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Books of the Week: November 5, 2025

November 5, 2025 By Leave a Comment
 HOLLY JOLLY KITTY-CORN

In this latest installment of the New York Times bestselling Kitty-Corn series, Kitty and Unicorn are celebrating their very first Christmas together. But when they can’t agree on what makes the season truly special, their perfect day starts to fall apart… until they’re reminded that being together is what matters most.

Holly Jolly Kitty Corn is a heartwarming holiday picture book from beloved bestselling duo Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham. These real-life best friends (and creative powerhouses) once again deliver a story as joyful and genuine as their own long-running partnership.

It is such a fun book to read this holiday season! Children will just love the characters!

 JACKSON BRIGHT IN THE SPOTLIGHT

This middle-grade novel from RuPaul’s Drag Race star Eureka O’Hara and best-selling author Dan Poblocki is a must-read! This beautiful, buoyant middle-grade novel follows a boy who enters his local Little Miss pageant as a drag queen and shows his town just how fabulous he can be!

I believe it is important that children and adults can be themselves, and I enjoyed reading this story. As more and more legislation is being introduced that limits drag performances in kids’ spaces, this book affirms that drag is for kids, and that everyone benefits from being exposed to such an inclusive and celebratory art form.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Eureka O’Hara started out as a small country child in the heart of East Tennessee. She is known for competing on RuPaul’s Drag Race and as the co-host of We’re Here on HBO. One of O’Hara’s goals is to give people of difference around the world the confidence to go out and live their dreams. O’Hara wrote Jackson Bright in the Spotlight, her debut novel, because she wanted to create something that could have inspired her when she was growing up. As a self-proclaimed Elephant Queen to her fans, O’Hara’s passion for elephants reflects how she perceives herself: a large, majestic big mama. She regards those family-oriented and brilliant pachyderms as the best representation of size-positivity, kindness, and love, and she fights to protect those traits in all of us. She lives in LA.

New York–based Dan Poblocki is an author of mystery, horror, and adventure novels for young people. He is the coauthor with Neil Patrick Harris of the #1 New York Times bestselling series The Magic Misfits (writing under the pen name Alec Azam). He’s also the author of Tales to Keep You Up at Night, The Stone Child, The Nightmarys, the Mysterious Four series, and many more. His books The Ghost of Graylock and The Haunting of Gabriel Ashe were JLG selections and made the American Library Association’s Best Fiction for Young Adults list.

Wickedly Popular (10/7/25; Workman Kids; $9.99) 

Get ready for Wicked: For Good this fall with an enchantingly illustrated sticker book for Ozians of all ages! Wickedly Popular  (Workman Kids; $9.99) has over 1,500 stickers (and 550 mini nail stickers!) inspired by Wicked and the classic Wizard of Oz. Explore “popular” song titles, lyrics, notable quotes, and references to beloved characters in this unauthorized collection.

If you are your child is a fan of Wicked, this book is a must!

The adorable symbols throughout Wickedly Popular were illustrated by Brooke O’Neill, the artist behind our sticker book, Unofficial Taylor Swift Eras: The Sticker Version.  I also recommend the Unofficial Taylor Swift Eras: The Sticker Version! Her charming, playful art is perfect for showing off your inner magic! Both books would also make great holiday gifts!

*Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books to facilitate this featured book post. Cover images were also provided.

Filed Under: Media Reviews

The French Italian * Humorous Touches With Real-World Examples

November 1, 2025 By Leave a Comment

When a young New York City couple are terrorized by their noisy downstairs neighbor, who happens to be a failed actress, they decide to get revenge by casting her in a fake play in order to humiliate her. However, the couple soon get sucked into the process of producing theater and start to believe that becoming artists is their true calling.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Elsy S. comments, “I like the film The French Italian because of its humorous touches, real-world examples, and the two main characters’ unrealistic opinions of what they believe to be an amazing play.” Leo G. adds, “I enjoyed The French Italian because it has funny moments and quirky humor, but it is a bit slow at times.” See their full reviews below.

The French Italian

By Elsy S. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

I like the film The French Italian because of its humorous touches, real-world examples, and the two main characters’ unrealistic opinions of what they believe to be an amazing play.

The story takes place in modern day New York City, and follows a couple, Valerie (Cat Cohen), and Doug (Aristotle Athari), who are antagonized by their downstairs neighbor (Jon Rudnitsky), and his new girlfriend, Mary (Chloe Cherry). When they find out that Mary is an actress, Valerie and Doug come up with a plan to get revenge on her, by writing a fake play and casting her in it. They write the play as a joke, but get really into it, envisioning themselves as great playwrights. The play takes place, but Mary finds out about their plan and leaves, and eventually, the play is a success as a one man show starring their other actor, Joe (Ikechukwu Ufomadu).

The story really symbolizes real-world examples of getting too caught up in something and believing yourself to be a genius. One aspect that really impressed me is how it manages to portray the characters in a way that is both comedic and authentic. Although the acting is generally impressive, a few characters don’t seem to portray any emotion throughout the film, such as Mary, who just looks bored throughout the entire film. My favorite part is when the play takes place, starring Joe, and is a complete success, due to its humor that made both the audience in the film and me laugh. My least favorite part is when Mary and her boyfriend are fighting and prevent Valerie and Doug from getting any sleep.

The film’s message is about realistic expectations and not overestimating your abilities. It also reminds us to be self-aware. Be forewarned that there are some references to adult concepts, mild nudity, language, and drinking.

I give The French Italian 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18. It will be available on VOD starting on October 28, 2025.

The French Italian
By Leo G. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

I enjoyed The French Italian because it has funny moments and quirky humor, but it is a bit slow at times. 

The story follows a couple, Doug (Aristotle Athari) and Valerie (Catherine Cohen), as they carry out an elaborate plan to get back at an ex-neighbor, Mary (Chloe Cherry). Doug and Valerie feel forced to move from their amazing New York apartment because Mary and her boyfriend are so loud. To get back at them, they trick Mary into accepting a role in a play that Doug and Valerie write specifically to humiliate Mary.

Valerie’s character has funny moments at her job as she tries to hide the revenge plan from her boss and when she discovers that a friend helping her with the play is crazy. The movie gets quirkier as Valerie and Doug get increasingly obsessed with their play, which includes a human playing a pet dog and a huge talking karaoke machine. However, the movie is a bit slow at times because the characters talk a lot about the play and there is not a lot of action. For example, when Doug and Valerie run a marathon, they talk about the play the entire time. In the end, I think Doug and Valerie are self-centered characters and it makes me question whether it is Mary’s fault that they move away. It might just be that Doug and Valerie only see things from their point of view. 

The film’s message is that there are always two sides to a story. 

I give The French Italian 3.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults.  It will be released on demand on October 28, 2025.

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Gustavo and Margarita, Oct. 31 Pets of the Week

October 30, 2025 By Leave a Comment
AWWWWWWW!

Trick or treat, and here’s a sweet treat for you! Their names are Gustavo, an orange tabby, and his twin sister, Margarita, a silver tabby. They were sick when they came in, and the staff and volunteers worked their magic and transformed them into wonderful, healthy kittens. Gustavo is the spokesperson for the pair—he purrs no matter who’s handling him and plays. He makes sure that his quiet, reserved sister joins in the fun. It would be a horror movie to separate this bonded pair, so to adopt or foster them, email PetAdopt@longbeach.gov to speed the process, or call (562) 570-7387. Better yet, pay a personal visit to our shelter, 7700 E. Spring St., Long Beach (at entrance to El Dorado Park, no parking fee for shelter guests). Say, “Trick or treat! Fill a cat carrier with someone sweet—Margarita (ID#A741511) and Gustavo (ID#A741512)!”

Filed Under: Pet Corner

Stitch Head * Great Movie! Super Funny, Lively Animation and Heartfelt Message

October 27, 2025 By Leave a Comment

Just in time for Halloween comes the perfect story that offers a heartfelt twist on the Frankenstein legend. High above the little town of Grubbers Nubbin, in a castle laboratory, the maddest of all mad professors brings monstrous creations to (almost) life… and then promptly forgets all about them. So, who runs the castle? Who keeps the monsters in line, so the townsfolk don’t form an angry mob? That job falls to Stitch Head – the professor’s very first creation. He does it all, unnoticed and unthanked. But when a ramshackle freak show rolls into town, its sly owner, Fulbert Freakfinder, comes knocking, offering Stitch Head fame, fortune… and maybe even love. A whimsical tale Stitch Head offers a comedy adventure for monsters of every age.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Spencer C. comments, “Stitch Head is such a great movie! It’s super funny; the characters are awesome, and I love its message. I laughed a lot because the characters do silly things that make their scenes even more fun…” Ryan M. adds, “The action, the comedy and most importantly the monsters are just so funny, gross and cool. It`s the monsters that make this movie so amazing because they add so much comedy into the film. My favourite character is Fulbert the money hungry director because he’s so funny…” Tiana S. wraps it up with, “Stitch Head is a movie filled with (almost) life, inspiration, and music. I predict that fans of the Stitch Head books will love this lively animation, and newcomers will certainly want to read more about him.” See their full reviews and Spencer’s talent interviews below.


Stitch Head

By Spencer C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Stitch Head is such a great movie! It’s super funny; the characters are awesome, and I love its message. I laughed a lot because the characters do silly things that make their scenes even more fun, like when one character falls out of a tree instead of just walking into the scene. 

The storyline is about a boy named Stitch Head (Asa Butterfield), a small creature who is the Mad Professor’s (Rob Brydon) very first creation. He lives in a castle in the town of Grubbers Nubbin with a bunch of other monsters, who are all kept hidden from the townspeople. The Professor never really notices Stitch Head, which makes him feel unloved. A new creation called Creature (Joel Fry) comes along and calls Stitch Head his “bestest of best friends.” When a circus called “Are You Ready for Monsters” comes to town and tries to scare people, things get wild. 

The animation is cool and colorful. The monsters are super fun and creative, and the castle feels like a monster orphanage, in a good way. Creature is one of my favorite characters because he’s so wild and loves Stitch Head like a best friend. One of the funniest parts is when Stitch Head runs away and Creature says he will bring him home, or not come home at all. When he finally finds Stitch Head hanging out with a girl, he totally freaks out and falls out of a tree. My favorite scene is when Creature picks up an entire trailer and runs away with it. It is so hilarious!

The film’s message is that you might be more loved than you think – and it’s a reminder to show your love for others too. There’s no bad language or scary parts, but there is a fire and an angry mob.

I give Stitch Head 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It will be released in theaters on October 29, 2025. 

Stitch Head
By Ryan M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 11

Welcome to the super creepy and awesome world of Stitch Head. Created by the Mad Professor, Stitch Head and other monsters live in a castle where lots of monster mayhem takes place. This movie was a blast to watch.

The storyline follows Stitch Head (Asa Butterfield), a forgotten creation of the Mad Professor, who joins the circus with a money hungry director Fulbert Freakfinder (Seth Usdenov) in the town near their castle. Misled by Fulbert, the townspeople plan to attack the castle to try and eradicate the monsters.  Then BOOM! It breaks into a very epic fight scene.

The action, the comedy and most importantly the monsters are just so funny, gross and cool. It`s the monsters that make this movie so amazing because they add so much comedy into the film. My favourite character is Fulbert the money hungry director because he’s so funny; when he tries to convince Stitch Head to join the circus and when he sees Stitch Head’s real face. The animation, by David Nasser, is phenomenal; it is smooth and very fun to watch. I love how the monsters all move in different ways; Creature has three hands but they move way differently than you would expect. The story, by Dietmar Kremer, kept me hooked the entire time and got me thinking about the message of this movie. The music, by Nick Urata, helps to give this movie life in so many different ways, just like at the circus. The big chase scene made me think I was in the movie.

The film’s message is that making money off of people will not make you rich and it’s just wrong.  It is also a reminder to recognize who your true friends are.

I give Stitch Head 4.5 out of 5 and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. It will be released in theaters on October 29, 2025.

Stitch Head

By Tiana S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

Stitch Head is a movie filled with (almost) life, inspiration, and music. I predict that fans of the Stitch Head books will love this lively animation, and newcomers will certainly want to read more about him. Stitch Head is touching to watch and made for an all-around fun and inspirational family watching experience at my house — from the characters to the message.

Based on Guy Bass’s books with the same name, Stitch Head follows the story of Stitch Head (Asa Butterfield), a boy who lives in a castle working for the Mad Professor to take care of all his almost-life monsters from an angry mob they’re taught to be afraid of. Being the first creation, he deals with being left out at times, and being unappreciated starts to affect him. One day, Fulbert Freakfinder (Seth Usdenov), a circus-owner in need of a new act, shows up at the castle and is impressed with his appearance. He tells Stitch Head that people will love him. From there, Stitch Head has to decide whether to stay at the castle and house the monsters or go live out what could be a new chapter for him.

The main character of the movie is Stitch Head, but it also includes Creature (Joel Fry), Fulbert, and Arabella (Tia Bannon). The animation of Stitch Head is bright, smooth, and lively, making for an entertaining film. The 3D style truly stands out with its bright color palette, light, and fun style. The characters add a unique element to the film; all the different monsters, are unique in the colors and special designs used. Being monsters, they’re made to look like monsters, but at the same time, they don’t feel like monsters based on their fear, personalities, and human-like natures. Stitch Head is always worrying about the approval of the Professor and thinking that he truly needs him there to help. The monsters, though, see him as someone who is brave and could protect them. Stitch Head stays so worried about being loved by the Professor and others; in a way, he holds himself back and does not allow himself just to be free and content with who he is.   

The film’s message is to be true to yourself and confident in who you are. This is a great movie for families to go see together.

I give Stitch Head 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Head releases in theaters on October 29, 2025.

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Halloween Book Choices

October 27, 2025 By Leave a Comment
A wonderful book about friendship!

A ghost is having a very bad day. He feels like he hates EVERYTHING! Lucky for him, he has a good ghost friend to talk it through with. Because if he doesn’t really hate sweets or flowers or dressing up, and he definitely doesn’t hate his friend, then maybe he doesn’t hate everything after all…

Author Bio

Sophy Henn is an award-winning picture book author and illustrator with a master’s in illustration from the University of Brighton. She is the creator of the much-loved Bad Nana series, the Pom Pom series, the Ted board book series, and the nonfiction titles Lifesize and Lifesize Dinosaurs, among others. Her debut picture book, Where Bear?, was nominated for the Kate Greenaway Medal and shortlisted for the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize. Sophy was the World Book Day Illustrator in 2015 and 2016.

Such a fun book!

DISCOVERY OF DRAGONS (Miriam’s Magical Creature Files #2) by Leah Cypess, illustrated by Sarah Lynne Reul ( ISBN: 9781419772429; Ages 6-9)

In this charming chapter book series about a young Orthodox Jewish girl, Miriam sets out to find the truth about all the magical mysteries in her world using her superior detective skills. When it’s time for Miriam’s class trip to the zoo, her sister swears that when she went on the trip, she found a secret dragon. Miriam is determined to find it too . . . if it’s even real.

Sooo entertaining!

GHOULIA AND THE SUNKEN SECRET (Book #5) by Barbara Cantini (ISBN: 9781419783845; Ages 6-9)

Halloween is approaching which means it’s time for the annual parade! While rummaging through the attic for costumes, Ghoulia stumbles upon an old memory box with a faded postcard—from her missing parents! With the help of all her friends, Ghoulia sets on a journey to crack open the mystery of her parents’ whereabouts before the trail gets too cold in the fifth book of this fun, full-color chapter book series. This book is just perfect for Halloween!

The perfect book for kids who love mythical creatures of any kind!

THE BEASTS BENEATH THE WINDS by Hanna Alkaf (On sale October 21; ISBN: 9781419770098; Ages 8-12)

A sweeping and magical story collection showcasing the mythical creatures of Southeast Asia, including work by two-time Newbery medalist Erin Entrada Kelly and National Book Award finalist Shing Yin Khor. Welcome to The Beasts Beneath the Winds, a collection of Southeast Asia’s most elusive cryptids by a team of bestselling and award-winning authors. Within these gorgeously illustrated pages, readers will find the stories of seventeen regular kids who encounter these mythical creatures in the here and now and live to tell the tale. I really liked the characters in this story!

Perfect book for the little older kids this Halloween!

THE FOREST OF A THOUSAND EYES by Frances Hardinge, illustrated by Emily Gravett (ISBN: 9781419777783; Ages 10-14) This original illustrated middle-grade fantasy from acclaimed author and illustrator duo Frances Hardinge and Emily Gravett follows a brave young girl who must journey into a wild, all-consuming forest that has swallowed her world. As she faces strange creatures and untold dangers, her mission is clear: to save her people and restore hope. A powerful tale of courage, resilience, and the strength of community, this unforgettable story is destined to become a modern classic. A very powerful story that middle-grade readers will enjoy!

Can pre-order now!

This one isn’t out..yet! But, can be pre-ordered now!

THE TALE OF THE VANISHING CIRCUS (Are You Afraid of the Dark #3) by Kayla Cottingham (On sale November 25; ISBN: 9781419763540; Ages 10-14) The third spine-chilling book set in the world of Nickelodeon’s hit TV show Are You Afraid of the Dark? written by NYT-bestelling author Kayla Cottingham! On the night of the Blood Moon, thirteen-year-old friends Riley Beasley and Genna sneak out and investigate some strange lights that beckon from the woods. There the two friends discover a mysterious circus and its teenage ringleader, Starr. Soon, they can’t shake the feeling that something isn’t quite right. As the girls become more entrenched in Starr’s hypnotic world, their friendship faces the ultimate test. Will they be best friends forever? Or will the sinister truth tear them apart? If your child loves scary books, this one will definitely be a hit!

Self Disclosure: I received free books to facilitate this featured holiday post. Images were also provided.

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Sustainable Fashion Takes Center Stage at Laguna Art Museum’s Art + Nature

October 21, 2025 By Leave a Comment

Kick off this year’s  Art + Nature Celebration with Laguna Art Museum’s Upcycled Couture: Restoring the Future, the 2nd annual runway show combining community, creativity and environmental awareness. Inspired by the remarkable work of community and arts partners, students and early career designers will create one-of-a-kind sustainable, couture designs that highlight the many ways that our partners are making a difference in the community and beyond. This all culminates in an exciting, sustainable runway show in the galleries of Laguna Art Museum. Join us for a night dedicated to the creative and conscious spirit of Laguna Beach.

Inspired by the innovative work of local artists, students, and community partners, Upcycled Couture features one-of-a-kind couture designs made from repurposed materials, each creation highlighting sustainability and conscious design. The evening unfolds within the museum galleries, offering a vibrant celebration of Laguna Beach’s creative and eco-minded spirit.

VIP Experience: Exclusive pre-show reception with curated charcuterie, fine wines and champagne.

  • VIP Ticket: $175
  • LAM Members: $135
  • General Admission: $150

More details can be found here.

Filed Under: Featured Events

Books of the Week: October 21, 2025

October 21, 2025 By Leave a Comment
LOST ON DOLL ISLAND by Cassandra Ramos-Gomez
S&S Books for Young Readers | Ages 8 – 12 | 9781665975124

 Rick Riordan meets R. L. Stine in this fast-paced debut middle grade horror packed with adventure about a Mexican American boy who starts hearing the voice of a haunted doll while visiting family in Mexico City. Diego feels trapped. He’s confined in an arm cast, stuck with his tía and tío for a week in Mexico City, and smothered with the sickening fear that he’s the one who really caused his parents’ divorce. But most of all, he’s trapped in his own secret. Because ever since he got to Mexico City, he’s started having strange dreams of a doll calling his name. Then Diego learns of La Isla de Muñecas, an island full of legendary magic that can make children’s wishes come true. If Diego can harness the power there, maybe he could fix everything that has gone wrong in his life. Maybe he doesn’t have to move to Mexico City, his parents don’t have to separate, and he could even reunite with one of his oldest friends who’s still visiting him in his dreams… So, with the help of two new friends, Diego takes a boat to the legendary island. From the moment the kids step ashore, nothing is as it seems—with dolls disappearing and reappearing in the blink of an eye. Suddenly, Diego is more trapped than ever before, and as the night goes on, he’s not sure he can escape. The perfect book for Halloween!

About the author: Cassandra Ramos-Gomez is a Mexican American writer focused on creating middle grade and young adult fiction that centers Latinx experiences. She has a master’s degree in education and an undergraduate degree in art history and has taught middle school language arts and social studies. She currently lives in Texas with her husband and two kids. Her hobbies include painting, collecting animal bones, and playing Minecraft with her kids. Lost on Doll Island is her middle grade debut.

The sequel to the New York Times bestseller The Last Dragon on Mars is here!

In The Last Dragon on Mars, readers were introduced to Lunar Jones, a boy living on Mars who unexpectedly becomes a dragon rider and the story continues in the sci-fi and fantasy mash-up The Dragonships series with THE RISE OF NEPTUNE ( Ages 10 & Up), by New York Times bestselling author Scott Reintgen. In the second installment, Lunar prepares his allies for an attack from Neptune.

Lunar Jones and the Dread Knights have brought hope to Mars. Between Dread’s power and a newly formed alliance with Earth, the once-dying planet is headed for prosperity at last. The only shadow is the one cast by Dav Robinson’s warning: Neptune is coming.

As predicted, Neptune’s ships arrive in Martian space—and they’re not interested in talking. The ships launch an immediate attack. Lunar was prepared for hostilities, but the way the attack happens is unexpected. Neptune’s dragons seem divided, and its ships, while countless in number, are almost too easy to defeat. It’s clear there’s more to Neptune’s story than meets the eye, and Lunar and his Dread Knights must figure out the mystery behind their looming foe quickly…before those secrets doom Mars for good. This one is definitely exciting to read and will keep middle-schoolers totally engaged!

HOT GIRL WALK
Find Happiness, Achieve Your Dreams, and Cultivate Confidence
Mia Lind

Get on your feet and start walking! In Hot Girl Walk, Mia invites you to embark on a journey of self-discovery, taking you through the three main stages of the walk: gratitude, goals, and self-confidence. This impactful book is your guide to empowerment wherever you go: from your 4-mile daily walk to the meetings and appointments of daily life. Whether you’re a student, a worker, or a stay-at-home parent, Hot Girl Walks are here to help motivate you to become the person you know you can be. Strengthen your mind-body connection, and truly understand that to look good is to feel good. 

At the end of each chapter, find success stories from those who have implemented the Hot Girl Walk to their daily routine. Featuring hot girls from all over the world, learn first-hand how Mia Lind’s movement has helped and improve lives. Will you be her next success?

Take it from someone who has literally walked the walk. Mia’s guide provides small daily mindset adjustments that lead to big, life changing results. Diving into the practices, reflections, and exercises of Hot Girl Walk is an act of self-care. Join thousands of women on the walk towards hotness by putting one foot in front of the other and taking a chance on yourself. A really inspiring and motivational book to read!

About the Author:

Mia Lind is the creator and founder of the Hot Girl Walk and has been featured on CBS News, NBC News, Vogue, Cosmopolitan, the New York Times, HuffPost, and more. In 2020, she created the Hot Girl Walk to combine her passion of physical fitness with female- and self-empowerment. Hot Girl Walk events continue to spread across the world, hosted in the cities of Miami, New York City, Boston, and Los Angeles, as well as the countries of the United Kingdom and Australia so far.

Rock Star: A New STEM Heroine for Young Readers This Fall

This next one is educational and so much fun to read!

While attending college in the early 1940s, Ursula Marvin fell in love with geology, but when she asked her male professor about making the field her major, he tried to stop her, saying it would be a better use of her time to learn how to cook. Ursula studied geology anyway, eventually getting her master’s and PhD in the subject.

As a visionary and groundbreaking geologist, Ursula also had to be brave. She believed meteorites held the key to unlocking the origins of the solar system. To prove it, she travelled to Antarctica where she faced fierce winds, the coldest climate on Earth, and cracks in the ice that could have crushed her, but she knew the danger was worth the risk and scientific exploration wasn’t just for men. She proved her theory and that meteorites could be made up of pieces of planets or the moon.

Ursula Marvin charted new territory as a scientist and fought gender discrimination at every turn in her career. She broke barriers in science, helped create the field of planet geology, and discovered theories that are now foundational, reshaping our understanding of the universe.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sandra Neil Wallace writes about people who break barriers and change the world. She is the author of several award-winning books for children, including Between the Lines: How Ernie Barnes Went from the Football Field to the Art Gallery, illustrated by Bryan Collier, which received the Orbis Pictus Book Award and was an ALA Notable Book. A former ESPN reporter and the first woman to host an NHL broadcast, she is the recipient of the Outstanding Women of New Hampshire Award and creates change as cofounder of The Daily Good, a nonprofit bringing twenty thousand free, culturally diverse foods to college students each year through its Global Foods Pantries. Visit Sandra at SandraNeilWallace.com.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Nancy Carpenter is the acclaimed illustrator of Thomas Jefferson and the Mammoth Hunt, Queen Victoria’s Bathing Machine, Fannie in the Kitchen, and Loud Emily, among other books. Her works have garnered many honors, including two Christopher Awards and the Jane Addams Children’s Book Award. She lives in Brooklyn, New York. Visit her at NancyCarpenter.website.

Such an interesting book!

A LINE CAN GO ANYWHERE by Caroline McAlister; illustrated by Jamie Green (Roaring Brook Press, Ages 5-8): This gorgeously illustrated picture book biography about Japanese American artist Ruth Asawa is equal parts history and a celebration of everyday art. It explores Ruth’s life after family’s imprisonment in an internment camp during WWII and how those experiences shaped her approach to sculpture and her use of everyday objects to create something beautiful.

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

Filed Under: Media Reviews

Nash, Oct. 24 Pet of the Week

October 21, 2025 By Leave a Comment
AWWWWWWWWWW!

You might not be able to say “trick or treat!” before Nash treats you to a bunch of doggie hugs and kisses! Nash is a lovable 2-year-old pit bull who’s a nice fellow. He sits patiently for his turn at walks and playtime, and when he’s out in the yard or on leash, he’s non-reactive to other dogs. You may gnash your teeth, though, when you find out his shelter origin story: underweight, with bad skin and cuts on his body. But that was in March, and you oughta see him now! That costume covers up a unique pattern of orange fur — looks like a 20th century modern-art painting! In fact, one of the volunteers painted his portrait, which hangs on his kennel. Come see it — you can take home the model! Long Beach Animal Care Services is over capacity with dogs, so speed the process to adopt or foster Nash or any of our other pets by emailing PetAdopt@longbeach.gov or petfoster@longbeach.gov. You can also call (562) 570-4925. Our shelter hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 7700 E. Spring St. at the entrance to El Dorado Park (no parking fee for shelter visitors). Ask for ID#A738596

Filed Under: Pet Corner
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