The Dam Keeper

“The job of a dam keeper is to keep the darkness away.”

Reading this pair of graphic novels whose continuing story is haunting and complex but also wonderful and honest.  The art feels like it was executed thoughtfully and deliberately, layered and deeply nuanced but not heavy.  Yes, darkness is prevalent throughout the story but there’s also friendship, light, hope and a sense of purpose.  And some of the best rendering of light and mood we’ve ever seen.  

The Dam Keeper and The Dam Keeper: Word Without Darkness were created by Robert Kondo  and Dice Tsutsumi of animation studio Tonko House and published by First Second Books.  Click here to see a preview of the animated film version of The Dam Keeper and other Tonko House projects.

Ivy and Bean: One Big Happy Family

Anyone else been missing best friends Ivy and Bean?  They’re back with book eleven and if your kids haven’t read the first ten, no worries — they have time to catch up!  Ivy and Bean: One Big Happy Family will out on August 28.  Ivy and Bean is a great chapter book series for kids who have become fluent readers and are looking for more substantial stories to sink their teeth into.  Would anyone be interested in a possible post about our favorite chapter books for first through third grade?  Leave a comment below if you are, or have any other bookish questions.

The Ivy and Bean series was written by Annie Barrows, illustrated by Sophie Blackall and published by Chronicle Books.  Visit Chronicle's site to read an interview with the Ivy and Bean team!

What’s the Difference: 40+ Pairs of the Seemingly Similar

A fascinating look at pairs of seemingly similar things with side by side comparisons that clarify subtle but important differences.  The pairs that we’re intrigued with so far — rabbits and hares, clementines and mandarins, the Netherlands and Holland, basilicas and cathedrals and seas and oceans.  A great way to satisfy curiosity, learn about those little details you’ve always wondered about and get in a good dose of engaging nonfiction during the summer.

What’s the Difference: 40+ Pairs of the Seemingly Similar was written by Emma Strack, illustrated by Guillaume Plantevin and published by Chronicle Books.

The Dress and the Girl

So much more than about a girl and her favorite dress, this poignant story is about inevitable change, journeys, separation, reunion and the story of our days.  It’s also about how our possessions become a part of who we are and part of our life’s narrative.  And how they endure, either in memory or eventually taking on a new life of their own.  One of our absolute favorites this year.

The Dress and the Girl was written by Camille Andros, illustrated by Julie Morstad and published by Abrams Books for Young Readers.  It’ll be out on August 7.

Mae’s First Day of School

Little Mae’s got the worst case of first day jitters in the history of first days of school.  She flat out IS. NOT. GOING.  It’s up to Mae’s very understanding and creative teacher to allay Mae’s fears and she does so in a pretty brilliant way.  Let’s hear it for amazing teachers...and that unforgettably nervous but magical energy of the first day of school.  We highly recommend Mae’s story for any reluctant kids who might need a little laugh and easing of nerves before their momentous first day.

Mae’s First Day of School was written and illustrated by Kate Berube and published by Abrams Books for Young Readers.