Things went sideways at OPB this month, so instead of offering a normal picture book review where I write about the story and a pro illustrator writes about the art, we’re going a different route this time. We’re doing five-word reviews for five picture books.
If you like this zippy new format, maybe we’ll try it again from time to time.
Here I Can Be Mindful
Author: Ally Condie
Illustrator: Jamie Kim
Viking Books for Young Readers
2 May 2023
32 pages
Five-word review: Peaceful voyage through mindful awareness.
4.25 out of 5 Zen koans
Oh No, the Aunts Are Here
Author: Adam Rex
Illustrator: Lian Cho
Chronicle Books
23 May 2023
40 pages
Stinkbird Has a Superpower
Author: Jill Esbaum
Illustrator: Bob Shea
G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers
16 May 2023
32 pages
Five-word review: Unique charm amid stinky adventures.
4.25 out of 5 stink waves
Weather Together (Not Quite Narwhal and Friends)
Author: Jessie Sima
Illustrator: Jessie Sima
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
2 May 2023
56 pages
Five-word review: Unicorns explore emotional weather together.
4.75 out of 5 rainbow swirls
When You Can Swim
Author: Jack Wong
Illustrator: Jack Wong
Orchard Books
2 May 2023
48 pages
Five-word review: Diverse, empowering, aquatic joy ride.
4.5 out of 5 diving boards