Book Review – We Are the Keystones: Animals That Hold Habitats Together by Katy S. Duffield

 

We Are the Keystones: Animals That Hold Habitats Together by Katy S. Duffield is a picture book that introduces readers to different keystone animals and explains the important impact they have on other animals and their environments.

The book features beautiful, watercolor-style illustrations. It is very colorful, although it leans toward a darker palette that fits the natural subject matter. Each keystone animal is introduced with a short poem that describes the animal and explains the benefits it provides to its environment. In addition to the poem, there is a smaller, more detailed section that provides technical information about the animal, including why it is considered a keystone species.

I like that the book includes both the poems and the more detailed explanations because it allows young readers to grow with the book. Younger readers can enjoy the poems and illustrations, while older readers can explore the more detailed information. I think this gives the book lasting value and can help keep readers engaged with both the book and the environment.

I also liked that the book highlights animals that readers may not be familiar with. It can introduce children to species they might not otherwise encounter and encourage them to learn more about the role these animals play in their ecosystems.

At the end of the book, the author includes additional animals and plants for readers to research on their own or with an adult. I liked this addition, but I would have also liked to see some age-appropriate, environmentally friendly activities that children could do with adults to help protect their local environment.

Since I wasn't familiar with some of the animals featured in the book, I also would have liked to see resources where readers could learn more about keystone animals and plants in their own communities. I think children may feel more connected to environmental issues when they can see how they directly affect the places where they live.

I enjoyed the book. It is beautifully illustrated and educational, offering something for multiple generations. I think it would be a great way for children and adults to learn together about the important role keystone species play in keeping ecosystems healthy.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and were not influenced by the publisher or author.

Book Review - It's Almost Time for . . . Thanksgiving by Maisha Oso

 

It's Almost Time for . . . Thanksgiving by Maisha Oso is a picture book about one family's Thanksgiving traditions.

Thanksgiving is almost here, and everyone is excited. However, there is still plenty to do and prepare before the big day begins. The book highlights some of the fun things to look forward to, including a big feast, watching football, and spending time with family.

The book is beautifully illustrated and easy to follow. I liked the diversity of the characters and the inclusion of disability representation. The story follows one family throughout their Thanksgiving and shows how they spend the holiday together.

I thought the book was okay. I think it would have been a nice touch to include space for young readers to write about their own family traditions or Thanksgiving memories. That would have made the book feel more personal and turned it into a keepsake that families could revisit each year.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and were not influenced by the publisher or author.

Book Review – Spooky Scouts by Kimberly Shrack

 

 

Spooky Scouts by Kimberly Shrack follows a young wolf pup named Luna as she attends her annual Spooky Scouts camping trip during a full moon.

Luna is excited for the Spooky Scouts' annual camping adventure. However, when a full moon is forecasted, she is devastated. She has been keeping a secret from her fellow scouts: during a full moon, Luna transforms into an icky beast that she fears will terrify her troop.

Determined to keep her transformation hidden, Luna does everything she can to avoid being seen as strange or different. She puts all of her scouting skills to the test in hopes of preventing the transformation. But will she be able to stop it before it's too late?

This is a fun, charming read, especially for young readers who enjoy Halloween-themed stories. Beyond the spooky fun, the book explores themes of self-discovery, identity, and acceptance. It delivers a gentle message about embracing who you are and finding people who accept you for who you truly are, making it both entertaining and heartfelt.

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and were not influenced by the publisher or author.