Books that Came My Way in November & December 2022

This is my last post for 2022. I’m looking forward to a slower pace and spending some quality time with my family. I’m also hoping to finish a few books before the end of the year. I can’t wait to be back here in 2023 with my favorite books of 2022 and all the books I’m excited to share with you!

May your holidays be full of delicious food, laughter around the table, and memories to fill your bucket for a while. Thanks for sharing in my love of books and reading for all ages. Merry Christmas to you!

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13

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This is my monthly roundup of books that came my way in the last month. I also share updates with you on other things in my and my family’s lives.

We are halfway through December and I’m and just now sharing the new books that arrived in the last several weeks. I don’t have to tell you that December is CrAzY! I’ve been subbing every day and our nights are full of concerts, dance team performances, and all kinds of holiday gatherings. I’m struggling with staying on top of everything as there just aren’t enough hours in the day. As always, I’m excited to share this great stack of books with you this month. Be sure to check out both the children’s and adult books as they will make great gifts.

Family and Life Update

November started with Reagan playing Ellie in the fall musical, “Freaky Friday”. She worked so incredibly hard on this role and it was so fun to watch her and her friends on stage.

Reagan and I traveled to Minnesota for our first family Christmas of the season. My mom and her 4 sisters and all the children/grandchildren get together every year and it is always so much fun to spend an entire weekend together. I even won 2nd place in the Tenzi tournament! This time together became even more special because less than two weeks later, my dear Aunt Cynthia (far right in the photo) suddenly passed away. We are all still grappling with this change in our family as my mom and her sisters are extremely close. Please pray for my cousins and my aunts as they grieve, especially during this season when we should all be celebrating.

Dance team season is here! The girls performed at State Dance (ISDTA) earning Division I’s on both their Pom and Hip Hop routines. Plus, they had the 3rd highest team GPA in the state with a cumulative team GPA of 3.98!!

December is full of all kinds of holiday concerts including one of our favorites, Madrigal. I will miss all these Christmas traditions next year! Unfortunately, both Reagan and I were sick the last week before Christmas and missed a few of our favorite Christmas events and activities. We spent lots of time sleeping and catching up on Gilmore Girls. But, hopefully, we got all the sickness out of our systems for a while.

Now on to the books! 

In November I read 5 books for my own enjoyment. Four of them were on audio because that was about the only way I could find the time to read. November was a busy month of sharing children’s books. Both Christmas Books for Kids as well as books for Non-Fiction November were on the blog throughout the month with over 20 children’s and middle-grade books being shared. So far this month I’ve read 6 books and they were a mix of Kindle, physical copies, and audiobooks. I’ve hoping I can finished up a few more books in the last week of December.

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Be sure to follow me on Instagram, HERE to see snippets of what I’m reading or what’s going on in my daily life.

If you have missed any of my recent book reviews, you can see all of them by clicking, HERE.  Or you can stay up to date with my monthly Quick Lit Roundup.

If you choose to make a purchase through any of the links I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase.

I also shared books from a discount book website, DREAMLIGHT BOOKS. Be sure to check out their wide variety of brand-new books at a discounted rate with free shipping.

Adult Fiction and Non-Fiction

THIS TIME TOMORROW

By: Emma Straub

Published: May 17, 2022

Publisher: Riverhead

Fiction

Format: Hardcover

This was my Literati Book Club choice for December. I chose Elin Hilderbrand’s club because this book is one I’ve been curious about. Typically I’m not too fond of time travel stories, but this one about her ailing father and how she travels back in time from her 40th birthday to her 16th birthday intrigues me. My own father is ailing and I’ve been thinking a lot about our relationship and things I wish I had said or done differently over the years. This may be a tough read, but I’m open to giving it a shot. The Literati Book Club for adults is ending. They will still be offering a children’s book club, but this is the last book I’ll be sharing from their monthly book club.

On the eve of her 40th birthday, Alice’s life isn’t terrible. She likes her job, even if it isn’t exactly the one she expected. She’s happy with her apartment, her romantic status, her independence, and she adores her lifelong best friend. But her father is ailing, and it feels to her as if something is missing. When she wakes up the next morning she finds herself back in 1996, reliving her 16th birthday. But it isn’t just her adolescent body that shocks her, or seeing her high school crush, it’s her dad: the vital, charming, 40-something version of her father with whom she is reunited. Now armed with a new perspective on her own life and his, some past events take on new meaning. Is there anything that she would change if she could? 

WE ARE THE LIGHT

By: Matthew Quick

Published: November 1, 2022

Publisher: Avid Reader Press/Simon & Schuster

Fiction

Format: Hardcover

This was my Book of the Month choice for November.

Lucas Goodgame lives in Majestic, Pennsylvania, a quaint suburb that has been torn apart by a recent tragedy. Everyone in Majestic sees Lucas as a hero—everyone, that is, except Lucas himself. Insisting that his deceased wife, Darcy, visits him every night in the form of an angel, Lucas spends his time writing letters to his former Jungian analyst, Karl. It is only when Eli, an eighteen-year-old young man whom the community has ostracized, begins camping out in Lucas’s backyard that an unlikely alliance takes shape and the two embark on a journey to heal their neighbors and, most important, themselves.

TOMORROW AND TOMORROW AND TOMORROW

By: Gabrielle Zevin

Published: July 5, 2022

Publisher: Knopf

Fiction

Format: Hardcover

During December, Book of the Month chooses their top books of the year. This was their Book of the Year. As a member, you get one of the top 5 books of the year for free! Since I had already received the others, I chose this as my free book. It has gotten rave reviews, I’m just not sure it’s a book for me, but I’ll give it a shot.

On a bitter-cold day, in the December of his junior year at Harvard, Sam Masur exits a subway car and sees, amid the hordes of people waiting on the platform, Sadie Green. He calls her name. For a moment, she pretends she hasn’t heard him, but then, she turns, and a game begins: a legendary collaboration that will launch them to stardom. These friends, intimates since childhood, borrow money, beg favors, and, before even graduating college, they have created their first blockbuster, Ichigo. Overnight, the world is theirs. Not even twenty-five years old, Sam and Sadie are brilliant, successful, and rich, but these qualities won’t protect them from their own creative ambitions or the betrayals of their hearts.

Spanning thirty years, from Cambridge, Massachusetts, to Venice Beach, California, and lands in between and far beyond, Gabrielle Zevin’s Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow is a dazzling and intricately imagined novel that examines the multifarious nature of identity, disability, failure, the redemptive possibilities in play, and above all, our need to connect: to be loved and to love. Yes, it is a love story, but it is not one you have read before. 

THE CIRCUS TRAIN

By: Amita Parikh

Published: December 6, 2022

Publisher: G.P. Putnam’s Sons

Historical Fiction

Format: Hardcover

This was my December Book of the Month choice. I love books that involve circus history, especially during the WWII era. Plus, isn’t the cover gorgeous?

When all is lost, how do you find the courage to keep moving forward?
1938. Lena Papadopoulos has never quite found her place within the circus, even as the daughter of the extraordinary headlining illusionist, Theo. Brilliant and curious, Lena yearns for the real-world magic of science and medicine, despite the limitations of her wheelchair. Then her unconventional life takes an exciting turn when she rescues Alexandre, an orphan with his own secrets and a mysterious past.

As World War II escalates around them over the years, their friendship blossoms into something deeper while Alexandre trains as the illusionist’s apprentice. But when Theo and Alexandre are arrested and contracted to perform in a model town for Jews set up by the Nazis, Lena is separated from everything she knows. Forced to make her own way, Lena must confront her doubts and dare to believe in the impossible–herself. 

LIGHT TO THE HILLS

By: Bonnie Blaylock

Published: December 1, 2022

Publisher: Lake Union Publishing

Historical Fiction

Format: eBook

This was a free First Reads Kindle Book for the month of November. It’s another packhorse librarian story, but I’ve loved all of the ones I read so far.

The folks in the Kentucky Appalachians are scraping by. Coal mining and hardscrabble know-how are a way of life for these isolated people. But when Amanda Rye, a young widowed mother and traveling packhorse librarian, comes through a mountain community hit hard by the nation’s economic collapse, she brings with her hope, courage, and apple pie. Along the way, Amanda takes a shine to the MacInteer family, especially to the gentle Rai; her quick-study daughter, Sass; and Finn, the eldest son who’s easy to warm to. They remind Amanda of her childhood and her parents with whom she longs to be reconciled.

Her connection with the MacInteers deepens, and Amanda shares with them a dangerous secret from her past. When that secret catches up with Amanda in the present, she, Rai, Sass, and Finn find their lives intersecting—and threatened—in the most unexpected ways. Now they must come together as the truth lights a path toward survival, mountain justice, forgiveness, and hope.

AND THE CLOUDS PARTED

By: Gabrielle Yetter

Published: September 30, 2022

Publisher: Gabrielle Yetter

Fiction/Poetry

Format: eBook

I previously reviewed Yetter’s book WHISPER OF THE LOTUS. She approached me about reading her book of poetry and I balked because poetry isn’t usually my thing. But, she convinced me and I have to admit that I’m enjoying the poems a lot. Watch for more on this one in January.

Gabrielle Yetter started writing poetry on a spring morning in March 2020. The world had just gone into lockdown and life felt frightening, dark, and hopeless.

She was on a bicycle ride and the morning was misty, chilly, and damp. Then, suddenly, the sun broke through, the air warmed, and the clouds scattered. Thus came the inspiration for her first poem (and the name of the collection): And The Clouds Parted.

Her journey continued as she witnessed the pain of a friend who lost her partner to Covid (Moving On), observed peoples’ obsession with mobile devices in a vaccination clinic (Disconnected), and watched news of atrocities around the world (Left Behind and Sunflowers of Hope).

She studied people: frail, elderly women who seemed to be invisible (Nobody), young men who were often thought threatening (Buddy), old men hunting for bargains (Like Him), people with their beloved pets (Dog Days), and fathers anticipating the arrival of their children (Waiting).

She watched people who often went unnoticed and imagined what their lives might be like.
In them, and in her surroundings, she saw beauty and promise. And hope for a better tomorrow.

MIDCENTURY COCKTAILS

History, Lore, and Recipes from America’s Atomic Age

By: Cecelia Tichi

Published: November 1, 2022

Publisher: NYU Press

Non-Fiction

Format: Paperback

I received this for review. My husband and I love trying new cocktails recipes. Plus the history of alcohol and cocktails is so interesting. We are both looking forward to this one. She has other cocktail books as well.

A delightful history of cocktails from the era of new interstate highways, sprouting suburbs, and atomic engineering

America at midcentury was a nation on the move, taking to wings and wheels along the new interstate highways and in passenger jets that soared to thirty thousand feet. Anxieties rippled, but this new Atomic Age promised cheap power and future wonders, while the hallmark of the era was the pleasure of an evening imbibing in cocktails in mixed company, a middle-class idea of sophisticated leisure.

This new age, stretching from the post-World War-II baby boom years through the presidency of General Dwight Eisenhower into the increasingly volatile mid-1960s, promised affordable homes for those who had never dreamed of owning property and an array of gleaming appliances to fill them. For many, this was America at its best – innovation, style, and the freedom to enjoy oneself and the spirit of this time is reflected in the whimsical cocktails that rose to prominence: tiki drinks, Moscow mules, Sea Breezes, Pina Coladas, Pink Squirrels, and Sloe Gin Fizzes.

Of course, not everyone was invited to the party. Though the drinks were getting sweeter, the racial divide was getting more bitter. Black Americans in search of a drink, entertainment, or a hotel room had to depend on the Green Book for advice on places where they would be welcome and safe. And the Cold War and Space Race proceeded ominously throughout this period, as technological advances alternately thrilled and terrified.

The third installment in Cecelia Tichi’s tour of the cocktails enjoyed in various historical eras, Midcentury Cocktails brings a time of limitless possibilities to life through the cocktails created, named, and consumed.

WILDLAND SENTINEL

Field Notes from an Iowa Conservation Officer

By: Ericka Billerbeck

Published: September 15, 2020

Publisher: University of Iowa Press

Non-Fiction

Format: Paperback

I heard about this Iowa book from a family friend and I knew I wanted to read it. Growing up just outside of an Iowa State Park and babysitting for the park ranger’s children, I was able to hear all kinds of crazy stories of things that happened in the parks. I also know my nephew will love this one as he spent a summer working in the state park. I can’t wait to read it and then share it with him.

In America’s Midwest, where “wilderness” is in short supply, working to defend what’s left of Iowa’s natural resources can be both a daunting and an entertaining task. In Wildland Sentinel, Erika Billerbeck takes readers along for the ride as she and her colleagues sift through poaching investigations, chase down sex offenders in state parks, search for fugitives in wildlife areas, haul drunk boaters to jail, perform body recoveries, and face the chaos that comes with disaster response. Using an introspective personal voice, this narrative nonfiction work weaves stories of Iowa’s natural history with a cast of unforgettable characters. Wildland Sentinel touches on what it means to be a woman working in the male-dominated field of conservation law enforcement. 

SIMPLE PURPOSEFUL KITCHEN

Quick & Easy Recipes for Moments that Matter

By: Erin Port

Published: November 2022

Non-Fiction/Cookbook

Format: Paperback

I’ve followed fellow Iowan Erin Port on social media for a while. I love how real she is and how she encourages all of us to keep life and the meals we share, simple. Be sure to check out her website, HERE.

100 THINGS TO DO IN CEDAR RAPIDS BEFORE YOU DIE

By: Katie Mills Giorgio

Published: October 1, 2022

Publisher: Reedy Press

Non-Fiction/Travel

Format: Paperback

I recently met Katie even though I’ve known of her for quite some time since we both wrote for the same newspaper. I am thrilled to share Katie’s book and I encourage you to purchase it if you live in the Eastern Iowa area. I’ve reviewed this book, HERE.

Local writer Katie Mills Giorgio is your host for making the most of your time in Cedar Rapids, whether you are looking for tasty eats, rich creative experiences, or an opportunity to get in touch with nature. This book is filled with insider tips and more than 100 ideas to enjoy all that Cedar Rapids and the surrounding area has to offer.

AND FINALLY

Matters of Life and Death

By: Henry Marsh

Published: January 17, 2023

Publisher: St. Martin’s Press

Non-Fiction

Format: eBook

As a retired brain surgeon, Henry Marsh spent years working the frontlines of life and death. Now, he is facing his own life sentence after being diagnosed with cancer. I’m anxious to read this one.

From the bestselling neurosurgeon and author of Do No Harm, comes Henry Marsh’s And Finally, an unflinching and deeply personal exploration of death, life and neuroscience.

DREAMING ON THE PAGE

Tap into Your Midnight Mind to Supercharge Your Writing

By: Tzivia Gover

Published: January 3, 2023

Publisher: The Collective Book Studio

Non-Fiction

Format: Paperback

From the casual journal writer (like me) to those who dream of being a best-selling author, this book helps turn your dreams into writing reality.

Pick up a pen and dream.

Dreaming on the Page is for writers of all genres, from casual journal-keepers to experienced authors—and anyone who aspires to writes.

Discover how to:

•Turn your dreams into poems and stories

•Supercharge your poetry and prose

•Blast through writer’s block

•Use brain science to help harness your creative powers

•Have an endless supply of rich writing prompts

…and much more!

Read this book and the next time you fall asleep, you’ll know how to tap into your midnight mind to supercharge your writing!

FRIENDS, LOVERS, AND THE BIG TERRIBLE THING

A Memoir

By: Matthew Perry

Published: November 1, 2022

Publisher: Flatiron Books

Non-Fiction/Memoir

Format: Hardcover

As a huge fan of the show, Friends, I couldn’t pass up reading Perry’s memoir.

In an extraordinary story that only he could tell, Matthew Perry takes readers onto the soundstage of the most successful sitcom of all time while opening up about his private struggles with addiction. Candid, self-aware, and told with his trademark humor, Perry vividly details his lifelong battle with the disease and what fueled it despite seemingly having it all.

Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing is an unforgettable memoir that shares the most intimate details of the love Perry lost, his darkest days, and his greatest friends.

Unflinchingly honest, moving, and hilarious: this is the book fans have been waiting for. 

JUST LOOK UP

Five Life-Saving Pharases Every Kid Human Needs to Hear

By: Joe Beckman

Published: December 6, 2022

Publisher: Wise Ink Creative Publishing

Non-Fiction

Format: Paperback

A friend of mine shared about this book after hearing the author speak and absolutely insisted everyone she knows purchase the book. So…I did!

More than ever, kids are feeling the burn of living in the fast-paced, do-it-all, win-at-any cost, boredom-is-bad, hyperconnected-yet-totally-disconnected society we surround them with. More than ever, they are looking for answers.

They are looking to their parents, teachers, coaches, youth pastors, mentors . . . and as the adults who are answering, what are we telling them? What are the most important messages ALL kids need to hear in today’s world?

Teaching kids to thrive and regulate emotions may seem like a challenge. Especially when parenting teens with depression and anxiety, it’s hard to know the right thing to say.

Just Look Up is a small book that tackles this big task — providing concise and practical advice that fits into everyday dinner table and youth group conversations.

Combining humor, authenticity, and heart, Joe Beckman shares five specific phrases he believes all kids (and adults) need to hear. The result is a refreshing, authentic, and down-to-earth approach to finding self-worth, resilience, confidence, joy, and maybe most importantly, human connection.

Bookish people tend to also love Page-A-Day calendars as I do. I have ordered 3 for 2023. I will have one on my desk, one in my bathroom, and one in our kitchen.

DELISH 2023 RECIPE-A-DAY CALENDAR

I had this calendar during 2022 and loved the variety of recipes for cocktails, appetizers, main dishes, and desserts. Each recipe includes a photo and the recipes are also low-maintenance. Each page is perforated to tear away from the calendar.

ATLAS OBSCURA: 365 Days of Extraordinary Destinations, Bizarre Phenomena, and Other Hidden Wonders

I first learned about Atlas Obscura through the Literati Book Club. I read a couple of the books in their club and became intrigued with their obscure travel and events shared.

FRIENDS 2023 CALENDAR

As a huge fan of the show, Friends, I knew that this calendar would bring me joy every day.

Children’s Fiction and Non-Fiction

THE BEST GIFT FOR BEAR

By: Jennifer A. Bell

Published: September 27, 2022

Publisher: Two Lions

Fiction

Format: Hardcover Picture Book

I’ve already reviewed this sweet Christmas friendship story, HERE.

BRIGHT WINTER NIGHT

By: Alli Brydon

Illustrated by: Ashling Lindsay

Published: December 1, 2022

Publisher: Two Lions

Fiction

Format: Hardcover Picture Book

Forest friends join together to see a special event happening in the sky on a winter night. I’ve already reviewed this one, HERE.

DARK ON LIGHT

By: Dianne White

Illustrated by: Felicita Sala

Published: December 6, 2022

Publisher: Beach Lane Books

Fiction

Format: Hardcover Picture Book

Dianne White and Felicita Sala created another beautiful picture book, GREEN ON GREEN. I’m looking forward to this new lyrical story of siblings setting out at night to find their family dog.

As the sun sets, three siblings discover nature’s nighttime beauty in this soothingly rhythmic and gorgeously illustrated bedtime picture book from the acclaimed author-illustrator team behind Green on Green.

Gentle the evening. Sweeping the skies.
Dark the shadows as twilight arrives.
Rose the horizon, gleaming and bright.
Twilight and evening and dark on light.

When the family dog trots away from the house at sunset, three siblings tumble out the door to go find him. Soon they find themselves immersed in the luminous colors, shades, and shadows of nature at night—both dark and light. They wander through moonlit lavender meadows, past a timid fawn, beneath a snowy white owl, and much, much more as the night deepens until, at last, they find their sneaky pup.

FARM BOOTS

By: Lisl H. Detlefsen

Illustrated by: Renee Kurilla

Published: March 21, 2023

Publisher: Feeding Minds Press

Fiction

Format: Hardcover Picture Book

I love this look at life on the farm through the boots we wear. Feeding Minds Press always puts out great books and I’m excited to share this one with you.

The picture book follows farm families as they work and play in a variety of boots throughout the year; against the backdrop of the four seasons, the boots form a metaphor for growth and change. 

TINY T. REX AND THE GRAND TA-DA!

By: Jonathan Stutzman

Illustrated by: Jay Fleck

Published: April 11, 2023

Publisher: Chronicle Kids

Fiction

Format: Hardcover Picture Book

Check out the other Tiny T. Rex book I’ve shared, HERE. I’ve also shared some Jay Fleck books.

Tiny and his friend Pointy really want to win their school’s talent show. And they think they know just how to do it: They will become great magicians, just like their hero, The Amazing Presto. Together they work hard on their act, including the grandest trick of all: to make something disappear. But it isn’t easy to become magicians, and just when they’ve mastered their skills, they face the even greater challenge of performing in front of an audience!
 
With their trademark humor and warmth, the beloved duo Tiny and Pointy prove that every problem can be overcome as long as it’s met with patience and understanding.  

OH NO, THE AUNTS ARE HERE

By: Adam Rex

Illustrated by: Lian Cho

Published: May 23, 2023

Fiction

Format: Hardcover Picture Book

I just recently shared Adam Rex’s book, DIGESTION! THE MUSICAL.

One girl’s all-too-recognizable experience—a visit from a troupe of overwhelming and overly enthusiastic relations—escalates to new heights of chaos, absurdity, and delight in a laugh-out-loud take on family reunions. Written with signature humor by Adam Rex and illustrated by Lian Cho, this picture book is a celebration of the universal and endearing strangeness of family.  

LOVE MADE ME MORE

By: Colleen Rowan Kosinski

Illustrated by: Sonia Sánchez

Published: December 13, 2022

Publisher: Two Lions

Fiction

Format: Hardcover Picture Book

This is the second book I’ve shared from Colleen Rowan Kosinski. I previously reviewed, A HOME AGAIN. Sánchez also illustrated A CRAZY MUCH LOVE.

When a boy’s grandmother shows him how to fold an origami crane, the boy and crane become instant friends. They sail around the room and play, but the crane also watches over the boy and comforts him in a time of loss. The crane is always on the boy’s nightstand—it’s the last thing he sees each night and the first thing he sees each morning.

Over time, the boy grows older, and the crane becomes dusty. But even when the boy becomes a young man, the crane plays a part in the most important moments of his life. And one day, just like his grandmother before him, the man shows his own son how to fold origami as the crane looks on.

FARMHOUSE

By: Sophie Blackall

Published: September 13, 2022

Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Fiction

Format: Hardcover Picture Book

This book is one I purchased for myself. It reminded me so much of looking into my own parents’ childhoods growing up on a farm that I had to have it for my own collection.

This glorious new picture book from two-time Caldecott Medalist Sophie Blackall is as lavish and moving a tribute to a storied, beloved place as Hello Lighthouse.

Over a hill, at the end of a road, by a glittering stream that twists and turns stands a farmhouse.

Step inside the dollhouse-like interior of Farmhouse and relish in the daily life of the family that lives there, rendered in impeccable, thrilling detail. Based on a real family and an actual farmhouse where Sophie salvaged facts and artifacts for the making of this spectacular work, page after page bursts with luminous detail and joy.

FRIENDSHIP CAROUSEL

By: Suzy Ultman

Published: January 24, 2023

Publisher: Chronicle Kids

Fiction

Format: Interactive Board Book

One of the books that my nieces and nephews love to look through is BE MY NEIGHBOR? by Suzy Ultman. This interactive book is a fun process of finding all the ingredients to make cookies and then sharing them with their neighbors. This part book/part toy also celebrates friendships.

Readers are invited to flip the pages of this playful carousel book for a ride that celebrates friends, both big and small. Then tie the ribbon for merry-go-round fun that never ends

BOOKSCAPE BOARD BOOKS: BON VOYAGE!

By: Ingela P. Arrhenus

Published: April 4, 2023

Publisher: Chronicle Kids

Fiction

Format: Board Book

I’ve shared a couple of other Bookscape Board Books by Ingela, HERE. They are fun-shaped board books for toddlers.

Take off on a new adventure with this adorable Bookscape Board Book all about travel! Catch the train, board a plane, and get ready for a lifetime of adventure with this one-of-a-kind board book by celebrated illustrator Ingela P Arrhenius. Each uniquely shaped page overlaps with the next to create a complete landscape when closed—and an immersive world to explore with each turn of the page when open. Simple text and jubilant illustrations introduce babies and toddlers to different modes of transportation and a world of exploration! 

HAPPY LITTLE PETS: I TAKE CARE OF MY KITTEN

By: Michael Slack

Published: January 17, 2023

Publisher: Chronicle Kids

Fiction

Format: Interactive Board Book

Are you getting a puppy or kitten for Christmas? I’d recommend these books for your toddler to understand how to help care for them.

Let’s take care of a kitten!

Feed your kitten, give your kitten toys, and watch your kitten purr with the help of durable push-pull tabs. Then give yourself a gold star! Perfect for cat families or little ones who want a kitten, this playful book teaches the joy of taking care of a pet—along with all the hard work it requires! Happy Little Pets: I Take Care of My Kitten provides an aspirational and satisfying way for young readers to learn the basics of pet ownership.

HAPPY LITTLE PETS: I TAKE CARE OF MY PUPPY

By: Michael Slack

Published: January 17, 2023

Publisher: Chronicle Kids

Fiction

Format: Interactive Board Book

Let’s take care of a puppy!

Feed your puppy, brush your puppy, and take your puppy on a walk around the block with the help of durable push-pull tabs, and more. Then give yourself a gold star! Perfect for dog families or little ones who want a puppy, this playful book teaches the joy of taking care of a pet—along with all the hard work it requires! Happy Little Pets: I Take Care of My Puppy provides an aspirational and satisfying way for young readers to learn the basics of pet ownership.

WEIRD BUT TRUE! WORLD 2023

Incredible Facts, Awesome Photos, and Weird Wonders for this Year and Beyond!

Published: August 23, 2022

Publisher: National Geographic Kids

Non-Fiction

Format: Oversized Hardcover

Kids love these fact-based books!

Discover Earth’s strangest animals, natural formations, festivals, ancient wonders, news, and more in this newest addition to the wildly popular Weird But True! family—an annual compendium of everything Weird But True! fans love … and then some. Readers will journey across the seven continents, dive into the ocean, and even blast off into space to discover a whole wide world of weird. From the troll doll bug of Suriname to the Bog Snorkeling Championships in Wales to a technicolor village in Indonesia, Weird But True! World offers an unparalleled, adventure-filled exploration of our world’s amazing uniqueness.

HOW TO SPEAK ANIMAL

A Guide to Learning How Animals Communicate

By: Aubre Andrus and Dr. Gabby Wild

Published: August 16, 2022

Publisher: National Geographic Kids

Non-Fiction

Format: Paperback

Haven’t you always wondered what your dog would say to you if he could talk? Or what is that gorilla really thinking at the zoo? Now you can find out!

We know animals can’t speak and express themselves in the same way as humans … but even the smallest and quietest animals have incredible ways of communicating with each other. With wildlife veterinarian expert Dr. Gabby Wild as a guide, How to Speak Animal helps kids understand how animals communicate through sound, body language, and behavior. It’s full of expert insights and real-life stories of humans exploring ways to “talk” to animals, from teaching great apes sign language to speaking “dolphin.” Packed with super-engaging animal photography that helps illustrate key concepts, this fascinating book profiles more than 60 different creatures—from birds to mammals to reptiles and more—and their amazing ways of communicating with each other.

Which one (or two or three) of these books will you be adding to your list?

Click HERE to see all the posts featuring new books on my shelves.

So many books, so little time!