Round up time for my beloved picture books. All titles were read via an online reader copy.
BOOK ONE
It Started with a Book Ban by Linda Ravin Lodding
A fun and silly way to talk about the seriousness of the idea of Book Banning. And while I don’t promote banning things, I must admit sometimes the color green is annoying to me, too. (And pink, pink can be too cheerful). Obviously Lodding uses humor to get the message across and goes into extreme hilarity of the possible things that can be banned if you only think about it. If you like, Down with Lime Books!: A Story about Book Banning, you’ll love this one too. The illustrations are colorful, busy and keep the chaos going. Due April 2026 
BOOK TWO
Tic-errific Me: A book about Tourette syndrome (Disability Books for Kids) by Alicia Meyers and Cait Brennan (Illustrator)
The introduction format is good for someone who has just been diagnosed or for the sibling, classmate or friend of someone who has. I would have liked to see more information about TS for adults, or an explanation that the character (and author) have one type and there are many different forms it can take, but it does capture the basics and allows for questions to be asked. The author has Tourett’s and obviously has a love for spreading awareness of it. The illustrations are perhaps a bit simplistic for my tastes, but works well to keep things light and not overly complicated. Due June 2026
BOOK THREE
The Kimchi Fridge by Tina Cho and illustrator Cindy Kang
This is a nice introduction for those who do not know what kimchi is, and a great representation of Korean food and family. The story is fresh (even if the cabbage is fermented). The idea of patience, family and culture all come together to make a familiar situation (books about making food and celebration of that food are available for many groups and celebrations). The addition of kimchi as the food, with extras talking about the history of the food, makes it new. Even adults can learn something (the first kimchi fridge was only created in 1995) and enjoy it. The illustrations are sweet, and while not crowded, give a big picture of things. Great for most ages. Due October 2026
