Seven was more than just a lucky number for DBG last month as our friends at School Library Journal, Kirkus, Booklist and School Library Connection saw fit to award us with seven starred reviews for some of our biggest titles of the year. In case you missed it, here is a quick rundown of all the stars that shined so brightly in October 2016.
Nanette’s Baguette by Mo Willems (Reviewed by School Library Journal on Oct. 24th)
There is so much to discover and enjoy in this treat for eye and ear—even a hidden Pigeon. VERDICT For a storytime treat that children will devour, don’t miss this shopping trip.– Marianne Saccardi, Children’s Literature Consultant, Cambridge, MA SLJ
Lockwood & Co. Book 4: The Creeping Shadow by Jonathan Stroud (Reviewed by Booklist on Oct. 15th)
The wry first-person narrative is a pleasure, relating the story with an impeccable, understated sense of drama. Appearing at chapter headings, Adams’ dark, richly atmospheric, and often ghostly vignette drawings can make even a sandwich look downright sinister. Stroud’s scene setting and storytelling are second to none, but it’s his ability to create credible, idiosyncratic characters and relationships that makes avid fans of the Lockwood & Co. series.— Carolyn Phelan Booklist
A List of Cages by Robin Roe (Reviewed by Booklist on Oct. 15th and Kirkus on Oct. 1st)
A page-turner with a lot of compassion. — Michael Cart SLJ
In her debut, Roe tells the story of a friendship between two young men who will linger in the thoughts and minds of readers long after the final page is turned… A triumphant story about the power of friendship and of truly being seen. – Kirkus
Bella’s Fall Coat by Lynn Plourde and Susan Gal (reviewed by School Library Journal on September 7th)
…Ripe apples and Delicious verb pairs such as “twirled and whirled,” “crinkled and crackled,” and “picked and plucked” and outstanding illustrations make this offering a treat for eye and ear. A first choice for fall units.– Marianne Saccardi, Children’s Literature Consultant, Greenwich, CT SLJ
Rules of The House by Mac Barnett and Matt Myers (Reviewed by School Library Connection on Oct. 1st)
Myers contrasts Jenny’s disheveled appearance and untidy surroundings with Ian’s neat, orderly clothing and belongings. This is an amusing cautionary tale with no preaching and just a bit of a scare. – MaryAnn Karre, Retired Librarian, Vestal, New York SLC
Steamboat School by Deborah Hopkinson and Ron Husband (Reviewed by School Library Connection on Oct. 1st)
This title joins the ranks of Deborah Hopkinson’s outstanding body of historical fiction picture books… A terrific read on its own, this title would be a wonderful addition to a civil rights unit or a character education collection. – Leigh Russell King, School Librarian, Lincoln St. Elementary School, Northborough, Massachusetts SLC