The Three Little Mittens illustrated by Natalia Shaloshvili published by Tundra Books Dotty and Other Dotty are a pair of matching mittens. Stripes is a single mitten who doesn’t match, so she is left out of the fun. But after some losing and finding of mittens, the situation is reversed — and now it is Dotty who’s out in the cold. Sadly, someone always gets left out. This is when the Little Girl intervenes. “Why do you have to match?” she asks, and she sets out to change things. No more matching! Everyone gets to be themselves, and everyone belongs. Soon the kids at the Little Girl’s school notice — and after that, anything can happen!

"Bailey’s writing flows beautifully, breathing life into the quirky characters by giving them human attributes that are familiar, yet absurd. The narrative’s ability to evoke empathy is equaled by its wit . . . A funny, yet thought-provoking picture book that is highly recommended for reading aloud.”  Booklist (starred review) "A fabulous story built on the premise that all hell will not break loose if things do not match. . . . It's hard to believe how many lessons Bailey and Shaloshvili knit into this bountiful book on friendship, inclusion, rebellion, and questioning the status quo, in fairly spare text and in illustrations that have the texture, colors, and fuzzy look of a mohair sweater. What a glorious metaphor. It's fast, funny, and true.”  School Library Journal  "The over-arching themes of this witty, thought-provoking story are, of course, accepting differences and recognizing individual worthiness . . . A sound, creatively told lesson in inclusion.”  Kirkus

Cinderella — with Dogs! illustrated by Freya Hartas published by Nancy Paulsen Books Poor Cinderella! Left home alone while everyone else goes off to the royal ball. But help is at hand in the form of — not the Fairy Godmother she was expecting, but — a Fairy DOGmother! The new arrival is keen to assist (“Woof! Poof!”), but not surprisingly, she has her own doggish ideas about dress (a dog blanket), hair (a poodle style) and transport (“Wouldn’t you like a good run?”). Cinderella cheerfully cooperates. Why? Because she loves dogs! Fortunately, so does the royal family, including the Prince, who happily joins Cinderella, the Fairy Dogmother and the royal dogs in — what could be better? — a grand-finale squirrel chase on the lawn.   "This rollicking story will arouse plenty of giggles as young readers enumerate the ways in which it veers from the original. Adults can encourage little ones to think of how “Cinderella” might work with other animals subbing in for the fairy godmothers . . . A barking good time will be had by all."  Kirkus “Although the jaunty text ruff-ly follows the traditional tale, in the end, Cinderella exhibits independence with a prince she likes but doesn’t know well enough to marry. Cheery, cartoonish illustrations lend to the cleverness in this feminist, fractured fairy tale.”  Booklist "Bailey and Hartas bring an irresistible charm to their playful interpretation. The bouncy, whimsical text is accessible and inviting, while the warm autumnal color palette evokes candlelight on a crisp night . . . Those looking for a fairytale-inspired romp need look no further."  Bulletin for the Center for Children’s Books "Cinderella — with Dogs! is an amusing and joyful story sure to delight animal lovers of all ages. Highly recommended."  Canadian Review of Materials

Arthur Who Wrote Sherlock illustrated by Isabelle Follath published by Tundra Books More than anything, Arthur loves stories. They help him through tough times in his childhood. And even when he goes to medical school and tries to establish a medical practice, his heart is in writing stories. For ten years, success is elusive. But then he creates a totally unique and compelling character — Sherlock Holmes! At last, Arthur's efforts are rewarded. The public LOVES Sherlock! He is a phenomenon! But can one have too much success and popularity? Soon Arthur is desperately seeking a way out. The only answer he can see is drastic — he must destroy the very character who brought him fame!   "Bailey . . . writes with a sure sense of her audience, beginning with her portrayal of the writer as a resourceful child whose family struggles and love of stories eventually led to his sympathy for the downtrodden and his writing career. Follath’s droll illustrations capture the look of the Victorian era, the drama of Doyle’s imagination, and the dry wit of Bailey’s text. A lively, memorable biography.”  Booklist (starred review) "A lavish testament to the life of Arthur Conan Doyle . . . This book will surely inspire wonder, breathe new life, and cement conviction into minds doubting the power of their own curiosity and imagination.”  Quill & Quire (starred review) "The true story of the man and the imagination behind the world’s most famous detective, superbly told for readers of 6+, with engaging illustrations.”  The Guardian

 

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