Three Picture Books Worth Checking Out

Often times parents will ask us to steer their kids away from the picture book section thinking they are too easy as their child becomes a better reader. As politely as possible I try and let the parents know picture books have the power to spur and engage wonderful conversations. With that in mind I would recommend the following three non-fiction picture books for that very reason

Black Jack: The Ballad of Jack Johnson by Charles R. Smith is the biography of boxer Jack Johnson. As an African American in the early 20th century he wasn't allowed to fight for the heavy weight title. This is a story that covers courage, desire, prejudice, and the value of hard work and believing in yourself.


She Loved Baseball: The Effa Manley Story by Audrey Mernick is another story that explores the role of racism and prejudice in society. Prior to getting involved with baseball, Effa Manley was a believer in being heard - no matter how long it took. She organized protests and wrote letters to share her beliefs but it was in the world of baseball that Effa made her mark. Manley loved baseball and with her husband owned a Negro League team. She treated her players with respect, making sure their needs were taken care of so they could be successful ball players. When the Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier, Effa set out to make sure the Negro League teams were compensated for players MLB drafted. When she realized the Baseball Hall of Fame made no mention of the Negro League, she made herself heard. A great read.

Librarian on the Roof: A True Story by M.G. King tells the story of a wonderful Texas librarian by the name of RoseAleta Laurell. Determined to update the Dr. Eugene Clark Library in Lockhart, Texas and create an environment where her patrons, especially children, would want to spend time, she came up with an unusual way to raise the necessary funds. Good stuff.

Three More (it's been a good week)

Justly or unjustly I often judge a book on whether or not I would like to be friends with the characters. Are they likable? Interesting? Can they laugh at themselves? Jake by Audrey Couloumbs is a simple Christmas story of family, immediate and extended. Jake himself is delightful as are all of the characters you meet. I would definitely hang out with Jake. Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett is an engaging mystery that's been around for a while (in fact, there are a couple of follow-ups). Sixth graders Calder and Petra are deep thinkers who find themselves in the midst of an art heist. They too are likable. I could see myself helping them solve future mysteries. Sophie Simon Solves Them All by Lisa Graff stars - Sophie Simon, a brilliant third grade loner who has no interest in making friends. She is at first glance, not particularly likable. But thanks to classmates who you would want to be friends with, who take the time to find the likable in Sophie, I changed my mind as the story finished up.

And for the Adults....

Running the Books by Avi Steinberg is a fascinating look at his life as a prison librarian. Steinberg tells engaging stories about the prisoners he works with - it's hard not to root for both the librarian and those incarcerated. That said, it's real life and Steinberg discovers early on that life is complicated when one works in a prison.


Anita Shreve has become one of my go to authors when I want to escape - she weaves a good story but doesn't tax your brain. Her latest, Rescue, tells the story of a 21 year old paramedic who falls in love with someone he rescues. Sheila is far from perfect but Watson, as the EMT is known, can't help but think there's more to her than the drinking. And there is, but it takes 15 years and raising their daughter alone for him to find out.

Little Bee by Chris Cleave seems to be big amongst the book club crowd. I spent most of the book yelling at Sarah and Lawrence. I will say, I appreciated the author's note at the end of the book, "Researching Little Bee made me grateful for the most basic gifts like safety and peace and the simple right to work." But my goodness, could he have not made the characters a bit more likable?

Good Reads for Kids

I've read three books for kids recently that I have thoroughly enjoyed. Gary Paulsen's Lawn Boy was delightful - what's not to like when a 12 year old boy, looking to make a bit of money to repair his bicycle tire, ends up running his own, very successful business. Throw in a crazy grandmother, a hippie stockbroker and a fighter name Johnny Pow and you've got yourself a good story (in less than a 100 pages for the reluctant readers out there). Having just discovered Lawn Boy I was happy to see Lawn Boy Returns arrive with our latest shipment of books. It is equally good - all of the same characters plus some good old fashioned bad guys. Pure fun.



I also picked up Knots in My YoYo String, Jerry Spinelli's memoir of growing up in Pennsylvania. His language is simple while his descriptions place you right in the middle of his neighborhood. Good stuff from the author of Maniac Magee, Loser, Star Girl and a handful more.