Beaver and Otter Get Along . . . Sort of by Sneed B. Collard III, illustrated by Meg Sodano (September, 2021)

The author of this book tries to cover a variety of subjects-- neighbors, the environment, and the creation of wetlands. The pictures are charming and the "Explore More" section at the back of the book is helpful and will appeal to students interested in science and animals. While older children will enjoy it, it may not hold the attention of younger readers or preschoolers.

Too Crowded, written and illustrated by Lena Podesta (April, 2021)

Gil the goldfish gets tired of his house because he believes it is too crowded. It's full of his stuff, his castle, his plant and the 138 pebbles he cleans daily. So, he sets off to find a less crowded home. Gil packs his bag and goes into the world to look for a new, less crowded home. Along the way, he meets new animals in their homes and discovers something not-quite-right (for him) about each of the homes. The brightly colored pictures will delight young children. A good companion book for this would be Hoberman's A House is a House for Me.

The Leaf Thief by Alice Hemming and Nicola Slater (August, 2021)

A silly squirrel with a bad memory gets upset with the change of seasons because he is convinced someone is stealing his leaves. His friends bird, owl, and mouse remind him that the leaves disappear each year but squirrel wakes up each day in a tizzy because he sees fewer leaves. Children will be fascinated by the vivid colors as well as squirrel's dramatic worries about the changes. Recommended for teaching about the seasons, and about change.

Sourcebooks Publishing has been kind enough to send me ARCs of new books that will be coming out for children. Here are a few of them:

Except Antarctica! by Todd Sturgell, Available July 2021 This book about turtles explains they are found everywhere BUT Antarctica. As well as many other animals, who also do not live in Antarctica. But, Turtle thinks they should be everywhere and sets out for the continent. Along the way, he collects some friends, and, they do all make it to Antarctica. Upon arrival, they meet a lot of penguins, who do actually live in Antarctica. With bright pictures, this read will appeal to young readers, especially those who like animals.

Lobstah Gahden by Alli Brydon & Eg Keller. Available April 2021

This book, written in the 'Bahstan' vernacular, tells the story of two lobsters who are unhappy with the pollution they are finding in their gardens. Aside from the fact that it is making it difficult to prepare for the annual gardening contest, it's just trashy. The lobsters, Walter and Milton, work together to deal with the pollution. The brightly colored, cheerful pictures will appeal to readers of all ages, though the 'accent' may be a bit confusing for younger readers.