Fireworks
By: Matthew Burgess
Illustrated by: Cátia Chien
Medal
Reviewed by: Lara Lleverino
Also read and recommended by: Deanna Knoll
Fireworks by Matthew Burgess is a vivid, sensory picture book that captures the heat, anticipation, and joy of a summer Fourth of July through the eyes of two sisters. The bright, slightly blurred mixed-media illustrations evoke memory and motion, recalling the warmth and shimmer of long holiday evenings. Reminiscent of Ezra Jack Keats, the artwork celebrates community, childhood wonder, and rich cultural life. The final pages linger like the afterimage of fireworks, leaving readers with the glow of a summer memory.
Every Monday Mabel
By: Jashar Awan
Illustrated by: Jashar Awan
Honor
Reviewed by: Sarah Kim
Also read and recommended by: Deanna Knoll
I expect most children will find this book very relatable—I know both of my children have enjoyed peering out the window to watch the garbage truck as soon as they hear it outside. Mabel takes this interest to another level and waits every Monday with eager anticipation. While the artwork appears simple, it is very lively and full of movement. I also really enjoyed the depictions of Mabel's parents and her older sister and their reactions to her enthusiasm.
Our Lake
By: Angie Kang
Illustrated by: Angie Kang
Honor
Reviewed by: Deanna Knoll
Also read and recommended by: Lara Lleverino
When children must deal with loss of a loved one, it can be so difficult to put those feelings into words. This book sensitively addresses this subject without adding in all the adult emotions that often complicate a book about grief. The beautiful art, a combination of colored pencils, gouache and crayon compliments the story with its watery depiction of the lake and the boys' memories.
Stalactite & Stalagmite: A Big Tale From a Little Cave
By: Drew Beckmeyer
Illustrated by: Drew Beckmeyer
Honor
Reviewed by: Deanna Knoll
While the debate over evolution vs creation is a valid one, I chose to read and evaluate this book simply as a story, not in a philosophical sense. From that perspective, this book just didn't make the cut for one I'd want in my library. I found the conversation between Stalagmite and Stalactite dumb—at the level of a group of middle school boys goofing off in the lunch line. However, the Caldecott Honor is specifically for the artistry of the illustrations, which also came up short in my opinion. While cut paper collage catches my attention, again, this one didn't seem particularly noteworthy.
If you want a book about caves, or evolution, or illustrated with cut paper collage, there are many others that will fit the bill. I'd recommend checking out a different one.
Sundust
By: Zeke Peña
Illustrated by: Zeke Peña
Honor
Reviewed by: Sarah Kim
I found this story confusing. The story starts off following two children whose house is next to open space. They hop the wall to explore the wild desert and you're introduced to unusual plants and animals. Then apparently the children start imagining that the sun is inside them. I didn't really understand this until I read the publisher's description. I also found the illustrations strange—my son asked me why the heads were so flat. I like the idea of the book, but it didn't work for me.
