on August 25, 2020
Genres: Picture Book
Pages: 34
Format: Hardcover
Source: Publisher
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“On a rainy day when the house smells like cinnamon and Papa and Luca are still asleep, when the clouds are wearing shadows and the wind paints the window with beads of water, I want to be everywhere Mama is.”
Me & Mama is a beautiful story about a young girl’s day spent with her mother. There is wonder in the girls’ voice as she observes her surroundings, as told through poetic language, such as “The wind is painting the outside window with beads of water, ” “We sing out loud to sky. Sky is taller, taller than the trees,” and “Mama laughs. She throws her head back and shines her teeth.”
Cabrera’s words provide a wonder-filled perspective on the everyday, transforming the mundane into a new, exciting world. This story—about the bond between a daughter and her sweet, loving Mama—is one that I’ll never tire to rediscover, or to share with young readers.
In My Life by John Lennon, Paul McCartneyIllustrator: Genevieve Santos
Published by Little Simon on April 20, 2021
Genres: Picture Book
Pages: 40
Format: Hardcover
Source: Publisher
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“There are places I’ll remember, in my life, though some have changed…”
The lyrics of “In My Life,” converted to storybook, are beautiful and haunting. They lingered in my mind after the final pages. I recommend reading this book while listening to the song.
In My Life introduces the idea that some things change while others stay the same. Genevieve Santos’s illustrations brings the lyrics to life through three generations of one family. The art is beautiful and evocative, and portrays how the relationship between mother and daughter stays true while shifting over the years as the daughter grows up and has a daughter of her own.
Parents and educators may use this book as a jumping point to discuss how relationships change and stay the same. They may also use this book as an introduction to The Beatles.
Even the Smallest Will Grow by Lita JudgePublished by Atheneum Books for Young Readers on April 20, 2021
Genres: Picture Book
Pages: 32
Format: Hardcover
Source: Publisher
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“There is strength in even the smallest things. Just as a bird grows within her egg, and a cub becomes a brave big bear, you too will grow.”
Even the Smallest Will Grow is a hope-filled book about dreaming big. The pictures and ideas transfer seamlessly from one into the other, showing the wonders of the natural world. Through nature’s example, and evocative writing, this book invites children to consider what they’ll grow up into—and offers them the hope that they can grow into anything they want to be.
Sleep, My Baby by Lena Allen-Shore, Jacques J. M. ShoreIllustrator: Jessica Courtney-Tickle
Published by Little Simon on April 20, 2021
Genres: Picture Book
Pages: 18
Format: Board Book
Source: Publisher
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“Sleep, my baby, my lovely baby
I wish you good night.
The stars are smiling
they say to you
be happy all your life.”
Sleep My Baby is a lullaby first composed by Holocaust survivor Dr. Lena Allen-Shore for her son, Jacques, who then adapted it into this children’s book. This beautiful lullaby conveys a mother’s wish that her child will sleep well and be happy. I love how the lyrics and the images portray the diversity of humanity and the unity in a mother’s love for her child. I wish that a music score was included for the lullaby, or a link to an audio recording, so I could learn the tune. But more musically talented people might be able to improvise one as they read this book to a child.
Amber Elise @ Du Livre says
I can’t wait to buy Me and Mama for my little!
Crystal says
Me & Mama is a wonderful book. I hope you and your little enjoy it!
ShootingStarsMag says
I love picture books! Thanks for sharing all of these. I have some of the books that are illustrated lyrics that I need to read/review soon. I love the concept.
Lauren
http://www.shootingstarsmag.net
Crystal says
Picture books are wonderful. I love when texts are accompanied by illustrations.
Illustrated lyrics sound cool. I look forward to your review!