Soon, Your Hands by Jonathan Stutzman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A sweet story of each child’s potential through the eyes of three families. I loved the diversity and appreciated the backmatter material about ASL.
Día de Muertos: Números: A Day of the Dead Counting Book by Duncan Tonatiuh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I’m always excited for a new Duncan Tonatiuh book and this counting book is a fun way to also learn about Día de Muertos.
You Are a Story by Bob Raczka
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
One of my favorite picture books of 2023. I love the message of what we are and that we are more than one thing. The part of us being astronauts was sort of a eureka moment. The playful illustrations really add to what makes this book great.
Some of These Are Snails by Carter Higgins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Classification made fun in this deceptive simple yet entertainingly layered picture book. Can be read multiples times without diminishing returns.
Frank and Bert by Chris Naylor-Ballesteros
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A funny story about two friends who love to play hide and seek. It’s a nice way to think about whether one wants to always win or one wants to make sure their friend is having fun.
My Friend, Loonie by Nina LaCour
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
A nice enough story about friendship and grief and moving on. I picked this up because it features two moms but it’s not about that.
Unstoppable: How Bayard Rustin Organized the 1963 March on Washington by Michael Long
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I’m thrilled that more and more picture books about this out activist are being released. The world needs to know about Bayard Rustin and his contributions in the Civil Rights Movement.
High Chair Chemistry by Jill Esbaum
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A fun new board book series introducing science concepts to babies. I think this would be enjoyed more and more as the kid grows older.
Bath Time Physics by WonderLab Group
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A fun new board book series introducing science concepts to babies. I think this would be enjoyed more and more as the kid grows older.
What Were You Expecting?: First Words for New Parents by Cameron Spires
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A fun gift for new parents so they feel left out when a new baby arrives in the world and takes all of everyone’s attention and focus.
Chloe and the Kaishao Boys by Mae Coyiuto
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This Young Adult romantic-comedy novel was a refreshing change of pace from the serious and/or fantasy titles I’ve been reading by Filipino authors. I laughed out loud multiple times throughout and overlooked the predictable parts to enjoy the ride. Basically, Chloe is a Chinese-Filipina getting set up on multiple dates to round up her “roses” for her debut or 18th birthday celebration. And as if complicated emotions weren’t enough to try and figure out, she’s also planning on going to the US for college leaving her family and friends behind. Readers looking for a lighthearted read who enjoyed Crazy Rich Asians might want to give this one a try.
You can view all my reviews over on Goodreads. Please consider supporting independent bookstores when you want to buy any of the books I’ve mentioned via Bookshop.org or Libro.fm.
Thanks for visiting my blog. Happy Reading!
The Chronicles Of A Children's Book Writer - Earl Dizon 
I loved this new one by Raczka, always love his stories and art! Thanks for the others, too, Earl. I will be sure to find Some of These Are Snails, Frank and Bert, and Unstoppable.
Frank and Bert looks like fun! I’m waiting for Some of These are Snails from my library. It looks interesting.
Hi! Looks like you have some great titles there. Fun ones! Have a great week!