The No-Brainer Brain Explainer by Crab Museum

We're heading into the nonfiction realm with today's read and taking a peek at brains. No, zombies are not invited (for some reason, that was one of the first things I thought about). I found the cover very unique, and I can't remember ever picking up a book specifically about brains before. According to the blurb, this one should expand past humans and take a peek at the animal kingdom. I'm hoping that this will bring all sorts of fun facts with it, since there are so many possibilities on this front. 

Let's see where these brains lead us!

THE NO-BRAINER BRAIN EXPLAINER

by The Crab Museum

Illustrated by Bruno Valasse

Wide Eyed Editions

Children's Nonfiction

64 pages

ages 6 to 9

COMING JUNE 9th!!!

Welcome to the Crab Museum's guide to the incredible living machine that is the brain!

Through unbelievable facts and hilarious jokes, The No-Brainer Brain Explainer explores the smallest, biggest, toughest, foldiest, brainiest brains in the animal kingdom.

Take a tour through the imagination of dung beetles, marvel at cockroach brains that are spread all throughout their body, and meet octopuses with their nine brains. Discover the brains behind massive insect colonies, flocking birds and intelligent fungal networks, and of course, the smartest brain of all, according to itself: yours! You'll also uncover:

• What brains are made of and why they're important
• Where to find your second brain
• How brains help us time travel
• The fruitfly brain, the most well-studied brain ever
• The evolution of brains
• What makes a brain 'intelligent'
• The limits of brains, like confusion, phobias and mental wellbeing
• Much, much more...

Accompanied throughout by quirky illustrations, this book asks BIG questions about consciousness, types of intelligence, language, co-operation and other brainy topics, perfect for any young scientist, animal lover or just plain brainiac.

Need your brain explained? This is a no-brainer!

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

With a cast to delight, these pages run through all sorts of aspects surrounding brains and take a look at the vast possibilities brains have to offer.

This book is about brains. Obviously. I'll admit that the first pages had me raising my eyebrows, but after I sunk into the humor and things got rolling, I was completely immersed. The humor is quirky with tons of spunk...to the point that it almost feels chaotic, but it adds zest, and it works. While the illustrations are bright, energetic, and full of commotion, the information delivered is interesting, descriptive, and well done. All of it together hooks in a way, which makes it fun to discover what's next.

Starting off with some brain basics which explain neurons, the cerebral cortex, chemicals, and the like, the pages shift into the various attributes different creatures have thanks to their brains. From the electric eel to octopus dreams to elephant memories, these pages slide through all sorts of capabilities various creatures have and how their brains pull this off. The illustrations, while packing tons of nonsense and humor, also support the explanations in a way which makes them understandable. 

While the humor flies in the illustrations as the characters taunt each other and make silly comments, this dialogue easily stays separate from the main text. The main text sticks to strict paragraph form and usual font to immediately make it stick out from the rest of the page. I was surprised at how small this font is in comparison to everything else, but it works. The information is brought across with interesting personality, keeping a light atmosphere while making the explanations clear and understandable. Plus, there is something for almost everyone to learn....it's the first time I've heard anything about the special attributes of a woodpecker's brain. 

This is for readers who enjoy chaotic, silly fun while learning interesting facts. There's a lot of information packed into these pages and much of it includes lesser known things. This book is sold for ages 6 to 9, but I see this as going over many of their heads and would strongly recommend this one for the older, middle grade audience.

And here they are...

Crab Museum, Margate, UK, is run by Ned, Bertie, and Chase, but more importantly, it is Europe's first and only museum dedicated to the humble decapod. Crabs are a sideways-scuttling guide not just to the history of life on Earth, but also its future—from capitalism to climate change, there's nothing that can't be understood through the lens of these fascinating crustaceans. With inventive exhibits that combine humor, science, and philosophy, the award-winning Crab Museum pursues the noble claws of seeking to understand the natural world, and through it, ourselves.

Bruno Valasse has been designing, drawing, and making books, covers, posters, and illustrations for over 10 years, working with clients such as Tundra, Storey, the Mexican Film Academy, Penguin Random House, Santillana, Ediciones Castillo / Macmillan, Harper Collins and the Centro Cultural de España MX. He recently graduated from the Children’s Books Illustration MA at the Cambridge School of Arts, ARU. Bruno's first book, Shine, was released in 2024.

Finnik the Furious by Josh Ulrich

It's time for some adventure and fun, don't you think? Today's read should head in that direction with a caveman twist. Or at least, that's the vibe I'm getting. This book is all about a young monster hunter, who is stuck at home babysitting. Always. Telling by the cover, this won't be a boring babysitting experience, either.

Time to open it up and see what the monsters are up to and how this little guy is going to survive.

FINNIK THE FURIOUS

An Original Graphic Novel

by Josh Ulrich

Andrews McMeel Publishing

Middle Grade Fantasy  /  Graphic Novel

176 pages

ages 9 to 12

COMING JUNE 2nd!!!

A ten-year-old caveman and his baby sister take on monsters, mayhem, and unexpected responsibility in this laugh-out-loud graphic novel for kids!

What’s tougher than slaying monsters? Keeping your baby sister alive to tell the tale. 

Ten-year-old Finnik dreams of becoming a legendary monster hunter like his parents. But when he’s told to stay behind and watch his baby sister, Finnik finds a clever loophole: why not do both? 

With baby sister Tina strapped to his back, Finnik sets off on a prehistoric quest full of hungry beasts, epic battles, and unexpected dangers. The plan goes well . . . until a monster snatches Tina away! Finnik must discover the truth about what it really means to be legendary, and that heroes protect the people they love, no matter what. 

A laugh-out-loud adventure comic full of prehistoric peril, sibling chaos, and unexpected heroism, for fans of Barb the Last Berzerker, Cat Ninja, and Lucy & Andy Neanderthal.

GOODREADS    /    PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

One mistake turns into an epic adventure with little chance to breathe the entire way through.

Finnik is ten, definitely old enough to join his parents as they hunt monsters. But instead of joining them, they claim he isn't ready yet and stick him on eternal baby-sitting duty. When Finnik notices a small monster stealing their food and his parents are distracted with other things, he decides to stop that beast on his own. After all, it isn't big. Of course, he takes his baby sister with him because he doesn't need another lecture about leaving her alone. And he almost gets the beast...until a giant Crusher swoops in. Now, it's a race for survival.

This is a very adventurous read which keeps the tension going as soon as the huge Crusher monster sweeps in. First though, the author sets the stage with a Finnik, whose frustration is very easy to understand. Plus, his love for his sister is obvious, even if he grumbles the entire time. It makes him very easy to root for and hope that both make it through to the end. After all, his baby sister is adorable, too. The parents are also very loving, although they make mistakes, but the fevering desire to keep their kids safe also has the reader on the edge of their seat, hoping the parents make it in time. So, there's a lot of warmth and goodness flowing beneath the exciting action. And there is plenty of action as Finnik manages to get into one sticky situation after the other.

The graphics slide in an earthier color tone foundation to give a nice, caveman aura. Still, the monsters and details pops with color to keep everything far from dreary. The images give the action and danger an extra boost, making it hard to put this read down until the very end. The text stays concise to give exactly what's needed to make each scene clear and add personality. It fits the age group nicely and creates an easy read, which even reluctant readers are sure to enjoy. 

This is action pure with a lovely amount of family care to cushion the danger and add a wholesome touch. The ending leaves a bit sudden with the last scene, but this also promises tons more action to come. And Finnik is a character, which is sure to face crazy situations in the future as well.

And here he is...

Josh Ulrich has been creating comics from Jacksonville, Florida since 2007. His passion for storytelling began in high school and developed into a love for making graphic novels in college. Josh's publishing credits include his graphic novel series Jackie Rose and Newman which have both been published by NAVER Webtoon. His work is usually geared towards adventure and horror, driven by funny and lovable characters. Apart from comics, Josh loves fishing, kayaking, horror movies, and painting miniature, fantasy, army men, women, and monsters. 

Santiago and Great Bear by Lisa Johnston Hancock

I'm a bit late, today, but I didn't want the day to end without sharing another read. This one is very fitting for the evening hours, so maybe, this later posting is ideal.

Out here on the farm, it's even possible to see the Milky Way during certain times of the year. We do enjoy star-gazing, every now and then, and each time, it's amazing. Today's read heads right into the wonder of stars and should include friendship and a little imagination. I'm curious to see how to is. So let's open up that cover and find out!

SANTIAGO AND GREAT BEAR

A Friendship Written in the Stars

by Lisa Johnston Hancock

Free Spirit Publishing

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

COMING JUNE 30th!!!

Under the shifting phases of the moon, Santiago and Great Bear become friends.

In the city, Santiago was used to crowds of people and glowing lights. But when his family moves to the quiet countryside, with its vast, starry sky, he feels small and alone. Santiago makes a wish on the only constellation he knows. To his amazement, Great Bear falls from the sky to keep him company. But when the new moon arrives, Santiago must help his new friend return to the stars. Though saying goodbye is hard, Santiago discovers that every ending makes room for a new beginning—and maybe even a new friend close to home.

Blending lyrical storytelling with astronomy and themes of hope, friendship, and confidence Santiago and Great Bear sparks children’s creativity and offers comfort and inspiration to children navigating big changes. With additional information on constellations and phases of the moon at the back, the book engages children’s curiosity about the moon and stars and also fits well with STEM units focused on the night sky.

Santiago and Great Bear:

Tells a sweet and inspiring story of a boy who befriends Ursa Major
Portrays accurate constellations and moon phases
Offers comfort and hope to children moving to new places
Explores themes of friendship, kindness, and responsibility

Poetic, tender, and filled with wonder, Santiago and Great Bear invites children to look up at the night sky—and to being open to new opportunities in every change.

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON

MY TIDBITS

A gentle story melds with the wonder of star-gazing and the night sky to create a magical read.

Santiago is lonely. His family has moved to a new town, far away from his friends, and he still hasn't met new ones. One night, he heads outside and see the stars above. Recognizing the only constellation he knows, he makes the wish to find a friend on the Great Bear stars. A few nights go by, and as the moon goes through its phases, Santiago sees less and less stars, but then, a wonder occurs.

This is a calming, gentle tale, which lures in with longing, a touch of magic, and star knowledge, too. The sadness at moving away from friends and not knowing any one new is something that many readers can easily identify with or, at least, understand. As Santiago gazes sadly at the stars, it's hard not to feel for him. When the magic hits, it carries a whimsical touch and switch the mood completely. The end rounds off with a message surrounding friendship to leave a wholesome atmosphere. Then, there are several pages, which dive into constellation facts, moon phases, and more. So, it's a well rounded read which invites readers to star gaze and pay closer attention to the changing, night sky.

The entire tale flows with lyrical grace but keeps the text short and lets the illustrations carry much of the tale too. The illustrations are lovely and draw in with each scene. Some carry longing, some smiles and giggles, and others open up the wonder of the night sky. It makes a nice read-aloud for group and individual settings. It also works nicely as a bedtime read or even as a step into a theme surrounding constellations and moon phases. 

Channeling Marilyn by Mima Tipper

When I got my hands on today's read, I smiled. It's a paranormal tale which circles around a girl, who has Marilyn Monroe's spirit move into her. I'm not sure what exactly that means or what direction this will take, but according to the blurb, the situation will lean towards humor and heart. I'm wondering how deep this possession will go and have a feeling it could wreck all sorts of havoc in high school life. Honestly, there are many personalities from history, which could make the high school eve more interesting than it already is. My imagination is switching into hyper-drive just thinking about the possibilities.

I'm going to keep my imagination from wandering...Genghis Khan... as said, keep my thoughts centered on Marilyn Monroe and head into these pages.

CHANNELING MARILYN

by Mima Tipper

She Writes Press

YA Paranormal Romance

303 pages

COMING JUNE 2nd!!!

Seventeen-year-old Lexa Donovan’s timid, plus-size life goes sideways when the spirit of Marilyn Monroe takes up residence in her body in this laugh-out-loud funny paranormal YA tale perfect for fans of Lisa Schroeder and Ashley Poston.

High school senior Lexa Donovan longs to be more than a bit player in her own drab life—and when she’s chosen to be part of her school’s spring production of Bus Stop, she thinks her wish has come true. But her thrill turns to panic when she’s tapped to play the leading role, sexy showgirl Cherie. One thing tall, plus-size Lexa knows for sure is that she is the exact opposite of the most famous Cherie sex-goddess Marilyn Monroe.

Lexa wants out before she makes a fool of herself in front of everyone. But then something entirely unexpected The spirit of Marilyn Monroe appears—ready and willing to be Lexa’s personal acting coach—and talks her out of quitting. 

Soon, Lexa’s life becomes a screwball comedy, with her bouncing between Marilyn’s acting “help,” her crush on her gorgeous co-star Brian, and her unexpected attraction to the mysterious Jeremy Leith. Comedy shifts to drama, though, as Lexa’s fear of humiliation—fueled by Brian’s jealous girlfriend—morphs into full-on stage fright. A fright that grows dangerously intense when Marilyn starts having decidedly un-spiritish feelings that have nothing to do with Lexa or the play.

Before the curtain rises on opening night, Lexa and Marilyn will have to learn to trust their own hearts and act on what each truly needs to move on—in life and in death. 

GOODREADS    /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

High school drama hits a new level with a sweet, humorous delight in a way which leaves one word on the lips, 'creamy'.

Lexa did something she never, ever should have done and is hating herself for being so stupidly spontaneous, but she never could have guessed that tossing her name into a jar would end up with her playing the main role in the upcoming school's play. Worse yet, the script gained fame thanks to Marilyn Monroe's historic performance, and Lexa is nothing like her. Absolutely nothing. To stop disaster before it strikes, she goes to the teacher to drop out of the play, but this escape is thwarted when Marilyn Monroe appears inside Lexa's head. Whether she's a spirit or Lexa loosing her mind is still to be determined, but either way, it's not only dealing with the constant chatter inside her head, which begins to make Lexa's life difficult. Whenever Marilyn takes over, Lexa does the most unexpected things. Add that the guy Lexa has had a crush on forever has the leading male role, a unavoidable kiss scene, and a very jealous girlfriend, and this play is headed to become more than just a simple disaster.

This is a read, which leaves a smile on the face, warmth in the heart, and a head full of possibilities. And while this is a romance, there is so much more driving the plot than just starry-eyed moments and stomach tingles. Lexa is a girl, who like almost everyone, isn't sure of where she's headed, what she wants, or even who she is and would like to be. But she has tons of heart and is as sweet as sweet can be. We meet her as a person, who isn't really uncomfortable in her own skin and has a wonderful support group in a loving father and best friend. She isn't bullied or an outcast (which is a nice change) and while she has dreams, she's already settled herself with a future that doesn't include these and is fine with that. Being shoved into the lead role in the play thrusts hidden uncertainties and self-imaging problems to the forefront, and her fears and feelings are understandable. In other words, she very easy to connect with and doesn't really make 'stupid' decisions. So, having Marylin enter her head adds zesty spice to throw everything off balance and creates fun humor without a dash of negativity. The romance also remains on a very innocent scale and simply adds to the growing chaos in the right ways.

I'm not a Marylin Monroe guru, so I can't really say too much about this aspect of the read. The author brings her across with kindness, uncertainty, more wisdom than is first obvious, and a bit of naive and unintentional chaos. For a while, I wondered if it would slide into a little mystery surrounding her death, but it stayed in Lexa's realm. There's an inspiring message about doing something a little unexpected now and then, and trusting yourself to go beyond your own borders. In other words, it's a fun, innocent read with silly predicaments, dreams, and enough heart to make it feel like a warm embrace.

And here she is...

Mima Tipper is half Greek and half American, and her writing reflects her heritage—a little bit old-country, a little bit rock and roll; one foot wandering through the dreamy realm of myths and faerie tales, the other running on the solid ground of fast-paced, contemporary story. She earned her MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults from Vermont College of Fine Arts, and has published YA fiction in Hunger Mountain and Sucker Literary magazine. When not working on her own writing, she is committed to promoting literacy and to supporting the writing community. Mima lives in Vermont.

Happy Book Birthday, Unicorn in Uniform by Beth Ferry!

It's Happy-Book-Birthday time! And today's read is one which should pack tons of high-spirits and smiles. I love the party atmosphere on the cover...maybe because I'm in a party mood. I also enjoy that there doesn't appear to be glitter, but rather, the unicorns seem to be dancing to their own styles. I'm thinking that this will circle around the various jobs which exist and increase awareness on that in. But I'm also hoping for some fantasy swirls. After all, these are unicorns.

Let's get ready for... well, anything is possible when we hit creatures like unicorns, right?

UNICORNS IN UNIFORMS

by Beth Ferry

Illustrated by A.N. Kang

Simon & Schuster

Picture Book

40 pages

ages 4 to 8

No job is too big or too small for magical uniformed unicorns in this adorable and empowering picture book from New York Times bestselling author Beth Ferry!

We’re Unicorns in Uniforms!
We know just what to do.
We’re hoofed and horned and well-informed
And ready to help you!

Come join these caring unicorns as they work, play, and save the day—because when you’re a unicorn, U can do anything if you work together!

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON    /     PUBLISHER

MY TIDBITS

Unicorns are busy and everywhere in a read which inspires and adds a bit of unexpected adventure, too.

In this fantasy town, unicorns are ready to make sure everything works as it should. From doctors to farmers, unicorns not only wear all sorts of uniforms, they do the work to match. Each unicorn contributes in their very own way to make life run smoothly. So when it's time to take a break, they are ready to relax in style. That is, until a dangerous storm comes their way.

This read slides into fantasy with unicorns, fairies and more, but uses this as a backdrop to showcase the huge variety of jobs needed to make a town work. All of these jobs are usual ones found in modern life and most will be familiar to the intended age group. Listeners/readers gain awareness for different forms of work, while also being entertained by the lively unicorns and their parade of uniforms. The jobs aren't described but simply mentioned. The illustrations take it from there and have many of the unicorns performing tasks related to their profession. About halfway through, the unicorns call it a day, and the tale shifts gears into a little more adventure as an evil and powerful dragon storm threatens an attack. There's a imaginative turn into action as the unicorns transfer into small action heroes and do their best to defeat the foe. The ending switches things up again and wraps things up on a very positive note. So, this is by no means a monotone tale.

The text flows smoothly and sticks to playful rhymes while the illustrations add details and enrich the plot. It creates a lovely read-aloud for groups and individual settings. 

And here they are...

Beth Ferry is the author of numerous picture books for children including Roar for Reading, Prunella, and the New York Times bestseller Stick and Stone. She is an avid reader who believes that any day spent with a book is a perfect day. Beth lives with her family by the beach in New Jersey where she finds inspiration in the salty air. In addition to writing picture books, Beth also writes chapter books and graphic novels. She’s the author of the middle grade book Growing Home. You can learn more at BethFerry.com.

A. N. Kang started her career designing giftware, greeting cards, and holiday installations all over New York City. In 2016, She debuted as an author and illustrator with the picture book The Very Fluffy Kitty, Papillon. Since then, she has been working as a children’s book author and illustrator. Her books include My Big Bad Monster, Celebrate You! by Sherry Duskey Rinker, Squirrel’s Family Tree by Beth Ferry, and I Worked Hard on That! by Robyn Wall. You can see more of her work online at AnnaKangDesign.com.