Editor’s Note: Kids’ Corner is a new monthly column written by the Cloverdale Regional Library’s children’s services librarian. The column will feature reviews of new children’s books that you can find at the library.
“If You’re Groovy and You Know It, Hug a Friend!” By Eric Litwin
The third book in the Groovy Joe series takes the popular song “If You’re Happy and You Know It” in a new direction. Litwin creates playfulness with his version, having children think about exploring, planting seeds, laughing and playing, reading books, singing and playing music, and of course showing affection for one’s friends by sharing a hug.
Children love songs and the familiarity of the tune, coupled with Litwin’s shift in lyrics make for an engaging and fun variation on an old tune. Parents will find themselves wanting to sing and dance along to it, and it has a great message as well. A free song is downloadable as well. Ages 0-8. RL 1.5 and AR 0.5 pts.
“Fergus and Zeke at the Science Fair” by Kate Messner
Two classroom mice, Fergus and Zeke, are excited to take part in the activities in Miss Maxwell’s class. When it’s announced that there will be a science fair, the two mice aren’t certain what kind of experiment they should create. Then, a student named Lucy decides they should be part of a maze experiment, rewarding them with treats for running the maze. This inspires the two mice to run an animal experiment of their own, so they decide to train Lucy as part of the science fair.
For children who like humor and stories that have an unexpected twist, Fergus and Zeke are a winning combination. Parents who want their children to be engaged in activities such as science fairs will find this a great way to introduce the idea that there are competitions in school that go beyond sports. Ages 5-8. RL 3 and AR 0.5 pts.
“Me, Frida, and the Secret of the Peacock Ring” by Angela Cervantes
Paloma Marquez is on a trip to Coyoacan, Mexico, with her literature professor mother for four weeks. Paloma is an avid mystery reader and suddenly finds herself in a mystery of her own that includes the spirit of Friday Kahlo, new friends Lizzie, Gael and Tavo. Things get mysterious when a trench coat man who speaks Russian and Spanish shows up, and Paloma learns about secrets that surround items that once belonged to Frida Kahlo. Determined to solve the mystery surrounding the peacock ring, Paloma enlists the help of her new friends to solve a mystery that could put people in jail.
For young people who like mysteries and adventure stories that pivot on friendship and setting the scales of justice right, this is a great read. Parents who want their children to expand their imaginations beyond the borders will find this a good suggestion for their children. Ages 9-12. RL 4.7 and AR 7 pts.
