by: Cameron Marasco I always love finding books that make learning fun, and this one definitely does. Even though it was written by an independent author, it was such a great educational read. The story is written in rhyme, which keeps it engaging while covering so many important moments in American history. It takes readers […]

Written by: Adrienne Christin Illustrated by: Kat Powell This engaging chapter book by an independent author is a wonderful choice for readers ages 7–11. Young readers will love that it feels like they’re reading a “grown-up” chapter book while still being perfectly suited for their age. In this adventure, the Axolotl Agency team is on […]

By: Ged Adamson I really enjoyed this delightful and funny book. It had me laughing from beginning to end! The combination of the hilarious illustrations and the playful storyline was absolutely perfect. One of my favorite moments was when Douglas, the nearsighted dog, accidentally ended up at the wrong home because he couldn’t see where […]

By: Mary Jantz Illustrated by: Mel Schroeder Some books just stay with you long after you finish them, and this was one of those books for me. I think it touched me so deeply because I recently lost my parents, and so much of this story felt personal and comforting at the same time. The […]

An Anna Dewdney Book I’ve always loved the Llama Llama series, so I was so sad when I learned that Anna Dewdney passed away from brain cancer in 2016. She created such a special series that so many children and parents connected with. Thankfully, other authors and illustrators have continued Llama’s stories in such a sweet and […]

By: Cozy A. Cabrera This book was absolutely beautiful and it’s easy to see why it won the Coretta Scott King Award and received a Caldecott Honor. It tells such a sweet story about the love between a mother and daughter in the most simple and meaningful ways. I really loved how the book focused on everyday moments […]

By: Renee Kurilla This book was absolutely amazing. The illustrations were vibrant, cheerful, and bursting with the beauty of spring. Every page felt bright and full of life, perfectly capturing the joy and renewal that comes with the season. I especially loved how the author wove so many springtime traditions and moments into one adorable […]

Written by Dara Henry Pictures by Varda Livney I really enjoyed this sweet board book—it’s both engaging and meaningful in a way that feels special. While reading, I even took a moment to look up the meaning of Mazel Tov, and discovering that it’s a Hebrew expression for celebration or congratulations made the story feel even […]

By: Julien Chung Based off of Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by: Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault My daughter absolutely loved the original Chicka Chicka Boom Boom—it was on constant repeat in our house for what felt like forever. We read it so many times that I can still recite parts of it from memory. Now […]
