When a trip to the park turns into an argument over whether to play with sticks or stones, best friends George and Georgina find themselves in an epic battle of wills. Determined to prove their chosen material is best, the kids race to out build each other, winding up alone in their separate castles until two new friends come along and show them a better way. A lighthearted look at the importance of having an open mind, this comical read aloud will kick-start conversations and have kids clamoring for more.

PUBLISHER AND ACCOLADES

Worthy Kids/Hachette, March 2024

A mother bear at work all day never stops thinking about her child in this reassuring story with a heartwarming message. In this tender picture book, a mother bear tells her child about her workday. She describes one activity after another, and follows each description with “And I think about you.” Illustrations show her at her tasks, with a corresponding activity she imagines with her child in a thought bubble beside her. Then, turn the page, and the child is shown participating in a parallel activity at school. So, the mother bear reads her emails, and thinks about reading to her child, while the child reads on the carpet in the classroom. She shares a project with her coworkers, and thinks about sharing time with her child on the sofa, while the child shares a pinwheel during circle time. The rhythmic pattern will enchant and delight young readers — all the way to the surprising end! Rosanne L. Kurstedt beautifully captures the loving connection between a parent and child in this sweet story told in a gentle singsong narration, with sound effects. Ya-Ling Huang uses layers of watercolor and colored pencils to create a soft, transparent visual effect. The repeated refrain — “And I think about you” — is relatable, comforting and true, perfect for reassuring a child that, even out of sight, they are never out of their parents’ thoughts. This book will encourage sharing stories, and could spark a wonderful routine for readers. It offers an excellent opportunity to explore what parents do all day at work as well. It is also sure to resonate with parents.

PUBLISHER AND ACCOLADES

Kids Can Press, September 2022

“Young readers anticipating the start of school will benefit from both the introduction to daily events and the reminder that they are in their parents’ thoughts all day long. Warm and reassuring, sure to be especially appreciated by families with working parents and apprehensive children.”
-Kirkus Reviews

“A sweet picture book to share with young readers.”
―Children’s Literature

A goat kid loves to do karate! And he is sure to inspire young kids to try karate as well. Follow Goat as he goes through the major stances and karate moves, teaching readers to channel focus and strength through each pose. Karate Kid’s simple, measured, and meditative text is complemented by playful yet instructive illustrations by Mark Chambers to teach youngsters how to get involved in karate–and to have fun while doing so, too.

PUBLISHER AND ACCOLADES

Running Press Kids, September 2019

“Solid color backgrounds keep readers focused on the book’s entertaining but accurate content, and the smoothly written text incorporates the mental component of the sport. . . . [A] solid introduction to karate.”
―Booklist