Catclaw dreams that one day he will have the gift of prophecy, just like his Dreamkin ancestors. But many moons ago, the Dreamkins were exiled from the other noble moth clans for a crime too awful to even speak of, and their gift of prophecy was lost. No Dreamkin has seen the future in generations. So when Catclaw receives a vision telling him that all the moth clans are in terrible danger, he’s branded a liar and exiled.

Catclaw knows it’s the right thing to protect his fellow moths, even if his own clan doesn’t believe him, so he sets out alone on the long and treacherous journey back to Queen Adeia’s Kingdom to warn them.

But there is more to the moth clans’ history than Catclaw ever knew, and the closer he gets to the kingdom, the more the danger grows.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Katharine Orton is the Branford Boase longlisted author of Nevertell, Glassheart, and Mountainfell, all published by Walker Books to glowing reviews from readers old and young alike. The Traitor Moth was inspired by her son’s fascination with moths and bugs and her love of classic fantasies such as Watership Down. She has previously worked as a copywriter and for an indie children’s publisher. She lives in Bristol, UK.

Now more than ever, it is important to be educated on our countries past or else we run the risk of seeing our future progress in our nation come to a halt. In recent news there has been a lot of political unrest and racialized discrimination, which makes Minoru Tonai and Jolene Gutierrez’s picture book extremely timely. UNBREAKABLE: A JAPANESE AMERICAN FAMILY IN AN AMERICAN INCARCERATION CAMP (on-sale April 7, 2026), addresses part of America’s unfavorable past, and the strength of marginalized identities in the face of it. 

Unbreakable is a heart-wrenching but moving tale centered around the real-life experience of Japanese American, Minoru (Min) Tonai (1929-2023), co-writer of the book, and what he experienced in America’s World War II era concentration camps in the United States. An incredibly moving picture book contains extensive back matter covering details of the camps as well as the campaign to release Tonai’s father, timelines, a bibliography, author and illustrator notes, and discussion questions to engage younger readers with.

Co-writer Jolene Gutiérrez is an award-winning educator and worked with Min to deliver an uplifting and emotional story of survival in the Amache Incarceration camp. Emmy award-winning illustrator and animator, Chris Sasaki’s enriching artwork has made Unbreakable an inspiring and powerful picture book – perfect for introducing young readers to this part of American history where they will see the resilience of a people, the justice given to them, and the search for what it means to be American. 

UNBREAKABLE: A JAPANESE AMERICAN FAMILY IN AN AMERICAN INCARCERATION CAMP

• CULTURAL PRESERVATION THROUGH ART: The great melting pot should be an infinity of diverse voices and representation. Japanese American history is as rich as it comes, but we’d be remiss if we didn’t also talk about the hardships of that history. Sasaki has woven the cultural significance of Japanese American heritage throughout his illustrations to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Asian American culture and history. Through these creators, we explore the unbreakable spirit of Japanese American communities in the face of injustice all while finding a story full of strength, hope, love, and empathy for those of all ages to read.

• CIVIL RIGHTS AND SOCIAL JUSTICE: The United States is a country forged by immigrants. As we look around us to see poltical unrest and our American neighbors being harrassed in the streets and their homes, it becomes more important than ever to remember our past. Gutiérrez and Tonai have recounted Tonai’s story of a family being torn a part by prejudice and injustice during WWII. This timely picture book is a great way to start this discussion with the younger generations and educate them about past and present issues we face in America.  
• INCREDIBLE CONTRIBUTOR: Minoru “Min” Tonai (1929-2023) worked with Jolene Gutiérrez to write the story. Min volunteered his time to various organizations and campaigned for the rights of all people. In 1975 Min founded the Amache Historical Society. He was also the president of the Amache Historical Society and board president of the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center in Los Angeles. He was presented with the Order of the Rising Sun medal in 2015 from Japanese Emperpor Akihito for “promoting friendly relations and mutual understanding between Japan and the United States. He was not afraid to speak up and his family and friends continue to tell his story long after he passed. 

 Cloud Puppy—part puppy, part cloud, and all adorable—goes on summer adventures with her friends in this third book in a delightful graphic chapter book series that’s Narwhal and Jelly meets The Amazing World of Gumball!

Cloud Puppy and her friends start their summer vacation at the local amusement park! When Mossquatch shares he doesn’t really like big roller coasters, Cloud Puppy makes it her secret mission to help him overcome his fear. After all, everyone knows roller coasters are fun, not scary!

But as Cloud Puppy, Jack, and Berry Rose line up for the biggest roller coaster, Cloud Puppy suddenly feels afraid—even wishing she were sitting out comfortably with Mossquatch. To keep spending time with her friends, she should act like she’s still having fun and conquer her fear…right?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Kelly Leigh Miller is an illustrator and author who loves everything cute and whimsical. She is the author of the Cloud Puppy series, I Love My Fangs!, I Love My Fur!, I Love My Magic!, and many more books. Visit her online at KellyLeighMiller.com.

Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books to feature in my weekly book post. Cover images were also provided.

Mario and Luigi, the twin plumbers, apply their “let’s-a-go” attitude to solve everyday problems all over their new home of the Mushroom Kingdom. As they support Princess Peach, and work to reform a miniaturized imprisoned Bowser, they meet a new companion – Yoshi. Princess Peach’s birthday party sparks a galactic adventure, sending the brothers into space to stop Bowser Jr.’s wicked ambitions and save Rosalina. The addition of the beloved characters Rosalina and Bowser Jr. adds extra spice of big action, comedy, and some shocking revelations to the adventure!

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jackson N. comments, “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is one of the few cases where I feel the sequel stacks up to the original. The animation is better than ever, using saturated, vibrant colors to bring gaming vibes to the big screen in a way that makes it fun for all ages.” Valerie M. adds, “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is made for kids, but it is also entertaining for adults. I love the story the most. Its fast-paced, engaging plot twists kept me wondering what could possibly happen next.” Braedyn M. wraps it up with, “There’s nothing quite like the Super Mario Galaxy Movie.  From wildly popular video game characters making surprise appearances to clever throwbacks interspersed, this film delivers on all its promises, and still left me wanting more.” See their full reviews below.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

By Jackson N. KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

Welcome back to the Mushroom Kingdom! The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is one of the few cases where I feel the sequel stacks up to the original. The animation is better than ever, using saturated, vibrant colors to bring gaming vibes to the big screen in a way that makes it fun for all ages.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie continues the stories of Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day), two brothers who now, after the events of the first movie, live in the Mushroom Kingdom. They are traveling across the world to help people with warp pipe issues and, along the way, they meet a cute new travel companion, Yoshi (Donald Glover). They soon return to the Mushroom Kingdom and find a Luma, a star, that tells them that Princess Rosalina (Brie Larson) is in danger. Going to save the princess, Mario, Luigi, Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy), Toad (Keegan-Michael Key), and Yoshi, set off to explore the galaxy.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has some of the funniest references in the saga. In the Gateway Galaxy, for example, in the opening scene,  you see basically every side character in Mario history, the Piantas from the Super Mario Sunshine game, and so many more. Then, when they get to the space port, Nintendo does the unthinkable: they include characters from their other games. Overall, as someone who played a lot of the old games, every little detail is really fun to see incorporated into the movie. Another funny Easter egg is towards the end of the film – Mario uses the Red Star, which gives him the ability to fly around, this is a particularly good detail because this was a special power-up in both Mario Galaxy games and is a great nod for fans. Each galaxy is beautifully designed by Illumination, the studio behind both Despicable Me and The Secret Life of Pets. The movie includes tons of nods to the games, like the Honeyhive Galaxy, featured in the original Mario Galaxy game, where they meet the Queen Bee (Issa Rae) and Bowser (Jack Black) makes the ultimate sacrifice. 

The film’s main message is that with friends you can do anything. It includes themes of teamwork, play fighting, and family bonds. While the movie is suited for children, parents should be aware that the film includes some violence, like when Bowser falls into the lava, but the film makes it fun and suitable for everyone.

I give The Super Mario Galaxy Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. It releases in theatres on April 1, 2026.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
By Valerie M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

I love The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. The film’s writing, animation and comedy is really out of this world! (Pun intended.)

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie follows the brothers Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day), as well as Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy). Two incidents occur in the Mushroom Kingdom: Rosalina’s (Brie Larson) star child asks Princess Peach to help save her from an unknown danger, and Bowser Junior (Benny Safdie) takes Princess Peach’s castle trying to free his father Bowser (Jack Black). These events take the characters into space, searching for Rosalina and trying to save her from whatever danger she may be in.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is made for kids, but it is also entertaining for adults. I love the story the most. Its fast-paced, engaging plot twists kept me wondering what could possibly happen next. While trying to save Rosalina, Peach keeps wondering where she came from. Along the way, we get clues and hints about her origins. It’s like a scavenger hunt inside a movie. If you want to find out more, you’ll just have to watch the film! The film also uses the many possibilities of being in space to its advantage by taking the brothers and princess on side missions that make the story more chaotic, thrilling and, don’t forget, fun. A good story is nice, but creativity in animation is what makes a good film even greater, andThe Super Mario Galaxy Movie does not disappoint! For the most part, the animation style doesn’t change from its clean 3D look. What catches my eye is that there are times where we go into whole other mediums: puppet shows, storybooks that look like something you could find in an actual library, comic books, and even a callback to the original pixelated Super Mario games! All this mixing and matching really gives the film a special charm of playing a game for the first time. The jokes don’t always land and the film’s pacing doesn’t leave enough time for the characters to really interact with the worlds, but those things didn’t ruin the film for me. It’s a great watch!

The film’s message is that kindness in helping other people will always prevail over the power of destroying them. Be aware that there are mentions of murder, destruction and gambling.

I give The Super Mario Galaxy Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 5 to 12. It releases in theaters on April 1, 2026.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

There’s nothing quite like the Super Mario Galaxy Movie.  From wildly popular video game characters making surprise appearances to clever throwbacks interspersed, this film delivers on all its promises, and still left me wanting more.

In this sequel to The Super Mario Bros. Movie, our heroes Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day) are joined by Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy) and Toad (Keagan-Michel Key) enjoying and settling into their life in the Mushroom Kingdom.  Sadly, their good times don’t last. The appearance of Bowser Jr. (Benny Safdie) who’s intent on reclaiming his father Bowser (Jack Black) and ruling the universe with him side by side, throws the galaxy into chaos. They plan to achieve this evil feat by capturing Rosalina (Brie Larson), the protector of the cosmos herself. Now, the brothers are thrust into the action, this time with a brand-new friend Yoshi (Donald Glover) tagging along for the adventure.

As any Nintendo fan knows, the Super Mario franchise is chock-full of characters that seem larger than life.  In this film, a large number of stars show up! Yoshi is my absolute favorite character, and Donald Glover excels in bringing Yoshi’s emotions and dialogue to the fore.  Wart (Luis Guzmán), from the Super Mario Bros. 2 video game, makes an appearance, along with Fox McCloud (Glen Powell), from the Star Fox saga. Besides these, there are plenty of past video game references, hidden Easter eggs, and more which any long-time Nintendo fan will appreciate. The detail put into the film’s animation is extremely high which allows for deeper connection with the film, without being distracted by subpar graphics. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie differs from its predecessor in how the directors expanded on the world they first created. In the first film, The Super Mario Bros Movie, the plot focuses on the journey that first brought Mario and Luigi to the Mushroom Kingdom. Now that the brothers have gotten to know their new home, the stage is set for a huge expansion. With new faces and new places, plus a numerous score of new Power-Ups, this spectacular adventure is one that truly honors and celebrates the expansive, vast universe of Super Mario.

This film’s message is to not give up, no matter how daunting the situation might be. These Brooklyn born plumbers had their hands full when battling Bowser the first time, so a second bout, this time with Bowser’s own son by his side, seems impossible to prevail against. Yet, through every foe they encounter, every planet they land on, and every rescue they make, this team finds a way to beat the odds and save the galaxy.

I give The Super Mario Galaxy Movie 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. This film launches in theaters on April 1,  2026, so go take a look!

Trailer:

Science teacher Ryland Grace wakes up alone on a spaceship light-years from Earth. As his memory returns, he uncovers a mission to stop a mysterious substance killing the sun, and save Earth. An unexpected friendship may be the key.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Braedyn M. comments, Project Hail Mary is a thrilling trip through the universe that I will not soon forget.  A strong and compelling plot, coupled with creative expressions of scientific theories and technology are just a few highlights of this powerful book to screen adaptation.” Rayce S. adds, “Project Hail Mary is a visual spectacle with great characters, a heartwarming theme and a roller coaster of emotions. It’s full of suspense, humor and fascinating science.” Valerie M. wraps it up with, “Project Hail Mary is an unforgettable experience. The acting in this film is amazing. It’s impressive how one man can not only keep an audience engaged, but also lead us through a story that makes us laugh, cry and always keeps us on the edge of our seats.” See their full reviews and Rayce’s interview with the directors and producers below.

Project Hail Mary
By Braedyn M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

Project Hail Mary is a thrilling trip through the universe that I will not soon forget.  A strong and compelling plot, coupled with creative expressions of scientific theories and technology are just a few highlights of this powerful book to screen adaptation. 

Waking up alone on a spaceship is a tough way to picture yourself, but for middle school science teacher Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling), it’s reality.  With only a vague recollection of his life on Earth, no company, and no apparent way home, he figures he’s done for.  But as his memories start to return, he remembers his mission: to save Earth from a parasitic species of alien microorganisms that are eating the sun.  Though this sounds impossible, he won’t be alone for the task.  Enter Rocky (James Ortiz), an alien whose solar system has the same deadly infection as Grace’s.  Working together, these two have a chance to rescue their home worlds, and maybe even the entire universe.

The best way to describe this film is strong.  Ryan Gosling is perfectly suited for the role of Ryland Grace, ensuring the importance and gravity of Grace and Rocky’s mission is front and center. The directors took a creative and unique approach in creating an alien comrade for Grace, and it pays off. Instead of designing a being that’s slightly similar to a human, Rocky is, well… basically a living rock. This adds distinction between our two heroes, and further heightens the principle of learning to work together on a project that can make or break the future, despite their great differences.  A unique aspect of Project Hail Mary is that not one green screen was used during production.  Instead, it features thousands of VFX shots for special effects, and the entire interior of the Hail Mary ship is built as a practical set!  Methods like wire and puppeteer removals are employed, and shots are filmed in front of black backgrounds for space and shifting hues for planets to achieve unique interactive light.  The storyline itself is special in the sense that it incorporates Ryland’s space journey, while mixing in the events that transpired on Earth that got Grace to where he finds himself now.

This film’s message shows us that through friendship, even the hardest problems can be solved. Grace has the impossible task of saving humanity and the universe from a threat that no one has a clue how to defeat. When he and Rocky put their heads together, the solution to their quest is nothing short of extraordinary.

I give Project Hail Mary 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Project Hail Mary rockets into theaters on March 20, 2026. Go check it out!

Project Hail Mary
By Rayce S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

Project Hail Mary is a visual spectacle with great characters, a heartwarming theme and a roller coaster of emotions.

Science teacher Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling) wakes up alone on a spaceship light-years away from earth only to learn that he must save the Earth from a mysterious threat that is killing the sun. He makes an unlikely friendship that might be the key.

Interview: https://youtu.be/o_v5oQOdQQI

This film is based on the book by the same name by Andy Weir. I cannot speak to whether this film is accurate to the book or not but the film definitely works on its own. Project Hail Mary truly had me engaged for its full run time. It’s full of suspense, humor and fascinating science. If you’re concerned about seeing this film because it’s too long, I guarantee you it’s not long enough. Ryland Grace is a character who I could relate to, mainly because of his journey in this film. Initially, he is in denial of his purpose but eventually he comes to terms with what he has to do, which is extremely important. Rocky (James Ortiz) is the surprise highlight of this film. I was blown away at how much I could feel and care for a rock and Rocky really takes the film to another level. The mix of puppets and CGI flows seamlessly for his character. However, it’s not just the actors’ performances that make this film great – it’s also having the film take place in space and the fact that we only see two characters for the majority of the film. Those things made me feel as if I was right there with them. When you add the beautiful cinematography that this film has, it exceeds overwhelmingly. I love that this film can be seen by anyone; it’s such a well-written, feel-good movie, which is hard to find nowadays. This film hits it out of the park!

The film’s message is about companionship and how people and living creatures need someone there with us so we are not alone. The way this theme is conveyed in the film is very heartwarming and touching.

I give Project Hail Mary 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The film releases in cinemas on March 20, 2026. Be sure to look for it.

Project Hail Mary
By Valerie M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

Project Hail Mary is so captivating! From its engrossing plot to the beautiful visuals and its lovable cast, I don’t have nearly enough words to describe how much I love this film.

The storyline follows Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling), a scientist and a school teacher who wakes up on a spaceship with no memory of himself and his mission. He figures out that he is the only survivor of a crew sent to the Tui Ceti system to find out how to save Earth from dying. All he can rely on is his knowledge, faith and will. However, he learns he is not alone on this quest.

Project Hail Mary is an unforgettable experience. The acting in this film is amazing. It’s impressive how one man can not only keep an audience engaged, but also lead us through a story that makes us laugh, cry and always keeps us on the edge of our seats. Speaking of stories, I love not only the plot but I also appreciate how it’s formatted and paced. We start and stay in the present with Grace for the majority of the film. I like how we learn about Grace’s past through his flashbacks. Throughout the film, we get little snippets of the events leading up to the launch of the ship and it was a genius. It definitely heightened my curiosity and made the film ten times more interesting. Another thing that captivated me is the visual design – the planets, spaceships, alien life, and overall look of outer space is beautiful. Everything was designed with so much care, and consideration. While on the topic of visuals, this movie was filmed for IMAX and watching it in IMAX heightens the experience. The music also enhances the emotions of the film, thanks to composer Daniel Pemberton. I particularly enjoyed the music in the scenes on the ship and in outer space. This film has so much care put into it that I can’t find a single thing wrong with it. I just have to say that I love this film.

The film’s message is that teamwork and friendship can do anything. Be aware that the film contains scenes with blood, death, corpses, drinking, and existential dread.

I give Project Hail Mary 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Project Hail Mary releases in theaters on March 20, 2026.

Trailer:

In London, two dads (Josh Duhamel & Michael Socha) set their sights on the last open spot at an ultra-posh preschool. What begins as a simple application snowballs into a wildly escalating rivalry packed with big-hearted laughs, outrageous one‐upmanship, and surprising consequences. As schemes spiral and families get pulled into the madness, both fathers discover what they’re really willing to do for their kids–and what it means to be a parent.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Jackson N. comments, “Preschool captures exactly how stressful the preschool application process can feel for parents. The plot is constantly amusing, with twists and turns at every moment, and as you start to understand more of the story, it just gets funnier. Josh Duhamel both directs and stars in the film, and somehow manages to pull off both roles without missing a beat.” See his full review below.

Preschool

By Jackson N., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

Preschool captures exactly how stressful the preschool application process can feel for parents. The plot is constantly amusing, with twists and turns at every moment, and as you start to understand more of the story, it just gets funnier. Josh Duhamel both directs and stars in the film, and somehow manages to pull off both roles without missing a beat.

The story centers on two families competing to get their kids into the top preschool in the area, with only one spot remaining. Alan Williams (Josh Duhamel) and his wife Lauren (Charity Wakefield) are convinced their daughter deserves that spot, but so are Brian Young (Michael Socha) and his wife Sarah (Antonia Thomas). Both families want this preschool badly, which leads to some hilarious hijinks including a broken finger, a wrestling fail, and so much more.

The main message of Preschool is that both dads are so focused on winning the preschool spot that they completely lose sight of their actual kids. In one scene, Alan leaves his daughter inside an indoor skydiving machine — she is clearly calling for his help, but he is too distracted talking to Brian to notice. The physical comedy lands well throughout, especially in the final fight scene where a window gets broken and someone gets clotheslined. Michael Socha brings wild energy as Brian, and James Cosmo as Brian’s father adds grit and a grounded dose of reality that keeps things from feeling too over the top.

The music perfectly fits the film’s childlike and humorous tone — it feels playful and a little chaotic, just like the dads themselves. The locations are also a highlight, with each family’s home and neighborhood painting a clear picture of whom they are and who they want to be seen as. Alan’s world looks polished and put-together, while Brian’s has a rougher, more working-class feel, and that contrast adds a lot to the comedy.

The film’s message is about not losing sight of your parenting goals by over-focusing on things like securing the coveted preschool slot. It is such a natural part of parenting to worry about your child’s future, but worrying about it as early as preschool creates unnecessary anxiety – the film definitely mines that anxiety for lots of laughs. Be aware that the film includes themes of anger and there are a few scenes where the dads come to blows, but the film consistently finds a way to keep even those moments funny.

I give Preschool 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults. The film is available on VOD starting March 17, 2025.

On sale March 24^th, RELIC OF THIEVES follows two new friends as they journey into uncharted depths of the Underwild, encountering new mythical creatures and mysterious places, where they are also joined by Senka, the heroine of River of Spirits. While the Underwild books are a series, they can also be enjoyed as standalone reads with different perspectives and storylines!

An ordinary girl’s longing to return to the way things were sets off a chain of events that lands her and her best friend in the Underwild in this second book in the New York Times bestselling middle grade fantasy series The Underwild—perfect for fans of Greenwild and Rick Riordan.

The best ways Anya knows how to cope with the struggles life throws her way is to keep her head down, stay invisible, and stick close to her best friend, Lizzie. Lizzie has been Anya’s rock since second grade. Together, they pretend the world away. But when Lizzie moves out of state, Anya is left adrift and desperately lonely.

One day, Anya follows a strange girl home from school and is shocked to see her go into the home of the woman who everyone in town swears is a witch. As Anya spies on the pair, she realizes the woman really does have magic—including a set of magical keys that can deliver you anywhere you want to go…keys that could reunite Anya with Lizzie. Anya has seen all she needs to; as soon as she has the chance, she steals the keys.

But magic always has a price. The keys do bring Anya to Lizzie, but then the girls are transported to the dark and chaotic world of the Underwild. Before long, Lizzie is snatched away by a terrible creature! Now wracked with guilt and paralyzed by fear, Anya has no choice but to trust the girl from school, Senka, when she unexpectedly shows up and offers to help. But can Anya find the bravery locked away deep inside herself in time to rescue her friend?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Shana Targosz writes about magical girls, budding friendships, ghosts who may or may not be friendly, and fiercely held hope. She is an Oregon Literary Fellow and the 2021 recipient of the Edna L. Holmes Fellowship in Young Readers Literature. Shana is the author of The Underwild series, the first book of which was an instant New York Times bestseller. When not writing or reading through a stack of books, she spends her time playing Zelda with her son, designing solo journaling games, walking her domesticated monster disguised as a Labradoodle, and dreaming up different worlds.

On sale March 10, this heartwarming, poignant illustrated novel in verse follows a girl as she searches for her lost dog and the truths about her family. By the acclaimed author of Roll with It, Jamie’s writing is engaging and has a charming simplicity that belies the profound emotional depth of her story. With lovely black & white interior illustrations throughout, Glory Be is aimed at the younger end of middle grade and is perfect for kids struggling with reading.

The newest Brain Quest^® title introduces children to the alphabet with hands-on learning that builds literacy and fine motor skills. Brain Quest Write and Erase: Alphabet Skills (on sale 3/10/26; $10.99) includes wipe clean pages and a dry erase marker so that kids can keep practicing over and over again! 

Curriculum-based activities, colorful illustrations, and guiding dots for upper case and lower case letters make this workbook a must-have for early learners. Plus, each page includes questions for caregivers to support further language development and critical thinking skills. This is a workbook that will grow with learners!

Brain Quest is written and vetted by award-winning educational experts to align with state and national curriculum standards. Plus, Brain Quest Write and Erase makes learning FUN by combining critical learning with exciting activities. 

A Kid’s Guide to Backyard Animals
Eliza Berkowitz • Illustrated by Nicole LaRue

Packed with captivating facts about the most common animals in North America, this brightly illustrated guide is perfect for young nature lovers.

Learn all about the amazing animals right outside your door in A Kid’s Guide to Backyard Animals—a handy, easy-to carry guidebook for explorers ages 6 to 8 that shows you how to identify 40 animals that are commonly found in the United States. The book covers five animal types: mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. Kids learn all about these amazing creatures with fascinating facts, how to identify each animal (what it looks like and size), what it eats, whether it’s nocturnal or diurnal, and its habitat and range (including maps). Check the glossary for animal-related terms you might not know, keep track of the animals you’ve seen in a handy log, and try out a fun DIY project that helps you build a comfortable frog pond.

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

After a perfect outing with her boyfriend, Kenna makes an unbearable mistake that sends her to prison for seven years. Hoping to rebuild her life after her release, she tries to reunite with her daughter, but her custodial grandparents refuse to let Kenna see her. She soon finds unexpected compassion from a local bar owner as their secret romance gives Kenna hope for a second chance.

Kenna Rowan pleads guilty to vehicular manslaughter for a car accident that resulted in the death of her boyfriend, Scotty Landry. Six years later, Kenna is released from prison on parole and moves back to her hometown in hopes of meeting her five-year-old daughter Diem, whom she gave birth to during her sentence and has been raised by Scotty’s parents, Grace and Patrick.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Sydney S. comments, “Reminders of Him encapsulates a stirring plot with characters that are easily likable. Although it starts off slow, the film is very moving on a personal level… The film’s message is that even when life is difficult, it’s important to find hope and something to live for.” See her full review below.

Reminders of Him

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

Reminders of Him encapsulates a stirring plot with characters that are easily likable. Although it starts off slow, the film is very moving on a personal level.

The storyline follows a woman who is recently released from prison for killing her boyfriend. She goes in search of her daughter that was taken away from her after birth. She ends up finding her late boyfriend’s best friend, and they build a close relationship with each other.

Reminders of Him is based on the book with the same title by Colleen Hoover. The main characters are Kenna (Maika Monroe), Ledger (Tyriq Withers), Grace (Lauren Graham), Scotty (Rudy Pankow) and Diem (Zoe Kosovic). One of my favorite things about this film is how connected I felt with the characters. Knowing their backstory and struggles, but also seeing their interactions with each other, made it easy to get attached to them. That’s why when Kenna and her daughter Diem meet, it’s especially heartwarming because the audience knows how much it took to get to that point and how much it means to Kenna. I felt complete empathy for all the characters. However, we know very little about Scotty’s background, despite the whole film being based on him. The plot is lacking there and he is only shown in a couple of scenes. Even though the plot is very predictable, one scene shocked me even though I knew it was bound to happen. I applaud the directors for that. Books are explicitly detailed and can be difficult to transfer into a movie script, but this screenplay delivers. It makes me want to read the book now. I especially like Scotty and Kenna’s flashbacks. The car crash scene is very intense and captivating, even to the point of shaking and heart racing! The setting is mostly in a rural city and the sets look very realistic. My favorite part is hearing the jokes of Kenna’s coworker, who is a kid. She’s so funny and adds humor and balance to the storyline.

The film’s message is that even when life is difficult, it’s important to find hope and something to live for. When Kenna feels like she has nothing to live for, she creates new relationships with people and becomes part of her daughter’s life, which she didn’t think was possible. However, she never gives up and continues to persevere. Be aware that there are some scenes with bloody images, personal intimacy, and mild profanity.

I give Reminders of Him 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Reminders of Him releases in theaters March 13, 2026.

Trailer: