Lisa Wheeler is one of my very favorite picture book authors! I'm delighted to review her latest publication, Where, Oh Where, Is Santa Claus?, a Christmas book about Santa gone missing! Written in Wheeler's trademark rhythm and rhyme, we watch as several different types of polar animals search for Santa through a soft snow fall. Wheeler's fun rhyme scheme, use of onomatopoeia (sound words), and the repetitive phrase "Where, oh where, is Santa Claus?" make this a perfect read-aloud for children. The full 2-page spread illustrations are beautifully done in wax crayon and watercolor. I've always liked the way Ivan Bates does fur! Put this one on your wish list for Christmas books. You'll be glad you did!
Umami By Jacob Grant New York: Viking, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC, 2024. Picture Book. Umami is a little penguin who is sick of eating the same thing everyday, cold fish --ugh! She becomes determined to find new foods and flavors, so Umami begins a journey across the sea in search of something different to eat. She reaches a place with a plethora of delicious options, and tries bitter, sweet, sour, and foods with umami (just like her name!) among others. Umami decides to bring all these delicious new flavors back for the other penguins to try in a feast. But, will the other penguins enjoy this new experience? Filled with charm and humor, Umami is a diverse romp through a universal experience --am I willing to try something new? What will it be like? The idea of trying new foods and flavors make it especially relatable, and the appealing illustrations will have many readers ready to hop out on a culinary adventure. A humorous and sweet ending, caps off this delig...
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