Rutabaga's Reads 2026: Part 9

Welcome to this year’s first “Happy Hodgepodge” post! I started working on it in the last third of 2025. At least for now, these Hodgepodge posts will continue to feature stories for young and younger readers, which can so easily be overlooked compared to their middle-grade and YA “older sibling” counterparts. What have you been reading so far in 2026? Any recommendations?

100 Things to Know About Food (Nov. 4, 2025) by Sam Baer et al.

   Federico Mariani & Parko Polo, illustrators.

Junior nonfiction book.

This is a book filled with 100 facts about food. They are all fun and fascinating, and some may seem so out there as to be fantastical. For example, did you know that handkerchiefs and radiators are types of pasta? Yes! Handkerchiefs = fazzoletti and radiators = radiatore. Or that can openers were invented 48 years after the invention of cans? Find that hammer and chisel. Did you know that three billion cups of tea are drunk every day all over the world? Per person, Turkey leads the charge, followed by Ireland and the UK. How about that Michelin stars were invented to sell cars? Or that a fungal disease makes corn more nutritious? Hello, huitlacoche (or “corn smut,” which tastes “like a cross between mushrooms and corn”). A mud pie could be a healthy snack (if prepared properly) and milk from sleepy cows actually makes you sleepy!

            Beyond early-reader nonfiction, this is a junior nonfiction title, chock-full of 100 food facts. I knew a smattering of them, but there was a whole lot that I learned, too. The infographic-style illustrations catch the eyes with their bright, colorful palettes and varied page layouts. Some of the infographics take up the entire spread AND one might even have to turn the book the long way! The facts are fascinating and not because they’re designed to be, but because they just are. It’s an excellent book to read or peruse, and it’s definitely not only for older youth. Certainly not all of those facts made me hungry, but several of them did. Is it time for tea yet?

Earl & Worm: Snow Problem and Other Stories (Nov. 11, 2025) by Greg Pizzoli.

Early-Reader fiction chapter book.

<This is the third book in a series.>

In this collection of three stories, Earl and Worm are best friends, but it isn’t “snow” easy for Worm to wish Earl a happy birthday as evidenced in Snow Problem. Worm is excited to give Earl birthday wishes, but there’s snow to shovel and a path to salt. Earl gets what he’s always wanted in The Perfect Present. A camera! It gives him and Worm 10 pictures (like Polaroids), but none of them are turning out perfect. And then, in The Perfect Wish, Earl won’t tell Worm right away what he’s wished for in case it doesn’t come true. Worm becomes paranoid and fears that Earl wishes she’d made a different cake. Or, new fear unlocked, maybe he wishes he had a new best friend?!

            The second early-reader collection that I’ve read from Pizzoli is perfect for reading aloud and is accompanied by uncomplicated but complementing illustrations. The collection is simple but fun. Each story reminds readers of something different: how excitement may not be matched at the exact same time, that something perfect may not look exactly so and how a mind can find the worst scenario out of worry instead of waiting patiently for the answer. It is another charming story collection, and I’m glad that my local library carries it.

            Also by Greg Pizzoli: Earl & Worm: The Bad Idea and Other Stories

Fairy Tale Fixers: Cinderella (Aug. 12, 2025) by Deborah Underwood.

   Jorge Lacera, illustrator.

Junior fiction graphic novel.

<This is the first graphic novel in a series.>

Zicka Bicka Bow! Zacka Backa Bean! Zooka Booka Bim! Fairy is a rodent detective in a trench coat, and Mouse hires him to fix a fairy tale. Cinderella lives in a house with a stepmother and two stepsisters, and they are always so loud. They shout all the time! They shout when they’re mad, they shout when they’re happy. They shout when they’re elated about going to a royal ball where the prince plans to find a wife. Fairy and Mouse come to Cinderella’s “rescue” by swishing her into a ballgown, whisking her into a pumpkin carriage (“Uh–I was planning to bake a pie with that, but okay.”) and granting footman status to a cockroach. Also, she has big feet. Prince Edward, far from charming, is a “blathering banana brain.” Cinderella’s dream is NOT to marry a prince, though Phil, who doesn’t get out much (or ever), is, happily, quite the opposite of his princely cousin. The Fairy Tale Fixers will fix the story up, but it’s not the happily ever after you think you know.

            I’m always up for a fairy tale twist, though I didn’t foresee that I’d capture one in graphic novel form. This Case File #1 in The Fairy Tale Fixers is craftily imagined and wonderfully retold. Naturally, it reads quickly due to a lack of words compared to full novels, but the pacing is energetic, the colorful illustrations are playful, and the overreactions are dramatic. It’s an entertaining, high-octane adventure that buzzes with charm, wit and snark. It’s a winning series opener. Does anybody want pancakes?

This Book is About Nothing (Nov. 25, 2025) by Marco Anderson.

   Erica Salcedo, illustrator.

Children’s picture book.

Young Rio declares that this book is about absolutely nothing. It’ll be peaceful, and his quiet will be uninterrupted. So, naturally, everyone disrupts his story. From a turtle wearing a pot on its head to a dragon with an impressive beard and a unicorn with a flowing rainbow mane, it’s chaos. Rio wants it to STOP. The turtle thinks nothing is boring. Why can’t this book be about everything?

            Zip. Zero. Zilch. Rio has main character energy but in an introvert’s body. It’s a speedy story, but an entertaining one. The illustrations are wonderful accompaniments. There are “boring” pages with not much on them and busier pages infused with color and commotion. The story is simple, so it won’t overwhelm young readers, but also tastefully imaginative. I didn’t know this when I checked out the book from the library, but the author is a 14-year-old!

What Is Lunar New Year? (Dec. 2, 2025) by Vivian Jun Kirklin.

   Gregory Copeland, illustrator.

Early-Reader nonfiction chapter book.

<This is an official Who HQ book.>

Learn how many Asian communities celebrate Lunar New Year in Asia and around the world and how celebrations have evolved in major cities outside Asia like San Francisco, New York City and London. The book covers everything from the Chinese Zodiac animals to modern celebrations to the meaning of red envelopes in various cultures, the significance of honoring one’s ancestors and cleaning to sweep away bad luck. Readers learn about celebrations in other countries. For example, it isn’t called Lunar New Year in Korea, but Seollal. In Vietnam, it’s Tết Nguyên Đán (or Tết for short), and in Thailand, it’s Songkran, to name a few. It’s an important and beloved holiday, and this book looks to share its significance widely.

            Always informative in an easily understood way, this Who HQ series book celebrates a holiday that is culturally significant to over a billion people on this planet. Marketed as a book for young readers, its value isn’t only for the young, but for anyone who wants and needs to learn more, not just about holidays in other countries, but ones that may be happening in their own states. Kirklin’s writing and Copeland’s illustrations celebrate the gift of Lunar New Year and the first new moon of the year. If you’re fortunate enough to live in or near a big city that celebrates, I encourage you to join in the festivities!

Rutabaga's Reads 2026: Part 1

Welcome to the first picture books compilation of the new year! This compilation features a broken cup, a humble pie, a kitty camp, a strong father/daughter bond and a baby with a library card (maybe).

Broken (Oct. 14, 2025) by X. Fang.

Here is a story of Ama’s cup. That Mei Mei accidentally breaks when she tries to surprise Mimi, Ama’s cat. Mei Mei feels terrible and so she runs away, because she’s scared that Ama will be so mad that she’ll yell at her or kick her out of her house. Innocent Mimi is blamed by Ama, and Mei Mei feels certain that Mimi is staring at her with accusation, because the cat knows the truth. Finally, the guilt overwhelms young Mei Mei and the story pours out. What will Ama’s reaction be? Will she yell? Kick her out? Take away her piece of cake?

            Author and illustrator Fang presents readers with a well-paced story that is easy to follow. Children and adults who remember being children will relate to the weight of guilt that unexpected accidents can cause. The illustrations are vivid but also moody. Mei Mei’s weighing guilt shows through with darker tones. There is compassionate drama in this picture book of fault and forgiveness. There’s also a lot of love and a little glue to mend what’s been broken and give the cup its own story to tell.

            Also by the author: We Are Definitely Human

The Humble Pie (Nov. 4, 2025) by Jory John.

   Pete Oswald, illustrator.

<This is the eighth book in the Food Group series.>

For the Humble Pie, humble looks like meek, the one always hiding in the shadows. When he pairs with his best friend, a cake named Jake, on a major science project for Mr. Berryman’s class, they’re thrilled to be a dream team together. Unfortunately, Jake’s a busy cake, participating in most extracurriculars in existence, it seems like, and eventually, Humble Pie is doing all of the work alone. There’s much yet to do, and he isn’t going to complete it in time alone. They’ll be mincemeat if that happens. All this time, Humble Pie has thought that being humble meant being unseen and sometimes getting walked all over like a rug. He’s going to need to push up his hypothetical sleeves and have that tough conversation with his best friend. Will he learn that always being the side dish takes the cake? Or will this Humble Pie learn to fly?

            The eighth in the Food Group series is a sweet little delight of a picture book. Oswald’s illustrations complement John’s writing superbly. I love all of the color and the bright-eyed classmates in treat form. This is a kid-friendly story about learning the importance of advocating for yourself. Advocating for yourself can include asking for help instead of tackling it all on your own when you’re struggling, and it can mean sticking up for yourself so you’re treated fairly. This book also serves up how great it is when best friends are there for each other, especially in a time of need. It’s a charming story to sweeten up anyone’s day.

            Also from the author: The Smart Cookie

Kitty Camp (Apr. 29, 2025) by Drew Brockington.

It’s camp day. Hooray! One girl is so excited to attend her first summer (day) camp. She’s going to arts & crafts and can’t wait to hike, swim and sing. She’s in for a big surprise when she accidentally gets on the wrong bus and ends up at … Kitty Camp! Arts and Crafts is disorganized, hiking is nap time, her tuna sandwich lunch is nabbed, and no cat wants to go swimming with her. She’s about decided that Kitty Camp isn’t so fun until she comes across the best idea. Superfort, anyone?

            As a cat person, yes, please, sign me up for Kitty Camp! Author-illustrator Brockington creates an entertaining tale accompanied by colorful, lively illustrations. There is enchantment in the story’s hilarity and delight through the hijinks. My first story from Brockington tells me I’ve been missing out. This one is full of feline friskiness and friendly fun.

My Daddy Tells Me (2022) by Thuba Nguyen.

   Serena Lombardo, illustrator.

Young Mai is a precocious girl, curious about life and well-loved. She’s a biracial Vietnamese African American being raised by her father. He showers her with positive affirmations and encourages her bright personality and myriad interests. And Mai is the light as they emigrate from Vietnam for a new life in the United States. Mai’s life isn’t going to be without toxicity surrounding color, culture, tradition, gender and more, but with her dad’s enduring love and support helping to shape a healthy and self-assured self-image, Mai will grow up with a strong sense of identity and self-worth.

            Nguyen’s picture book is a celebration of fathers and daughters and the importance of having that strong bond. The power of love and the impact of parental support is life-changing. Sure, Mai and her father are connected by blood, but that connection is cemented by trust and knowing one is loved. This story is sweet, tender and heartwarming, but it’s also infused with strength, perseverance and integrity.

            Bonus: Nguyen is a Minnesota author!

Never Give a Baby a Library Card (Oct. 21, 2025) by Erin Sandberg.

   Tom Booth, illustrator.

Give a baby a library card? What a thought! Because “…what if a baby learned how to make clothes?/We’d all look ridiculous!/Who’d want to wear those?” A mother and grandmother have come to the library to get a baby its first library card, but Shouty Man wants none of that. He’s galled at the idea of babies running barbershops after learning to cut hair “just a moment ago” and adults walking about in the latest $400 diaper fashions. Or of babies finding inspiration that trigger their imagination. The chaos! The horror! But a practical child contradicts him and asks if he hasn’t also learned from the books he’s read?

            This rhyming picture book is a lively romp that’s perfect for reading aloud. It promotes libraries, the power of books and the significance of learning at every age. The story from this married duo is colorful, the rhyming tempo is spot-on and little details in the illustrations like PRADADA and GUGUCCI are hilariously adorable. For someone like me, who loves books and libraries (and currently works in one), this book is a celebration and a joy. It empowers readers and library users and reminds us all that access to knowledge should not be limited. Keep on reading, and get your library card if you don’t already have an active one!

Rutabaga's Reads 2025: Part 20

The year will soon come to a close, but here I am with a second “Happy Hodgepodge” post! As with previous Hodgepodge posts, this is geared for younger readers. What would a Hodgepodge post look like to you? What sorts of genres and age groups would you include?

The Fintastical Tales of Mari A. Fisch: Mermaid Mission (May 27, 2025) by Monica Brown.

   Emily Mendoza, illustrator.

Junior fiction chapter book.

<This is the first book in a series.>

Mermaid Mari Triton is trading in her mermaid tail for human legs and the moniker Mari A. Fisch. She’s been sent on a top secret mission by her parents above water a.k.a. on land. Her dad is King Adair Eryx Neptune Triton of the Land of Mer in the Kingdom of Oceana. Mari is investigating why humans pollute the ocean, but it’s a super confusing mission. Humans aren’t easy to comprehend. Her host sister, Stevie, worries about something called “popularity” and being cold, er, “cool.” And what’s this about having to be funny-mean, which is totally different from mean-mean? How can Mari complete her mission in getting people on land to care about the ocean when all they seem to care about are themselves? At least she has Blub the blobfish – undercover as Blub the bulldog – with her.

            Mermaid magic and relatable elementary school tussles combine in The Fintastical Tales of Mari A. Fisch series opener. This fantasy features playful, black-and-white illustrations, and the writing is manageable for emergent readers. The dozen chapters are all brief and end with a progress bar. Mari’s naivete in the human world offers good-natured humor, while the story overall gives caring guidance in navigating the bumps of growing up. This is a sincere introduction for the promotion of environmentalism. Even when readers don’t live near an ocean, there’s still plenty to be done to reduce waste and understand the importance of recycling and upcycling.

            P.S. I thought the end bit regarding the total reading progress was a fantastical idea! I would love knowing how many words I’ve read in each book I’ve read over the years. In this one, I read 5,783 words.

Jazzy the Witch in Broom Doom (July 15, 2025) by Jessixa Bagley.

Junior fiction graphic novel.

<This is the first graphic novel in a series.>

Thorny squashbottoms! In a town full of witches, Jazzy Ophelia La Luna St. James has always been unique. Her two moms and her grandma run the town’s broom (or besom) shop, but she has zero interest in flying. When it comes to flying lessons, to her extreme embarrassment in class, she’s unsuccessful. At the Enchantra School of Craft, Jazzy simply doesn’t excel (e.g. she forgets spells in spell-ing a.k.a. spellcasting). She acts as though it’s no big deal, especially once she discovers that she was born to cycle (i.e. ride a bicycle), until she goes one straw too far and Aggie, her best friend, puts her in her place with words and a spell. Despite Fiona, her pet bat, reminding her of her dire need to practice flying, she ignores her wise pleas. Fiona also hides her love of cycling from her two moms and Granny Titch (Mama Esmeralda’s mom), thinking there’s no way they can understand her love of cycling and her not-love of besoms. When the night before the Supermoon and the special flying parade are “suddenly” here, a desperate Jazzy goes to Aggie for help. Aggie, still hurt and angry at Jazzy, tells her, “You want to be your own witch? Then figure this out for yourself.” In tears, she meets Mimms, an older witch with her own unique interest, and is later reminded that, “A true witch makes her own magic.” Can she find the magic within herself in time for the Supermoon parade? Or will she be the only one with her besom still on the ground?

            I’m not familiar with this author/illustrator, and I don’t consistently read graphic novels, but this one is a delight. Bagley’s graphic novel about a young witch struggling with expectations versus her own passion is so realistic and very on par in our contemporary, very un-magical world. Young or young-at-heart, questions about who to be and how to be can pop up at any age. Bagley writes the affirming story in a way that’s playful with a darker color palette (purple, green, charcoal), the characters emotive and sweetly witchy. Themes explored include honesty and self-confidence. Jazzy is often one-track and narrow-minded, thus subtly encouraging readers to understand and embrace flaws as well as strengths. It’s a lively series opener.

Pumpkin Party: Ready-to-Read Level 2 (July 15, 2025) by Joe McGee.

   Ethan Long, illustrator.

Early-Reader fiction chapter book.

<This is part of an unnumbered series.>

With Halloween coming means party preparation is underway at Castle Dracula. Youths Vampyra, Franky and Wolfy are very excited. They have the wonderful idea to each choose a pumpkin from the castle’s pumpkin patch, carve them up and set small lights in them for the pumpkin-carving contest. They excitedly pick out their preferred pumpkin, but the pumpkins aren’t having it. Be carved with tools? No, thank you! Vampyra, Franky and Wolfy are disappointed. They really think decorating pumpkins will be fun. What if they can decorate them without having to carve them? Might they still pull off a pageant featuring the pumpkin patch?

            The not-at-all spooky Halloween story in the Junior Monster Scouts series is sweet and thoughtful. For anyone who enjoys Halloween, this story will be right up their alley, perhaps inspiring them to host a Halloween party, come up with the coolest costume, best games and awesome contests. It’s themed around finding a solution to an unexpected issue with the monster youth exhibiting thoughtful consideration of the pumpkins. The illustrations are bold with a twilight setting to help capture the sweet monsters and giving it a spooky, but not ever downright scary, edge. Now, who’s ready to decorate some pumpkins?

The Smart Cookie (Nov. 2, 2021) by Jory John.

   Pete Oswald, illustrator.

Children’s picture book.

<This is the fifth book in a series.>

On the corner of Sweet Street in a bakery near a river lives a cookie who hasn’t always felt smart. Cookie didn’t get the best grades. Cookie once wrote “doe” instead of “dough.” Another time, she added instead of subtracted. It felt like, “…my desk was a raft and that I was completely lost at sea.” When Ms. Biscotti assigns the class to create something original, Cookie is stressed until the right idea pops up. Not only will Cookie discover that one doesn’t have to be great at everything, she’ll also discover that one can be smart in many ways. Just like the Smart Cookie she is.

            The fifth book in the Food Group series whisks anxiety and insecurity with growing splashes of confidence and a generous portion of creativity to bake a delightful confection that is this picture book. It’s relatable, and John’s honeyed puns work well with Oswald’s playful, buoyant illustrations. There’s no room on this menu for woe. The story serves a plate of empowering and uplifting lessons and shows readers that we don’t need to measure ourselves by our successes. We all enjoy different things and are good at different things, and that is what makes us all smart cookies.

Where Is Tornado Alley? (Jan. 7, 2025) by Wes Locher.

   Dede Putra, illustrator.

Early-Reader nonfiction chapter book.

<This is an official Who HQ book.>

The term “Tornado Alley” was coined in 1948 after Captain Robert Miller and Major Ernest Fawbush did a cram session of studying tornadic patterns around Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma. They determined that many tornadoes in the United States were concentrated in states like Texas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Kansas and Iowa, though tornadoes aren’t exclusive to certain states. There are no official boundaries for Tornado Alley. It’s simply a nickname that “refers to an approximately 500,000-square-mile area within the United States.” This Where Is? book gives readers a history of Tornado Alley, the shift in tornadic patterns since Fawbush & Miller coined the term and advises readers on how to respond when there is a tornado in one’s area (and no, it isn’t to jump in your vehicle and be a storm chaser ... unless, of course, that is your passion and you have the armored vehicle and equipment to support it). The book also explains how tornadoes are formed and more.

            No matter where we live, we’ve all experienced weather phenomena. Minnesota has been my home virtually all my life, so tornado season has never been the exception, but the expectation. As with all Who HQ books, this one is informative in an easily understandable way (they are, after all, geared for youth ages 8-12). Tornadoes are impressive, but they are intimidating and terrifying, and the destruction they can cause should never be taken lightly. It’s an educational book that keeps the attention of the reader with illustrations and riveting facts. There’ll be no storm chasing for me, though. I’ll leave that to the passionate professionals.

Rutabaga's Reads 2025: Part 15

This compilation brings a second round of picture book adventures. The Bakery Dragon returns and Sloth & Squirrel go on vacation. There’s a snail on a path and a sheep with a bad hair day. There’s a farm full of animal characters. Do you ever pick up picture books? If so, what grabs your attention?

The Bakery Dragon and the Fairy Cake (Oct. 7, 2025) by Devin Elle Kurtz.

<This is a sequel book.>

Little Ember is back! He’s been busy making mounds of golden breads, baked to perfection, and even if he forgets to set the timer, his fellow dragons remain encouraging: “A really unique flavor!” “I love the undertones of charcoal.” He’s grown so much as the bakery dragon and gained so much confidence in breads that Beatrice the baker will leave him to run the shop when she’s got to deliver orders far away. When Beatrice is away, Ember is asked to make a cake for a fairy queen, and he soon learns that cakes are no cakewalk. His attempts are disasters, not because they taste horrible, but because he only knows how to make bread. The fairy princess/sentient vegetable (Princess Turnip) who put in the order isn’t giving up on Ember, though. She will get that cake, and she will not be disappointed! But how will Ember get the right recipe for a confection he’s never made?

            Put on your toque blanche and don your chef’s whites, because Ember the Bakery Dragon is back in this feel-good follow-up picture book sure to encourage anyone with a sweet tooth and/or a love of carbs (like me!). Like its predecessor, this story is cheerful, decadent and sumptuous with enticing, bright, warm illustrations by author-illustrator Kurtz. Each page is dusted in whimsy like powdered sugar over a cake and magic shimmers like edible glitter. It’s a story of new friends and learning from mistakes, learning something new and working under a deadline, but with pictures awash in golden tones and adorable, determined Ember, this sweet story with its grit and its learning goes down smooth like extra chocolatey hot chocolate.

            Book One: The Bakery Dragon

Forever Kind: Forever Friends Farm (May 6, 2025) by Annie Auerbach.

   Luke Flowers, illustrator.

<This is the first book in a series.>

When Jasper the cat arrives at Forever Friends Farm, he’s only looking out for himself. He’s selfish, prickly, unhelpful and doesn’t think he wants friends because, “Where I come from, you take what you can, or you get nothing.” He doesn’t understand throwing a party simply because PJ the goose, the youngest member of the group, has read a book all by himself. Jasper’s antics eventually lead to catastrophe, but instead of being shamed and cast out, he’s met with understanding and kindness.

            The illustrations are eye-catching with their bold, loud, cartoonish colors, which should capture kids’ attention, but I think the dialogue and overall story fall short. There’s someone giving Jasper the occasional side-eye, but there’s never any actual discussion around Jasper’s ill behavior or how they feel about it. Jasper’s behavior, if one reads between the lines, may be a result of a tough life, perhaps having to fend for himself until now, but there’s no backstory. Forgiveness comes easily and the support is effortless, which is pleasant, but it feels unrealistic. My understanding is that this story encourages social-emotional learning, so perhaps the focus on friendship, kindness, teamwork and inclusion over depth is the intent. I don’t plan to continue the series, but for those families looking for friendly, gentle picture books, this may be right for them.

My Path (May 6, 2025) by Jana Curll.

For a little snail, every day is an adventure on its very own path. Sometimes the little snail has company and sometimes not. Sometimes the journey needs to be extra slow and extra careful, and when the path looks impossible, the snail emphasizes that it’s okay to ask for help. What the snail does is always keeps on going, “Whether I’m ready or not!”

Author/illustrator Curll gives young and young-at-heart readers a joyful picture book that encourages everyone to stay true to themselves and to understand that “every path is special. So choose yours ... and keep going!” The illustrations are simple-yet-colorful and straightforward-yet-thoughtful with their smudge-like quality and bring a calming complement to the reassuring text. I am captivated by this plucky, charming snail, and hopefully plentiful readers are, too.

Sheep Dog and Sheep Sheep: Baaad Hair Day (June 30, 2020) by Eric Barclay.

<This is a sequel book.>

The wool’s over the eyes – literally! Sheep Sheep loves her naturally curly wool. She can style it in a bun, into pigtails or in a fancy updo. Now it’s grown too full, and she can’t see. She splashes into the duck pond (she refers to the ducks as “water chickens”), steps through cow poo (eww) and winds up in the mud with the pig. When Sheep Dog tells her she needs a haircut, she hides. What will convince her that a shearing is what she needs?

            For any children who’ve resisted haircuts, this spirited, silly story is perfect for them. It’s relatable, but the story is so entertaining that it shouldn’t trigger any barbershop or salon scaries. The relationship between Sheep Dog and Sheep Sheep is serious in a lighthearted way with uncomplicated dialogue leading up to the shearing tent, and the cartoon illustrations are colorful, animated and fun. This haircut caper is amusing and charming.

Sloth & Squirrel on Vacation (May 6, 2025) by Cathy Ballou Mealey.

   Kelly Collier, illustrator.

<This is a sequel book.>

Their pickle pop stand is doing great, but Sloth and Squirrel are always busy. They want an adventure (or a “l-o-n-g nap”). When a bench ad promotes Paradise Park, where there is “Something for Everyone!,” they decide that’s the perfect place for the two to vacation. Squirrel is overjoyed by all of the activities, but Sloth wants to lounge (nap) on his floatie first. While Sloth lounges, Squirrel gets distracted by rock climbing, kayaking, paragliding and more. When he realizes he misses Sloth, Sloth wakes up ready to have fun with Squirrel but cannot find him. After they finally reunite, they enjoy something together, but it’s something that should be done FAST!

            One high-octane Squirrel and one laid-back Sloth are an unlikely but lovable pairing of mismatched friends in this winning story. The tame but fun adventure with bright, colorful beach illustrations makes for an engaging book well-suited for young audiences. The story doesn’t always go smoothly, so problem-solving, being a caring friend and being adaptable are good lessons to go over. Nothing in life is perfect, nor are the characters’ vacation in this story, but it shines with positivity and togetherness.

Rutabaga's Reads 2025: Part 14

Welcome to 2025’s “Happy Hodgepodge” post! This is the first of what I hope will be two Hodgepodge posts this year, despite the fact that it’s already September. What are you currently reading?

Cat & Cat Adventures: The Staff of Knowledge (July 23, 2024) by Susie Yi.

Junior fiction graphic novel.

<This is the fourth graphic novel in a series.>

The cats of the Spirit Task Force, Squash and Ginny, are preparing for another mission when Magnus, Lotus and Fern arrive. Magnus informs them that the Staff of Knowledge, once hidden in the Starry Sea, is now in the Human World. When Squash tries to celebrate finding it, the three orbs scatter, and the Spirit World starts leaking into the Human World. “The surge of magic has ripped the fabric between them.” It’s a disaster. They trace the first orb to the dreaded vet clinic. They’re not the only ones trying to obtain the orb. There’s a troublesome kangaroo rat, and there are helpful crows called Kee and Caw. What is their connection to the Staff of Knowledge? Hijinks are sure to ensue, though a sea of buttery popcorn from the fabled Popcorn Island probably isn’t so bad.

            Fans of cats and lovers of cuteness will want to soak up this Cat & Cat adventure if they haven’t already. The lesson is understanding that it’s okay to ask for help, that even when you think it’s your fault something happened doesn’t mean you need to rectify it all on your own. The bright, colorful illustrations and adorably drawn characters delightfully complement the sparse writing. It’s an entertaining, hijinks-filled adventure for emerging readers and those readers who are young-at-heart looking for something quick and enjoyable to read.

            Book 1: The Quest for Snacks

            Book 2: The Goblet of Infinity

            Book 3: Journey into Unibear City

Earl & Worm: The Bad Idea and Other Stories (Apr. 1, 2025) by Greg Pizzoli.

Early-Reader fiction chapter book.

<This is the first book in a series.>

In this collection of three stories, Earl and Worm are best friends, but their start is rocky, as highlighted in Lemonade. Earl is a happy-go-lucky early-bird who enjoys music and talking. Meanwhile, Worm is cranky and doesn’t like new things. When The Bad Idea comes around, Earl and Worm are solid friends, but the unexpected happens when a “very, very sneaky” idea becomes a bad idea and a lesson is also learned. And in The Poem, Earl and Worm are longtime friends. Worm is trying to come up with the perfect finish to her poem, which she thinks should rhyme. When Earl’s suggestions aren’t as helpful as Worm wishes, she storms off. But what if perfection isn’t in the rhyming, but in telling the truth?

            Watching their friendship grow and unfold is like watching flowers bloom on a sunny day. The humor is dry but sweet and the stories for early readers simple but entertaining. The text is good for read-alouds, and the illustrations are colorful and friendly. These stories showcase the ups and downs of friendship while managing to be delightful and emphasize that seeming opposites can not only coexist but be strong friends and learn from one another. What a charming early reader debut from Pizzoli!

Mindy Kim and the Fun Family Vacation (Apr. 29, 2025) by Lyla Lee.

   Dung Ho, illustrator.

Junior fiction chapter book.

<This is the twelfth and final book in a series.>

Adventure is set to begin. Mindy and her family are in Korea, and it’s baby Charlie’s first international trip. Mindy’s most excited to visit Jeju Island, as it’s her first trip there, but the journey is off to a bumpy start. First, Charlie won’t stop crying on the plane, then it’s pouring rain. She wants to visit Hallasan (Mount Halla in English), Korea’s biggest mountain, and meet haenyeo, Jeju Island’s female free divers. (Some haenyeo can dive up to 60 feet deep without any equipment!) Jeju is so fascinating. Once its own country, locals speak the Jeju dialect, which is similar to Korean (e.g. harabeoji is grandfather in Korean and hareubang is grandfather in Jeju-mal). Jeju also has guardian statues made of volcanic rock, also referred to as hareubang. Mindy’s first visit to Jeju Island is set to be memorable, but will it be for the wrong reasons?

            The final chapter book in the Mindy Kim series ends how it should. The story looks like it’s swiveling toward in-the-eyes-of-a-child disaster before its tidy, positive wrap-up. This series has been a delight to read and meaningful to me, a Korean American (though I’m an adoptee with no connection to either birth parent). It’s realistic fiction for a youthful audience, engaging and absorbing, but easily accessible, and it may introduce some readers to another culture. It’s a valuable series highlighting family, culture, diversity and life lessons.

Mindy Kim Books 1-5: A compilation post

Mindy Kim Book 6: Mindy Kim and the Big Pizza Challenge

Mindy Kim Book 7: Mindy Kim and the Fairy-Tale Wedding

Mindy Kim Books 8-10: A compilation post

            Mindy Kim Book 11: Mindy Kim, Big Sister

One Drop (Mar. 11, 2025) by Kaitlin Sikes.

   Mel Cerri, illustrator.

Children’s picture book.

Zing! Zap! Plop! One drop of water waits to make its journey from cloud to aquifer, tributary to lake, eventually making it to the Atlantic Ocean. This one drop passes by an iceberg, rushes over an underwater waterfall and takes a turn into a mud castle moat. One day, the one drop “evaporates up, up, up into the clouds, where it waits…” What happens next?

            This adorable picture book is a visually dynamic story. Cerri’s illustrations are simple yet bold and vibrant. Despite the confines of a storybook, the art manages to feel expansive, the one drop’s enthusiasm evident as it traverses the world. I also really enjoy Cerri’s lettering art. Sikes’ prose is easy to follow along with, while encouraging young readers to understand terms like aquifer and estuary. There is educational backmatter to provide additional facts.

What Is the Story of Cinderella? (Feb. 4, 2025) by Dana Meachen Rau.

   David Malan, illustrator.

Early-Reader nonfiction chapter book.

<This is an official Who HQ book.>

Most know the story of Cinderella or Disney’s version of it, which is inspired by Charles Perrault’s famous version. The pumpkin carriage, the animals transformed into footmen, a fairy godmother and twinkling glass slippers. But do you know Rhodopis, Ye Xian or Zezolla? The variations of Cinderella stories over millennia is varied, but they all involve lost footwear. Multiple versions highlight kindness in spite of hardship and harsh treatment. Others are more “Grimm” and definitely involve bloody messes. The best-known versions are mentioned alongside lesser-known ones. There’s also a chapter dedicated to those actresses (and an actor) who have brought Cinderella to life from stage to screen.

            One of the many writers of Who HQ stories brings to the page one of the most well-known Disney princesses and her literary origins that began long before her animated film debut. The slim, early-reader nonfiction volume is informative yet dazzling and entertains across cultures and continents. Cinderella’s story – no matter the version or the original language – is there to charm and to inspire. It’s also for dreamers (singing A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes) and those who “keep building up impossible hopes.” I don’t need a prince, but I wouldn’t say no to attending a ball!

Rutabaga's Reads 2025: Part 5

We’re almost halfway through 2025, and here I am with only the first picture books compilation of the year. I’ve read many picture books already – including with/to my nephew – but I clearly haven’t been reviewing them consistently.

The Book That Can Read Your Mind (Mar. 12, 2024) by Marianna Coppo.

This is no ordinary book. As you can gather from the title, it’s a magical one. Lady Rabbit welcomes all “prestigious readers” to her show. Instead of pulling a rabbit out of a hat, she considers pulling an old guy out of her hat, but she concludes that that’s not convincing enough. It’s not magical enough. Eventually, Lady Rabbit elects to read our minds. Look at the members of the audience. Choose one and only one. Who’d you pick? Keep it to yourself and turn to the page as directed. TA-DA! Did she get it right? I dare you to go back and try again. Did you trick her that time?

            Inspired by a 17^th-century magic book and with vintage-style illustrations, this interactive story is modern-day, enchanting and fun. There are multiple choices, so readers can play again and again. It’s an experience and a magic trick all in a picture book. Although one-trick, it’s an ingenious story idea that absolutely works. Let’s get on with the show!

A Chest Full of Words (Mar. 18, 2025) by Rebecca Gugger & Simon Röthlisberger.

   Tim Mohr, translator.

There is a magnificent treasure chest, but the treasure within isn’t gold or jewels. There are words! Oscar doesn’t initially recognize the words as treasure. He tosses fluorescent aside and rather upsets a hedgehog scampering by, as its now a fluorescent yellow. He slaps another word on another object (an old oak with a new hairdo never before looked so fabulous). He’s soon flinging words about with abandon. But then he runs out of words. He’s … wordless. Oscar goes in search of new words, but no one has any good advice until he talks to Louise. She likes to keep words handy, reminding him that they can be found anytime and anywhere.

            “Words have magical powers. Use them with care and you can make the world blossom,” says Louise to Oscar. This story, with its whimsical, softly colorful, earthy illustrations is inventive, wholesome, original, playful and word-tastic. The story, a Swiss import, is vocabulary-centric, unique, eye-opening, ear-catching and absorbing. It makes adjectives the centerpiece of the story and will engage young readers, even if they don’t understand all of the words. Words are magic. They can transport readers by painting pictures with words.

Danbi’s Favorite Day (Apr. 25, 2023) by Anna Kim.

<This is a sequel story.>

It’s not her birthday. It’s not Halloween, but still, it’s Danbi’s favorite day! She’s hosting a Children’s Day party, a day that she tells her friends is the day “all your wishes come true!” After she invites her friends, she exclaims that there will be kites and magic castles, and they’ll only eat chocolate chip cookies! Her mommy reminds her that “it’s about celebrating all the children on Earth who will one day lead the world.” She encourages Danbi to host her friends at the deli, as both her parents need to work that day. She’s told that rain is in the forecast, but she is adamant that she wants a picnic outside. When it happens as her mom said, will the weather get her down? Or will she be reminded that, “We were the children of the world?”

            This follow-up to “Danbi Leads the School Parade” is a delightful concoction of Korean heritage, diversity, inclusivity, family, friendship and the power of creativity. It’s a celebration of children. The story’s beautifully detailed illustrations in their warm, neutral tones see splashes of color from the author-illustrator and complement the text like your favorite food combinations. This picture book is joyful, fun and full of youthful energy.

            Starts with: Danbi Leads the School Parade

We Are Immigrants (Sept. 17, 2024) by Carolina Fernandez.

   Alyssa M. Gonzalez, illustrator.

Immigrants. They’ve traveled from near. They’ve traveled from far. Their journeys are all different, their skin tones “a rainbow of kings and of queens,” their hair anywhere from pin-straight to super curly, they may pray differently from you, and their languages may be unlike any you’ve ever heard. But a language everyone can understand is the language of kindness and love. Other cultures mean a plethora of new food to taste and enjoy. Just like you, they have traditions that have been passed down in their families. They laugh and have fun, too. The best thing to remember is that, “We all make up one human race.”

            Through Fernandez’s vibrant, rhyming, lyrical text and Gonzalez’s colorful, soulful, expressive illustrations, readers celebrate diversity, inclusion and heritage with this uplifting, inspiring picture book. I love rhyme, and the upbeat tempo of the story gives it a positive beat, a welcoming vibe. The storytelling matches strongly with the art of this book, and I’m so glad that I checked this out from my local library.

Will the Pigeon Graduate? (Mar. 4, 2025) by Mo Willems.

<This is part of the Pigeon series.>

Pigeon has the mortarboard hat. It has tassels. He’s overcome obstacles, noticed the little details and taken big steps. But will he graduate? Is Pigeon ready to take the brave plunge? And, asking the big questions here, will there be snacks?

            Despite my fairly regular reading of picture books, this is my first Pigeon series book, and what a delight it is! The story is simple in its illustrations and understandable in its text. There’s no grandiose verbiage, and Pigeon, despite being a pigeon, can be relatable to, say, the Kindergartner approaching Kindergarten graduation wondering about being a big First Grader next school year. This story is infused with wonderment, fun and humor.

Rutabaga's Reads 2024: Part 13

Here comes the next compilation of picture books! I thought I’d have more than two picture book compilations this year, but alas, no.

The Bakery Dragon (Oct. 1, 2024) by Devin Elle Kurtz.

As a dragon, Ember wants to bring home spoils and hoard gold like the other dragons do, but he’s little and only produces a very small flame. Ember flies into a nearby town and gets caught in a fierce storm. A nice baker allows Ember to ride out the rainstorm in her bakery and teaches him to help her bake. “Ember watched, full of wonder, as the gooey blobs of dough transformed like magic into ... shining gold.” She gives him a tray of “baker’s gold.” It’s the most glorious thing he’s tasted, and when he returns home, its delectable aroma draws the other dragons. The baker isn’t thrilled when Ember returns with the other dragons, because they’ve done “an awful lot of stealing.” But, as they all learn, “...baking gold is better than taking it. And sharing it is best of all.”

            This story is *chef’s kiss* with its sweet storyline and warm illustrations that are so engaging that readers can smell the wafting deliciousness of fresh-baked bread and feel the decadent warmth of bread straight from the oven. The author-illustrator’s stunning pictures are as golden as the gold dragons want to hoard. This cheerful picture book is friendly and has a good message about sharing and generosity. I absolutely ate up this radiant picture book!

The Barnabus Project (Sept. 1, 2020) by Terry Fan, Eric Fan and Devin Fan (The Fan Brothers).

In a world created for Perfect Pets, half mouse, half elephant Barnabus is a Failed Project. His friend, Pip the cockroach, tells him stories about things like a sparkling silver lake and “mountains that reached all the way to the sky, lit with their own stars.” Barnabus believes that nothing is impossible, and on the day that the Failed Projects receive a “strange red stamp” (it says FAIL), Barnabus decides they all need to escape. Barnabus doesn’t want to be “recycled” and come out fluffier and cuter. He likes himself just the way he is. But how can Barnabus and his fellow Failed Project friends escape their confines in the hidden lab deep underground and avoid the Green Rubber Suits?

            The Fan brothers create an epic adventure of escape, rebellion and suspense that is moving and magical with detailed worldbuilding (the two-page illustration of the lab is fairly meticulous). It’s easy to root for Barnabus and his friends who want freedom and who accept each other just as they are. This picture book is stunning as it showcases bravery and diversity in a unique way. Fun and tender with beautiful imagination and glorious illustrations besides. The adventure is ambitious, it is perilous, and it has such heart.

Cozy in Love (Nov. 8, 2022) by Jan Brett.

In this second story featuring Cozy the musk ox, Cozy is downhearted after losing a test of strength with another in his herd. He wonders how he’ll gain the admiration of lovely Lofti, but he doesn’t wonder long, because one of his puffin friends alerts him to an emergency. Bella, their young beluga whale friend has played too long in Teardrop Inlet, and its entrance to the Bering Sea has frozen. If the entire inlet freezes over, she’ll lose access to air. Cozy devises a plan to use “simple science” and his own ox strength to help Bella over the ice wall. Little does Cozy know that someone is witnessing the entire scene and is admiring his strong, smart, bighearted self.

            With her signature storytelling, gorgeous illustrations and artwork vignettes, which also accompany the storytelling, Brett gives readers another quintessential Jan Brett picture book. The kindness and quick-thinking at the book’s heart reminds us that it’s always in-style to help friends in need. Brett’s rich artwork lends stunning beauty to a frigid Alaska backdrop and reminds us to care for all of the creatures of the world. This book is essential for any Brett fans and all libraries who carry her stories. It is a sweet, enchanting story.

The Goblin Twins (Sept. 5, 2023) by Frances Cha.

   Jaime Kim, illustrator.

Meet the goblin twins (Korean: dokkaebi). Doki likes conjuring gifts of gold or silver with his magic club (bangmangi) instead of scaring people. He also loves reading one of his three abandoned books. Kebi likes scaring people too much and gets in trouble for it with the elder dokkaebi. He loves exploring. The twins are young, only 601 years old! When they have to move out of their abandoned house, most move to a graveyard, but Doki and Kebi move from Seoul to a strange land called New York City. Trying to find the perfect place to live, they spot houses that are too cheerful or too new or already occupied by “New York monsters” (people) who aren’t very friendly. When they find the perfect house, what will they think of trick-or-treaters?

            As soon as I read the goblins’ names, my mind automatically thought of dokkaebi. This not-so-scary Halloween picture book is an entertaining treat. In other versions of Korean mythology, dokkaebi are to be avoided at all costs, for they cause dreamers to dream their worst fears, and then the dokkaebi feed on those fears. Yeah, not so nice. But even with Kebi being the mischievous of the two and the darkly bold, yet colorful, illustrations, this is overall a friendly tale. It’s not a fright, but a delight. It’s mythology, but cartoonish. It is adorable, and my nephew enjoyed it, too. I’d totally want to adopt book-loving Doki, but I’d watch out for Kebi’s shenanigans!

We Are Definitely Human (Aug. 6, 2024) by X. Fang.

It’s midnight when three strangers (aliens) crash-land outside Mr. and Mrs. Li’s house. The strangers’ “shape was very hard to describe,” and “their skin was very blue,” but they inform Mr. Li (Mrs. Li’s a very sound sleeper) that, “We are DEFINITELY human.” They are “…from…Europe.” Their “car” (UFO) has broken down and needs repair, but with the stores being closed for the night, Mr. Li, being a kind human, invites them into their home for the night and offers to help them repair their car. While Mrs. Li is surprised to see houseguests the following morning, she takes it all in stride, and asks what they do in Europe. They “make business,” “play sportsball” and “wear hat.” Fixing their car becomes a community event, and when they leave, Mr. Li declares, “Yep, they are DEFINITELY not from Europe.”

            While this story is fantastical with its not-remotely-human-looking aliens, their vehicle a.k.a. UFO and interplanetary interactions, it’s a story of kindness. Kindness radiates through the story, first with Mr. Li and then with the townsfolk, who, like Mr. and Mrs. Li “were all kind humans.” It’s a sweet, feel-good story with a message of kindness, yes, but of acceptance, too. The author/illustrator’s illustrations are fun but not over-the-top. It is pleasantly wise, pleasingly diverse (the Lis cue as Asian, the townsfolk vary in skin tone, and the visitors vary in size and height) and perfect for earthlings of any age.