Children's Book -- Science Fiction/Fantasy -- Big Papa and the Time Machine by Daniel Bernstorm

 

Big Papa and the Time Machine

by Daniel Bernstorm

Category: Science Fiction/Fantasy

Summary

In Big Papa and the Time Machine, Daniel Bernstrom tells the heartfelt story of a young boy who was afraid to go to school and embarks on an incredible journey through time with his beloved grandfather, Big Papa. Each stop on their adventure teaches the boy a lesson about courage, perseverance, and the importance of understanding where you come from. 

Justification

Big Papa and the Time Machine meets several criteria for children’s literature selection. The book promotes cultural responsiveness, offering young readers a meaningful representation of African American history and familial relationships. It also supports social-emotional learning by gently addressing topics like fear, resilience, and personal identity. Its imaginative structure and poetic language engage a broad range of young readers while providing authentic emotional content that sparks both discussion and reflection, making it a strong, developmentally appropriate choice.

Evaluation 

Criteria 1: Illustrations

Shane W. Evans' illustrations are a critical part of the storytelling in Big Papa and the Time Machine. His artwork uses a muted yet rich color palette that conveys both the warmth of Big Papa’s love and the gravity of the historical moments they visit. The expressive facial features and the textured backgrounds invite young readers to feel the emotions experienced by the characters. Evans’ style supports the narrative’s tone by balancing imagination with historical weight, making the story accessible to children while honoring the seriousness of the themes explored.

Criteria 2: Setting

The setting in Big Papa and the Time Machine is dynamic and symbolic, moving fluidly across time periods while maintaining a strong emotional anchor between Big Papa and the boy. Central to this journey is Big Papa’s old car, which serves as both a literal and metaphorical time machine. The car is not just a vehicle for travel; it represents the bond between generations and the ability to carry stories, lessons, and love across time. Bernstrom masterfully uses the car to ground the fantastical time-travel structure, providing a sense of safety and continuity even as the characters visit unfamiliar or challenging historical moments. Each new setting, from busy city streets to poignant historical scenes, is crafted with sensory detail that feels vivid and real. This blending of realism and imagination helps younger readers grasp historical concepts while remaining firmly rooted in the emotional journey of the characters.

Criteria 3: Theme

One of the strongest elements of Big Papa and the Time Machine is its powerful and layered theme. At its core, the story explores the ideas of courage, identity, and intergenerational wisdom. Through the boy's fears and Big Papa’s supportive guidance, Bernstrom emphasizes how personal strength often grows from understanding the struggles and achievements of those who came before us. The theme is woven seamlessly into both the narrative and dialogue, offering young readers a model of how family history and personal resilience are connected. It inspires reflection on one’s own roots and the importance of bravery when facing an uncertain future.

References

Bernstrom, D. (2020). Big Papa and the time machine. Harper.

Children's Book -- Bluebonnet Winner -- El Chupacabras by Adam Rubin ; illustrated by Crash McCreery

El Chupacabras

written by Adam Rubin ; illustrated by Crash McCreery

Bluebonnet Award Winner

Summary

In El Chupacabras, author Adam Rubin brings a playful twist to a legendary creature from Latin American folklore. The story follows a farmer and his daughter as they encounter the curious El Chupacabras, who causes unexpected mischief around their peaceful goat farm. Told with a lighthearted tone and a clever bilingual format, the story invites readers into a world where surprises await, and monsters may not be what they seem. With humor and warmth, Rubin crafts a narrative that celebrates language, culture, and open-mindedness.

Justification

El Chupacabras thoughtfully blends storytelling with language learning, making it an excellent example of how children's literature can support bilingual development. The dual-language presentation feels natural rather than forced, creating an authentic reading experience for Spanish and English speakers alike. Additionally, the book’s focus on folklore felt important, offering young readers exposure to cultural traditions in a fun and accessible way. It meets the criteria for selecting quality literature: cultural relevance, creative language use, engaging illustrations, and strong appeal to a wide range of readers.

Evaluation 

Criteria 1: Illustrations

Crash McCreery’s artwork in El Chupacabras is visually striking and highly detailed, capturing the humor and emotion of each scene. His backgrounds, filled with rustic charm, create an immersive environment that enhances the folkloric atmosphere of the story. McCreery, known for his work in the film industry, uses expressive characters and dynamic action scenes to pull readers into the unfolding chaos. His depiction of the Chupacabras itself is both endearing and a little mischievous, challenging the typical scary monster stereotype and adding an important visual layer to the story’s message.

Criteria 2: Style and Language

Rubin’s narrative style in El Chupacabras is notable for its rhythmic, bilingual structure, where English and Spanish flow naturally side-by-side. The sentences are carefully balanced to offer readers context clues in both languages, making it approachable for language learners. Rather than treating bilingualism as a novelty, Rubin weaves it into the heart of the storytelling, allowing readers to appreciate the richness of both languages. The playful, conversational tone keeps the pace lively, making the book a strong candidate for interactive read-aloud sessions.

Criteria 3: Tension

The book builds gentle tension as the farm descends into chaos following the appearance of the Chupacabras. Rubin carefully raises the stakes through each unexpected event, keeping young readers engaged without becoming overly intense or frightening. The humorous consequences of the characters' actions keep the tone light even as problems compound, creating a satisfying balance between suspense and comedy. This careful management of tension not only drives the plot forward but also deepens readers' emotional investment in the characters' efforts to set things right.

References

Rubin, A. (2018). El Chupacabras (C. McCreery, Illus.). Dial Books for Young Readers.

Children's Book -- Informational -- Just Ask! by Sonia Sotomayor ; illustrated by Rafael Lopez

 

Just Ask!

Be Different, Be Brave, Be You

written by Sonia Sotomayor ; illustrated by Rafael Lopez

Category: Informational

Summary

In Just Ask!, Sonia Sotomayor introduces readers to a community of children who each have unique abilities, needs, and perspectives. Set against the backdrop of a cooperative garden project, the children share their personal experiences in an inviting, conversational style. Rather than focusing on challenges, the story emphasizes individuality, strength, and the beauty of diversity, providing an uplifting and accessible entry point for young readers to explore differences without fear or stigma.

Justification

Just Ask! exemplifies essential criteria for high-quality children’s literature: authentic representation, promotion of empathy, and support for social-emotional growth. As a work of nonfiction inspired by Sonia Sotomayor’s own experiences, the book offers factual, informative content in an accessible and engaging way for young readers. It educates children about different abilities and conditions while fostering a spirit of curiosity and kindness. The nonfiction aspect adds credibility and real-world relevance, making it an excellent resource for discussions about diversity, inclusion, and self-acceptance. Additionally, Rafael López’s lively illustrations enhance the storytelling, helping to make complex topics more relatable and approachable. Just Ask! aligns with educational goals focused on equity and emotional intelligence, providing an inclusive, informative platform for building understanding in the classroom and beyond.

Evaluation 

Criteria 1: Illustrations

Rafael López’s illustrations are vibrant, detailed, and inclusive, enriching the reader’s experience and deepening the emotional impact of the text. Each page bursts with color, movement, and energy, mirroring the enthusiasm and positivity of the children portrayed. López skillfully integrates visual elements that communicate each child’s unique story, using expressive faces and body language to convey emotion. His work ensures that every character feels fully realized and respected, supporting the book’s overall message of celebration and acceptance.

Criteria 2: Pacing

The pacing of Just Ask! is thoughtfully structured to suit a young audience's attention span while allowing sufficient space for reflection. Each character's introduction follows a predictable, comforting pattern, giving readers time to absorb and appreciate every story. The steady tempo ensures that no child’s voice is rushed or diminished, and the narrative builds a cumulative understanding of community through layering perspectives. This consistent rhythm also encourages young readers to pause, ask questions, and engage with the material at a deeper level.

Criteria 3: Characters

The characters in Just Ask! are thoughtfully developed, each given their own voice and agency within the story. Sotomayor crafts authentic, diverse portrayals that reflect a wide range of real-world experiences, including physical disabilities, chronic illnesses, and neurodiversity. Importantly, the characters are not defined solely by their differences; instead, they are presented as multifaceted individuals with interests, talents, and vibrant personalities. This approach fosters respect and normalizes diversity, allowing children to see themselves and others reflected positively. The characters' self-advocacy models empowerment for young readers, encouraging them to embrace their own identities with pride.

References

Sotomayor, S., & López, R. (2019). Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You. Philomel Books.

Children's Book -- Newbery Medal Winner -- New Kid by Jerry Craft

 

New Kid

by Jerry Craft

Newbery Medal

Summary

New Kid by Jerry Craft is a graphic novel that tells the story of Jordan Banks, a talented young artist who finds himself navigating a new world when he is enrolled at a prestigious private school far from his neighborhood. As he tries to balance his identity between two very different environments, Jordan encounters challenges around fitting in, making friends, and staying true to himself. Through humor, heart, and vivid storytelling, New Kid explores universal experiences of change, belonging, and self-expression.

Justification

New Kid is a highly acclaimed and award-winning graphic novel that meets key criteria for quality youth literature: strong cultural authenticity, age-appropriate content, meaningful themes, and artistic excellence. It stands out for its honest portrayal of the school experience, particularly for students of color who often feel caught between different worlds. The book’s engaging format, diverse representation, and relatable protagonist make it a valuable addition to any library aiming to foster empathy, inclusion, and critical thinking among readers.

Evaluation 

Criteria 1: Illustrations

As a graphic novel, the illustrations in New Kid are integral to the storytelling, seamlessly complementing the narrative tone. Jerry Craft’s artwork is approachable yet detailed, using clean lines, expressive characters, and thoughtful panel organization to enhance emotional impact. The visual humor layered into background scenes and facial expressions adds richness, allowing readers to pick up subtle social cues and character dynamics. The detailed illustrations thoroughly reflect Jordan’s emotional journey, shifting subtly as scenes move between his home life and school life. The illustrations are not just decorative; they are essential tools in conveying nuance and advancing the story.

Criteria 2: Characters

The character development in New Kid is a particular strength. Jordan Banks emerges as a fully realized, multidimensional protagonist whose internal struggles are deeply relatable. Supporting characters, such as his classmates, teachers, and family members, are also well-crafted, avoiding stereotypes and instead offering layered depictions that evolve throughout the story. Craft shows respect for the complexity of growing up, presenting characters with conflicting emotions, flaws, and growth. Through Jordan’s eyes, readers experience the nuances of privilege, microaggressions, and friendship, all rendered with authenticity and compassion.

Criteria 3: Theme

The central themes of identity, belonging, and resilience are explored with class and honesty. New Kid addresses serious issues such as racial bias, economic disparity, and social pressure without coming across as heavy handed. Instead, Craft invites readers to engage with these ideas through the lived experiences of his characters. The book fosters empathy and critical reflection, encouraging young readers to consider their own roles in creating inclusive environments. It also celebrates creativity and the importance of finding one’s voice, making it empowering for readers at a formative stage of personal development.

References

Craft, J. (2019). New kid. Quill Tree Books.

Children's Book -- Graphic Novel -- Alphabuddies: G is First by Beth Bacon and Karen Kane ; illustrated by Eric Barclay

  

Alphabuddies: G is First!
written by Beth Bacon and Karen Kane ; illustrated by Eric Barclay

Category: Graphic Novel

Summary

Alphabuddies: G Is First is a lively and imaginative picture book that brings the alphabet to life in a fun and unexpected way. When the letter G challenges the long-standing sequence of letters, a spirited conversation unfolds among the alphabet characters. This creative twist on the ABCs explores themes of individuality, fairness, and change through witty dialogue and engaging visual storytelling, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Justification

Alphabuddies: G Is First creatively supports foundational literacy skills while also promoting social-emotional growth. Its ability to blend a familiar learning structure—the alphabet—with an inventive narrative makes it particularly suitable for early readers who benefit from both structure and play. Additionally, the book encourages discussions around equity and voice, as each letter expresses its identity and role in the alphabet. These qualities align well with selection criteria that emphasize developmental appropriateness, literary quality, and opportunities for classroom or library discussion.

Evaluation 

Criteria 1: Illustrations

Eric Barclay’s illustrations are simple yet expressive, perfectly suited to early readers who are still developing visual decoding skills. Each letter is personified with distinct features and emotions, making it easy for children to recognize character traits and follow the story’s emotional tone. The bright color palette and clean lines create a visually engaging experience without overwhelming young eyes, and the comic-strip style layout brings energy and movement to the page. The illustrations not only support comprehension but also enhance the book’s humor and personality.

Criteria 2: Theme

At the heart of the story is a meaningful exploration of fairness, identity, and voice. The book encourages readers to consider what it means to follow tradition versus imagining new possibilities. These are powerful themes for children who are beginning to understand rules, hierarchies, and self-expression. By framing these ideas through the personified letters of the alphabet, the authors deliver a developmentally appropriate way to foster empathy, critical thinking, and open-mindedness in young audiences.

Criteria 3: Design and Layout

The book’s layout uses elements of graphic novels to maintain reader interest and support narrative clarity. Dialogue appears in speech bubbles, making it easier for children to follow character interactions and understand conversational flow. The pacing of the story benefits from this format, as it breaks text into manageable parts and provides visual cues that support early reading skills. The use of white space and strategic page design prevents visual clutter and helps focus attention on both text and illustrations, ensuring an accessible reading experience for a wide range of learners.

References

Bacon, B., & Kane, K. (2023). Alphabuddies: G is first! (E. Barclay, Illus.). HarperCollins.

Children's Book -- Pura Belpre Winner -- My Papi Has a Motorcyle

  

My Papi Has a Motorcycle
written by Isabel Quintero ; illustrated by Zeke Peña

Pura Belpre Winner

Summary

My Papi Has a Motorcycle is a vibrant and heartfelt picture book that follows a young girl named Daisy as she rides through her neighborhood on the back of her father’s motorcycle. Told through her eyes, the story captures the joy of shared experiences and the deep connections between people, places, and memories. It is a tribute to family, community, and the small yet powerful moments that shape our understanding of home.

Justification

My Papi Has a Motorcycle would be a great read or addition to a children's library based on its strong alignment with criteria for high-quality children’s literature, particularly its authentic cultural representation, emotional resonance, and artistic merit. The book is a powerful reflection of Latinx family life and community, offering young readers a mirror to their own experiences or a window into the lives of others. Written in both English and Spanish, it supports bilingual literacy and affirms the value of multilingual storytelling. Additionally, its accessible narrative and stunning visual design make it ideal for use in a variety of educational settings, from classroom read-alouds to discussions about family heritage and identity.

Evaluation 

Criteria 1: Illustrations

Zeke Peña’s illustrations are integral to the storytelling, blending comic book aesthetics with rich cultural imagery to create an immersive visual experience. His use of dynamic perspectives and movement captures the thrill of the motorcycle ride while grounding the story in a recognizable, lived-in environment. The palette—dominated by warm, sun-drenched hues—evokes the Southern California setting and the sense of nostalgia that permeates the narrative. Text and image work together seamlessly, with thoughtful visual cues that extend the story beyond the words. These illustrations are not merely decorative; they carry emotional weight and cultural specificity that deepen the reader's engagement with the text.

Criteria 2: Character

Daisy, the young narrator, is a compelling and believable character whose voice is both youthful and perceptive. Her admiration for her father is palpable, but so too is her growing awareness of the world around her. Quintero crafts Daisy’s voice with authenticity and nuance, allowing readers to witness both the joy of her ride and the subtler undercurrents of change in her community. Daisy is not a passive observer; she interprets and reflects, demonstrating emotional intelligence and a strong sense of place. Her characterization supports children’s social and emotional development by modeling curiosity, familial love, and cultural pride.

Criteria 3: Setting

The setting of My Papi Has a Motorcycle anchors the story’s themes of cultural identity, community, and change. Quintero’s depiction of a working-class Latinx neighborhood in Southern California is both affectionate and honest, capturing the vibrancy and resilience of a real-world community through Daisy’s eyes. The streets, murals, storefronts, and construction sites aren’t just backdrops—they are living parts of Daisy’s memory and experience. This setting serves as a powerful vehicle for exploring ideas of home and belonging, while also subtly introducing young readers to socioeconomic and generational shifts. The interplay between textual description and visual representation enhances the authenticity of place, offering a layered portrayal of a community in transition.

References

Quintero, I., & Peña, Z. (2019). My papi has a motorcycle. Kokila.

Children's Book -- Caldecott Medal -- Unspeakable by Carole Boston Weatherford ; illustrated by Floyd Cooper

  

Unspeakable

The Tulsa Race Massacre

written by Carole Boston Weatherford ; illustrated by Floyd Cooper

Caldecott Medal

Summary

Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre is a nonfiction picture book that introduces readers to the once-thriving Black community of Greenwood in Tulsa, Oklahoma: an area known for its success, resilience, and vibrant culture. The book traces the history of Greenwood and the events that led to a tragic act of racial violence in 1921 that forever changed the community. Through poetic text and powerful imagery, the story honors the people of Greenwood while encouraging reflection, learning, and remembrance of a critical moment in American history.

Justification

Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre meets several essential criteria for meaningful children’s literature. It addresses a critical historical event that promotes social justice awareness, cultural understanding, and empathy. Weatherford’s work aligns with educational goals that emphasize diversity, inclusion, and truth-telling in history, making it a valuable resource for classrooms and libraries. Additionally, Unspeakable provides a developmentally appropriate yet unflinching look at systemic racism, which is crucial for helping students understand and engage with the historical roots of racial inequities. The book is also recognized for its literary merit, having received multiple awards, including a Coretta Scott King Author Honor and a Caldecott Honor, showcasing its quality and impact.

Evaluation 

Criteria 1: Illustrations

Floyd Cooper’s illustrations bring the story to life with warmth, emotion, and depth. Using soft colors and gentle textures, the pictures help set the tone for both the joyful and the difficult moments in the book. His artwork beautifully shows the strength and pride of the Greenwood community, while also helping readers understand the sadness of what happened. Cooper uses light and shadow to guide our feelings as we turn each page, making the images feel powerful without being overwhelming. The illustrations work closely with the words to help young readers connect with the story and remember it long after the book is closed.

Criteria 2: Accuracy

Weatherford’s text is meticulously researched and grounded in verified historical accounts, as evidenced by the detailed author’s note and bibliography at the end of the book. The author approaches the topic with care, ensuring that the facts are presented clearly and responsibly for a young audience. She neither sanitizes the violence nor sensationalizes it; instead, she frames it within a larger historical and societal context that encourages critical thinking and inquiry. By doing so, the book supports educational standards related to primary sources, historical literacy, and critical engagement with difficult topics, making it a reliable and powerful instructional tool.

Criteria 3: Pacing

The pacing of Unspeakable is deliberate and effective. Weatherford employs spare, poetic language that guides the reader through the rise and fall of Greenwood’s story with reverence and gravity. Each page turn is thoughtfully crafted, allowing time for reflection without overwhelming the reader. The rhythm of the text mirrors the emotional trajectory of the narrative—beginning with pride and hope, descending into tragedy, and concluding with resilience and remembrance. This measured pacing is essential when introducing young readers to complex historical events, ensuring they have space to absorb and process what they’re learning.

References

Weatherford, C. B. (2021). Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre (F. Cooper, Illus.). Carolrhoda Books.