(3) K-3 Illustrated by Violet Kim. A man directs a racist comment at a Japanese American girl while she’s with her oba, leaving her in tears. Over soothing tea at her shop, Oba’s friend tells the girl about her experience in an internment camp during WWII. Oba explains that sometimes people’s fear of difference “plants roots and grows into anger,” which can lead to discrimination. This inspires the girl to plant love in her community. Ward handles racism with sensitivity, and Kim’s use of mostly bright colors helps to temper the book’s sadder moments. An author’s note and a glossary are appended.

Reviewer:

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Violet Kim. For the next generation of activists, this picture book is a how-to for kids going to their first protest march. Providing practical tips ("pack snacks and water") and straightforward details on what to expect (e.g., regarding speeches: "it's possible this part will get boring"), the easygoing text is paired with lively illustrations of smiling protestors. Freeman's afterword emphasizes that protesting is our right--"our responsibility, too."

Reviewer: Bridget McCaffrey

(3) PS Illustrated by Violet Kim. A little monkey repeatedly affirms that today--April 22--is his birthday. The other jungle animals, knowing it to be Earth Day, don't believe him, instead relating, in jaunty rhyme, the special things to do for the planet. The misunderstanding is almost beside the point in this entertaining tale with lively mixed-media art, useful for Earth Day celebrations.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz