Today we celebrate inspirational books that foster a celebration of individuality--in ourselves and others--and embracing inclusivity. I hope that like me, you'll find that each title below is a work of art and worth sharing again and again.
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I’m From written by Gary R. Gray, Jr., illustrated by Oge Mora (Balzar & Bray 2023)
 
This book is a celebration of things that are meaningful to a young boy. Children will find much to relate to in this story – from pancakes to recesses that are too short and school days that are too long – and also from personal moments spent with family. This story will inspire young readers to think of where they are from – what makes them unique – that makes them feel special. In fact, I bet kids will be inspired to come up with their own “I’m from” lists. This book is sure to inspire connections and build relationships in classrooms and communities where it is shared.

Learn more about Gary Gray and his other projects at his website.

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​Our Class is a Country written by Andria Rosenbaum, illustrated by Dream Chen (Albert Whitman & Company 2023)
 
The energetic and upbeat prose of this book celebrates the diversity of a classroom and the differences and similarities that are to be celebrated among each of its children. With delightful illustrations and a variety of interests showcased, children are bound to see themselves on the pages and feel special in doing so. This book is perfect for any day of the school year – not only the first one. This book deserves a spot on any shelf – it is bound to bring feelings of reassurance to any child, especially if they are feeling jitters for the first day of school.  
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Learn more about the author's other books at her website.

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​Desert Queen written by Jyoti Rojan Gopal, illustrated by Svabhu Kohli (Levine Querido2023)
 
This beautifully illustrated book with gorgeous prose tells the story of a boy named Haresh Kumar who discovers a love for music and dancing, but because of gender expectations, he keeps his passion a secret. However, when he is faced with the death of his parents and the need to support his sisters, he becomes a performer and embraces and develops his stage identity as Queen Haresh. His interpretation and combination of Rajasthani folk and Bollywood dance routines leads his to becoming a beloved national icon. The lyrical prose and fluid illustrations deliver a perfect picture book that celebrates individuality and following one’s dreams.  

Learn more about Jyoti Rajan Gopal's other projects at her website.

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​Wishes of the World written by Melissa Stiveson, illustrated by Khoa Le (published by Sleeping Bear Press 2023)
 
“Make a wish!” These are words that children may hear on a birthday or upon finding a penny or when blowing dandelions seeds . . . and in this book, children are taken on a tour of seeing how wishes are made by children around the world. I can’t think of a better way to show the universality of well-wishes and hopeful intentions that are felt by people everywhere. From notes hung from bamboo in Japan to paper boat candles in Thailand to four-leaf clovers in Ireland, the time for this book is now. Share its message. With all you know.

Today's books all spin around STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.

These books all have a special way of making STEM topics sparkle in unique and interesting ways for kids. Plus, they inspire young minds to learn more about how the world works. You can't go wrong when you share a STEM book. These are to be enjoyed by all ages and are not to be missed. Enjoy!

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​I SHIP. A Container Ship’s Colossal Journey written by Kelli Rice Schmitt, illustrated by Jam Dong (Millbrook Press 2023)
 
An engaging voice and bright illustrations showing big rigs and people at work to overcome obstacles that hinder a journey by sea, make this book a welcome and unique addition to “things that go” collections. An added bonus the is importance that is demonstrated in how goods are shipped around the world, which is bolstered with a wonderful back matter detailing all sorts of jobs and facts related to the shipping industry. Kids will gobble this story up!
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Learn more at Lisa Rice Schmitt’s website.

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Great Carrier Reef written by Jessica Stremer, illustrated by Gordy Wright (Holiday House 2023)
 
When an aircraft carrier reaches the end of its service, rather than be docked to a pier to sit lifeless, it is repurposed and transformed into providing new habitat as an underwater reef off the coast of Florida. This fascinating story takes readers on the incredible journey into man’s efforts to save diminishing habitats and the creatures that depend on them. What a hopeful story! It will undoubtably inspire readers to dream up other possibilities for improving our world.
 
Visit Jessica Stremer’s website for more information about this and other projects.

A Dollar’s Grand Dream written by Kimberly Wilson, illustrated by Mark Hoffman (Page Street Publishing 2023)
 
This sequel to A Penny’s Worth takes readers on a fantastical journey into currency, this time starring a dollar named Big Bill. Full of clever puns, creative word play, a strong voice, and comparative math-relationships, Big Bill’s dream for becoming a bigger, rarer bill with more monetary worth comes true. But his new life is not quite what he’d thought it would be. This imaginative tale reminds readers to be careful of what is wished for, especially when embracing one’s true self is rewarding and wonderful enough. Interesting facts in the back matter make this story a winner.
 
Learn more about this and other books by Kimberly Wilson at her website.

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​Bee Catastrophe. We’ll Miss Them When They’re Gone written by Marta Magellan, illustrated by Mauro Magellan
(Eifrig Publishing 2022)
 
This straightforward story explains how a bee keeper in Florida discovered that bee colonies were being adversely affected by a particular pesticide, as well as attempts that were made to decrease the harm from it to bees. However, efforts to save bee colonies was only met with limited success, and more needs to be done around the world. This story clearly lays out reasons that readers should care about saving bees. Perhaps a few young readers will be inspired to grow up to become a bee hero. The bee-friendly actions in the back matter round out this wonderful and necessary book.
 
Learn more about this and other titles by Marta Magellan at her website.

There is nothing better than sharing laughter with loved ones especially when reading a book together. Whether humor be silly, goofy, ridiculous, or fun, "picking up on the joke" is a skill that children learn through experience. Humorous books give them great opportunities to do that. Plus, they often hold a lot of depth with other layers like social emotional learning and STEM. You'll find that in today's selection. I hope that you enjoy the giggles that can be found in the books below. 

The Recess Genius. Open for Business written by Janet Sumner Johnson, illustrated by Stacy Ebert (Pixel Ink 2023).
 
Regina Grey is a book worm and prefers it that way . . . until her problem–solving skills land her the name of “The Recess Genius.” Suddenly, she’s inundated with more work than she can handle and wonders if she’ll ever find time to read books again. When her plans for sabotaging her own reputation backfire, Regina must figure out a way to solve the biggest problem of all – one for herself.
 
Kids will delight in the ridiculous “fixes” that Regina comes up with for her classmates--which no matter how bad they seem--somehow find a way of working. Perhaps readers will be inspired to be better problem-solvers than Regina – and find ways to be the Recess Genius at their own schools – after all, it always feels good to be helpful and needed. This heart-warming story is sure to bring smiles to young readers.

You can discover more Janet Sumner Johnson books at her website.

​How to Get Your Octopus to School written by Becky Scharnhorst, illustrated by Jaclyn Sinquett (Flamingo Books 2023)
 
Sometimes the first day of school can seem a bit scary, even for an octopus! And since octopuses are especially good at hiding, . . . and hugging, . . . and trying on tons of different outfits, . . . getting an octopus to school can be difficult. Kids will recognize octopus’s tactics to avoid a scary first day. But one thing is for sure, they’ll recognize the excitement that's felt in finally getting there. This humorous story lands home with a lot of heart, and fascinating facts about octopuses in the back matter make this an all-around great read. 

Visit Becky Scharnhort's website to learn about her other books.

​The Twist-A-Roo written by Kathleen Doherty, illustrated by Kristyna Litten (Peachtree 2023).
 
Fans of The Thingity-Jig are in for another fun treat with this book. Silly word play, quirky humor, and STEAM ingenuity abound, along with some giggles and heart-warming community togetherness. Hop on board and get your pre-order in! This book hits the shelves in 2 weeks – just in time for the HA-la-days.
 
Learn more about Kathleen Doherty’s other books at her website.

​When my children were young, the mantra I heard from the school community was all about getting young kids ready to read, or “reading ready.”

To do that, it was highly encouraged to read to kids 20 minutes a day. The idea was that “learning to read,” would provide the foundation that they would need in later grades when they would be “reading to learn.”

As a high school educator, I cannot say how true and important this goal is. It’s hard for students to focus on new ideas as they are being taught new content, if they are struggling to read what’s on the page. Thus, today’s post features three books that can be a part of building a foundation for raising readers who are excited for what comes next: structured reading, writing, and learning in classrooms. 

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​Hide and Seek, Nuts to Eat written by Tracy C. Gold, illustrated by Nancy Leschnikoff (Sourcebooks eXplore 2023)
 
Kids love rhyme, and I can’t think of a better way to hook them on to reading and writing at a young age than with books like this one. It rhymes well and delivers an energetic, familiar, and interesting topic – Squirrels! Along with their interactions as they store food for winter. With interesting and fun facts interspersed throughout the story, the added STEM component makes this story especially attractive for sharing with young readers.

Love for the written word begins at home. Treat your kids to a lifetime of reading and learning with this book!

Find more rhyming books for young readers from Tracy C Gold's website.

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​How to Hatch a Reader written by Kari Gonzalez, illustrated by Rachel Suzanne (Gnome Road Books 2023)
 
Who doesn’t love chickens? I certainly do! So it begs the question, why teach not them to read? Better yet, why not teach them to read right alongside the kiddos in your life? I absolutely adore this story, which turn learning to read on its head, by providing a how-to guide for chickens, which coincidently, mirrors a how-to guide for kids!

Kids will love the humorous puns in this unique story. They'll recognize reading strategies they learn in school, and they will enjoy sounding out familiar words alongside their feathered friends. C-l-u-c-k!

Learn more at Kari Gonzalez's website.

Animals in Surprising Shades. Poems About Earth’s Colorful Creatures written by Susan Johnston Taylor, illustrated by Annie Bakst (Gnome Road Publishing 2023)

​The appeal for poetry in all its forms continues today with this amazing title. Not only are young readers introduced to an array of unique and interesting animals, they are also introduced to a variety of different poetic forms.

From the five-lined Gogyohka poem that takes on the topic of the "Ghost Crab," to the Japanese Tanka poem that tackles the "Green Sea Slug," to the concrete poem that takes the shape of its subject, which in this case is the "Pink Manta Ray," young readers and writers are treated to a literary feast of possibilities.

​There is plenty to inspire creative young readers to write their own poetry in this book, while enjoying a wonderful collection about colorful creatures.

Learn more at Susan Johnston Taylor's website.

Today's giveaways:

1) a signed copy of Hide and Seek, Nuts to Eat (US address) from Tracy C. Gold

2) an AMA or virtual classroom visit with Kari Gonzalez

3) a signed copy of Animals in Surprising Shades (US address) or custom sell-sheet for a self published or traditionally published author from Susan Johnston Taylor 

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How do you earn entries? 


1) ✔ Reply to each blog post with a comment = 1 entry

2) ✔ Share on social media = 1 entry for each share (let me know where you shared)
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or tag:
@SKWenger on X
@skwenger on Blue Sky
@SKWenger_books on Instagram
@SKWengerChildrensAuthor on FB

3) ✔ Ask your library to order the books = 1 entry for each (let me know you did this!)

4) ✔ Post a review on Goodreads, Amazon, or BN = 1 entry each (let me know you did this!)
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Lastly, be sure to follow the authors and myself on social media so that you can be connected if you win!

Winners are selected November 2nd, so there is plenty of time to participate.

🍃 There are links all around us.

Links that connect
  us to nature,
  readers to books,
  words to pages
  stars to galaxies,
  dust to wind, 
  wind to earth,
  notes to music.
And on and on.

These links tend to leave an impression that is powerful enough to draw us back again and again, like a poem or a song.

Today's picture books are lyrical and touch on topics related to nature--from the dirt beneath our feet to the stars in the heavens above.

🎵What are lyrical pictures books?

Author Dianna Murray says they have a fluid, velvety rhythmic pace, hold emotional quality, and feature vivid descriptions. Author Tina Cho says they use poetic devices such as simile, metaphor, personification, and onomatopoeia. For many readers like myself, the combination of  illustration and prose renders a satisfying and immersive experience. 

The three books below each offer a unique approach to delivering a story in a lyrical style. Enjoy!

​A River of Dust. The Life-Giving Link Between North Africa and the Amazon written by Jilanne Hoffmann, illustrated by Eugenia Mello (Chronicle Books 2023)

This beautifully illustrated story tells of the fascinating and life-sustaining connection between two biomes that are an ocean apart -- the Sahara Desert of North Africa and the tropical rainforest of the Amazon River basin in South America. The lyrical text carries readers on a wondrous journey, full of vivid imagery from the tiniest of details to the most expansive of horizons. This story is bound to spark the curiosity of young readers in exploring other vital connections in our world.

To learn more about Jilanne Hoffmann and her other projects, visit her website.

The Fire of Stars. The Life and Brilliance of the Woman Who Discovered What Stars Are Made Of written by Kirsten W. Larson, illustrated by Katherine Roy (Chronicle Books 2023)

This dual narrative captures the birth of a star alongside the life of Cecilia Payne, a woman who found her way to studying astronomy and astrophysics and eventually discovered what stars are made of. Payne's interest in science began when she was a young girl with observations of the natural world around her. From gorgeous illustrations to inviting and descriptive prose, this story will inspire readers to be inquisitive and to notice things --just like Cecilia. Her perseverance, despite the the many obstacles, will empower dreamers to go for their own goals. 

To keep up with Kirsten Larson's other books, visit her website and sign up for her newsletter.

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​A Few Beautiful Minutes. Experiencing a Solar Eclipse written by Kate Allen Fox, illustrated by Khoa Le (Little, Brown and Company 2023)

This wonderful picture book is a must-read for any reader. Not only does the text capture the beauty of the world as an eclipse unfolds, it also shows the type of preparations that can be made in order to enjoy one safely. I've had the pleasure of experiencing two eclipses in recent years -- a solar eclipse and an annular eclipse -- and the author and illustrator do a fantastic job of sharing what these amazing events are like. From the details of sun silhouettes on the ground to the twilight-like orange hues that bathe the sky to the camaraderie felt with fellow observers. Given that another solar eclipse will occur in April 2024, along with others to follow, this title will be one to add to home, classroom, and library collections.

​Visit Kate Allen Fox's website to learn more.

Today's giveaways:

1) Winner's choice: a copy of A River of Dust (US address) or an AMA with Jilanne Hoffmann

2) an AMA with author Kirsten W. Larson

3) signed copy of A Few Beautiful Minutes (US address) from Kate Allen Fox

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How do you earn entries? By helping these books find homes and success as we enter the holidays!

1) ✔ Reply to each blog post with a comment = 1 entry

2) ✔ Share this post on social media = 1 entry for each share (let me know where you shared)
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tag:
@SKWenger on X,
@skwenger on Blue Sky
@SKWenger_books on Instagram
@SKWengerChildrensAuthor on FB

3) ✔ Ask your library to order the books = 1 entry for each (let me know you did this!)

4) ✔ Leave a review on Goodreads, Amazon, or BN = 1 entry each (let me know you did this!)
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Lastly, be sure to follow the authors and myself on social media so that you can be connected if you win!

Winners are selected November 2nd, so there is plenty of time to participate.​

Today's books are all about social emotional learning. There are three of them, which means you also have three new prizes to earn chances for winning.

Social emotional books, often denoted as SEL books, are intended to help guide young children in navigating difficult issues. Loss. Anxiety. Depression. Loneliness. Disagreements. Topics that many children experience, but have little resources for navigating through them for the first time. That is why books like these are so important. 

The four stories shared below handle tough topics masterfully, with text that is easily accessible and with emotions stemming from situations that are relatable. The wonderful thing about picture books is that they aren't just impactful for children -- they can be equally meaningful for adults.

I highly recommend the books below for all readers, not only to help deal with their own situations, but to help develop empathy for others.

 


​Moonlight Memories written by Amanda Davis, illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan (Worthy Kids 2023)
 
Mama had been gone almost a month, leaving Piper feeling empty.
 
This inspiring, heart-warming story shows how a girl named Piper moves through the grief of losing her mother by using art and the night sky to help capture her memories. The ending is especially uplifting as Piper shares what she has learned with her father in order to help him. For children of all ages, this touching story shows that the power of healing can be found in ourselves through connections with others and the world around us.

Learn more about Amanda Davis books at her website.

Whatever Comes Tomorrow written by Rebecca Gardyn Levington, illustrated by Mariona Cabassa (Barefoot Books 2023)
 
Tomorrow may bring endless sun or swirly, snowy skies. Tomorrow may bring new hellos, or difficult goodbyes. . . .
 
So begins this beautifully written book to help guide readers toward feelings of calm and reassurance for whatever worries may be troubling them. I particularly admire how the worries presented in each illustrated spread are balanced by hopeful phrases and images. In this way, the book opens itself up to discussions of how hurtful or anxiety-filled experiences can lead to new understandings, or perhaps how worries can be viewed from alternate perspectives. The colorful illustrations offer a beautiful balance and leave an uplifting impression that will surely lead to multiple readings.

Discover more books at the author's website!

Too Much! An Overwhelming Day written by Jolene Gutierrez, illustrated by Angel Chang (Hachette Books 2023) 

Alarm clock BEEPS! I quiver-quake. The noise in loud and my ears ache.

This would have a been the perfect book for my own family members that struggled with sensory overload condition when they were young. What a blessing this book will be for those that struggle with it now. It's a perfect book for ANY child actually. Who hasn't know a child to experience feelings of overwhelm, especially if they are tired or stressed? Not only does this story offer reassurance, it shows children how to recenter and soothe themselves. Thus, it's a must-read for all. 

The comforting rhyme and wonderful illustrations bring together a tangible and reassuring story.

Visit Jolene Gutierrez's website to learn about her other books.

Today's giveaways:

1) a 30-minute AMA meeting with Amanda Davis

2) a copy of Anzu and the Art of Friendship (US address) from Moni Ritchie Hadley

3) a 30-minute AMA meeting with Rebecca Gardyn Levingon

4) a copy of Too Much! An Overwhelming Day (US address) from Jolene Gutierrez

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How do you earn entries? 


1) ✔ Reply to each blog post with a comment = 1 entry

2) ✔ on social media = 1 entry for each share (let me know where you shared)
​
or tag:
@SKWenger on X
@skwenger on Blue Sky
@SKWenger_books on Instagram
@SKWengerChildrensAuthor on FB

3) ✔ your library to order the books = 1 entry for each (let me know you did this!)

4) ✔ leave a review on Goodreads, Amazon, or BN = 1 entry each (let me know you did this!)
​

Lastly, be sure to follow the authors and myself on social media so that you can be connected if you win!

Winners are selected November 2nd, so there is plenty of time to participate.

Welcome to the new home for my blog! 

And a new home for another 7 Days of Books event.

I believe that one of the best gifts a child can receive is to be read a story every day by someone they love. Books provide a foundation for kids to find understanding of events that happen around them, make meaningful connections, share laughter, or ignite curiosity about the natural world. Over the next week, I hope you’ll discover new titles to introduce to family and friends.

Each day I’ll share 3 to 4 new picture books along with opportunities to win prizes that are offered from the authors and illustrators.

With 3 to 4 books each day, we’ll have close to 25 winners. All be selected on November 2nd.


Don’t you feel lucky?
 
Great! Follow through on that feeling and be sure to come back daily to earn more entries.

How do you earn entries? By helping these books find homes and success as we enter the holidays!

1) reply to the blog posts with a comment = 1 entry
2) share on social media = 1 entry for each 
3) if you already have the book, leave a review on goodreads, amazon, or BN = 1 entry each
4) ask your library to order the books = 1 entry for each

Lastly, be sure to follow the authors and myself on social media so that you can be connected if you win!
 

With no further ado, here we go!
 

​Today's books touch on FRIENDSHIP. . . .
 
From how friendships can be experienced with others . . . to how friends can be found in unexpected places.

​Each story holds layers and characters that are bound to touch reader's hearts.

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​The Sharing Book written by Dianne White, illustrated by Simone Shin (Margaret Ferguson Books 2023).
 
Sun is perfect for mornings.
Clouds are just right for sky.
Wonder is waiting to happen and . . . TODAY, this day is for sharing.
 
This adorable book follows two friends and their families through all the activities that they share along the way during an outdoor camping adventure until everyone is tucked in at bedtime. The repeated words and phrases pivot on new surprises with each page turn throughout the story.
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The gentle rhythm of the text is bound to make this story a favorite. Fans of Dianne White will not be disappointed from this wordsmith master, whose text is paired perfectly with warm and colorful illustrations by Simone Shin.

​If you visit the author's website, signed copies of her books can be ordered through her favorite indie bookstore!
www.diannewrites.com.
 

​Night Market Rescue by Charlotte Cheng, illustrated by Amber Wren (Rocky Pond Books 2023)

When it's summer in the city, every day is hot and sticky. Little GoGo finds some shelter where he hides and rests . . . ALONE. 

In this heartwarming story, a stray dog named Gogo wanders the night market in Taipei, enjoying its foods, sights and sounds on his own. But when Gogo befriends a lost girl, not only is he able to lead her back to her parents, he finds the promise of a new and loving home. The vibrant illustrations pair wonderfully with the energy of this Taiwanese city.
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​Discover more at Charlotte Cheng's website.

Today's giveaways:

1) Winner's choice: a signed copy of The Sharing Book (US address) or an AMA meeting with Dianne White

2) a copy of Witch and Wombat (US address) from Ashley Belote

3) a copy of Night Market Rescue (US address) from Charlotte Cheng

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Again,

How do you earn entries? By helping these books find homes and success as we enter the holidays!

1) ✔ Reply to each blog post with a comment = 1 entry

2) ✔ Share this post on social media = 1 entry for each share (let me know where you shared)
​
tag:
@SKWenger on X,
@skwenger on Blue Sky
@SKWenger_books on Instagram
@SKWengerChildrensAuthor on FB

3) ✔ Ask your library to order the books = 1 entry for each (let me know you did this!)

4) ✔ Leave a review on Goodreads, Amazon, or BN = 1 entry each (let me know you did this!)
​

Lastly, be sure to follow the authors and myself on social media so that you can be connected if you win!

Winners are selected November 2nd, so there is plenty of time to participate.