(4) YA Illustrated by Ryan Howe & Nickolej Villiger & RL Alice. In this compact YA graphic novel about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People, Reanna deals with the disappearance of her older sister, Chelsea, and then her mom’s unexpected, grief-fueled move to the city to make “a new life for myself.” Rituals and cultural traditions lessen tensions and help the family cope with loss. While the book contains some distracting subplots, Storm (Ojibwe) handles this family’s story with great sensitivity. The panel illustrations are accessible if somewhat static. An author’s note is appended.

Reviewer:

(4) K-3 Spot Backyard Animals series. This slim easy reader opens with a photo glossary highlighting four frog-related vocabulary words, accompanied by instructions: "Look for these words and pictures as you read." The following spreads are organized around these keywords, with bright, close-up photos and a smattering of basic facts. The volume lacks substance but effectively reinforces the meaning of a small number of relevant terms. Also available in Spanish.

Reviewer: Rebecca Fox