Archives for 2025

The popular animated Nickelodeon show Transformers: Earthspark, which premiered in the fall of 2022, has been a massive success for the network. The series which follows the adventures of the first Transformer bots that were born on Earth, is especially huge among kids ages 5-11. The TV show has also been such a hit that it’s inspired by books from S&S, and we will be releasing two new children’s books this December. 2024 is also a huge year for Transformers as Transformers One, starring Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson, and Jon Hamm, just hit theaters and debuted at #2 at the box office. 2024 also marks the 40^th anniversary of the Hasbro brand, so lots of attention is on Transformers right now!

In the 8×8 picture book WHAT DWELLS WITHIN by Maggie Testa (out: 12/10/24), readers will join Robby and his Terran friends as they fight for their lives while trapped underground. When Robby’s cybersleeves stopped working, the Malto Terrans return to the cave where they were born to find the water Robby needs to heal them. Once there, the friends get stuck in an underground tunnel system with Starscream, Nova Storm, and Skywarp! But the devious bots aren’t the most dangerous thing lurking in the tunnels. This action-packed illustrated storybook, which is based one of the popular episodes from the Nickelodeon series‒ is an exciting adventure for kids ages 3-7.

The second book based on Transformers: Earthspark is the Ready-to-Read (Level 2), TRIO OF TERRANS! by Maria Le (out: 12/10/24), readers will meet a daring new trio of Autobot siblings. Nightshade, Jawbreaker, and Hashtag have a lot to learn as they navigate their new world and select their alt-modes. Perfect for kids 5-7 year olds. Also since this title is part of S&S’s Ready-to-Read program, TRIO OF TERRANS brings the focus back to fun while still offering parents and educators well-crafted, imaginative stories that adhere to the recommended beginning reader guidelines.

LETTERS TO SNOOPY! (on-sale: 1/14/25): Snoopy and Woodstock go on an exciting road trip, and their friends miss them. Charlie Brown, Linus, Franklin, Sally, Lucy, and Schroeder decide to write them letters to say hello! Read all six of their letters using the pull tabs in this novelty book.

I love this book especially the little letters!

Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books to feature. Images were also provided.

Exploring the unlikely rise of the beloved king of the Pride Lands, “Mufasa: The Lion King” enlists Rafiki to relay the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature schtick. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost and alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka—the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destiny—their bonds will be tested as they work together to evade a threatening and deadly foe.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Junior R. comments, “Mufasa: The Lion King, takes us back to the beginnings of one of Disney’s most beloved characters.  As a huge fan of the original Lion King, I was thrilled to see the true story of how the great Mufasa came to be.” Juliana S. adds, “I love the film Mufasa: The Lion King! The movie has incredibly detailed animation and provides the message that everyone has a place in this world, and that you don’t have to be born great to become great.” Mikella G. wraps it up with, “Mufasa: The Lion King is an animated thriller. I really like this film and the way that it explores the Lion King’s story in a new way. It has a heartwarming storyline that teaches the important lessons of believing, love, and family.” See their full reviews below.

Mufasa: The Lion King

By Junior R., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Time to visit Pride Rock once again.  Mufasa: The Lion King takes us back to the beginnings of one of Disney’s most beloved characters.  As a huge fan of the original Lion King, I was thrilled to see the true story of how the great Mufasa came to be.

Mufasa: The Lion King explores the untold story of Mufasa’s youth long before he became the king of The Pride Lands. The film follows his journey from a humble and uncertain young lion to the wise, noble leader we know. Along the way, Mufasa forms deep bonds of friendship, faces challenges, and navigates a complicated relationship.  As he learns what it means to be a leader, Mufasa discovers that true strength comes from love, loyalty, and doing what’s right, no matter the cost.

Mufasa faces a lot of challenges, but he always tries to do the right thing and protect those he loves. Writers Jeff Nathanson, Linda Woolverton, and Irene Mecchi have created a strong storyline that connects the puzzle pieces together to complete the full story of the Lion King and Mufasa.  In Mufasa: The Lion King, the characters come to life in a way that feels both familiar and fresh.  The heart of the movie revolves around Mufasa (Aaron Pierre), who brings warmth and wisdom to the young lion’s journey.  As the film explores his bond with his brother Scar (Kelvin Harrison Jr.), their complex relationship is highlighted through both voice acting and rich storytelling. A breathtaking moment for me is when a single water droplet freezes in mid-air, perfectly capturing Simba’s (Donald Glover) face.  It creates an almost surreal feeling, as if time itself has paused, and the film freezes in that very instant, allowing the emotion in that scene to linger.  The music does not disappoint in this film either, with catchy, upbeat songs throughout.

The film emphasizes that true leadership comes from being kind, strong, and fair, while also reminding us that sometimes family dynamics can be complicated.  The story highlights the importance of staying true to oneself, even when life is tough.  The movie focuses on choosing to do what is right, no matter what happens.  Be forewarned, there are a lot of fighting scenes throughout the film.  While not overly graphic, it can be a bit intense especially for younger audiences.

Mufasa: The Lion King gets 3 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults.  Mufasa: The Lion King releases in theaters December 20, 2024.

Mufasa: The Lion King

By Juliana S, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

I love the film Mufasa: The Lion King! The movie has incredibly detailed animation and provides the message that everyone has a place in this world, and that you don’t have to be born great to become great. These morals are conveyed through the dialogue and plot of the film.

Mufasa: The Lion King tells the backstory of the young lion, Mufasa (Aaron Pierre), who is separated from his parents and taken far from home. A young Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) gladly takes him into his home, and his mother, Eshe (Thandiwe Newton) raises the lost lion. As Mufasa grows up, he learns how to understand his surroundings and hunt like a female. Eventually, Taka and Mufasa have to leave home together and go on a long adventure, to find the magical land of Milele.

One actor who really stands out to me is John Kani, who voices the all-knowing Mandrill monkey, Rafiki. Kani not only voices Rafiki with passion, but understands his character deeply. John Kani uses timing and volume to truly set in the words of the wise monkey. When saying philosophical things, which occurs often, Rafiki takes his time to ensure that the message gets across to the other animals. Another thing that stands out is the animation; the head of the team being Pascal Blais. One of the first things that I noticed when the movie started is how realistic the animation is. Every piece of fur on the lions’ coats, every highlight or shadow, even every small gust of wind that blows the leaves in the trees is so carefully created. The transitions of the film flow smoothly and show how truly talented the animation team is.

The message of this film is that you have a place, and no matter where you come from, you can be something great. Mufasa is very successful in motivating others to take action and be brave in everyday life!

I give Mufasa: The Lion King 5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It opens in theatres on December 20, 2024.

Mufasa: The Lion King

By Mikella G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 18

Mufasa: The Lion King is an animated thriller. I really like this film and the way that it explores the Lion King’s story in a new way. It has a heartwarming storyline that teaches the important lessons of believing, love, and family.

In this film, Rafiki (John Kani) tells the story of Mufasa to Kiara (Blue Ivy Carter), Timon (Billy Eichner) and Pumbaa (Seth Rogan). We learn that when Mufasa (Aaron Pierre) was a child he was unfortunately separated from his family. However, he never gave up on the land of Malaylay, and kept that hope with him throughout his wild, unexpected journey through life.

Something that really stands out in the Mufasa: The Lion King is the cgi. The animation of the lions is incredibly realistic. Although they are animals, each has human-like emotions on their faces and very distinctive features. Aside from the characters, all of the scenery is beautiful. The land of Malaylay is so colorful and vibrant, and the flowers and trees completely stand out. Even the underwater scenes are vibrant and realistic. Experiencing the film in IMAX completely added to the experience and made me feel like I was really there in these places. Another thing I really enjoyed is all of the references to the original Lion King film. The first movie is such a huge part of my childhood, and a film that I really connect with. Mufasa really feels like an adaptation of that movie while telling a completely different story. It is really interesting to discover this storyline and connect the dots to all the questions I used to have. Specifically, finding out the story of Scar (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) and the history he has with Mufasa was really cool for me to learn. Lastly, the music is outstanding. Lin Manuel Miranda composed such delightful, yet strong songs for this film. The musical theater aspect of this film is another thing that I really enjoyed. Also, some of the songs tie in with music from the original Lion King which really connects everything and makes it feel like one story. Music is such an important part of the Lion King franchise, and the score of this film completely exceeded my expectations.

The message of Mufasa: The Lion King is to never give up on what you believe in.

I give Mufasa: The Lion King 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 8 to 18 plus adults. Mufasa: The Lion King releases in theaters December 20, 2024.

 AS YOU WISH by Nashae Jones (out January 7th, 2025) where eighth grader Birdie has the chaos-loving West African trickster god offering to give her make the messy fight with her best friend, Deve, go away.

Middle schoolers are craving romance similar to classics from Meg Cabot and The Baby-Sitters Club, and Nashae perfectly captures that tween voice, making readers feel like they’re sitting down and chatting with their best friend.

This sweet and funny middle grade novel, with a dash of magic, offers the friends-to-more trope that tweens who love romance immediately pick up.

This is a fun and magical book!

Ten Purim Bears by Ron Atlas

Illustrations by Zach Horvath

The Collective Book Studio/February 4, 2025

$9.95 USD / $12.95 Canada

ISBN: 9781685552787

In Ten Purim Bears, one cheerful bear sits alone in a chair, waiting in anticipation for a festive surprise. Soon, another costumed friend joins, and then another, as one by one, ten playful bears gather to celebrate Purim together. With each new arrival, young readers will enjoy counting along, exploring the colorful costumes, and sharing in the excitement of what happens next.

This beautifully illustrated book combines simple counting and playful rhyming to engage children during the early learning stages. Parents and caregivers will love introducing little ones to the traditions of Purim, creating opportunities for storytelling, bonding, and celebrating together.

This delightful book is the perfect companion for family gatherings and holiday traditions, offering a joyful introduction to the customs and spirit of Purim and entertains and educates young readers while capturing the excitement of anticipation and celebration with friends, fostering meaningful emotional connections.

Perfect for preschoolers and early readers, Ten Purim Bears is more than a counting book—it’s a celebration of joy, friendship, and the enduring Jewish traditions of Purim.

In LILY’S DREAM (Aladdin; January 7, 2025; $18.99; Ages 4-8), a flightless fairy named Lily befriends a human girl named Willow and together, they create a safe space to learn from each other and grow despite their differences. And through their connection to the environment, they come together to inspire and build confidence in each other.

Lily is a young fairy determined to learn to fly just like the others who soar on shimmering, jeweled-colored wings, but she’s worried her own colorless wings will never lift her off the ground. Then she meets a young girl named Willow who helps her not only discover her special magic, but the truly magical gift of friendship.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR

Bea (Brittany) Jackson, the New York Times bestselling and award-winning illustrator of Parker Looks Up and Parker Shines On, attended the College for Creative Studies and was a grand prize winner of the L. Ron Hubbard’s Illustrator of the Future Award. In addition to her work as a children’s book artist and a character and concept artist, Bea’s art has been featured on books and comic covers as well as in various magazines. In 2021, Target launched Wondershop, a Christmas-themed collection, which included Bea’s art on gift bags, gift boxes, and wrapping paper. She lives in Detroit, Michigan.

This January, experience NFL Super Bowl champion Martellus Bennett’s picture book Dear Black Boy, a letter of encouragement to all boys of color who feel like sports is their only choice.

A different kind of coach for black and brown boys, and essential reading for children of every color, Dear Black Boy empowers kids to see new possibilities and follow their passions. Whenever self-doubt creeps in, they will find strength in its pages. With dreamlike illustrations that invite children to place themselves in the pages’ scenes, this uplifting picture book reminds kids that the biggest game they’ll ever play is the game of life. Off the courts and fields, people are rooting for them not as athletes, but as future leaders of the world.

Dear Black Boy will be available for purchase wherever books are sold on January 14, 2025.

For further information on Dear Black Boy please visit quarto.com.

On the surface, thirteen-year-old Kaya’s life is great. She lives in beautiful, beachy Lihiwai, Honolulu. She has ride-or-die best friends. She’s ultrasmart and killing it at school. She even works with a super-cute boy at her parents’ restaurant.

But she also has anxiety—serious anxiety, and she’s always had bad luck around the water. It’s hard to enjoy Hawaiian beaches when you’ve almost drowned more than once.

But as stranger and stranger things happen to Kaya around the sea, she realizes she has a special connection to it. Waves rise when she’s angry. Surf smooths when she’s calm. Fish come when she calls them. And when she learns the truth about her family and her divine ancestor, Mazu, she knows that she will need to connect with her most difficult emotions—or her potent powers may become dangerous to the people she loves.

KAYA OF THE OCEANby debut novelist Gloria L. Huang (Holiday House, January 7, 2025, Hardcover, eBook)is an exciting, fresh, and beautiful middle-grade fantasy about embracing who you really are. KAYA OF THE OCEAN gives tweens and their parents or guardians a jumping off point to discuss their own mental health, immigrant experience, and the complexities of growing up. Already selected as a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection as well as the ALA’s Indies Introduce List spotlighted debuts, KAYA OF THE OCEAN is already impressing readers, booksellers and librarians. Kaya is sure to leave a mark on you, too! 

Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books. Images and information were also provided.

Happy New Year! Have a wonderful year of reading!

New Year, New Reads! Get started on that resolution to read more in 2025 with these bookishly fun new releases filled with wonder, new adventures, and sweet friends.

Sofia in Rome by Maria Castellucci Moore

Readers will love following Sofia on this epic journey through Rome as she discovers the sights, smells, tastes, and sounds of the city that make her feel alive. What better place to discover new things and appreciate the smaller things than in the Eternal City? This second book in this traveling mindfulness book series unites curiosity and wonder through exploring new places. Sometimes it’s the littlest things that bring you the greatest joy.

Mia and the Woodlands Mystery by Scott Haas

Deep in the heart of the woods, an exciting mystery is afoot! Join a lovable bear, a wise old owl, and many of their other forest friends on an inspiring adventure filled with friendship and teamwork. As they unravel the mystery surrounding the people-family living at the bottom of their mountain, they show young readers that when we work together, we can accomplish anything. Readers will love this enchanting tale filled with animals, nature, and the power of friendship.

Let it Glow by Marissa Meyer

When Aviva Davis and Holly Martin meet at the holiday pageant tryouts for their local senior’s center, they think they must be seeing double. While they both knew they were adopted, they had no idea they had a biological sibling, let alone an identical twin! The girls secretly trade lives, planning to stage a dramatic reveal to their families. Readers will enjoy this charming tale of sisterhood, family and holiday cheer as two virtual strangers swap homes causing lots of havoc.

Petit Pierre and His Wild Adventure By Johnette Downing

Petit Pierre has made a home for himself on the coast where Louisiana meets Mississippi, and now it is time for him to learn how to plunge-dive. Brown pelicans typically pick up this behavior by watching others do it. Will a new friend help Pierre learn how to dive? Young readers will follow his progress and, along the way, find out more about Gulf of Mexico marine life. Parents will love lessons on perseverance!