Whimsy & Wisdom Book Reviews

  Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of Islandborn   Book Title: Islandborn by Junot Díaz Genre/Category: Pura Belpre Winner, Children's Picture Book, Fiction Target Age Group: 5-8 years Plot Summary: Islandborn by Junot Díaz is a beautifully illustrated picture book that tells the story of Lola, a young girl who embarks on a journey to discover her cultural roots. When her teacher assigns a project asking the students to draw a picture of where their families come from, Lola realizes she doesn't remember the island where she was born. With the help of her family and neighbors, Lola pieces together memories and stories, creating a vivid and imaginative picture of her homeland. Justification for Title Selection: I chose Islandborn because it is a Pura Belpré Author Honor book, an award that recognizes outstanding Latino authors and illustrators who celebrate Latino culture in their work. This accolade underscores the book's cultural significance and its potential to resonate w...

  Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of A Land of Books Book Title: A Land of Books by Duncan Tonatiuh Genre/Category: Children's Picture Book, Historical Fiction Target Age Group: 6-10 years Plot Summary: A Land of Books by Duncan Tonatiuh is a captivating tale that takes young readers on a journey through the rich history and culture of Mesoamerica. The story centers around a young girl named Ameyalli, who learns about the importance of books and storytelling in her community. Through the eyes of Ameyalli, readers explore the significance of codices, the ancient books created by the indigenous people of Mesoamerica, and the role they played in preserving history, culture, and knowledge. Justification for Title Selection: I chose A Land of Books because it beautifully weaves together historical facts and storytelling to educate young readers about an important aspect of Mesoamerican culture. The book highlights the value of books and storytelling, making it a relevant and enric...

  Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of Catching a Storyfish Book Title: Catching a Storyfish by Janice N. Harrington Genre/Category: Children's Novel in Verse Target Age Group: 8-12 years Plot Summary: Catching a Storyfish by Janice N. Harrington is a beautifully written novel in verse that follows the story of Keet, a young girl who loves to tell stories. When her family moves from Alabama to Illinois, Keet struggles to find her voice in a new place where everything feels different. Through poetry, Keet navigates the challenges of fitting in, making new friends, and finding her place while holding on to her love for storytelling and the comforting memories of her grandfather back home. Justification for Title Selection: I chose Catching a Storyfish because it masterfully combines poetry and narrative to explore themes of identity, belonging, and resilience. The novel's unique format and lyrical prose make it an engaging read for middle-grade readers, offering both emotion...

  Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of A Blue Kind of Day Book Title: A Blue Kind of Day by Rachel Tomlinson Genre/Category: Children's Picture Book, Mental Health Target Age Group: 4-8 years Plot Summary: A Blue Kind of Day by Rachel Tomlinson is a touching story about a young boy named Coen who is experiencing a day filled with sadness and heaviness. Through simple yet profound prose, Tomlinson describes Coen’s feelings of depression and anxiety, depicting them in a way that young readers can understand. The story follows Coen as he navigates his emotions with the support and understanding of his family, illustrating the importance of empathy, patience, and unconditional love. Justification for Title Selection: I chose A Blue Kind of Day because it beautifully and sensitively addresses the disability of depression and anxiety, which affect many members of my family. The book normalizes these feelings and provides a gentle introduction to mental health for young children. Its...

  Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre Book Title: Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre by Carole Boston Weatherford Genre/Category: Children's Nonfiction Target Age Group: 8-12 years Plot Summary: Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre by Carole Boston Weatherford is a powerful picture book that tells the story of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, a tragic event in American history that resulted in the destruction of the prosperous Black community in the Greenwood District of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Through evocative prose and vivid illustrations, the book provides an age-appropriate yet unflinching account of the events leading up to, during, and after the massacre, highlighting the resilience and strength of the Black community. Justification for Title Selection: I chose Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre because it is a crucial book that addresses a significant and often overlooked part of American history. The book's ability to present such a se...

Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of Fruits Basket Book Title: Fruits Basket by Natsuki Takaya Genre/Category: Manga, Fantasy Target Age Group: 12-18 years Plot Summary: Natsuki Takaya's Fruits Basket follows the story of Tohru Honda, a high school girl who becomes involved with the mysterious Sohma family. After her mother's death, Tohru starts living with her grandfather but soon moves out to live in a tent. She is discovered by the Sohma family, who invite her to stay with them. Tohru soon learns that the Sohmas are cursed: when hugged by the opposite sex, they transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac. As Tohru gets to know each member of the family, she uncovers their individual struggles and secrets, and her kindness and optimism begin to have a transformative effect on them all. Justification for Title Selection: I chose Fruits Basket because it is a beloved and highly influential series within the manga community. Its blend of heartwarming moments, humor, and deep...