Maddi's Fridge by Lois Brandt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

How often does a picture book touch your heart enough to bring you to tears? Maddi's Fridge is a compassionate, hopeful, giving, funny picture book about friendship and real world family issues. With so many families living in low-income situations, this book provides the perfect way to teach compassion. I admire the gradual build to a solution and the way that I became the main character, Sofia, while reading. Sofia is thoughtful and her family's dynamic is realistic. The colorful, cartoon-like illustrations are engaging and convey expression in just the right way. Maddi's Fridge screams, "Reread Me!"

Knock Knock: My Dad's Dream for Me by Daniel Beaty
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

No matter what form of loss one experiences, the underlying message of pressing on through adversity rings strong in this story. The emotional resonance is greatly present in both art and text. It provides an eye opening view into the compassion and support of the characters and connects straight to the reader's heart.

Nana in the City by Lauren Castillo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This main character's fear of Nana's city environment lead him on a transformational journey into the unknown. The subtle and endearing guidance of Nana is age appropriate, as is the believable first person voice of the boy. The illustrations paint a bustling city which evoke the senses and explode with color as the boy warms up to the new surroundings. Perfect marriage of art and text.

All Different Now: Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom by Angela Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow. To imagine a day when freedom finally comes to the last of the slaves in the South. It is difficult to put in words how amazing this book is. It is best to let the author and illustrator do it for you. The illustrations and words are so very moving, including the notes shared at the end of the book. Everyone needs to read this book!

Louise Loves Art by Kelly Light
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wonder and excitement surround childhood accomplishments. For Louise there is art at every turn... even her little brother, Art. It's obvious that Art wants to be just like his big sister. Whether Louise find this a nuisance or a blessing is saved for the end. Louise proves that artistic passion is precious,but family is golden. Adorable illustrations will hug your heart.

Here Comes the Easter Cat by Deborah Underwood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

So much laughter and fun packed into one little cat! Adults, teens, and children will all be entertained by this mischievous, jealous cat who just might surprise you in the end. The nontraditional interaction between narrator and main character, mixed with a unique voice and humor to be admired, makes this a one-of-a-kind picture book that won't be forgotten.

Jacob's New Dress by Sarah Hoffman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sometimes a story sits with you, and affects you so deeply that you are not sure what to think. This is a thought-provoking story. No doubt, it will have many different reviews because it addresses a controversial issue in a society full of varied opinions. Although the main mission is to break down gender barriers and encourage free expression, many will interpret this in a different light. Perhaps it is mainly because of the age group a picture book addresses. However, awareness is truly the key to breaking down barriers and creating acceptance. Years ago, when teaching Pre-K, the boys in my dramatic play center loved dressing up in cheerleader uniforms and high heels, toting purses and pom poms as they went about their play. They had a blast. I really like the message in this book and I applaud Ian and Sarah Hoffman for making this project a mission.

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