When you love to read, you want to pass down that excitement to your children. The Get Caught Reading campaign, established 27 years ago by the Association of American Publishers, promotes literacy and language development through reading to children and spurring them to read on their own. Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers especially benefit from being read to and developing good memories and experiences associated with reading. All month long, people are encouraged to pass along their love of literature by sharing pictures of themselves reading on social media. Celebrities, sports figures, book creators, teachers, moms and dads, grandparents, and kids of all ages take part in this favorite annual event. Why don’t you?! For more information, visit the Get Caught Reading website.
I Whaley Love You!
By Sandra Magsamen
When you see your child’s sweet face looking up at you, you just want to tell them how much they mean to you. Maybe you wish there was some new way to express your love for them—a fun way! Sandra Magsamen’s big-hearted tale I Whaley Love You! is the perfect answer for just those moments and many more.
Topped off with a sparkly, iridescent whale tail that little ones will love to squish, I Whaley Love You! dives into the special bond between child and parent, grandparent, or other caregiver. Sweet, rhyming verses convey all the love adults feel when cuddling close with their child, doing things together, and “snuggling up tight” as they say “nighty-night.” The final verse reassures young children that “forever and always . . . I whaley, whaley, whaley love you!”
Sandra Magsamen’s endearing I Whaley Love You! will dazzle little ones with its playful tail and adorable under-the-sea illustrations full of gentle waves, smiling sea creatures, and an adoring adult-child duo. Magsamen’s punny expression is sure to become a favorite phrase to share when that incomparable joy bubbles up and overflows your heart.
I Whaley Love You! makes a special gift for baby showers, new babies, parents, grandparents, and other caregivers and a delightful bedtime or naptime read aloud.
Ages: Baby and up
Cartwheel Books, 2026 | ISBN 978-1546140139
Sandra Magsamen is the author and illustrator of over 75 books for young children including I Love You, Honey Bunny, You’re My Little Chickadee, and Our Little Love Bug! As an artist, an art therapist, and a mom, she uses her creativity to remind people to express themselves and connect with others. Her lifestyle brands, products, and books are sold worldwide. Visit her at sandramagsamen.com.
Get Caught Reading Month Activity
Whale Match-Up Puzzle
The twin whales have all gotten separated! Help them find each other again in this fun Whale Match-Up Puzzle!
You can purchase I Whaley Love You! from these booksellers
This month is all about sharing stories! Whether you’re regaling listeners with an anecdote from your own life or reading a picture book to kids, sharing stories is one of the best ways to connect with others, pass down experiences, and spark imaginations. The emotions shared while laughing or commiserating together while telling or listening, create bonds that uplift, teach, and lead to unforgettable memories. Today’s books offer moments of pure interactive delight shared with your youngest family members!
Thank you to Twirl and Barbara Fisch at Blue Slip Media for sending me a copy of these books for review!
Clickety Clack: Clack-Clack, Little Crab!
By Amy Blay
“Swish, swosh, swish, swosh . . . .” It’s a sleepy day at the ocean, but Little Crab is finished with its nap and wants to play. First Little Crab crosses the sand to find Little Snail. With a “clack-clack!” of its claws, Little Crab wakes up Snail, who’s happy to see its friend! Next—”splish, splash, splish . . . Little Crab scuttles across the tidepools to say hello to Little Starfish. Clack-Clack!” Star Fish opens its eyes and is surprised to see Little Crab! Little Crab is having so much fun! Who can Little Crab wake up next?
The youngest readers will love accompanying Little Crab as it visits friends to wake them up for playtime. By pulling the sturdy handle tab, kids help Little Crab clack-clack his claws and watch a variety of sea creatures open their eyes to greet their enthusiastic friend. On the final page—with a tug and an audible “wheeeeeee!”—readers join those friends and more in a game of hide-and-seek behind a giant coral.
Children will giggle in delight as they pull the tabs made just for them. Amy Blay’s bright colors, cheerful characters, and inviting ocean scenery will beckon kids to return to the beach over and over. Surprising sounds and the thrill of watching the pages change with just a tug make Clack-Clack, Little Crab! a perfect board book to share for quick read-aloud story times, tuck away in a take-along bag, or gift to young children for any occasion.
Ages: Baby – 4
Twirl, 2026 | ISBN 978-2408061807
About the Illustrator
Amy Blay has illustrated for design companies, toy manufacturers, publishers, and giftware companies. She lives in London, England. Visit her at amyblay.com and follow her on Instagram.
You can purchase Clickety Clack: Clack-Clack, Little Crab! from these booksellers
Take your youngest reader back to prehistoric times to meet a T. Rex, who’s proud to introduce the features that make it such a fierce dinosaur. This isn’t just a walk in the (Jurassic) park, though! Little ones get to interact with this favorite beast, even helping a baby T. Rex hatch from its egg with the pull of a tab!
Young readers learn about the T. Rex’s size, “skin covered with smooth, hard scales,” and his “huge jaw full of sharp teeth. ROAAARR!” Kids will be excited to open that enormous mouth and let out their own gigantic ROAAARR—and maybe another one, just for fun! The T. Rex also reveals that it is a carnivore and admits that “other dinosaurs are afraid of me!” Which ones are hiding from T. Rex now? A quick lift of the tab exposes them—then hides them again!
But watch out, T. Rex! A fearless Triceratops is charging your way, guided by a dino-loving reader! This Triceratops is sure to back up and charge again . . . back up and charge again! “The large frill on the head of the Triceratops makes it hard for me to bite it!” T. Rex explains. Who will win this battle?
Raphaële Glaux’s text, in which T. Rex speaks directly to readers, will charm young children while teaching them basic facts about this favorite dinosaur and its environment, comparing specifics like height and length to common objects that make it easy for children to visualize. Kids learn scientific terms as well as the names of several dinosaurs and other creatures from the period. Glaux’s final question will have little ones replaying the battle between T. Rex and Triceratops again and again.
Each page of this exciting dinosaur discovery book provides drama and education as a variety of identified dinosaurs, plant life, and volcanos appear in Amélie Falière’s vibrant illustrations. Kids will “Aww” over the baby T. Rex as they help it hatch from its egg. Later, as they look into the eyes of the full-grown T. Rex and feel it’s teeth, they’ll wonder how such a small dino could grow so large. The final encounter between T. Rex and Triceratops offers exciting action.
Ultimate Discovery: T. Rex is a sturdy, high-impact board book that will enchant the youngest readers and that adults will enjoy sharing with their children at home and away.
Ages: Baby – 4
Twirl, 2026 | ISBN 979-1027613885
About the Author
Raphaële Glaux writes and designs books for children and adults. A long-time editor who has many published titles, she lives in Nantes, France. Follow her on Instagram.
About the Illustrator
Amélie Falière grew up in the countryside of France, and has always been fascinated with nature and animals. Her colorful illustrations can be seen in many children’s publications. She lives in Paris, France. Follow her on Instagram.
You can purchase Ultimate Discovery: T. Rex from these booksellers
The month of March is dedicated to reading! National Reading Month was designed to encourage children and adults to read every day and celebrates the joys and benefits that reading together can bring. When you spend time reading with your child, you’re helping them develop the language and literacy skills that will promote future success in school and beyond. Even if your child isn’t talking yet, they’re listening and learning about their language as you read to them. Older kids also love being read to—or reading to you! Setting aside time to read together builds strong bonds that can last a lifetime. The month is typically marked with special events in schools, libraries, bookstores, and communities that bring authors, illustrators, and educators together with kids.
You’ll find book lists and recommendations, monthly reading theme ideas, tips for reading and for guest readers, and places to find free books and resources on theNational Education Association website.
Disco Dave
Written by Jody Jensen Shaffer | Illustrated by Yana Kozak
Dave the walrus loved everything about disco, from the beat of the music to the hip clothes, sparkly décor, and the groovy dances. “Especially the dances!” He thought The Bump, The Funky Chicken, and The Robot were “‘far out!’” But Dave was not a natural dancer. In fact, when he hit the dance floor his moves were more of a natural disaster. Dave decided to take dance lessons.
He was doing pretty well until his flipper tripped him up. Still, when Dave received an invitation to a birthday dance, he was excited to bust the moves he’d learned in class. But things didn’t quite go as planned. Dave’s friends tried to let him down gently: “‘Maybe you groove to different dance moves,’ said KC.” But Dave adored Disco with all his heart, and when he saw an announcement for a Disco dance contest, he was ready to boogie down. But once again, his flippers failed him, and he had to admit Disco wasn’t for him.
“Dave boxed up his bell bottoms and platform shoes and made his way to the donation center. On his way there, though, he passed by Disco Heaven and saw that it was closed! His friend Donna told him that the disc jockey had quit. How would Dave and his friends groove to the beats without the club? Then Dave had an idea! He might not have all right the moves yet, but he did have Disco in his soul. He got behind the soundboard and started experimenting. It turned out Dave had just the right stuff to keep the music alive so he and his friends could keep on truckin’ to their own funky beats.
The story is followed by a detailed discussion by Silvi Guerra PsyD on the nature of learning new skills and how children can find joy in the process while developing perseverance, confidence, and resilience that will benefit them throughout their life. Using the example of dance, Guerra also gives parents and other caregivers tips on how they can make any learning journey fun and meaningful.
Jody Jensen Shaffer channels the Disco era in her story that envelops kids in a caring community of friends as Dave tries again and again to master the dances he loves so much. As Dave comes to accept that he has two left flippers—for now—Shaffer offers new perspectives on practice, perseverance, keeping an upbeat outlook, and being open to alternate opportunities to shine. Her storytelling is peppered with puns, 1970s’ slang, and you’ll want to check out the names of Dave’s friends for some back-in-the-(Disco) day references.
Yana Kozak lets kids in on all the glitter and groove of Disco, from mirrored Disco balls and multi-hued floors to rad fashions and hair styles to all those iconic dances. Children will also appreciate Dave’s enthusiasm for Disco and empathize with his mishaps. Dave’s ability to turn disappointment into triumph is clearly demonstrated and inspiring.
Ages 4 – 8
Magination Press—American Psychological Association, 2026 | ISBN 978-1433848582
Jody Jensen Shaffer is an award-winning poet and the author of more than seventy books of fiction and nonfiction for children. Jody’s poetry and fiction have been published in magazines like Highlights, Ladybug, and Clubhouse Jr. She lives in Liberty, Missouri. Visit her at jodyjensenshaffer.com.
Yana Kozak is a Ukrainian children’s book illustrator living in France. She loves to create funny, emotional characters who are exploring the world. Follow her on Instagram.
National Reading Month Activity
Reading Fun Bookmarks to Color
Mark where you’ve stopped reading or your favorite page with these bookmarks you can color and make your own!
In December of 2013 the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed March 3rd as World Wildlife Day to promote awareness of our environment and the dangers to it. Every year a different theme is chosen to spotlight an area of the world, a particular species, or a group of activists. This year’s theme is “Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet” and focuses on innovative ideas for financing can contribute to halting biodiversity loss, raising the interest of private sector stakeholders to invest in wildlife conservation, and creating a sustainable future. The day also celebrates successful conservation and sustainability initiatives. To learn more about the day, special events, and how you and your kids can get involved today and throughout the year, visit the World Wildlife Day website.
Thanks to Eerdman’s Books for Young Readers for gifting us a copy of Kingdoms of Life for review.
Reviewed by Dorothy Levine
Kingdoms of Life
By Carly Allen-Fletcher
“Life is all around us…In the sky, the sea, and the soil, life exists in millions of different incredible ways.”
Jump into Carly Allen-Fletcher’s vibrant fact-filled guidebook for kids for a deep-dive exploration of the kingdoms of life. Each Kingdom rules over its own color-coded section, jam-packed with information on how the classified organisms feed, grow, and reproduce. Information also includes the ways in which the organisms across Kingdoms are related or work together with other lifeforms. The pages are royally packed with vibrant illustrations that appear to burst out from the very edges of the book.
Allen-Fletcher begins with an explanation of how all life is formed—from tiny building blocks called cells. These cells can join to create complex multicellular life forms or just exist on their own as unicellular forms of life. She then zooms out to examine the six biggest categories of life. Allen-Fletcher makes sure to note that these categories are not fixed; they change as scientists learn more and arrange beings in different ways.
The first category investigated in depth is the most complex of the life-form groups—animals. The animal pages are filled with a diverse range of species, each numerated to a corresponding key at the back. Allen-Fletcher shows the wide range of animals by comparing the smallest species (fairy wasps) to the largest (blue whales), while also explaining how even within one species (dogs) there can be glorious variety. Examples of animals that don’t quite fit in the animal category, such as a sea slug that can make energy from the sun, as well as animals that can survive extreme conditions or are thought to be practically immortal, are also discussed.
In addition to the animals, plants, fungi, protists, bacteria, and archaea are each given equal attention in their respective kingdom sections. From protists like giant kelp and slime mold to bacteria in our gut and bioluminescent bacteria found in squid, each kingdom is filled with fascinating examples of life and interesting facts on specific organisms.
Kingdoms, Allen-Fletcher explains, can also be broken down further, into smaller and smaller groups such as family, genus, and species. A few taxonomists (scientists who study and sort lifeforms into categories) from around the world and throughout many different centuries are highlighted for their contributions to the field.
The book ends with a last dose of wonder: “We know more about the moon than we do about the deepest parts of our oceans. / Every year, we learn more about our home and the incredible life-forms we share it with. / What will we discover next?” The inclusion of “we” in this ending invites readers to feel welcome in this process of study and discovery. Taxonomy need not be only for adult scientists, but anyone who shares a passion for nature and careful observation.
Back matter features each of the categories taxonomists use to sort life into groups as well as all the names of the featured life-forms throughout the book. The science is detailed while also distributed into easy-to-read bite-sized chunks.
Carly Allen-Fletcher illuminates a topic that is usually reserved for upper-level biology courses making it accessible and intriguing for young learners. The facts from her book will inspire a passion for all species—large or small, animal or bacteria—and help children to understand where in this big wide world we as humans stand and the symbiotic relationships that exist between creatures. Mini scientists dot the lusciously illustrated pages, comically examining life-forms in all the kingdoms up close.
Kingdoms of Life would make a valuable addition to home, school and library collections.
Ages 6 – 10
Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2025 | ISBN 978-0802855916
About the Author/Illustrator
Carly Allen-Fletcher is a British illustrator and author whose books include Goodnight Forest(Muddy Boots), Beastly Biomes (Creston), and Animal Antipodes (Creston). Inspired by nature and science, she creates her art by combining hand-drawn elements, painted textures, and graphic shapes. Carly loves reading about the latest biological discoveries, and if she hadn’t become a professional illustrator, she would have become a scientist instead. Follow Carly on Instagram or visit her website at carlydraws.com.
World Wildlife Day Activity
It Takes All Kinds game illustration courtesy of Science Trek.
As Allen-Fletcher notes in Kingdoms of Life, scientists are constantly evolving the categories for living organisms as they learn more. Do you notice any differences between the book and video kingdom categories? Since this video was published, scientists have started using the kingdom names bacteria and archaea instead of the previously used term, monera!
If your motto is “So many books, so little time” then you’ll be happy to know that January is Book Blitz Month! During this month book lovers are given the green light to read as many books as possible! For kids, Book Blitz Month can be particularly exciting as they discover new fiction and nonfiction that captivates their imagination. To celebrate, take your kids to a local bookstore and the library to find new and favorite books to binge on all month long. If you don’t have a dedicated space for your children’s books, this month is also a great time to create a home library for your child so that they have a shelf, a crate, or even a whole bookcase of stories they can enjoy again and again!
I’d like to thank Lydia Lukidis for sharing a digital copy of Deep, Deep Down: The Secret Underwater Poetry of the Mariana Trench with me for review consideration. All opinions on the book are my own. You can read my interview with Lydia below.
Deep, Deep Down: The Secret Underwater Poetry of the Mariana Trench
Written by Lydia Lukidis | Illustrated by Juan Calle
Imagine being invited to visit a mysterious place where only a few have ever been; where only they have truly seen the creatures that inhabit it; and where it’s murky depths are accessible by only one type of vehicle. Would you dare to go? Lydia Lukidis and Juan Calle extend just such an invitation, but no notes for missing school, packing a suitcase, or plucking of courage need to be considered, for through their phenomenal book, readers find a seat in the incredible submersible that will transport them to “…the deepest underwater valley in the world”: the Mariana Trench.
Image copyright Juan Calle, 2022, text copyright Lydia Lukidis, 2022. Courtesy of Capstone Editions.
The submersible plunges deeper and deeper to where the sun doesn’t penetrate. Here, in the darkness, “food is scarce, and a bone-chilling cold blasts through the water. Earthquakes shake the ocean floor, and the water pressure, like a thick, heavy blanket with a thousand hands, presses down, / down, / down.” What flashes by the porthole window? A monster? No—a fish with a long and slender tail perfectly suited for its austere home, where it can survive for months without eating if necessary. “Diving deeper, a long, thin body slinks and sways, ever so slowly. The cutthroat eel is not fearsome, some rather, mesmerizing.”
The light beam of the submersible also reveals feathery crinoids “twirling and whirling like an underwater acrobat,” and a curious snailfish “dances, ghost-like, to the rhythms of the ocean” as it comes to take its own peek in the window from the other side. Snailfish aren’t affected by the heavy water pressure because “they can swim deeper than any other fish in the world. That’s because their bodies contain RMAO. This special substance protects the fish from high pressure, making sure their bodies aren’t crushed.”
Image copyright Juan Calle, 2022, text copyright Lydia Lukidis, 2022. Courtesy of Capstone Editions.
It might seem impossible to sink still lower, but the submersible plummets into water populated by tiny creatures, almost insect-like with their multiple pairs of legs and long antennae that propel them and help them find food. But explorers are not at the very bottom of the Mariana Trench even yet. The submersible floats slowly down to the bottom—“the very deepest spot on Earth. Look out the window . . . and witness a world of surprises.” Extraordinary creatures, some small, soft, and translucent and others—neither plant nor animal—large and with protective shells, and all adapted to thrive in their formidable surroundings will amaze you.
At last it’s time for the submersible to return to the surface. Slowly, it makes its way through the darkness to lighter seas, where it passes by more familiar fish and other creatures on its way to “SPLASH!” surfacing once again and “leaving the marvels of the Mariana Trench far below” still waiting to be explored again.
Insets of scientific information on diet, anatomical adaptations, and other aspects that make them suited to their environment also accompany the introduction of each sea creature.
Back matter includes an illustrated cutaway of the ocean above and descending into the Mariana Trench with various sea creatures labeled and oriented to the level in which they are found; “Did You Know?” facts about the water pressure in the Trench, its creation, and how many people have visited; why the Mariana Trench matters; an author’s note; and a glossary.
Image copyright Juan Calle, 2022, text copyright Lydia Lukidis, 2022. Courtesy of Capstone Editions.
When undertaking an excursion into unknown territory—especially through words and pictures—explorers need guides who can truly immerse them not only in the sights and sounds of an area but also the rhythms and almost intangible aura that makes it so uniquely compelling. Readers of all ages find that quality in Deep, Deep Down. Lydia Lukidis’s lithe and lyrical language is at once straightforward—answering questions any reader might have—and evocative—capturing the enigmatic and secret world at the bottom of the Earth as it flashes into view or slowly reveals itself and retreats again. Her vocabulary, rich with active verbs, ensures that readers appreciate the Mariana Trench as teeming with life and alive with wonders more amazing than we can even imagine.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself forgetting that you’re looking at illustrations of a vampire squid, anglerfish, rattail fish, cutthroat eels, crinoids, and even the rocky and sandy ocean floor instead of photographs as you inspect Juan Calle’s magnificent pages. As the submersible—seen from many angles—plunges into darker and darker water, bioluminescent fish begin to appear alongside their grayer sea mates (children will enjoy pointing out the dark shapes that lurk in the shadows of the submersible and the stony outcroppings.)
As a rattail drifts into view, each rose-gold scale is visible, shimmering in the beam of light thrown from the submersible; it’s blue eye seemingly as curious about readers as they are about this unusual fish. Calle mesmerizes with careful details, shading, and perspective that portrays each creature in all of their weird and wonderful floating, creeping, or stock-still spectacle.
Deep, Deep Down: The Secret Underwater Poetry of the Mariana Trench will thrill ocean and nature lovers and will spur increased interest and research into this unique, nearly untouched habitat that we are only now beginning to discover. The book is a must for any environmental science enthusiast at home and for all classroom, school, and public library collections.
Ages 7 – 10
Capstone Editions, 2022 | ISBN 978-1684466153
About the Illustrator
Juan Calle is a former biologist turned science illustrator, trained on the Science Illustration program at UC Monterrey Bay. He worked early on his illustrator career for field guides of plants and animals of his country of origin, Colombia, and now owns and works in his art studio, LIBERUM DONUM in Bogota, Columbia, creating concept art, storyboarding and his passion: comic books. You can connect with Juan onInstagram.
Take a plunge into Deep, Deep Down with this book trailer!
Meet Lydia Lukidis
Lydia Lukidis is the author of 50+ trade and educational books for children. Her titles include DANCING THROUGH SPACE: Dr. Mae Jemison Soars to New Heights (Albert Whitman, 2024), DEEP, DEEP, DOWN: The Secret Underwater Poetry of the Mariana Trench (Capstone, 2023), THE BROKEN BEES’ NEST (Kane Press, 2019) which was nominated for a Cybils Award, and NO BEARS ALLOWED (Clear Fork Media, 2019). A science enthusiast from a young age, she now incorporates her studies in science and her everlasting curiosity into her books.
Lydia is an active member of SCBWI, CANSCAIP, 12 x 12, and The Authors Guild. She’s very involved in the kidlit community and also volunteers as a judge on Rate your Story. Another passion of hers is fostering love for children’s literacy through the writing workshops she regularly offers in elementary schools. Lydia is represented by literary agent Miranda Paul from the Erin Murphy Literary Agency.
Hi Lydia! I’m really thrilled to have the chance to talk to you about this gorgeous book, how it all came together, and your other work as a writer.
You have degrees in Pure and Applied Science as well as English Literature. After graduating from college did you work in the science field? If so, can you talk about your work a little? How has your science background influenced your writing?
When I was younger, I was drawn to both science and the arts. I once saw them as mutually exclusive but then came to realize how connected these disciplines are. Upon graduating university, I did something completely out of left field but that satiated my artistic desires. I started my own jewelry line! After that, I became a puppeteer, writing plays for children. That brought me back to my love of writing, and here I am writing kidlit. I often focus on STEM topics so it’s full circle. I feel like this is truly where I belong.
What drew you to write about the Mariana Trench for children? What kind of research did you do in creating this book?
In 2019, I read an article about how scientists found a plastic bag floating in the Mariana Trench. They also discovered plastic in the belly of various marine animals. My heart sank. I wondered how we human beings managed to start damaging one of the most remote places on the planet.
At that point, I didn’t know that much about the Mariana Trench and my curiosity grew. I began my research on the internet and then came to realize most of that information was false. The book really came together once I interviewed a slew of experts (7 in total) who’ve devoted their lives to studying the deep sea, the hadal zone, and geology. They also helped me find the right books and articles to read for updated information.
What was the most surprising thing you learned during your research? Do you have a favorite creature or one that you’d like to learn more about?
The most surprising thing was that despite the hostile conditions in the trench (no sunlight, scarcity of food, and crushing pressure), life still thrives deep, deep down. Though, the creatures are not what you would expect. There aren’t any sharks, for example, or any large creatures for that matter. My favorite has to be the sea cucumber. I must have watched hours and hours of them oscillating and floating, like underwater ballet. I was love struck!
Your storytelling in Deep, Deep Down is so fluid and as mesmerizing as the Mariana Trench itself. Can you talk about your writing process for this book and how you achieved such a visceral experience for readers?
Wow, what a compliment! Writing this book was nothing short of magical. I’m normally very hard on myself and many books don’t even make it to my agent. Other books take years to figure out. With nonfiction, finding the right structure is crucial. But somehow, with DEEP, DEEP DOWN, I didn’t have my usual “tormented writing struggle.” The writing was fluid and literally flowed out, and never changed in structure. There was a lot of editing, to be sure, I had to rewrite the manuscripts over 55 times to get the facts right, but the vision never changed. Will that always be the case? No! The next book I tried to write crashed and burned (maybe to be resurrected one day), so I’m grateful for this experience.
As a biologist who turned to illustration and who studied at the University of California at Monterrey Bay, Juan Calle must have been a dream match for Deep, Deep Down. Can you talk about how was he paired with your manuscript? When during the publication process did you begin to see his work? What emotions did his interpretations of your words stir in you?
Yes! It was Capstone who wisely suggested Juan. When I saw the proofs, I think my jaw hit the floor. He did SUCH a great job at getting all the details right (and believe me, it was tough—I had made a 20-page document with reference photos and notes vetted by Dr. Gerringer, my main consultant.) Although we never met, spoke, or even corresponded via email, Juan was able to follow my direction and bring his own flavor to the table. I think I first started seeing artwork about 8 months ago, so it was a speedy process. His work was stunning and scientifically accurate, although we couldn’t always draw everything to scale. It was also infused with magic.
What do you hope children will take away from Deep, Deep Down?
My goal in writing this book was twofold: firstly, to educate children on the deepest ocean of our world and debunk the myth that “scary” creatures live within its depths, and, secondly, to talk about ocean conservation and the importance of this fascinating ecosystem.
Kids may think the Trench is so far removed from their lives and that their actions don’t matter, or that what happens in the Trench doesn’t affect them. But that’s simply not true. Everything is connected, and I’d like to remind them that our actions affect our planet, even in its deepest spots.
You’ve written over 50 books for children and are very active in the writing community. What do you love best about being an author? What do you find rewarding about helping other writers succeed?
Thank you for the sweet words! I got my start with work-for-hire and most of my published books are for the educational market. DEEP, DEEP DOWN is my first trade nonfiction book, so it feels like a big accomplishment.
What do I love about writing? Everything. That said, it’s also a tough profession and every year, I usually have a moment when I reassess why I keep choosing this craft.
I also love supporting the kidlit community; it comes deep from the heart. I know what it is to struggle as a writer, and I see so many others struggling, hustling, working so hard. I like to support and acknowledge their efforts. Every little achievement is a milestone and should be celebrated!
What’s up next for you?
I’m excited to have just announced my second trade nonfiction book, DANCING THROUGH SPACE: Dr. Mae Jemison Soars to New Heights (Albert Whitman, 2024). I actually wrote this in 2015, and it’s a very long and convoluted story about how it got acquired. I did think long and hard whether or not I should tell this story and I ultimately decided to follow my heart because I felt so connected to the hook of the story. I invested in a sensitivity reader and will do so again once we start the editing process at Albert Whitman. They also chose a fantastic illustrator, Sawyer Cloud.
Other than that, I’m knee deep in other WIPs, some of them fiction. I wanted to try to stay in one lane as an author but it’s just not happening—it seems there are different stories of different genres inside me that need to come out. I’m always following the flow of my inspiration, which is often not linear!
Thanks again, Lydia, for sharing so much about your writing life! I know readers are going to love Deep, Deep Down and will be looking forward to Dancing Through Space!
Book Blitz Month Activity
Creatures of the Mariana Trench Word Search
The Mariana Trench is home to so many amazing creatures! Can you find the names of seventeen in this printable word search puzzle?
March 3rd is not only part of National Reading Month, but it’s World Book Day and World Wildlife Day too! How can readers celebrate all three holidays at the same time? With today’s book! Here’s a little bit about each holiday:
National Reading Month
All month long, people celebrate all the joys and benefits of reading. When you read with your child or children every day you’re helping them develop the language and literacy skills that will promote success in school and beyond. Even if your child isn’t talking yet, they’re listening and learning about their language as you read to them. Older kids also love being read to, and setting aside time to read together builds strong bonds that can last a lifetime. The month is typically marked with special events in schools, libraries, bookstores, and communities.
World Wildlife Day
In December of 2013 the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed March 3rd to be World Wildlife Day to promote awareness of our environment and the dangers to it. This year’s theme is “Recovering key species for ecosystem restoration,” which seeks to draw attention to the conservation status of some of the most critically endangered species of wild fauna and flora and to drive discussions toward devising and implementing solutions to conserve them. To learn more, visit the World Wildlife Day website.
World Book Day
World Book Day was created by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to be celebrated on April 23rd, 1995 in honor of William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, who all died on this date. Some countries, such as Great Britain, Ireland, and Scotland celebrate on March 3. No matter what date you pick – or whether you choose to celebrate on both days – the holiday encourages families and individuals to rediscover the joys of reading for pleasure and promotes the availability of a wide range of books to all and in all languages.
Thanks to Running Press Kids for sharing a copy of Battle of the Butts with me for review consideration. All opinions on the book are my own.
Battle of the Butts: The Science Behind Animal Behinds
Written by Jocelyn Rish | Illustrated by David Creighton-Pester
Get ready to RUUUMBLE! as ten of the world’s most fascinating animals put their butts on the line in Jocelyn Rish’s genius look at how certain sea creatures, mammals, insects, and reptiles eat, swim, talk, and defend themselves using their powerful posteriors. Readers don’t have to passively sit by and read, though. Rish invites kids to judge the challengers based on their own preferences and assign a rating from “Terrific Tushie” to “Boring Backside” on their way to crowning the “King of Keisters.”
Image copyright David Creighton-Pester, 2021, text copyright Jocelyn Rish, 2021. Courtesy of Running Kids Press.
As each challenger steps up, readers are presented with their stats, which include their “genus, length, weight, home turf, and posterior power.” Turning the page, kids are then drawn into the science of each critter’s anatomy and how they use it as Rish – in her conversational, detailed, and descriptive text – uses dynamic phrasing and familiar comparisons to help kids visualize each animal’s endgame. An “Extra Booty” paragraph and a highlighted “Butt Bonus” provide more info.
So who’s on the roster for this awesome competition? First up is the manatee, who moves through the water by holding onto or releasing farts. Lest kids begin “picturing a manatee zipping through the water like it has a jetpack on its back end,” Rish goes on to explain the mechanics of their gas-fueled swimming, how they fill up, and the enormity of their intestinal system that allows them to store their gas until they need it.
Image copyright David Creighton-Pester, 2021, text copyright Jocelyn Rish, 2021. Courtesy of Running Kids Press.
Another fierce contender is the bombardier beetle, which at a max length of 1.181 inches (30 millimeters), proves that mighty things come in small packages. This mini-monster might just become the next superhero, with moves worthy of a big-budget blockbuster. Just picture this movie trailer: “A bombardier beetle strolls through the leaves, minding its own business. A bunch of hungry ants attack. Things don’t look so good for the beetle. Then . . . Pew! Pew! Pew! The bombardier beetle fires a pulsing spray of scalding chemicals from its butt, twisting its tushie in different directions to hit all the ants. The bombardier beetle escapes, while the ants regret their decision to snack on the beetle.” Phew! Pass the popcorn! How do they do this? Rish takes kids step-by-step through the bombardier beetle’s chemical processes that read like a blue-ribbon-winning science fair project, complete with boiling blasts ejected at a “speed of 22 miles per hour.” What if the beetle gets eaten anyway? Find out in the explosive Butt Bonus.
Image copyright David Creighton-Pester, 2021, text copyright Jocelyn Rish, 2021. Courtesy of Running Kids Press.
Not all of these challengers use their powers for defense. Parrotfish, which are found in “shallow tropical and subtropical waters around the world” use their poop to do double doody – I mean duty. You might feel a little squeamish about walking barefoot on a beautiful beach that’s near a coral reef once you learn that “a large portion of that white sand is actually parrotfish poop.” Say what?! Yep! Parrotfish “eat the algae, polyps, and bacteria that live on and in coral reefs.”
To get at it, they also end up ingesting coral and, after its well ground up by the 1,000 teeth along the fish’s beak and the “throat-teeth [that] work like a pepper grinder to crush the bits of coral into fine sand,” they deposit this non-nutritious detritus which then becomes the stuff of sandcastles, tanning beds, and sunny day seaside playgrounds. Sounds like a lot of poop, huh? The Butt Bonus tells you just how much.
These are just a few of the entrants vying for your verdict. Will any of them win the crown? Or will it be the wombat, with its armored butt; the Fitzroy river turtle, that’s a butt breather; the herring and its unusual communication style; the silver-spotted skipper caterpillar, that puts medieval warriors to shame; the beaded lacewing and its fatal farts; the Sonoran coralsnake that’s a master of confusion; or the sea cucumber, that throws everything it’s got at would-be predators? It’s up to you! Award your favorite with the trophy while rewarding yourself with a full flush of scintillating facts with which to entertain friends and dazzle your teachers!
A Glossary of words found in bold type throughout the book follows the text.
Image copyright David Creighton-Pester, 2021, text copyright Jocelyn Rish, 2021. Courtesy of Running Kids Press.
If you’re looking for a riveting book steeped in nature and environmental science with some chemistry and lots of laughs thrown in for your child, classroom, or other group of kids, you can’t miss with Jocelyn Rish’s Battle of the Butts. Perfect for both younger kids as a read aloud and for independent readers, the book offers opportunities for exciting learning, expanded research, and even experimentation. Rish’s knowledge of her subject and talent for captivating kids jumps off the page with her smooth, alliterative, and hilarious storytelling.
Accompanying each chapter are David Creighton-Pester’s vibrant and dynamic illustrations that accentuate the humor while realistically showing kids how each creature uses their particular skills in their natural environment. Catapulted poop, shooting toots, and funny facial expressions make each page turn a blast. The book’s excellent format also makes it easy to navigate the short chapters and get the most out of all the material presented. At the end of each chapter, kids are invited to rate the creature in this mega-battle of the butts.
A superb way to engage kids in science learning, The Battle of the Butts would be a favorite on any home bookshelf and is a must for school and public library collections.
Ages 4 – 8 and up
Running Press Kids, 2021 | ISBN 978-0762497775
Discover more about Joycelyn Rish and her books on her website.
I’m thrilled to be a stop on the blog tour for I Am Today by Matt Forrest Esenwine and Patricia Pessoa. This season of giving is the perfect time to share this gorgeous book that reflects the desire of children to give their thoughts, talents, and actions to causes that are meaningful to them. If you’d like to follow I Am Today’s blog tour, see the graphic below for further dates and blogs.
I Am Today
Written by Matt Forrest Esenwine | Illustrated by Patricia Pessoa
A child stands on the edge of the beach, letting the sea foam run over her bare toes. Below, a turtle wrapped in a strand of wire floats nearby, while in the background a factory belches smog into the air, and a pipe snakes over the dunes to the water, where it spills its industrial waste. As the child picks up the turtle and removes the wire, she states, “Grown-ups say I am the Future.” Then while releasing the freed turtle, she finishes her thought: “But I’d rather be the Now.” The child then makes her case, explaining that she’s ready to contribute in positive ways, having learned decency, fairness, and generosity from her family and other role models.
Image copyright Patricia Pessoa, 2021, text copyright Matt Forrest Esenwine, 2021. Courtesy of POW! Kids Books.
The memory of the turtle she saved stays with her—her one small act inspiring her to do more. She determines “if I see something isn’t right, / I need to take a stand! / Why wait to offer kindness? / Why wait to lend a hand?” While trying to go to sleep, the little turtle and a whole sea of fish and other creatures swim in her mind. Suddenly, she has an idea and gets out of bed. She writes note after note and folds each paper into origami turtles. She then goes to her window and releases them on the wind.
Image copyright Patricia Pessoa, 2021, text copyright Matt Forrest Esenwine, 2021. Courtesy of POW! Kids Books.
The next morning, despite the rain, a crowd of children has gathered at the child’s door—all are holding her note. They and their parents and other adults, many carrying signs urging protection for the sea animals, march down the sidewalk and past the polluting factory to the beach. Living in that moment, they think: “The past is far behind us, / the future, well beyond. / There’s never been / a better time to listen… / …learn… / …respond!”
Image copyright Patricia Pessoa, 2021, text copyright Matt Forrest Esenwine, 2021. Courtesy of POW! Kids Books.
At the beach the group fans out across the sand to pick up debris, and a turn of the page reveals a clean beach and a newspaper containing a front-page article on the factory’s waste pipe that has been closed. “Someday I’ll be the Future” the child says, “But right now… / …I am Today.”
Illustrated instructions on how to make an origami turtle follow the story.
Image copyright Patricia Pessoa, 2021, text copyright Matt Forrest Esenwine, 2021. Courtesy of POW! Kids Books.
Children, having lived on our planet for only a few years, are all progress, moving forward, not looking back yet as each day they learn something new, develop another skill, break old barriers, and form unique opinions. So it’s no surprise that kids are concerned about what is happening today and how it will affect the future—their future and the world’s. In I Am Today, Matt Forrest Esenwine harnesses that power of wonder, confidence, and ambition that children possess and gives it a lyrical voice. Flowing with a rhythm as stirring as ocean swells, Esenwine’s story will resonate deeply within any child’s heart.
While Patricia Pessoa’s lovely illustrations depict a child concerned with protecting the ocean and its creatures, Esenwine’s text is universal and equally inspiring for any child and any cause. While recognizing the desire and ability of children and young people to bring about change, Esenwine also provides concrete ways that they can do so, from small gestures to larger actions, allowing all readers to feel included and important. I Am Today also presents a meaningful way for kids and adults to talk about causes that are important to them and ways that they can get involved.
With a warm, vivid color palette and fresh perspectives that allow readers to make some of their own deductions, Patricia Pessoa presents a lush landscape of a child’s family life, imagination, and ideas brought to fruition. Her images of the family’s picture wall and dinner time are full of heart and humor, and kids will enjoy lingering over the pages to catch all the action. Pessoa portrays the importance of saving the turtles and other sea creatures with clever imagery as the turtle appears in the bathroom mirror as the child brushes her teeth, swimming in the bathtub, and decorating the cup of water on her nightstand. Pessoa’s illustrations of the fish and other ocean creatures that fill the child’s mind are especially beautiful, as is the spread in which she sends her origami messengers out into the world.
I Am Today is an inspiring, uplifting, and motivational book that children will want to frequently revisit and one that families, classrooms, schools, and public libraries will want to add to their collections. The book’s beauty and message makes it a wonderful gift for any child on your list.
Ages 4 – 8 and up
POW! Kids Books, 2021 | ISBN 978-1576879948
Discover more about Matt Forrest Esenwine, his books, and his poetry on his website.
Check out these upcoming dates and discover how other bloggers are celebrating I Am Today!
This year many books have been delayed from their original publishing date to a later time due to shipping and supply issues. The best way to support authors and their wonderful new books is to preorder titles from your favorite bookseller. I Am Today will be available January 23, 2022.
celebratepicturebooks.com 