Words with Wings and Magic Things by Matthew Burgess, illustrated by Doug Salati

In Words with Wings and Magic Things, Matthew Burgess returns with an enchanting poetry collection for children, once again earning his well-deserved spot on the Kids’ Indie Next List. With Burgess’ whimsical, heartfelt verses combined with stunning illustrations by award-winning author and illustrator Doug Salati, this collection reminds readers to pause, look up, and to see the best our world has to offer. … More Words with Wings and Magic Things by Matthew Burgess, illustrated by Doug Salati

Into the Goblin Market, by Vikki Vansickle, illus. Jensine Eckwall

When Mina leaves for the Goblin Market and doesn’t return, Millie dons her red cloak and sets out to find her. Ready to face the worst, Millie doesn’t shy away from the dangers as she faces the tricky and magical world of the Goblin Market. Using her wits, Millie will do everything to save her dear sister Mina and bring her home safe and sound. … More Into the Goblin Market, by Vikki Vansickle, illus. Jensine Eckwall

Welcome, Dark by Charis St. Pierre, illus. Rachel Wada

Our imaginations bloom in inarticulate ways at times—magnifying a simple rustle or bird call, or the sound of rain on window’s glass. St. Pierre’s poetic story offers answers: the rustle is the wind, and the call of birds are just a normal part of the world at night, which has its own purpose in the time. … More Welcome, Dark by Charis St. Pierre, illus. Rachel Wada

Kin: Rooted in Hope by Carole Boston Weatherford, art by Jeffery Boston Weatherford

Each one of her ancestors comes to life through their respective poems, with their own voices, wants, and beliefs. In this, the picture of Weatherford’s family feels whole and complete. Weatherford shares earnestly what she both knows and imagines to be her family’s thoughts and experiences, urging the reader to connect and empathize deeply with the text’s characters. … More Kin: Rooted in Hope by Carole Boston Weatherford, art by Jeffery Boston Weatherford

Sharon, Lois and Bram’s Skinnamarink by Sharon Hampson, Lois Lilienstein, and Bram Morrison with Randi Hampson, Illus. by Qin Leng

Review by Elizabeth Leung

It is truly a testament to the genius of the original song how, over 40 years after its debut on The Elephant Show, the undeniably catchy tune of Skinnamarink(-y dinky dink, skinnamarinky doo) can resonate with this book’s readers. … More Sharon, Lois and Bram’s Skinnamarink by Sharon Hampson, Lois Lilienstein, and Bram Morrison with Randi Hampson, Illus. by Qin Leng