The Escape of Robert Smalls: A Daring Voyage Out of Slavery by Jehan Jones-Radgowski
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am so happy this book exists! Robert Smalls is an American hero who hasn't gotten nearly as many national holidays and monuments as he deserves.

This story does an excellent job of describing just how dangerous the mission was, and just how brave and clever Mr. Smalls had to have been.

Looking forward to steering kids towards this book next time they come around looking for a biography for a school project.

Maybe we can get a sequel? :)

Further recommended reading: Be Free or Die

arc received from the publisher

Egypt Magnified: With a 3x Magnifying Glass by David Long
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Combining the fun of a search-and-find book with the informational blurbs of a nonfiction title, this book will have wide appeal for younger and older children and is a good pick for libraries and families with children of different ages.

arc received from the publisher

Oh my gosh, this book made me so happy.

The kids I work with will love this, too. Full of cute baby animals doing something we all know well -- being fed by mom. (I'm an adult and I still eat my mom's food!)

Highly recommended. Definitely adding to the library collection.

arc received from the publisher

This is an excellent introduction to money for the elementary school crowd. (Honestly, it could have also helped the clueless rich kids I met at college!) It's very detailed, but not overwhelming, and imparts practical wisdom to kids who may be getting some small income from babysitting, allowances, etc.

I'm definitely adding this to the public library's collection.

received via Netgalley

While the heavy text may be a bit intimidating for reluctant readers, this book is a feast for the eyes for kids who enjoy learning about animals, and the fact that it is glow in the dark will make it a fun experience. The ARC I received was an e-book, so I didn't get the full glow in the dark aspect, but the book itself stands on its own as a solid nonfiction book about nocturnal animals.

received via Netgalley

Okay Kevin: A Story to Help Children Discover How Everyone Learns Differently by James Dillon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A fantastic reminder that learning is a process and journey, not a competition or race.

Kevin struggles with his reading skills, but excels at math and responsibility. He begins to learn coping mechanisms for dealing with overwhelming situations, and blossoms with self-confidence.

Recommended for kindergarten through second grade.

received via Netgalley