I found two books (hence the title) that were nice, cozy and enjoyable but I did not want to weaken reviewing either solo as I didn’t want to add fluff to them. Therefore, please enjoy these shorter reviews that hopefully do not leave out the good stuff.
Thank You, School by Louise Borden and illustrator Paige Keiser due March 2026 Read via an online reader copy.
Through a series of poems, children thank each person (from bus drivers to teachers) who help make their school day possible. Things are simple, sweet, and thoughtful. There is not the stereotypical humor, but there is a lightness that is almost amusing. The illustrations are light, not overly colorful but are not lacking. It is a cozy book that did not wow me, but was the right read at the right time. It is good for most ages, starting with at least ages five and up. Also, it works as a gift (first day, graduation into a higher school level, or teacher).
Finding My Wave by Alexandra Katona and illustrator Sara Palacios due mid-later May 2026 Read via an online reader copy.
While the theme is not necessarily fresh (getting over worries/fears), the presentation has a piece that makes it fresh. The story focuses around Mia and her abuela who are getting ready to go surfing, but Mia has a little nerves. Okay, a lot of nerves. How can she get over them? The fact that we have a young looking abuela (called Lita) instead of the traditional or stereotypical grandmother is fantastic. Not all grandmothers are plump, gray-haired, wear aprons and bake cookies! Some are (gray haired) surfers who hang ten. The art is sweet and colorful, with simple details which capture the moment.