Three books I enjoyed, but am not really able to give a full review to each individual are below. This is because if you try to write up a “full review” you just end up telling the story. And then, you, the reader of this review, will not want to read the actual books! (Each one was read via an online reader copy.)
Starting with The Eidi Bag by Shazia Afzal and illustrated by Shiva Delsooz, we have a book (currently available) that dives into the idea that things are different in your new location/home/country, but still can be special. This is not a new theme, but the setting and culture is. While I would have enjoyed a little more about the culture, it is perfect to talk about this subject. The colors are not too bold, but not muted. The details support the story and it almost has a humorous tone, but still keeps things serious, but not too serious.
Then we have The Jellyfish Bus by Suhyeon Lee and translated by Ha Young Kim. First, if you are looking for a scientific book, this is not it. It is a cute story about a jellyfish who is also a bus for the animals of the deep. Our Ralph Kramden lives up to his name, Slowpoke. Now the idea of a jellyfish as a bus is new, the concept of trying , doing your best, and finding where you can do the most good is not. The illustrations can be fun, but sometimes feel a little flat for me. However, I like the color and the Night Bizarre antics at the end are cute. Maybe not the most scientifically accurate, but you can find some facts inside (or in April 2025).
Finally, the book, What if Marty Doesn’t Like My Party? is on this list of books I read. Katie Arthur (in March 2025) will have a fun story about the worries a child has about his friend having a good time at their birthday party, and how their older sibling finds a way to calm those fears. Soft illustrations add to the cozy feeling of family. It might not be a WOW BEST BOOK ever, but it is a good book that might help a child overcome those pesky worries about a best friend, a new friend, or even starting/doing something new themselves. 