May 8 – National Family Month

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About the Holiday

Observed during the five weeks between Mothers Day and Fathers Day, National Family Month was established by KidsPeace, a private, not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping children and families since 1882. Leading into the school vacation season, the holiday encourages families to spend more time working, playing, talking, reading, and just hanging out together. Having fun or tackling projects together builds strong family bonds and can be a meaningful way for kids to develop or learn important life skills. Today’s book highlights that exciting time when a new baby makes a family bigger—and better!

Thank you to Familius for sending me a copy of I’m a Baby! for review.

I’m a Baby!

Written by Terry Pierce | Illustrated by Volha Kaliaha

 

There may be nothing babies love more than . . . babies! And new parents? They love babies too! Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and  cousins? Babies all the way! It’s this same joy and excitement for babies that Terry Pierce and Volha Kaliaha bring to their adorable story in which a baby enthusiastically shares their day with other babies—specifically, the baby on your lap!

Illustration © 2025 by Volha Kaliaha, text © 2025 by Terry Pierce. Courtesy of Familius.

The story begins with a bright-eyed tyke ready to greet the morning! “Wake up, world! / Hello, day! / I’m a baby / all the way!” Out of the crib, this curious kid, accompanied by an attentive kitty, gets a clean diaper, shows off how fast they can “scoot” across the floor, has breakfast, and plays a giggly game with mom and dad. Nap time? “No, no, no!” This active baby still wants to “GO, go, goooo. . . .“

Recharged, Baby’s ready for an afternoon with Sis, a messy meal, and cleaning up—”splishy-splashy in the tub!” Tuckered out, this sweet baby is ready to say “Night-night, world. / Goodbye, day. / I’m a baby! / All the . . . ZZZZzz.”

Illustration © 2025 by Volha Kaliaha, text © 2025 by Terry Pierce. Courtesy of Familius.

Exuberant, humorous, and full of love, Terry Pierce’s vivacious rhymes will enchant little ones as they recognize highlights of their day with family. Her jaunty vocabulary invites lively readings that will get babies and toddlers giggling. I’m a Baby! is also a fun way to introduce soon-to-be big sisters or brothers to their new sibling, and gives independent readers a perfect book to share with their new baby.

Volha Kaliaha’s cheerful and charming illustrations not only reflect the action in the story but also include plenty of familiar objects to stimulate a baby’s curiosity as adults or older children point them out and name them. Kaliaha’s baby is darling, and the family’s cat hilariously keeps this new creature company while sometimes good-naturedly taking the brunt of the baby’s messes.

A delightful board book for anyone to share with the new baby or toddler in their life, I’m a Baby! is sure to be a quick favorite for adults and older children to share with their beloved baby again and again. I’m a Baby! would make a perfect gift and is a must for any library’s board book collection.

Ages Baby – 3

Familius, 2025 | ISBN 978-1641709507

About the Author

Terry Pierce is the author of twenty-five children’s books and a lifelong advocate of children and reading. She holds a BA in early childhood education, an International AMI Montessori diploma, an MFA in writing for children and young adults, and teaches for the UCLA Extension Writers’ Program.

About the Illustrator

Volha Kaliaha, a London-based illustrator, has been illustrating on a professional level for seven years. Her illustrations are inspired by laughter and cuteness—the quirkier, the better.

National Family Month Activity

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-sensory-board

Child’s Sensory Board

 

Toys or objects that provide many opportunities for sensory experimentation and observation stimulate a baby and young child to learn while having fun. You can make a sensory board for your own child using household items and that have a variety of textures, sizes, shapes, and movement. When you create your own sensory board, you can personalize it for your child by adding their name, pictures of family members, and other special items. While you play with your child, take time to talk about all of the objects on the board, what they do, and how they work. Count the objects. If you include words or your child’s name, spell them outloud and say them. There are so many ways to use a sensory board. Even if children can’t yet talk, they are listening and soaking in the rich language learning you are providing!

**When making your board always ensure that you use items that are not a choking hazard or can catch tiny fingers. Make sure that items are firmly attached to the board. Never leave a baby unattended while playing.**

Supplies

  • A board large enough to hold the items you want to attach. Boards that can be used include: those found at hardware stores or craft stores; large cutting boards; shelves; old table tops; etc.

Sample items for your sensory board can be age appropriate and include:

  • Large swatches of various textured material. (I used fur, a scrubbing sheet, and a piece of carpeting)
  • Wooden or thick cardboard letters and numbers, painted in a variety of colors. Letters can be used to add a child’s name to the board.
  • Figures cut from sheets of foam or wooden figures found at craft stores in a variety of numbers that you can count with your child (I used sets of 1, 2, and 3 fish cut from foam to go along with the numbers 1, 2, and 3)
  • Mirror
  • Push button light
  • Chalk board to write on
  • Castor or other wheel
  • Door latches
  • Door knockers
  • Mop heads
  • Paint rollers
  • Cranks
  • Drawer handles
  • Hinges (I attached a tennis ball to a hinge that children can push back and forth)
  • Pulleys
  • Paint in various bright colors
  • Paint brushes
  • Scissors
  • Screws
  • Nuts and bolts
  • Velcro
  • Super glue

Directions

  1. Assemble your items
  2. Paint wooden or cardboard items
  3. Arrange item on the board so that your baby or child can easily reach or manipulate each one
  4. Attach items with screws, nuts and bolts, or super glue
  5. Push button lights or other objects that take batteries can be attached with strong Velcro. Ensure items attached with Velcro are large and not a choking hazard.
  6. Set up board where you and your baby or child can enjoy playing with it together

You can purchase I’m a Baby from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop (discounted books and support for your local independent bookstore)

Picture Book Review

May 6 – Children’s Book Week

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About the Holiday

Founded in 1919, Children’s Book Week is the longest-running literacy initiative in the United States. The 2025 theme is An Ocean of Stories, which celebrates “the vast, collective ocean populated by the stories we read, share, and tell.” The holiday attracts participation from authors, illustrators, publishers, librarians, teachers, and booksellers in schools, libraries, bookstores, and communities across the country. To learn more about the holiday and download bookmarks and posters, activities in English and Spanish, coloring pages in 15 different languages, and much more, visit Every Child a Reader. You can even sign up to continue to get fantastic ideas for connecting with books and reading all year around!

Thank you to Scholastic for sharing a copy of Ballet Brown with me!

Review by Dorothy Levine

Ballet Brown

Written by Bellen Woodard | Illustrated by Fanny Liem

 

To Bellen, “dance is a conversation with the world,”—one she has been in love with since she was two years old. As a young ballet dancer, Bellen’s world was full of color. From brightly colored tutus to rainbow tights, Bellen fit in with the menagerie of outfits the ballerinas wore.

But as Bellen grew older, and dance became more serious, “the rainbow vanished. Pink became the priority. Pink leotard. Pink tights. Pink ballet shoes.” Bellen followed suit, narrowing her wardrobe and pinning back her afro to fit the dress code. But while dancing in class, she gazed in the mirror and reflected: “it looked like my legs didn’t belong with me.” Her legs, in the pink tights, didn’t match her natural skin tone. Delving deeper, Bellen read books about the history of ballet. She discovered that “’ballet pink’ was chosen to be an extension of the ballerina, to appear as beautiful skin gliding across the stage.”

“This tradition needs an upgrade,” Bellen declared. Her mother agreed, and together they shopped for new dance clothing. Bellen showed up at the studio the next day, adorned in her new ballet brown attire—brown tights and brown shoes. Her studio, however, wasn’t ready to make the leap. “‘Pink is tradition,’ the owner said. / ‘Traditions should grow just like we do,’” Bellen replied.

But as time twirled past and the studio stayed the same, Bellen realized they were just not willing to grow into new traditions with her. She knew it was time for a change. “And that’s when I learned sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is walk away.”

When Bellen and her mother walked into a new studio, they knew immediately this would be the right fit. Even the air felt different: “vibrant, warm, and welcoming.” At this new studio, Bellen’s ballet brown inspired other dancers to bring back the rainbow to ballet and show their true colors. Bellen says, “I had finally found a place that would join hands and duet with me. A place where self-expression, like the coolest crayons, colored the room.”

Bellen Woodard’s autobiographical story concludes with a brief overview of her activism and founding of the More than Peach Project, plus a further explanation of ballet brown versus ballet pink. Back matter also includes a conversation with studio owners, tips for dyeing pointe shoes, and heart-felt advice for young dancers and families.

A one-of-a-kind story about a one-of-a-kind dancer and writer. At just fourteen years old, Bellen Woodard has crafted a beautiful story of her journey to stretch the ballet standards and make room for inclusion. Ballet Brown showcases themes of resistance and persistence—that sticking up for yourself can make a difference, not only for you but for others too. In expanding the possibilities for ballet wear, Woodard opened the door for others to do the same. Through this lyrical story, more and more young dancers will feel inspired to do the same—to dance in their own style, however makes them feel seen.

Fanny Liem colors the elegant ballet scenes with rich shades of brown and pink. Liem cleverly plays with mirror reflections, showing “Ballet Pink Bellen” imagining her reflection in brown, and, later, her legs looking wobbly in pink, to show how she felt disconnected from their pale look. When Bellen describes her new studio as having a welcoming air, this is reflected in warmer yellow background tones, whereas her old studio is drawn in stark white. Fanny Liem animates the story with ballerinas of all backgrounds dancing across the pages—further driving the point that dancers shine in all different races, genders, and styles.

Ages 5 – 7

Scholastic, Inc., 2025 | ISBN 978-1546134077

 

Fanny Liem was born and raised in Indonesia. She’s loved drawing since she was a child. Her passion for storytelling and illustration started the first time she grabbed picture books, which were gifted to her by her uncle. When she is not drawing, she enjoys watching movies and listening to country music. You’ll find her on Instagram at wenfancy.

Meet Bellen Woodard

Photo © Tosha Woodard

Bellen Woodard is the young scholar, beloved trailblazer, and CEO of Bellen’s More than Peach Project. As the world’s first Crayon Activist, pioneer of “skin-color” crayons, and founder of the crayon/school supply brand for a new generation, Bellen has transformed an entire industry with a first-of-its-kind, innovative and inclusive project and brand that have become a global movement. She’s received many notable awards and has been featured by Scholastic, TIME, Nickelodeon, and many others. Now entering high school, Bellen embodies self-expression and discovery. She also enjoys world travel, dance, and spending time with family, friends, and her two dogs. And she’s just getting started! Visit Bellen’s More than Peach Project website to learn more.

Hi Bellen, I’m excited to be talking with you today about Ballet Brown and your More than Peach Project. 

In addition to being an author, you launched More than Peach, a global initiative, company, and brand, at just eight years old. Can you tell us about that?

I started Bellen’s More than Peach Project —“More than Peach”—only after successfully changing the language and perception around the “skin-color” crayon in my own school class and community. I wanted to bring that change for the benefit of every single kid around the world. I also had an amazing teacher, friends, and classmates and I loved school (I still do . . .), so I first imagined More than Peach and More than Peach crayons to “let kids be kids and give them their best options” and to celebrate youth leadership and many beautiful colors.

How did you come to write this book? And why did you pick to share this story in a children’s book format as opposed to other mediums?

Well, I’ve been dancing since I was two, and with the support of my parents and lots of advocacy along the way, it’s been a very rewarding dance journey overall. I also began wearing brown in ballet (ballet slippers and tights) almost from the very start and benefited from that in much the same way as another dancer does wearing pink. So, I wanted to be able to share my story and the advocacy in a picture book to connect with all kids and share tools too. I know that having a visual representation can be so important. Most of all, I want young dancers and their families to have built-in support from the dance community and to know that it’s okay to advocate for what’s essential. I also want Ballet Brown to be a conversation with dance studios and spaces that invite young dancers in.

Can you tell us more about the term “ballet brown”?

I coined the term “ballet brown” really to fill a void and capture more of the beauty of ballet and in dance as a whole. We commonly refer to “ballet pink” and not just in dance—so it really surprised me that we had yet to succinctly name and qualify “ballet brown.”  So, to create parity between the two partners, I began using the term “ballet brown” in my own language and saw firsthand how it helped to grow perceptions/a mindset in those around me. I wanted to share that with the whole world. My call to action is simply to apply ballet brown in much the same way as ballet pink to ensure each dancer gets what they need. And it goes way beyond brown tights and shoes. I think taking that step helps expand the world of dance in the most amazing, positive ways.

Can you tell me more about the process of getting this book published?

I was already in touch with Scholastic after being interviewed around More than Peach, and of course I already knew and loved their books. The Scholastic Book Fairs were also one of my favorite times during the school year!  When interviewed, we talked about all of the things I was up to at the time and writing a book was one. So, when they offered to become my publisher, it was a huge honor and a no-brainer.

What was the most unexpected or surprising part of writing and publishing a children’s book?

I think one of the most surprising things has been seeing my first book published in other world languages (English, Spanish, and French) and being able to literally see it change the world . . . one crayon at a time! Early on, I was also surprised at how long the process takes from start to finish.  For example, I began writing MORE THAN PEACH, my first children’s book, in early 2020 once Covid hit because suddenly I had way more time on my hands. (It was published in July 2022.) It’s also been at least 2 years since I began writing Ballet Brown so to see it finally arrive feels surreal! I also never expected to see my books in so many places across the globe, including classrooms, libraries, and museums—even the Library of Congress!

What was your favorite part? I think I have two favorite parts: One is having the creative license to share my story, and the other is being able to collaborate with such a great team throughout the entire process.

What advice would you give to young writers or dancers hoping to follow in your footsteps?

I would say to trust yourself and know that you are the absolute best person to tell and celebrate the story inside of you.

Do you have any new creative projects in the works that you’d like to share about?

There’s a bunch going on! I’ve been very excited about the growth of More than Peach and would have never dreamed I would see my crayons on shelves at Target and other places and my books everywhere! Also, I have such worthwhile partnerships with educators that are growing, which means a lot because my dad’s an educator too, and teachers have always been some of my favorite people! I have also been writing my next book which I’m very excited about and hope to share more about that soon!

Thanks so much for sharing so much about your inspiring work! I’m sure readers can’t wait to see your next book! 

Children’s Book Week Activity

Ballet Brown Activity Pages

 

Be inspired to stand up for something you believe should be changed with these Ballet Brown Activity Pages!

You can purchase Ballet Brown from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Picture Book Review

May 2 – Baby Day + National Pet Month

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About the Holidays

For today’s book, I’m celebrating two holidays—Baby Day and National Pet Month! Baby Day was established to showcase the importance of a child’s first three years of life and the special bond babies share with their parents, siblings, and the other people in their life. National Pet Month encourages pet owners to ensure that their pets have everything they need to live a long and healthy life. Whether a baby, a pet, or both have found a place in your heart, celebrate today by spending extra time with them and showing them how they make your life and family better.

Thanks to Jamie Michalak for sharing a copy of Hazel the Handful with me!

Hazel the Handful

Written by Jamie Michalak | Illustrated by Matt Myers

 

Right on the title page a seemingly tiny dog calls “Yoo-hooooo! Up here!” from a second story window, inviting readers to come inside and see her true stature. In the living room Hazel, tail thumping, and dwarfed by the sofa, the throw pillow, and even the chewed-on TV remote, proudly says, “In my home, I look big, no?” This pint-sized pup with a BIG personality is eager to show off her home. She points out her favorite toys, her stroller “ride,” and Bea, her “girl!!!”.

Illustration © 2025 by Matt Myers, text © 2025 by Jamie Michalak. Courtesy of Candlewick.

Hazel and Bea like to dance together, and when Bea’s mom declares her daughter “a handful” after crashing into an end table, sending the lamp and mug flying, Hazel adopts this cool moniker herself. Yes, “together, me and Bea are sensational,” she says. Next, Hazel outlines a “sensational day with Bea”—from outdoor adventures like going on a business trip (behind the fire hydrant) to scaring off the big dogs, to showing passersby that she is NOT a cutie patootie but a “Very Important Business Dog.” The rest of the day is spent napping . . . and doing fun things with Bea . . . and napping. Hazel loves Bea and can’t wait for each new day.

Illustration © 2025 by Matt Myers, text © 2025 by Jamie Michalak. Courtesy of Candlewick.

That was sensational day before “the baby moved in, with its “loud noises . . . and stinkity stink stinks.” Now there are no games, no stroller rides, and no “cutie patootie” compliments (those go to the baby), and sometimes Hazel even wonders if Bea still loves her. On a particularly non-sensational day, when Hazel inadvertently crashes into the end table, sending things airborne, and gets a scolding from Mom—”‘Oh, Hazel! You are a handful'”—she hides under her blanket in the one room no one checks. Miserable, Hazel falls asleep, but wakes to hear Bea shouting her name and crying.

Hazel runs to Bea, getting a tight hug. For the first time, Hazel recognizes how like a puppy the baby is and appreciates the pets he gives and the crumbs he leaves for Hazel to snack on later. Hazel’s thinking “maybe the baby isn’t so bad” after all.

Illustration © 2025 by Matt Myers, text © 2025 by Jamie Michalak. Courtesy of Candlewick.

Jamie Michalak has packed her story of a spirited doggie wrestling with sibling rivalry, with humor, heart, and lots of laughs. Kids will instantly fall in love with teeny-tiny Hazel as she confidently introduces herself, suffers the incredulity of feeling second-best when the baby comes, and happily learns that she’s still loved by Bea. Hazel’s eventual embrace of the baby is comically true to her personality while showing a new perspective and generosity.

Matt Myers’ adorable and exuberant watercolor and ink illustrations capture all the sweetness and self-assurance of tiny Hazel’s larger-than-life personality. As Hazel takes readers on a tour of her home, kids will quickly catch onto the event that will soon change her life and be charmed by Hazel’s love for Bea and all that goes into their special bond. The two spreads showing before- and after-baby photos of Hazel are particularly humorous, as is her ice-skating-worthy slide into the table that sets up her realization that there’s room for both the new baby and her in this loving family.

A funny and endearing read aloud kids will want to share again and again, Hazel the Handful will enjoy continuous rotation at school and public libraries and be a quick favorite on home bookshelves. 

Ages 4 – 8

Candlewick, 2025 | ISBN 978-1536231199

Jamie Michalak is the author of the Dakota Crumb books, illustrated by Kelly Murphy; the Frank and Bean books, illustrated by Bob Kolar; the Joe and Sparky series, illustrated by Frank Remkiewicz; and many other acclaimed titles for young readers. She lives in Rhode Island. Visit Jamie at jamiemichalakbooks.com.

Matt Myers is the illustrator of the Infamous Ratsos chapter book series by Kara LaReau, Lily Leads the Way by Margi Preus, and E-I-E-I-O: How Old MacDonald Got His Farm (with a Little Help from a Hen) by Judy Sierra, as well as many other books for young readers. Matt Myers lives in Charlotte, North Carolina. Visit Matt at myerspaints.com.

Baby Day + National Pet Month Activity

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-Peppy-Puppies-Match-Up-Puzzle

Peppy Puppies Match Up Puzzle

 

These puppies want to find a friend. Can you match the ones that go together in this printable puzzle? There may be more than one right answer! How many matches can you find?

Peppy Puppies Match Up Puzzle

You can purchase Hazel the Handful from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Picture Book Review

April 30 – National Month of Hope

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About the Holiday

Founded in 1991, National Month of Hope encourages people to bring hope to those in need both emotionally and physically. Reaching out to let a family member or friend know you’re there for them no matter what they need, volunteering to help out in the community or on a personal level, and simply sharing a smile with those around you are all ways to show others you care. 

Thanks to Harry N. Abrams for sharing a copy of this book with me!

Old Blue Is My Home

By Lita Judge

 

The young narrator introduces readers to Old Blue, her family’s faded and rusty-in-spots van, as they wait in traffic, stating that this beloved vehicle reliably transports them wherever they need to go, from town to the mountains and especially to out-of-the-way places where her family can “sit under the stars and eat warm soup before going to sleep.” Tucked in all together, the girl reveals, “Old Blue is my home.”

In the morning, Dad cooks breakfast on their camp stove, while she takes a shower courtesy of a plastic bag full of water hung from a tree. Inside Old Blue, there are nooks and crannies for all that they need, including a “cozy library” full of her “favorite books.” Rain or shine, she says, “Old Blue is my home.” Still, there are times when she yearns for permanence and community. “Sometimes,” she says, “living in Old Blue makes me feel like I’m from everywhere and belong nowhere.”

Text and illustration © 2025 by Lita Judge. Courtesy of Harry N. Abrams.

Going to school is especially difficult as kids shun her unconventional living conditions and don’t include her. When she feels this sadness, she finds comfort and assurance cuddling with her mom and peace in nature. While the family hopes for a “forever home,” the girl appreciates everything Old Blue provides. Old Blue is her home.

Following the story, Lita Judge talks about her own childhood experience living a “nomadic existence in Alaska, Nevada, Utah, Oregon, California, and Wisconsin” as her family moved frequently, following her “father’s work in remote areas” that “led to housing insecurity.” She also describes the “rich relationship with nature” her upbringing fostered as well as the toll it took on her feelings of security, serenity, and community. Judge finally reveals how her imagination helped her cope while also fueling her desire to connect through her creative talents. Judge includes a discussion adults can share with their children that defines various types of Housing Insecurity and its risks, and encourages readers to offer help through their local organizations.

Text and illustration © 2025 by Lita Judge. Courtesy of Harry N. Abrams.

While sharing her personal experience while growing up, Lita Judge’s moving tribute to her beloved non-traditional home connects all children through their common feelings, dreams, and close family ties. The narrator’s honest storytelling is compelling and heartfelt and will draw readers in, inspiring empathy and a better understanding of what many children face every day. Her repetition of “Old Blue is my home” can spark thoughtful consideration of what qualities actually make any dwelling a “home” rather than just a place to live in. 

Judge’s rich watercolor and colored pencil illustrations are infused with warmth, love, and togetherness. Children will relish the realistic portrayals of the family’s lifestyle and their facial expressions as well as the meticulous images of the van’s interior spaces that embrace the family’s necessary supplies, childhood comforts, and cherished pets.

Offering empathy and understanding for those experiencing housing insecurity as well as a touching look at family bonds, Old Blue Is My Home is a must addition to school and public libraries and home collections.

Ages 4 – 8

Harry N. Abrams, 2025 | ISBN 978-1419771521

About the Author/Illustrator

Lita Judge is the award-winning author-illustrator of many children’s books, including Dogs: A History of Our Best Friends, The Wisdom of Trees, Born in the Wild, Flight School, Red Sled, and her illustrated young adult novel, Mary’s Monster, as well as the illustrator of Forty Winks: A Bedtime Adventure, written by Kelly DiPucchio. She lives with her husband, three cats, and a parrot in New Hampshire.

You can purchase Old Blue Is My Home from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Picture Book Review

April 25 – Disability Book Week

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About the Holiday

Disability Book Week encourages individuals all over the world to become more inclusive with what they read by reading a book that features characters with disabilities. It’s easy to participate! Individuals and families can pick up a disability-inclusive book to read. Libraries, schools, and bookstores can create a display of inclusive books. Hosting an author, illustrator, or disabled community member to do a reading is also a great idea. Other ways to help are to leave a review of books you’ve read and to talk about disability inclusion with your family or others. These ideas can all go a long way in raising awareness of how we think about disabilities and interact with people who are disabled.

To learn more about Disability Book Week and find lists of books for kids, teens, and adults as well as resources such as display signs to download, visit disabilitybookweek.org.

Thanks go to Beach Lane Books and Barb Fisch at Blue Slip Media for sharing a copy of this book with me.

Maybe Just Ask Me!

By Katie Mazeika

 

Mazie was starting at a new school, so she “put on her favorite scarf and wore her prettiest eye patch.” As she waved goodbye to her mom and walked into the building with other students, she was happy she’d be able to make new friends. But when she stood in front of her class to introduce herself, the kids’ questioning faces sent her hurrying back to her seat.

Text and illustration © 2025 by Katie Mazeika. Courtesy of Beach Lane Books.

During a science lesson outside, the wind caught Mazie’s scarf and sent it flying, exposing her bald head. While she tied it back on, she heard two of her classmates concocting a fantastical story as to how she’d lost her hair involving a circus and a fire-breathing performer. Before Mazie could say hi, they ran off. Mazie remembered that her dad “had said it might take a few tries.”

So while in line to wash her hands, Mazie tried again, but the boys in front of her were excitedly discussing the possibility that maybe Mazie had joined a “‘pirate crew, and that’s why she wears an eye patch.'” When they finally saw Mazie, they were embarrassed and wouldn’t look at her. At lunch, Mazie felt intimidated to break into the already-established group, especially because they were debating the pirate and circus ideas while creating yet another outlandish story. In fact, everyone had their own theories about what had happened to Mazie. 

Text and illustration © 2025 by Katie Mazeika. Courtesy of Beach Lane Bo

Mazie began to think that no one would ever talk to her, but then she “remembered what she had learned last year” about being brave and not losing hope. So when the class went to the gym for P.E., she talked to the teacher then blew her whistle. When the kids all stopped to look, Mazie took to the bleachers to announce that she’d heard their stories and while she was “as daring as any circus girl” and “fiercer than a pirate,” if they really wanted to know the truth then “‘Maybe just ask me!'”

And the kids did want to know. They sat around her on the bleachers as she told them she’d been sick but that they had “‘never lost hope.'” Her classmates listened and realized that while their ideas had been way off, their new friend Mazie was “pretty brave. And a very good storyteller, too.”

Back matter includes Katie Mazeika’s own story of her experience with cancer at age three, during which she lost her right eye, as well as a discussion encouraging people to ask questions and engage in conversations with those with disabilities that show interest, concern, and kindness. Mazeika says, “. . . when we pretend not to see people with disabilities, we make them feel invisible” and “curiosity, with kindness, should always be allowed.” She also includes a list of how people can be supportive of those with disabilities.

Text and illustration © 2025 by Katie Mazeika. Courtesy of Beach Lane Bo

In her heartfelt autobiographical story about her childhood experience with cancer, Katie Mazeika reveals to readers that not only is it okay to ask someone about their disability, it is welcomed. As Mazie’s classmates in her new school make up elaborate scenarios to explain her bald head and eye patch instead of asking what happened, they unwittingly isolate her from the group. When Mazie is finally able to make her voice heard, however, both Mazie and the class discover that honest dialogue paves the way to long-lasting friendships.

Mazeika’s colorful, textured illustrations are infused with emotion, imagination, and gentle humor that make the story immediately accessible to children. Young readers will feel empathy for Mazie as she bravely walks into a new school, knowing most eyes are on her, and becomes flustered at the front of the puzzled class. Mazeika depicts the kids’ theories in vibrantly detailed scenes, while also showing the impact they have on Mazie. When Mazie gets the chance to tell the real story, her battle with cancer is portrayed in a simple but powerful illustration of her and her doctor facing and dispelling a fire-breathing dragon. The final spread of Mazie surrounded by her new friends is uplifting.

Emphasizing hope, bravery, and empathy Maybe Just Ask Me! is a unique story and a must addition to all school and public library collections, pediatrician offices, and hospital gift shops.

Ages 4 – 8

Beach Lane Books, 2025 | ISBN 978-1665949897

Katie Mazeika is an author and illustrator with a BFA from the Columbus College of Art and Design. When she isn’t in the studio, she likes to spend time at the theater, in her garden, or getting lost in a good book. She is the creator of picture book biographies including Annette Feels Free and Beulah Has a Hunch!. She lives in Ohio with her family and two dogs. To learn more, and download a free curriculum guide, visit her website at katiemazeika.com. You can also find her on Instagram, Facebook, and Bluesky.

Disability Book Week Activity

Text and illustration © 2025 by Katie Mazeika. Courtesy of Beach Lane Books.

 

Maybe Just Ask Me! Favorite Thing Activity

 

This Curriculum Guide for Maybe Just Ask Me! is full of ideas and activities for teachers, librarians and families to interact with the book and engage in some thoughtful drawing and writing about their own lives as well.

You can connect with Beach Lane/Simon & Schuster Kids on Facebook and on their website @simonkids

You can find Blue Slip Media on Bluesky, Facebook, and Instagram. To learn more visit their website @blue_slip_media 
 

You can purchase Maybe Just Ask Me! from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop (discounted books and support for your local independent bookstore.

Picture Book Review

April 23 – National Picnic Day

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About the Holiday

It’s said that food always tastes better when eaten outdoors. If you’re having warm early spring weather today, why not test that theory, by packing a basket or cooler and heading out to your favorite outdoor spot! Whether simple or elegant, enjoyed alone or with family or friends, a picnic can be just the respite you need from the routine workweek. The word “picnic” probably gets its origins from the French language, specifically from the word pique-nique: (to pick) + (small thing or trifle). It’s thought that picnics became popular in France after the French Revolution in the mid 1800s and the idea then spread around the world. If you just can’t get away or the weather isn’t cooperating, the month of June hosts National Picnic Day with International Picnic Day celebrated on June 18.

Thank you to Tundra Books for sharing a copy of this book with me!

There Are No Ants in This Book

Written by Rosemary Mosco | Illustrated by Anna Pirolli

 

A child, picnic basket and tote in hand peeks in from the top-left corner of the first page to find a green field just perfect for a picnic. The child is pretty confident they won’t be disturbed by pesky pests purloining food because it says right on the cover that “there are no ants in this book.” But just as the cake is being placed on the blanket, word comes from nearby: “Wrong! There’s one!” Turns out that acorn lying only inches from the picnic cloth is actually the abode of an acorn ant.

Illustration © 2025 by Anna Pirolli, text © 2025 by Rosemary Mosco. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

The child can make an exception for just one ant, but then, out of the clear blue sky, comes “Two!” and “Three!” These two reveal that they are opposites of a sort. Number “two” is “one of the largest ants in the world” and as big as a strawberry. Number “three” is the smallest—”as long as six grains of salt.”

The child is just wrapping their head around this book having “. . . more ants than I was expecting” and figuring “three ants can’t eat my whole picnic, right?” when three more show up, including a honeypot ant that explains, “I fill my big round butt with sweet sugar water . . . in case my family gets hungry” then declares, “I am a walking refrigerator.

Illustration © 2025 by Anna Pirolli, text © 2025 by Rosemary Mosco. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

Kinda freaked out to meet these six interlopers, the child goes into full “ARRRGH!” mode when four more ants drop by. And who can blame them? The book had such promise at the beginning. But now . . . Yeah. Butt! Two of these new ants have positively particular posterior powers! One lives in trees and uses their butt as a kind of nature-made Siri to guide them home, and the other, an acrobat ant, explains “If someone scares me, I stick my butt high up in the air and wave it around.” The third is a clever crafter, and the fourth uses his head (literally) to defend his home.

The child is “shocked.” “Stunned.” Delighted! And invites these ants as well as their “humungous families” to the picnic. But all these tiny pounding feet attract the attention of an anteater. The child, though, does some quick thinking and then points out that the title of the book clearly states, “there are no ants in this book,” which sends the anteater packing. And now? It’s time for the perfect picnic!

Back matter presents realistic illustrations of each of the ten ants found in the book with a bite-sized paragraph revealing what part of the world the ant is native too as well as more about the feature that makes it unique.

Illustration © 2025 by Anna Pirolli, text © 2025 by Rosemary Mosco. Courtesy of Tundra Books.

In her funny and fast-paced tribute to ants, Rosemary Mosco proves that even the smallest creatures have enormous appeal. As each ant makes an appearance to proudly describe its distinct capability or feature, Mosco’s conversational, easy-to-digest writing style makes it simple for kids to remember the prominent details. Kids will also identify with the narrator, who humorously cycles from certainty in the promise of the title to disillusionment to acceptance to all-out appreciation for these tiny critters. 

Vibrant and loaded with personality, Anna Pirolli’s cartoon, graphic-style illustrations use perspective, natural surroundings, and emotive facial expressions to immerse kids in this rollicking educational experience.

If you like a dose of laughter with your science, There Are No Ants in This Book is the ant-idote you’ve been looking for. A perfect addition to any classroom, homeschool, or science educator’s collection, the book will also be an often-asked-for favorite for home story times.

Ages 4 – 8

Tundra Books, 2024 | ISBN 978-1774881163

About the Author

Rosemary Mosco makes books and cartoons that connect people with the natural world. Her nature comics won the National Cartoonist Society’s award for Best Online Short Form Comic and were the subject of an award-winning museum exhibit. She co-wrote the New York Times bestseller The Atlas Obscura Explorer’s Guide for the World’s Most Adventurous Kid, and is the author of the picture books Butterflies Are Pretty . . . Gross! and Flowers Are Pretty . . . Weird! illustrated by Jacob Souva, as well as five other science books. She speaks at birding festivals and looks for cool critters under every rock she can find. Rosemary lives in Massachusetts.

About the Illustrator

Anna Pirolli was born in Genoa and moved to Milan to study illustration at the European Institute of Design. She has worked as a freelance illustrator and art director for companies such as Mondadori, Pearson, Vogue, MTV, Kinder Ferrero, Nickelodeon, Disney and others, following the creative process from concept to creation. She’s also a visiting professor at the Accademia di Brera, where she teaches design applied to the arts. Anna has illustrated the picture books I Hate My Cats: A Love Story by Davide Cali and Anonymouse by Vikki VanSickle, which won the Dilys Evans Founder’s Award at the 2021 Society of Illustrators Original Art Show.

National Picnic Day Activity

A Perfect Day for a Picnic! Maze

 

Can you lead the ants to the picnic in this printable A Perfect Day for a Picnic! maze?

You can purchase There Are No Ants in This Book from these booksellers

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop (discounted books and support for your local independent bookstore)

Picture Book Review

April 22 – Earth Day

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About the Holiday

By 1970 awareness was growing worldwide about the damage that industrialization, pollution, and pesticides were causing people and the environment. On April 22, 1970—the date of the first Earth Day—millions of people demonstrated for change. In response, in July of 1970, Republican President Richard Nixon and the U.S. Congress created the Environmental Protection Agency. Between 1970 and 1973 they also enacted laws such as the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act and more. Earth Day is now celebrated around the globe as a day for political action and civic participation.

Today, it’s more important than ever for citizens to participate in protecting the environment and speaking up against the policies of the current Republican president and administration so they do not reverse the progress and advancements we’ve made. This year the theme of Earth Day is Our Power, Our Planet and calls for people to unite around renewable energy. To learn more about this year’s theme, and discover ways that you and your kids can make a difference, visit earthday.org. 

Thanks go to Terry Pierce and the Yosemite Conservancy for sending me a copy of We Leave No Trace! for review.

We Leave No Trace!

Written by Terri Pierce | Illustrated by Nadja Sarell

 

In her gentle invitation for the youngest children and their families to enjoy the outdoors while also treating its flora and fauna with kindness, Terry Pierce models the “leave no trace” principles that ensure harmony between people and nature. Pierce touches on such ideas as not collecting natural “souvenirs,” maintaining a small footprint, and always throwing away trash in verses that encourage adults and children to talk about how they, particularly, can be good stewards of the earth as they hike, camp, picnic, or just enjoy a walk together.

Illustration © 2025 by Nadja Sarell, text © 2025 by Terry Pierce. Courtesy of Yosemite Conservancy.

While each page spread introduces a different way that kids can pitch in to help nature, Pierce has also included a repeated rhyming couplet that reinforces a child’s pride in supporting a cleaner, healthier environment for all while also having fun. This lively phrase can turn any read-aloud story time into an enjoyable interactive read-along for little ones. 

Kids will love hiking through Nadja Sarell’s vibrant landscapes that transports them to a mountain-side lake where various nature-lovers are boating, picnicking, and walking all within sight of a doe and her fawn and a bird that’s flying in low for its closeup; a forested trail in which a girl, instead of taking home a woodpecker’s feather, is snapping a picture of it; a park where ducks swim among lily pads as kids look on from a stone bridge while others play nearby; and more lovely locales. Each page spread also offers lots of opportunities for young readers to point out animals and other elements of nature as well as kid-favorite treats and activities.

We Leave No Trace! is a delightful adventure through nature that provides youngest children with easy and mindful reminders of how they can protect the environment now and for the future. Jaunty rhymes, repeated phrasing, and vivid illustrations that welcome discussion and interaction make this board book perfect for taking along on trips to playgrounds, parks, and other outdoor spots and a top choice for home and library collections.

Ages Baby – 3

Yosemite Conservancy, 2025 | ISBN 978-1951179373

About the Author

Terry Pierce is the author of more than twenty-five books for children, including We Leave No Trace!, Hello Meadow!, and Eat Up Bear! (Yosemite Conservancy), Love Can Come in Many Ways (Chronicle), Soccer Time! (Random House), Mama Loves You So (Little Simon) and My Busy Green Garden (Tilbury House). She is an outdoor enthusiast, enjoying backpacking, hiking, and rock climbing near her home in Mammoth Lakes, California.

About the Illustrator

Nadja Sarell is an illustrator living in Helsinki, Finland. She is the illustrator of We Leave No Trace!, Eat Up Bear! and Hello, Meadow! (Yosemite Conservancy), the Frankie Sparks, Third Grade Inventor series (Aladdin), and The One and Only Wolfgang (Zonderkidz). Nadja graduated with MA in dance from Theatre Academy Helsinki and graduated from North Wales School of Art and Design with BA in illustration for children’s publishing in 2004. Since then she has worked as a freelance illustrator in Finland and abroad. She loves to teach art, illustration, and dance for both children and adults.

We Leave No Trace! joins these two previous books in the Yosemite Conservancy’s “stewardship” board book series by Terry Pierce and Nadja Sarell

Eat Up, Bear!

Curious, hungry black bears just want to eat! Juicy berries, crunchy nuts, tender grubs, sticky honey—that’s good bear food. But if little park visitors and their families don’t watch out, their food will be bear food, too! The bouncy rhyming text and vibrant pictures in this board book show how people of all ages can help keep bears safe and thriving. Perfect for first-time and seasoned campers alike.

Hello, Meadow!

Grassy, flower-filled meadows are really pretty! It’s oh-so tempting to hike and skip right through them. But meadows are actually fragile, and human footsteps and picnics can cause them harm—then they cannot do their important work of providing a habitat for creatures and plants, filtering water, and even storing carbon. The lively text and beautiful illustrations in this sturdy board book show little nature lovers how to easily protect meadows while enjoying one of Earth’s loveliest features.

Earth Day Activity

Image courtesy of Explore More, Clean Less

Paint with Water

 

It’s fun to get creative with activities you can do outdoors that will leave no trace. Painting with water on boulders or river rocks or on areas of paved park trails or playground sidewalks with paint brushes or your fingers lets you explore your artistic side while being gentle with nature. You can find many more ways for kids to learn about and interact with the environment at Explore More, Clean Less!

You can purchase We Leave No Trace! from these booksellers

Yosemite Conservancy | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Picture Book Review