Tag: Jane Yolen

Reading Activities: Frostfire by Elly Mackay (Guest Post: Lexi Hall)

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Frostfire
Author: Elly Mackay
Illustrator: Elly Mackay
1 October 2024
Tundra Books
44 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “Follow dragon-​expert Miriam and curious Celeste on a magical winter’s day walk through their garden, where a snow dragon just might be hiding! Elly MacKay’s luminous artwork and sweet sibling story will cast a spell over readers of all ages in this playfully imaginative picture book that’s perfect for fans of Frozen.

On a walk through a snow-​covered garden, big sister Miriam claims to hear the sound of a snow dragon. Little sister Celeste has lots of questions: snow dragons are real? Where do they hide? What do they eat? And is that frost on the greenhouse windows or is it … frostfire?

Miriam seems to have an answer for everything about snow dragons. But when Celeste wanders off, she has a magical encounter that changes everything she thought she knew.

Told through gently playful dialogue and brought to life with spectacular works of paper diorama art, Elly Mackay’s newest picture book is an enchanting wintertime adventure destined to become a classic seasonal fairy tale that readers will enjoy for years to come.”

Need some reviews of Frostfire?

Reading Activities inspired by Frostfire:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front cover: 
    • What do you think the word Frostfire could mean?
    • What do you think could make frostfire?
    • What do you see behind the two foxes? Can you make up a name for it?
    • Do you think that the foxes are the same age? Which one might be older?
    • Why do you think they are out in the snow? Where could they be going?
    • What questions would you like to ask the author or the illustrator before reading the book?
  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • How did Miriam know so much about snow dragons? Did she get anything wrong about them?
    • How does the snow dragon camouflage? Where does it go in the summertime?
    • What did Celeste give to the snow dragon?
    • How do you think the sisters felt when they both saw the snow dragon in the clouds?
    • How did the illustrations add to the story? How do you think Elly Mackay made them?
    • What do you think is the main message of the story?
    • Have you ever played games using your imagination?
    • Would you recommend this book to a friend? What part would you tell them about first?
  • Go Cloud Gazing: Lie down outside and look up at the sky like Celeste and Miriam. What sort of shapes do you see in the clouds? What creatures might be flying there, camouflaged as clouds?
  • Camouflage Your Own Dragon: Draw a dragon on paper using colored pencils, crayons, watercolors, or markers, and glitter! Cut out the shape. Find different places where your dragon blends in and think about why it might live in that habitat.
  • Treasure Hunt: Head outside and pretend you’re a snow dragon out in the wild! What sort of things would you take for your hoard? A pine cone? Acorn tops? Shiny pebbles?
  • Write Your Own Imaginary Creature: Imagine you are telling a tall tale to a friend or sibling! What sort of details can you create about a mysterious magical creature? Where does it live? What does it eat? Write a story about meeting one in the wild. Draw a picture of it! What sound does it make?
  • Further Reading: If you loved Frostfire, you might enjoy other books about mysterious, magical creatures and winter adventures. Which of these have you already read?

Margaret’s Unicorn by Briony May Smith

Margaret watches the herd leap from the mountain, fading into the clouds that streak across the sky. The unicorns had migrated for the winter, but they accidentally left a baby behind. It’s up to Margaret to care for him! This story gently holds the magic and wonder of childhood imagination.

Dear Yeti by James Kwan

Two young hikers venture into a winter wonderland in search of the mysterious and elusive yeti! Will their letters be enough to coax the shy creature out of hiding? A hilarious tale about making unlikely friends and being kind.

The Little Forest Keepers by Mary Lundquist

A story about being kind and open. Ash and Pudd are forest keepers! They take care of everything in the cold wintry wood. It’s very important that all of the animals have hats and scarves to keep warm. Even the trees need to be bundled up! One day, a strange new creature arrives, and Ash and Pudd have never seen anything like it before.

Owl Moon by Jane Yolen

Late one night, a little girl and her father go owling. It’s her first time, and she is so excited! But she must stay very quiet. She hopes their calls will work, and that they will spot an owl. A timeless story of the quiet beauty in a small moment.

 

Lexi Hall is a children’s writer and illustrator from Pittsburgh PA. Growing up, she fell in love with writing and illustrating her own little stories to share with her friends. Now, she lives and works in Boston, MA as the children’s bookseller at Beacon Hill Books & Café, where she is spoiled with daily access to all the picture books she can read!

Lexi is pursuing her MFA in children’s book writing and illustration from Hollins University. She has illustrated for Hollins University Magazine and The Big Kit & Lil’ Kaboodle children’s magazine. She has also illustrated an upcoming 2025 picture book written by author Heather Harris Bergevin, Enough Elizabeths, with Lucky Rabbit Publishing.

Website: www.lexihall.com

Instagram: @lexi.paints

Educational Activities: Giant Island by Jane Yolen

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Giant Island
Author: Jane Yolen
Illustrator: Doug Keith
1 August 2022
Flashlight Press
32 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “Two children and a dog explore the coves and caves of a tiny island. Under the watchful eye of Grandpa, the kids are thrilled to discover a huge surprise: the craggy rocks, tufted grass, and wind-​swept trees on Giant Island are much more than they seem.

Visit Giant Island, where fantastical adventures await.”

Need some reviews on Giant Island?

As a bonus, enjoy this interview at Tara Lazar’s website with author Jane Yolen about Giant Island.

Educational Activities inspired by Giant Island:

  • Before Reading–From looking at the front and back cover: 
    • What do you think of when you think about the giants? About islands?
    • Where and when does this story seem to take place?
    • What kind of animals lived on and around Giant Island?
    • What questions would you like to ask the author before you read the book?
  • After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story: 
    • Were you surprised by the size of the island?
    • What other secrets and surprises did the island hold for Ava and Cooper?
    • Why did Grandpa call the island “old friend”?
    • What did you think of the book’s ending?
    • Which picture did you like the most? Why?
    • Did you like this book? Why/​why not?
  • Drawing–Since an island might be an island, what else might be a giant, too? A cloud? A hill? A tree? Use colored pencils, crayons, or markers to create your own giant something. Consider sharing your work with a friend or family member.
  • Crafting–Since the island plays such a big role in this story, let’s enjoy some crafts based on islands as well as the things/​creatures on and around them! 
  • Further Reading–Learn more about by giants these related books. Which of these have you already read? Which of the others would you want to read first? (Click on any book cover for more information on these titles!)

 

 

Picture Book List: 16 Great Books about Hanukkah

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Since Hanukkah is observed for eight days, it makes sense to list 8 great books about this holiday, but that’s nowhere near enough. It deserves more, and there are just so many fine picture books to pick from. So, we’re doubling that number and sharing 16 instead!

Hopefully, this list is a mix of old favorites and new-​to-​you treats. Enjoy!

Chanukah Lights Everywhere by Michael J. Rosen, illustrated by Melissa Iwai (October 2006)

From Goodreads: “One crescent moon glows in the sky. Two headlights shine through the window.… On each magical night of Chanukah, a young boy and his sister count more lights shining all around them! Join them as they discover what it means to celebrate Chanukah in a world filled with so many other lights.”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: 4–7

Hanukkah Delight! by Lesléa Newman, illustrated by Amy Husband (August 2016)

From Goodreads: “Whimsical bunnies celebrate Hanukkah in this charming rhyming board book describing all the Hanukkah rituals beloved by Jewish kids.”

Pages: 12

Reading Age: 1–4

 

Hanukkah Lights by David Martin, illustrated by Melissa Sweet (September 2009)

From Goodreads: “Sweet illustrations and simple language bring the holidays to life for the youngest of children.

Candles on the menorah, ready to light! At Hanukkah, there are many much-​anticipated rituals — latkes to eat, dreidels to spin, presents to give and receive, and shiny gold treats. Add some free-​form fun, from shadow puppetry to singing and dancing, and you have a warm, truly child-​friendly celebration.”

Pages: 26

Reading Age: 0–3

 

The Hanukkah Mice by Steven Kroll, illustrated by Michelle Shapiro (October 2021)

From Goodreads: “It’s the first night of Hanukkah, and the mouse family secretly looks on as Mr. Silman lights the first Hanukkah candle. Then they watch Rachel Silman open a gift from her family, a beautiful dollhouse with a wraparound porch and tiny lace curtains. Just the right size for us, whispers Mindy Mouse. While the Silmans are asleep, the mouse family explores the dollhouse. On each night of the holiday, they enjoy the small pieces of furniture and dishes of food that magically appear. Finally, on the eighth night of Hanukkah, a small miracle occurs, showcased nicely in Michelle Shapiro’s colorful gouache illustrations.”

Pages: 42

Reading Age: 3–7

 

Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins by Eric A. Kimmel, illustrated by Trina Schart Hyman (October 1994)

From Goodreads: “A traveler rids a village synagogue of goblins. A Caldecott Honor Book.”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: 4–8

 

Hoppy Hanukkah!  by Linda Glaser, illustrated by Daniel Howarth (September 2009)

From Goodreads: “Violet and Simon, two small bunnies, are excited about Hanukkah. Simon is ready to light all the candles and then blow them right out! But Mama and Papa explain how to celebrate Hanukkah by lighting one candle each night at sunset and placing the menorah in the window for all to see. Grandma and Grandpa come over, too, and there are latkes and presents and a dreidel game. Linda Glaser’s simple, cozy story is just right for children first learning about this holiday. Daniel Howarth’s charming paintings show a happy family passing on their tradition.”

Pages: 24

Reading Age: 5–6

 

How Do Dinosaurs Say Happy Chanukah? by Jane Yolen, illustrated by Mark Teague (September 2012)

From Goodreads: “From the warm glow of holiday candles in the menorah to the fun of family gatherings, little dinosaurs love to celebrate the Festival of Lights. But sometimes the excitement of Chanukah, its treasured rituals, and the tradition of gifts can tempt a youngster to misbehave.…

Come along on a joyful romp filled with tumbling dreidels and melting gelt as America’s favorite prehistoric pals spread a little mischief this season. Children will laugh out loud as dinosaurs fidget, fuss, and stomp through every occasion, while their human parents shift from shock to weary patience.

Filled with warmth and cheer, this new book by the bestselling team of Jane Yolen and Mark Teague makes a perfect gift to be read again and again, year after year. How do dinosaurs say Happy Chanukah? The same way they say Merry Christmas: With an abundance of love, joy, memory, and gratitude.”

Pages: 40

Reading Age: 0–4

 

Larry’s Latkes by Jenna Waldman, illustrated Ben Whitehouse (October 2021)

From Goodreads: “Everyone knows that Big Larry makes the best latkes in town. This year he is throwing a Hanukkah party for all this friends, and the latkes need to be extra special. He goes on a quest to find some brand-​new flavors at the farmer’s market. But peaches are a soggy mess, and turnips are a flop. Big Larry’s kitchen is a latke disaster. Good thing he has some help from his friends.”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: 4–8

 

Latke, the Lucky Dog by Ellen Fischer, illustrated by Tiphanie Beeke (August 2014)

From Goodreads: “Rescued from an animal shelter on the first night of Hanukkah, Latke has trouble learning the house rules. Despite a series of mishaps, he is one Lucky Dog!”

Pages: 24

Reading Age: 2–8

 

Meet the Latkes by Alan Silberberg (October 2018)

From Goodreads: “Imagine James Marshall’s The Stupids celebrating Hanukkah, and you’d get the Latke family!

Lucy Latke’s family is just like yours or mine. Except that they’re potato pancakes. And also, they are completely clueless. After lighting the menorah and gobbling the gelt, Grandpa Latke tells everyone the Hanukkah story, complete with mighty Mega Bees who use a giant dreidel to fight against the evil alien potatoes from Planet Chhh. It’s up to the Latke family dog to set the record straight. (To start with, they were Maccabees, not Mega Bees…) But he’ll have to get the rest of the Latkes to listen to him first!”

Pages: 36

Reading Age: 3–5

 

Moishe’s Miracle: A Hanukkah Story by Laura Krauss Melmed, illustrated by David Slonim (October 2005)

From Goodreads: “Kind-​hearted Moishe is given a magical frying pan that will produce all the latkes you could wish for latkes by the dozen, latkes by the hundreds but only Moishe must use it. Alas, his short-​tempered wife, Baila, does not heed the warning.”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: 0–12

 

The Night Before Hanukkah by Natasha Wing, illustrated by Amy Wummer (October 2014)

From Goodreads: “It’s the night before the eight-​day celebration of Hanukkah begins, and everyone is excited! Each evening, the family gathers to light the candles and share holiday traditions such as playing dreidel, eating latkes, and exchanging gifts. The seventeenth title in Natasha Wing’s bestselling series, The Night Before Hanukkah captures all the joy and love in one of the most wonderful times of the year!”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: 3–5

 

My First Chanukah by Tomie dePaola (September 2008)

From Goodreads: “Describes the traditional celebration of Chanukah, including the lighting of candles on the menorah, the eating of latkes, and the spinning of the dreidel. On board pages.”

Pages: 14

Reading Age: 3–5

 

Shmelf the Hanukkah Elf by Greg Wolfe, illustrated by Howard McWilliam (September 2016)

From Goodreads: “Shmelf is one of Santa’s most important elves. He’s part of the List Checking department, and he makes sure all the good boys and girls get their presents! But when Shmelf finds out that some children are missing from Santa’s list, he goes to investigate.

What Shmelf uncovers is Hanukkah, a wondrous and joyful holiday that Jewish families celebrate each year. As Shmelf observes a family lighting the menorah, playing dreidel, and hearing the Hanukkah story, he sees how special the traditions of the holiday truly are-​and he wants to be a part of it! Luckily, Santa just might have a special role in mind for Shmelf.…

The rich traditions of Hanukkah come to life in this whimsical and magical story that’s perfect for the holiday season.”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: 3–6

 

Simon and the Bear: A Hanukkah Tale by Eric A. Kimmel, illustrated by Matthew Trueman (September 2014)

From Goodreads: “Before Simon sails to America, he promises his family that he will get a job and send for them. Simon’s mother knows he will need a miracle, so she reminds him to celebrate Hanukkah wherever he may be. Little does either of them know that Simon will spend the first night of Hanukkah on an ice floe after his ship sinks.The lone survivor out in the wide ocean, Simon lights the first candle, and it attracts a visitor: a polar bear. Does she eat him? No! She shares his latkes, enjoys his songs, goes fishing for him, and even keeps him warm at night. By the last day of Hanukkah, Simon has nearly given up hope of ever being rescued. But then he recounts all of the miracles that have befallen him so far. Perhaps it is not too much to hope for one more, he thinks, as he lights all of the candles in the menorah. The bright glow signals a passing ship, and Simon makes it to New York after all. This fanciful Hanukkah tale-​like none you’ve ever read before-​celebrates eight miracles: family, friendship, hope, selflessness, sharing, faith, courage, and love. A retelling of the ancient Hanukkah story is included on the last page.”

Pages: 40

Reading Age: 3–5

 

Yitzi and the Giant Menorah by Richard Ungar (September 2016)

From Goodreads: “On the eve of Hanukkah, the People of Chelm have received a special gift from the Mayor of Lublin. A giant menorah in which they place in the square for all the admire. Every night, the villagers meet to watch the lighting of a candle on the menorah. And every night, the villagers ponder What is the most fitting way to thank the Mayor of Lublin?

The villagers come up with idea after idea, but their gift never quite reaches the Mayor. What will they do? Finally, on the last night of Hanukkah, Yitzi has an idea to orchestrate the surprise thank you gift.”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: 5–9

Picture Book List: 20 Fun Books About Birthdays

On By Only Picture BooksIn Picture Book Lists

May is my birthday month, so parties, ice cream cake, and balloons are on my mind. If you’d like to get all celebration‑y with me, enjoy this list of festive picture books about birthdays.

Why 20 items on this list? Because that’s my birthdate, of course!

(If I missed including any amazing picture books about birthdays, let me know about them in the comments.)

The Backwards Birthday Party by Tom Chapin and John Forster, illustrated by Chuck Groenink (Feb 2015)

AGES 4–7

From Goodreads: “Have a happy birthday—the backwards way! Full of fun and based on the hit song from Tom Chapin and John Forster, this is a celebratory birthday bash like no other.

Put your clothes on inside out, heat up the ice cream, and hang on to your party hats—because everything’s out of whack at the backwards birthday party!

From beloved, three-​time Grammy-​winning singer-​songwriter Tom Chapin, four-​time Grammy-​nominated singer-​songwriter John Forster, and with stunning illustrations from Chuck Groenink comes the zaniest birthday party you’ll ever attend.”

 

A Birthday Cake Is No Ordinary Cake by Debra Frasier (Sept 2006)

AGES 4–7

From Goodreads: “Welcome aboard our spinning Earth as it travels on its immense journey around the Sun. Bring a bowl–and come along! Help collect the ingredients for a cake as big as a year, and see how every circle around the Sun … equals one. One what? One birthday cake!

For fifteen years, On the Day You Were Born has been the classic book to welcome new babies into the world. Now, this jubilant companion celebrates every year thereafter in the life of a child–and of our great green planet Earth.

Includes delicious cake and frosting recipes, explanations of how the years are marked in nature, and a section called “How many days to your birthday?” so kids can actually find their own special day.”

 

A Birthday for Frances by Russell Hoban, illustrated by Lillian Hoban (Oct 1994)

AGES 2–6

From Goodreads: “It is Gloria’s birthday but Frances is not sure whether or not to give Gloria a present, as she is the kind of little sister who can’t catch, can’t throw and who when playing hide-​and-​seek, always hides in places where part of her is sticking out.

Will Frances give Gloria her present..?”

 

The Birthday Party by Helen Oxenbury (April 1983)

AGES 3–7

From Goodreads: “After choosing a gift for her friend’s birthday, a young girl has trouble relinquishing it.”

 

The Birthday Queen by Audrey and Don Wood (Aug 2013)

AGES 4–8

From Goodreads: “Bestselling award-​winners Don and Audrey Wood celebrate your birthday with the best party in the world!

Happy Birthday to you! Today is the most exciting day of the year, and the Birthday Queen knows exactly how to fill it with fun surprises! From decorating your home to baking your favorite cake, the Birthday Queen doesn’t forget a thing as she creates a party beyond your wildest dreams! Children will crow with delight as she tests a wild assortment of games and clowns, wraps your gifts, and splashes the kitchen with huge bowls of colorful frosting. Here come your guests! Now it’s time to celebrate!

Known for their warmth and imagination, Audrey and Don Wood create a story that crackles with the excitement of the best homemade birthday parties. Their simple narrative speaks directly to the child: You! And who is the Birthday Queen? In a sweet, satisfying ending, the amazing woman who made your special birthday party is revealed to be the person who loves you most–your mother! Children will be begging to read this all year round!”

 

Birthday Rules by Laurie Friedman, illustrated by Teresa Murfin (March 2015)

AGES 5–9

From Goodreads: “When it comes to birthdays, no one knows how to party like Percy! Just follow his simple rules like #2 “Happy times call for happy measures” and #9 “Be careful what you wish for“to make the most of your celebration. Even when the cake has been consumed and the presents put away, Percy still has a trick up his sleeve to make a birthday extra special! Through clever rhymes and bright, humorous illustrations from the creators of Thanksgiving Rules and Back-​to-​School Rules, Percy shows how to make the most of a birthday celebration.”

 

Boa’s Bad Birthday by Jeanne Willis, illustrated by Tony Ross (Aug 2016)

AGES 4–8

From Goodreads: “It was Boa’s birthday.
It was going to be the best one ever.
Or so he hoped.

He invited his friends round.
They would all bring him wonderful presents.
Or would they?”

 

Bunny Cakes by Rosemary Wells (Feb 2000)

AGES 3–5

From Goodreads: “It’s Grandma’s birthday, and Max wants to make her an icky, worm-​infested cake. But Ruby says, “No, Max. We are going to make Grandma an angel surprise cake, with raspberry-​fluff icing.” Will Max let his bossy older sister keep him out of the kitchen? Or will they both become bunnies who bake?”

 

Happy Birthday, Cupcake by Terry Border (July 2015)

AGES 5–8

From Goodreads: “What’s a cupcake to do when she needs to plan her birthday party? In this hilarious, kid-​friendly homage to food and birthdays, Cupcake runs through tons of ideas while her best friend, Blueberry Muffin, finds reasons why they won’t work: Soup gets seasick; Donut melts in the sun; someone might get squashed during musical chairs; and Cupcake is not very good at limbo (her icing might get sliced off!). Just as Cupcake is ready to crumble, Blueberry Muffin has one last idea that just might save the day.

With laugh-​out-​loud visual gags (like a band made up of beans–the musical fruit, of course), this book is sure to put a birthday smile on any kid’s face (and on adult faces as well).”

 

Happy Birthday, Moon by Frank Asch (Jan 1982)

AGES 2–6

From Goodreads: “Bear loves the moon so much that he wants to give him a birthday present. But he doesn’t know when his birthday is or what to get him. So Bear goes to have a little chat with the moon. A poetic fantasy, Happy Birthday, Moon has delighted fans for years as a simple yet reassuring celebration of love and friendship. Gently told with warm words and charming illustrations by creator Frank Asch, Happy Birthday, Moon was cited by The New York Times as one of the ten best titles of the year.”

 

How Do Dinosaurs Say Happy Birthday? by Jane Yolen, illustrated by Mark Teague (Sept 2011)

AGES 2–4

From Goodreads: “Surprise! Our bestselling little dinosaurs are back for a BIG birthday celebration! Everyone has a birthday, and from riotous birthday parties to the excitement of being one year older, having a birthday is the highlight of a young child’s year. All little dinosaurs love to get presents, and this new board book will be an immediate favorite. From birthday hats to Ceratosaurus-​sized cakes, America’s young readers will laugh out loud as the celebration moves from “bad” birthday behavior to just the right amount of silliness and sharing. Bestselling duo Jane Yolen and Mark Teague have created the perfect introduction to birthday parties, with the same beloved humor and warmth of all their previous bestselling “How Do Dinosaurs” books. Here’s a wonderful way to say “Happy Birthday!” to any dinosaur…young or old!”

 

If a T. Rex Crashes Your Birthday Party by Jill Esbaum, illustrated by Dasha Tolstikova (Aug 2016)

AGES 4–7

From Goodreads: “You never know what will happen when a T. Rex crashes your birthday party. Sure, you’ll be super excited when he turns up at your door. But then he’ll stomp. He’ll ROAR. He’ll look at you as if he’s wondering how you taste with a little mustard. In the end, though, you just may find yourself asking him to come back next year! This delightfully whimsical picture book has a fun twist kids will love.”

 

If You Give a Pig a Party by Laura Numeroff, illustrated by Felicia Bond (Sept 2005)

AGES 2–4

From Goodreads: “If you give a pig a party, she’s going to ask for some balloons. When you give her the balloons, she’ll want to decorate the house. When she’s finished, she’ll put on her favorite dress…

Fans of If You Give a Mouse a Cookie will love this perfect addition to the series!

The If You Give… series is a perennial favorite among children. With its spare, rhythmic text and circular tale, these books are perfect for beginning readers and story time. Sure to inspire giggles and requests to “read it again!”

 

If You Had Your Birthday Party on the Moon by Joyce Lapin, illustrated by Simona Ceccarelli (April 2019)

AGES 7+

From Goodreads: “If you had your birthday party on the moon, what would it be like? Blast off to an extraterrestrial celebration and find out! This cool picture book combines fun and facts to help kids learn all about outer space.

Have your birthday party on the moon and everyone will come! After all, who wouldn’t want to ride in a rocket and celebrate for a day that lasts as long as a month on Earth? Then, young partygoers could romp in a low-​gravity playground; watch candles and balloons behave weirdly in the Moon’s atmosphere; and see why the “moon angels” they make in the thick carpet of lunar dust will last for thousands of years. With each discovery, kids learn the science behind the surprise, explained in terms they’ll understand. Complete with sidebars and a glossary, this entertaining adventure is perfect for sharing at home and at school”

 

My Lucky Birthday by Keiko Kasza (May 2013)

AGES 3–5

From Goodreads: “A hilarious trickster tale companion to the story time hit My Lucky Day.

Just as Alligator Al is planning the perfect birthday dinner for himself, there is a knock on his door. It’s a delicious-​looking piglet—how lucky!But as Al prepares his feast, the piglet makes some suggestions. Shouldn’t Al have a big birthday cake? Piglet can tell him how to make one. And wouldn’t the celebration be more fun with fancy decorations and party guests? Piglet would be happy to ask some friends to come over.

Al is so lucky that Piglet is there to help…or is he? Could Piglet have a clever party trick up his sleeve?

Fans of trickster tales, rooting for the underdog, and the proven crowd favorite My Lucky Day will be thrilled to see who turns out to have the luckiest birthday of all.”

 

Oscar’s Half Birthday by Bob Graham (May 2005)

AGES 2–5

From Goodreads: “Baby Oscar’s half birthday is full cause for celebration in this amusing tale of an urban family outing, affectionately told by the inimitable Bob Graham.

“Perfect day for a half birthday,”
says Oscar’s dad.
The birthday boy waves his wet fists.
“And a picnic,” says Oscar’s mom.

Oscar is six months old today, but the truth is that no one can wait for his whole birthday. So there’s nothing else for Mom and Dad to do but pack some sandwiches, park Oscar in his stroller, and take older sister Millie — handmade fairy wings attached — to the “half country” of their urban park for a half-​birthday party. As always in the warm, quirky world of Bob Graham, the joy is in the details — a stop in a graffitied tunnel as the train rushes overhead; the expressions on Oscar’s face as he watches a single leaf fall; the little half candle on his cake; and the impromptu gathering of admiring park visitors who join, one by one, in the hearty birthday song. With his jaunty watercolors full of charming surprises and a gently humorous text, Bob Graham creates an endearing, unconventional family readers will be happy to meet, and they’ll be tickled to join in their celebration.”

 

Otto Has a Birthday Party by Todd Parr (April 2004)

AGES 2–4

From Goodreads: “There is a problem with the cake Otto the dog makes for his birthday party, but he and his friends have a good time anyway.”

 

Ten Rules of the Birthday Wish by Beth Ferry, illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld (Feb 2019)

AGES 4–8

From Goodreads: “A joyful picture book that celebrates every kid’s favorite day of the year, full of adorable art from the illustrator of Goodnight Goodnight Construction Site and I Wish You More.

The most important rule is #1: It must be your birthday.

After that’s been established, a crew of hilarious animals help picture book pros Tom Lichtenheld and Beth Ferry take readers through a joyous romp that covers the most important elements of every year’s most essential holiday, including singing; closing your eyes and making a wish; blowing out candles on a cake, then settling into bed and dreaming of your wish coming true.”

 

Scaredy Squirrel Has a Birthday Party by Mélanie Watt (March 2014)

AGES 4–8

From Goodreads: “In the fifth book, Scaredy Squirrel plans his own birthday and surprise!… things get very crowded. Scaredy Squirrel is planning his own birthday party for one — but despite his detailed plans, things get out of control when the party animals arrive.He’s back! Scaredy Squirrel, the loveable worrywart, returns for another nutty adventure. Scaredy never plans big birthday parties. He’d rather celebrate alone quietly in the safety of his nut tree and avoid those pesky party animals (ants, clownfish, ponies and Bigfoot). When all his excessive plans are thrown up in the air like confetti, will Scaredy play dead and cancel? Or will he face the music?”

 

When’s My Birthday? by Julie Fogliano, illustrated by Christian Robinson (Sept 2017)

AGES 3–6

From Goodreads: “In this enthusiastic celebration of all things BIRTHDAY, acclaimed author Julie Fogliano and award-​winning illustrator Christian Robinson bring you the perfect birthday book! Join our excited narrator as she lists all the things that will make her birthday the BEST birthday.

when’s my birthday?
where’s my birthday?
how many days until my birthday?

i’d like a pony for my birthday
and a necklace for my birthday.
i’d like a chicken for my birthday.
i’d like a ball to bounce and bounce.

i’d like a big cake on my birthday
with lots of chocolate on my birthday
and lots of candles on my birthday
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6!”

A Celebration of Jane Yolen’s 400th book (2 interviews and one original poem)

On By Only Picture BooksIn Author Interviews, Illustrator Interviews4 Comments

To help celebrate Jane Yolen’s 400th published book–what an amazing accomplishment!–I felt the need to do more than just review it at OPB. Thus, we have this bonus goody that’s just for you!

I asked Jane and Jen four questions each, and with the productivity and generosity that Jane is so well known for, she offered an original poem, too. Enjoy!

Questions for Jane

RVC: Why is Bear Outside a good book to be #400?

JY: Because it is typical of my picture book style–lyrical, strong young girl who solves a problem, and has a kicker last line.

RVC: What was most surprising about the hubbub around #400?

JY: That I seem to be the most surprised person of all!

Heidi (my daughter and PA) had been counting the books because when I hit 365 we had a big party at the Eric Carle Museum with teachers, librarians, editors, friends, etc. But I thought as I was just reaching my 80s, I would slow down. But a little over three years later, it was clear I was going to hit 400.

RVC: What’s something readers wouldn’t guess about the girl in this story?

JY: She is me in a way, though instead of a bear, I look out through the eyes of story and it emboldens me.

RVC: Your favorite image from the book? 

JY: I think the very last page, when they are quiet, and instead of a child hugging a toy bear to keep herself safe from night frights, the bear is hugging the girl.

Questions for Jen

RVC: Why is Bear Outside a good book to be #400?  

JC: Bear Outside is the result of so many things I never saw coming or anything I could have conceived of when I started my career in illustration. I had worked on bits and pieces here and there, and I got my foot into the door with Little Pea, but it wasn’t until I started creating bodies of work for gallery shows that I really started to develop a visual voice that felt true to me. It has always been a symbiotic relationship, bringing what I learned creating pieces for galleries into book work and bringing the narrative structure of book work back into paintings made for gallery shows.

If you had told 2007 me that this piece of my career would become part of someone else’s artistic milestone, let alone Jane Yolen’s artistic milestone, I would have calmly told you to get off of my lawn. But it is. It exists, it’s here, and it’s an incalculable honor. To have something put out into the world be seen and understood by someone and then be moved to write a story that respects the core of the image with spare, perfect words? It gives me too many feelings.

For me it’s not a good book to be #400. It’s the PERFECT book to be #400.

RVC: What was most surprising about the hubbub around #400 for Jane?

JC: When I received the manuscript for Bear Outside, I wasn’t told that it would be Jane’s 400th book. I didn’t even know until recently. So it’s all a wonderful surprise. I muddled through my own brain and ideas for so long–it’s a real crock pot of a brain. It makes me wonder what it’s like to have a brain that is all “go go go” while also creating beautiful, meaningful stories. It’s awe inspiring.

RVC: What’s something readers wouldn’t guess about Bear?

JC: Probably that Bear is a Taurus sun with a Sagittarius moon.

RVC: Your favorite line from the text?

JC: “I take care of Bear and Bear takes care of me.”

It’s the perfect distillation of the relationship between Girl and Bear. It’s ideally the relationship we should have in others.

Hugging the Bear

At night, in the dark,
he snores and grumbles.
Sometimes he whimpers.
Then I curl around him.
I am here, Bear, I whisper.
Day will come soon enough.
Wear me like a  suit of armor.
Hold me like a sword of fire.
Tell my story over and over
till all night fears go away.
And his mumbles and whimpers
fade into the dawn.

©2021 Jane Yolen all rights reserved

Picture Book Review: Bear Outside by Jane Yolen

On By Only Picture BooksIn Picture Book Reviews
Author: Jane Yolen
Illustrator: Jen Corace
Neal Porter Books
2 March 2021
32 pages

For the first time ever, the review of the story-​side of a picture book isn’t being done by Ryan G. Van Cleave (owner/​operator of Only Picture Books).

Don’t worry, though. We’ve brought in ringers to handle things at the same high level we all expect of OPB picture book reviews.

So, without further ado, here’s this month’s picture book review that features insight from Brooklyn-​based editor Octavia Saenz and Florida-​based freelance artist (& OPB superfriend) Austin McKinley.

—Octavia’s Review of the Writing—

Bears are quiet, solitary things, but sometimes, if you look closely enough, you might find profound wisdom. Like the narrator of Bear Outside, the book itself is a quietly wise thing with a simple exterior that hides a deeper truth about what we owe ourselves.

The story is simple—and, like any good picture book, is half told in the details of the art—as the narrator explains how she wears her bear on the outside, as a form of protection, as a companion, as a talisman of courage. Beyond the narrator’s simple words, we see how the bear is a shield against mocking classmates as well as a a collaborator for the narrator having fun on their own. She says, too, that the bear is hers to take care of, and in the artwork we see her taking care of herself. She engages in brave and kind acts, fighting back bees to eat honey, and giving flowers to a neighbor, all with the help of the bear.

Bear Outside, celebrated author Jane Yolen’s 400th book, is an ode to kids who march to their own bear, and a guide for the imaginative ones in touch with their needs and boundaries.

It’s wonderful.

5 out of 5 pencils

—Austin’s Review of the Illustrations—

The central conceit of Bear Outside—that of a child imagining wearing their inner spirit as a kind of protective and companionable aura—is delightfully rich visual territory which the book’s artist, Jen Corace, explores with palpable joy. The sumptuous textural watercolor world she creates, which ranges from soft pastels to vibrant jewel-​toned hues (the red leaves on that giant, two-​page tree spread are chef’s kiss material!) is punctuated by Bear, the only cartoon element in each illustration described with a calligraphic line. As the book jacket explains, it was this conceptual image Corace created—of a girl surrounded by a bear—that formed the impetus for the book proper.

Corace has so much fun depicting Bear reading a book in a blanket fort (more great textures!) riding a bicycle, and jumping on a trampoline, that one can’t help but grin in appreciation. Her character and stage design have that quality of all the best children’s book illustrations: they are warm, inviting, approachable, and deceptively simple. Almost as if a child had done them, but a child with a master’s hand. It reminds us of the way we felt as children, and it makes it look easy.

Little touches–like the girl and Bear riding on the front of the shopping cart, clambering into a tree fort, flailing in water wings, or going to sleep with a night light–are all rendered in flattened perspectives. Overlapping watercolor elements and simplified backgrounds bring the childhood of our mind’s eye into a soft, sensitive focus.

A stroll through the artist’s website reveals there are many things about the imagery for this book that are motifs throughout her work. The little girl with the black bob haircut, the semi-​translucent textures, and the fanciful combinations of people and animals all make regular appearances. Corace’s work here is moodier than her children’s illustration, more akin to what might appear on an indie record’s album art.

What makes Bear Outside unique is not just the more whimsical palette–it’s how charmingly relatable the scenes are, and the humor that arises when the core personality of the narrator and the alter ego of Bear seem to vie for dominance. It makes you want to have such a bear in your life, and the beauty of the book’s message is that you can!

It’s a powerful, inspiring piece of children’s literature, simple to understand, but taking a complex topic like healthy self-​confidence, and making it impossible to forget.

5 out of 5 crayons

Octavia Saenz is an editor and cartoonist based in Brooklyn, NY who creates visual narratives about queer, Puerto Rican diaspora. Octavia grew up in Puerto Rico and has a BFA in Creative Writing and Illustration from Ringling College of Art and Design, as well as a Lambda Fellowship.

Find her on Twitter and Instagram: @shrimpwonder.

Austin McKinley makes comic books, cartoons, movies, video games, screenplays, novels and novellas through his company, Flying Car. He shot and appeared in the award-​winning feature documentary The New 8‑Bit Heroes alongside director Joe Granato. His comic illustrations have also been published by Image Shadowline, Devil’s Due/​1st Comics, Alias/​Blue Water Press, Avatar, Boom!, Blue King Studios, and FC9. He wrote and illustrated Squareasota, a weekly cartoon in the Sarasota Herald-​Tribune for seven years.
Most recently, he illustrated Tales of Mr. Rhee vol. 5: Rockstar Paranoia, a graphic novel for Source Point Press slated for spring 2021.