This large-sized biography is very reader friendly with wonderful illustrations by M.P. Robertson. The information is provided through short entries in the diary of Nefret, Cleopatra's young handmaid. Nefret describes what life was like for her before she worked in the palace and after. She tells of what is going on in the life of the queen as well. The reader learns of Cleopatra's relationship with the Romans, particularly Julius Caesar. In her diary, Nefret does mention her own family and friends, but it is obvious how as a royal servant her life centered on her queen, Cleopatra. A section at the end of the book includes Cleopatra's family tree, maps, time-lines, glossary and more specific information relating to the time period. The cover will grab the attention of many children with the sparkling jewels. Robertson's illustrations will keep their attention the rest of the way.
The House with Nobody in It By Jon Klassen Somerville, Massachusetts: Candlewick Press, 2026. Board Book. The House with Nobody in It may very well be your child's first ghost story. The simple story begins with the narrator explaining to readers that this house used to have someone in it, but there is now nobody there. Toddlers and preschoolers will love contradicting this statement as they peek through the house that the board book forms, as the ghost is clearly visible throughout the story. This unique and imaginative board book is the perfect thing to read during Halloween season! The book itself plays into the experience, with cutouts and clever turns that make it especially interactive. The illustrations are superb, simple but well crafted, adding to the story's theme as a whole. This will likely be a book that gets many repeat reads!

Comments