVT is her teacher. Today, Miss Chiff announces that for the next week her students will be practicing on STV’s Crooked Course to learn new evil skills. On Friday each student will be graded on how well they show accuracy and speed in overcoming four obstacles. Those who finish within 30 minutes will be awarded a villain medal of chaos. Miss Chiff also says that they can bring a villain pet as a sidekick. Vicky wants to earn a medal, but without any special powers or a pet she knows it’s going to be tough.

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Estrela Lourenço. Text copyright © 2026 by Kailei Pew. Courtesy of Scholastic.

Granny takes Vicky to Purely Evil Pet Rescue. Vicky meets all the different animals, but none of them feel right for her. That is until she sees the very last pet—a bunny. Vicky feels an immediate spark and can see in his adorable eyes that he has “villain potential.” She names him Captain von Evil and can’t wait to show her class. Instead of being awed, though, the students just laugh.

When it comes time to practice on the Crooked Course, Vicky expects to show Captain the ropes, but as soon as they begin, Captain is way ahead of her. He swings! He tunnels! He jumps! He even scurries through the mud pit while Vicky gets hopelessly stuck. Everyone loves Captain and gives Vicky no notice. She feels deflated. How is her “new pet already a better villain” than she is?

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Estrela Lourenço. Text copyright © 2026 by Kailei Pew. Courtesy of Scholastic.

After more dismal results, Vicky is ready to take Captain back to the Pet Rescue. On the way there, however, she thinks about Granny’s advice to really watch what Captain is doing while they practice, and when her bike gets caught in a mud puddle and she sees Captain digging her out, she has a revelation. Now Vicky’s excited for Friday’s competition. But will her new strategy earn her a medal of chaos and prove that she is a true villain?

Illustration copyright © 2026 by Estrela Lourenço. Text copyright © 2026 by Kailei Pew. Courtesy of Scholastic.

Kailei Pew’s second book in her Super Villains in Training early chapter book series offers young readers fast-paced and hilarious action as Vicky tries to live up to her family’s talent for evil despite having no special powers and parents and a brother who are kind, always upbeat, and sweet. Pew’s story is delightfully relatable for readers navigating early elementary school grades, and her themes of friendship, family support, trusting others, self-confidence, and cooperation are smoothly woven throughout her appealing storytelling.

From the SVT campus to the pet shop to the obstacle course, young readers will love accompanying Vicky through Estrela Lourenço’s expressive and detailed illustrations. Lourenço brings out all of the humor in Pew’s story while also eliciting empathy from readers as Vicky struggles to prove herself. Emerging and newly independent readers will appreciate the bold text and dialogue enclosed in speech bubbles that are clearly linked to the speaker. Lourenço’s vivid snapshots and full-page images add to the depth of the Super Villains in Training series.

With a well-developed and enticing story, appealing characters, humor, and a high-interest setting, A Wickedly Evil Pet (Super Villains in Training #2) is a must for any fan of the series. Children new to the series will want to catch up with the first book: The Fantastic Freeze Ray before Project Slime, book #3 comes along in November.

About Branches Books

Super Villains in Training is part of Scholastic’s early chapter book line, Branches, aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow!

Ages 5 – 7

Scholastic, 2026 | ISBN 978-1546162148

Kailei Pew is a wife, mother, and children’s book author. She loves to write books that help kids see they can do anything they set their minds to. When she isn’t writing or reading, you can find her jogging through the Arizona desert, playing a mean game of Candy Land with her kids and husband, or baking anything with extra chocolate. Super Villains in Training is her first early chapter book series. Visit her and join the Wickedly Awesome Summer Reading Challenge at kaileipewbooks.com.

Estrela Lourenço is a full-time children’s book writer and illustrator with years of experience working in animation for shows like The Amazing World of Gumball for Cartoon Network and Wander Over Yonder for Disney. Estrela is originally from Portugal, but has been living in Ireland since 2009. Visit her at estrelalourenco.com.

National Pet Appreciation Day Activity

Super Villains in Training Activity Pages

Kids can join Vicky von Evil and her friends in their training at SVT with these Super Villains in Training Activity Pages from Scholastic!

You can purchase Super Villains in Training: A Wickedly Evil Pet from these booksellers

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Picture Book Review

June 11 – National Making Life Beautiful Day

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About the Holiday

Today’s holiday was established by Apriori Beauty in 2015 to recognize all those people who make life more fun, meaningful, and joyful—more beautiful—for someone else. This can be done in so many ways, from spending time talking with someone to let them know you care to sharing your talent for baking, art, music, gardening, home repair, or any skill with a friend, family member, or coworker. These acts of kindness bring joy to them and to you. Even just giving a smile to those you meet can brighten someone’s day. Making someone else feel good will make life more beautiful for you too! Today’s two books are delightful reminders that spending time with friends, making new friends, and enjoying shared experiences can make life feel new and exciting.

Thank you to Tundra Books for sending me these books for review!

The Funjeepups: A Beautiful Song

By Michael Slack

Part acorn, part long-eared puppy, and all around adorable, the three Funjeepup best friends—Dot, Button, and Dollop—love exploring their magical forest. On this sunlit morning, they settle on an inviting bolder to enjoy “big juicy berries,” only to attract an uninvited guest. As the bluebird swoops in, Dot runs and hides, afraid the bird wants to eat their snack, but Dollop reassures her that she just wants to sing.

Text and illustration copyright © 2026 by Michael Slack. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

Indeed, a “beautiful song” soon wafts on the breeze. The Funjeepups are so delighted that they’re inspired to create their own song. They hurry home for their instruments. Dot brings a drum, Button pulls a piano, and Dollop carries a flute—and more berries! Each of the friends plays their favorite kind of song, but this only creates noise. Dollop urges them to try again, saying that their first attempt was simply a “not-YET song.”

Text and illustration copyright © 2026 by Michael Slack. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

Their second try isn’t much better than the first, so bird decides to help. On Dot’s drum she taps out a pleasant beat with her feet. Dot catches on quickly. “I am playing the drum!” she proudly announces. Next, the bird lands on Button’s piano and pecks out individual keys. Button begins to understand and is soon plinking a tune. Dollop, who’s been playing the flute through his nose, gets a correction as well as a lesson on creating different notes.

Now, Dot, Button, and Dollop put their newfound talents together and play a beautiful song! Bird listens happily then flies away, leaving a gift behind. The Funjeepups are so grateful for the bird’s help that they leave a gift too. Bird sings her thanks then takes her gifts home to decorate her nest.

Text and illustration copyright © 2026 by Michael Slack. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

Michael Slack’s endearing forest friends are sweet companions on this musical adventure that turns into a day of musical discovery and confidence building. Slack’s Funjeepups are darling, and his lovely woodland setting will enchant little readers. Young children are sure to giggle knowingly as Dollop plays the flute through his nose, happy to be in on this visual joke until Bird sets him straight.

Slack’s minimal, simply stated text printed in bold type contains many building blocks for early word recognition and reading, such as repeated words, short sentences, and musical onomatopoeia that’s fun to say or play on an instrument. In addition to introducing young readers to the graphic novel format, his panels focus readers’ attention on each sentence and its accompanying illustrated facial expressions and emotions as well as incremental changes in the plot.

A charming book that both kids and adults will love to share over and over, The Funjeepups: A Beautiful Song is fresh and eye-catching in an easy-to-hold 6 1/4″ x 9 1/4″ size. It is sure to be a cherished addition to home and library collections. Pair with Funjeepups: A Star Wish to create a much-loved gift.

Ages 3 – 7

Tundra Books, 2026 | ISBN 978-1774887004

Michael Slack is the author and illustrator of many books for young readers, including Kitties on Dinosaurs, Bunny Built, Shorty & Clem and Elecopter. His art and character design has been featured in books, television and games. He lives with his family in the Bay Area of California. Visit him at slackart.com.

You can purchase The Funjeepups: A Beautiful Song from these booksellers

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The Funjeepups: A Star Wish

By Michael Slack

The Funjeepups are camping out, sheltered in a fallen log, the darkness dispelled with an acorn lantern and a small fire to keep the chill at bay. Dot, Button, and Dollop are ready to stay out all night. They want to “. . . see stars. And make a wish.” But clouds blow in, obscuring the stars and ruining their plans to make wishes. But then stars seem to appear on the horizon. Dollop runs toward them and catches one in his hands. When he shows Dot his star, she imparts bad news: “That’s a bug.” Since it shines, Dollop is undeterred and tells her to “make a bug wish.” The firefly lands on Dot’s nose as she closes her eyes to wish.

Text and illustration copyright © 2026 by Michael Slack. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

The clouds don’t dim all of their enjoyment, though, and Dollop suggests a night hike. Taking their trusty lantern and new friend along, they head into the woods. Soon, they’re running back to camp after hearing “Hoo Hoo” and encountering a frog. All is forgotten as Dollop brings out marshmallows for gooey fun, and the campfire is perfect for shadow play. Following a game of Stick, Stone, Stack, Dot, Button and Dollop send the firefly home and drift off to sleep.

Text and illustration copyright © 2026 by Michael Slack. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

During the night, they’re awakened by a moonbeam, and Dot’s excited to see that her “bug wish came true.” The sky has cleared! They make their star wishes then drift back to sleep. In the morning, they’re proud to have spent the entire night outside. Dot hurries home to see if her bug wish came true.

Text and illustration copyright © 2026 by Michael Slack. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

Just as in Funjeepups: A Beautiful Song, Dot, Button, and Dollop embark on an adventure in the woods with curiosity and enthusiasm. When their planned activity becomes impossible, instead of moping the three friends take advantage of other forest delights and make a new friend in the process. Their clever pivot from stars to fireflies will enchant little readers. Michael Slack’s gentle woodland fright will bring giggles instead of gasps, and his playful games may inspire similar fun at home. Slack’s signature storytelling, encompassing short sentences, repeated words, and visual clues, encourages young children to become proficient and avid readers.

Funjeepups: A Star Wish sparkles with humor and friendship and is a heartwarming story to inspire nighttime adventures at home or outdoors. The book is sure to enjoy continual requests for cozy read aloud story times. Pair with Funjeepups: A Beautiful Song for a gift any young child will treasure.

Ages 3 – 7

Tundra Books, 2026 | ISBN 978-1774887028

Michael Slack is the author and illustrator of many books for young readers, including Kitties on Dinosaurs, Bunny Built, Shorty & Clem and Elecopter. His art and character design has been featured in books, television and games. He lives with his family in the Bay Area of California. Visit him at slackart.com.

You can purchase The Funjeepups: A Star Wish from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop