Japan
Sato the Rabbit
By Yuki Ainoya, Michael Blaskowsky (Translator)
Sato the Rabbit. Yuki Ainoya. Translated by Michael Blaskowsky. Enchanted Lion Books, 2021. Originally published as うさぎのさとうくん (Usagi no Sato-kun) in Japanese by Shogakukan, in 2006. ISBN 9781592703180. 64 p. (Ages 4-7). Picture book.
A sweet and charming series of vignettes about a little boy named Sato who imagines himself a rabbit. Real life chores and activities are the background in the exploration of childhood imagination of catching stars, exploring the ocean and sky, and more. A 2022 Batchelder Honor Award winner, listed on several “best books” lists. [all]
Chirri & Chirra
By Kaya Doi, Yuki Kaneko (Translator)
Chirri & Chirra. Kaya Doi. Translated by Yuki Kaneko. Enchanted Lion Books, 2016. Originally published as チリとチリリ (Chiri to Chiriri) in Japanese in 2003. ISBN 9781592701995. 40 p. (Ages 3-8). Picture book.
A gentle and sweet story about identical girls who ride their bikes and have fantastical adventures along the way. The first book in an easy-to-read series with charming colored pencil drawings. Author and series are well-known in Japan, and the series has earned many starred reviews and “best of year” awards. [all]
Over the Ocean
By Taro Gomi, Taylor Norman (Translator)
Over the Ocean. Taro Gomi. Translated by Taylor Norman. Chronicle Books LLC, 2016. Originally published as うみのむこうは (Umi no Mukô wa) in Japanese by Ehonkan Inc., in Tokyo, in 1979. ISBN 9781452145150. 36 p. (Ages 3-6). Picture book.
A girl stands at the edge of the ocean and imagines what is over the ocean–from farms and cities to the people that may be across the ocean, wondering right back. Colorful and bold illustrations with a simple but timeless message. A 2017 Batchelder Honor Award winner. Author has published more than 450 books in Japanese, including Everyone Poops and the “Little” series. [all]
The World's Poorest President Speaks Out
By Yoshimi Kusaba (Editor), Andrew Wong (Translator), Gaku Nakagawa (Illustrator)
The World’s Poorest President Speaks Out. Edited by Yoshimi Kusaba. Translated by Andrew Wong. Illustrated by Gaku Nakagawa. Enchanted Lions Books, 2020. Originally published as 世界でいちばん貧しい大統領のスピーチ (Sekai De Ichiban Mazushi Daitoryo No Speech) in Japanese by Choubunsha Publishing, Co. Ltd., in Tokyo, in 2014. ISBN 9781592702893. 40 p. (Ages 5-10). Picture book.
Based on Uruguay president José Mujica's 2012 speech to the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development. Thought-provoking and a good introduction to discussions on poverty, social justice, and having enough. Worlds of Words recommended book, April 2021. [all]
You Look Yummy!
By Tatsuya Miyanishi, Mariko Shii Garbi (Translator)
You Look Yummy! Tatsuya Miyanishi. Translated by Mariko Shii Garbi. Museyon, Inc., 2015. Originally published as おまえ うまそうだな (Omae Umasou dana) in Japanese by Poplar Publishing Co., Ltd., in 2003. ISBN 9781940842066. 40 p. (Ages 5-7). Picture book.
A tyrannosaurus accidentally finds himself the father of a newly-hatched ankylosaurus. Bold colors and stylized drawing are fun and engaging in this entry in the popular Tyrannosaurus series. Author is well-known in Japan, and has won several awards including the Kodansha Cultural Award for Picture Books and the Kenbuchi Picture Book Grand Prize. [all]
Once Upon a Time in Japan
By Roger Pulvers and Juliet Winters Carpenter (Translators), Manami Yamada. Tomori Taniguchi. Nao Takabatake and Takumi Nishio (Illustrators)
Once Upon a Time in Japan. NHK World. Translated by Roger Pulvers and Juliet Winters Carpenter. Illustrated by Manami Yamada, Tomonori Taniguchi, Nao Takabatake, and Takumi Nishio. Includes CD of stories read aloud by Yuko Aotani. Published by Tuttle Publishing in cooperation with NHK Japan Broadcasting Corporation, 2015. Originally part of a special series produced by Radio Japan, NHK World’s radio service in 18 languages. ISBN 9784805313596. 120 p. (Ages 8-12). Picture book with CD.
Collection of eight Japanese folk and fairy tales gives a good introduction to non-Western storytelling. Stories include animals, everyday people and magical beings who learn a lesson through their actions. A 2015 Gelett Burgess Award for Best Multicultural Children’s Book. [all]
Every Color of Light: A Book about the Sky
By Hiroshi Osada, David Boyd (Translator), Ryōji Arai (Illustrator)
Every Color of Light: A Book about the Sky. Hiroshi Osada. Translated by David Boyd. Illustrated by Ryōji Arai. Enchanted Lion Books, 2020. Originally published as きょうはそらにまるいつき (Kyō wa sora ni marui tsuki) in Japanese by Kodansha Ltd., in Tokyo, in 2011. ISBN 9781592702916. 38 p. (Ages 4-10). Picture book.
Lyrical text and expansive landscapes showcase the beauty of a day in nature, from light rain to storms to the clearing night sky. A 2020 Kirkus Best Book and 2021 Northern Lights Best Illustrator winner. Illustrator Ryōji Arai won the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award in 2015.[all]
When the Sakura Bloom
By Narisa Togo, Michael Sedunary (Translator)
When the Sakura Bloom. Narisa Togo. Translated by Michael Sedunary. Berbay Publishing Pty Ltd, 2022. Originally published as さくらがさくと (Sakura Ga Sakuto) in Japanese by Fukuinkan Shoten Publishers, Inc., in Tokyo, in 2020. ISBN 97806489953319. 32 p. (Ages 4-8). Picture book.
In Japan, the hustle and bustle of daily life takes a pause when the cherry blossoms bloom and an annual festival happens. A Freeman Honor Award book and on the 2023 USBBY Outstanding International Books list. For programming ideas, see Teaching Books Page from USBBY. [all]
My First Book of Haiku Poems: A Picture, a Poem, and a Dream
By Esperanza Ramirez-Christensen (Translator), Tracy Gallup (Illustrator)
My First Book of Haiku Poems: A Picture, a Poem, and a Dream; Classic Poems by Japanese Haiku Masters. Translated by Esperanza Ramirez-Christensen. Illustrated by Tracy Gallup. Tuttle Publishing, 2019. ISBN 9784805315156. 48 p. (Ages 5-9). Picture book.
An introduction to haiku with 20 bilingual haiku, in Japanese text, romaji, and English. An illustration accompanies each, along with commentary, inviting the reader to contemplate each poem more deeply. Winner of 2020 Northern Lights Book Award for Poetry and chosen for 2020 NCTE Notable Poetry Books and Verse Novels List. [all]
Africa South of the Sahara
Ghana
A is for Accra
By Ekow Pierre, Nana Pierre (Translator)
A is for Accra. Ekow Pierre. Illustrated by Nana Pierre. Spiderwize and Book Printing UK, 2017. ISBN 9781911596257. 40 p. (Ages 3-5). Picture book.
A is for Accra is a beautifully illustrated book, featuring a rhyming alphabetical journey around Ghana. Younger readers can learn their ABCs, while older readers can learn about Ghana and its cultures and customs. Parents can share additional information with their kids about the places, people, and foods from the glossary in the back. [gd]
Champion Runner
By Adwoa Badoe, Ashalley Mensah (Illustrator)
Champion Runner. Adwoa Badoe. Illustrated by Ashalley Mensah. Smartline Publishing and Worldreader, 2013. Published in Ghana [and the US]. ISBN 9789988600526. 17 p. (Ages 6-10). Picture book.
Abizibay is unable to attend school like the other kids; instead, he helps his father wash dishes in the school’s kitchen. In large part, Abizibay is a quiet kid who flies under the radar, but that all changes when the school holds a cross-country race. [gd]
Grandma's List
By Portia Dery, Toby Newsome (Illustrator)
Grandma’s List. Portia Dery. Illustrated by Toby Newsome. Windmill Books, 2021. Originally published by African Bureau Stories,Ghana, 2017. ISBN 9781499486322. 32 p. (Ages 5-7). Picture book.
Eight-year-old Fatima wants to help her grandma complete her chore list, but while running errands, Fatima loses the list and has to recall the list by memory. Fatima believes she remembers everything correctly, but once everything is done, she and her family realize she got everything mixed up. As Fatima moves through the list of chores, the reader experiences a typical Ghanaian neighborhood and can learn about traditional West African foods like palm nut soup, groundnuts (peanuts), and Bissap drink. 2018 Children’s Africana Book Award (CABA) winner. This book would pair well with Don’t Forget the Bacon! by Pat Hutchins. Kid’s read aloud - Grandma’s List -Storytime Haven. [gd]
Central African Republic
The Magic Doll: A Children's Book Inspired by African Art
By Yabouza Adrienne, Paul Kelly (Translator), Élodie Nouhen (Illustrator)
The Magic Doll: A Children’s Book Inspired by African Art. Yabouza Adrienne. Translated by Paul Kelly. Illustrated by Élodie Nouhen. Prestel Junior, 2020. Originally published as Une Poupée pour Maman in French by L’Élan Vert, in France, in 2019. ISBN 9783791374468. 32p. (Ages 4-9). Picture book.
Set in a small West African village, this book features a young girl who explains the special way she was born. She introduces the Akua-Ba fertility figures of the Akan people of Ghana, which are used by women who have difficulty getting pregnant. The story highlights the strong love mothers have for their children. Illustrations suggest traditional African art. A 2021 USBBY Outstanding International Books List selection. [gd]
South Africa
I Am You: A Book About Ubuntu
By Refiloe Moahloli, Zinelda McDonald (Illustrator)
I Am You: A Book About Ubuntu. Refiloe Moahloli. Illustrated by Zinelda McDonald. Amazon Crossing Kids, 2022. Originally published as We Are One by Pan Macmillan, in South Africa, in 2020. ISBN 9781542035668. 32 p. (Ages 5-7). Picture book.
Ubuntu is a common belief throughout southern Africa that we are all connected to one another, no matter where we are from. Stating “A person is a person through their connections to other people,” this book celebrates kindness, friendship, and peace. A 2023 USBBY Outstanding International Books List selection. [gd]
Paris Cat
By Dianne Hofmeyr, Piet Grobler (Illustrator)
Paris Cat. Dianne Hofmeyr. Illustrated by Piet Grobler. Tiny Owl Publishing, 2020. First published in London, 2020. ISBN 9781910328620. 32 p. (Ages 5-7). Picture book.
Kitty is determined to follow her dreams to leave the alleyways of Paris to live all of her nine lives to the fullest. She travels around Paris singing with Edith Piaf, designing her own costumes, and dancing with Josephine Baker. A 2021 International Youth Library White Raven Selection. Learn more from the publisher’s website… and then watch the author read Paris Cat. [gd]
Pretty Salma: A Little Red Riding Hood Story from Africa
By Niki Daly
Pretty Salma: A Little Red Riding Hood Story from Africa. Niki Daly. Clarion Books, 2007. Originally published as Pretty Salma by Frances Lincoln, in London, in 2006. ISBN 9780618723454. 32 p. (Ages 4-7). Picture book.
Pretty Salma is the story of Little Red Riding Hood set in contemporary urban Ghana and features West African cultural images such as traditional instruments, Anansi the trickster, a Ka Ka Motobi Bogeyman mask, and more. 2008 USBBY Outstanding International Books List, 2007 Parent’s Choice Award. [gd]
India
Ammachi's Glasses
By Priya Kurian
Ammachi’s Glasses. Priya Kurian. Tulika Books, 2017. ISBN 9789350469088. 28 p. (Ages 0 and up). Picture book.
A fun and humorous story set in Kerala, about Ammachi, a grandmother who searches for her lost glasses, is told through colorful and captivating illustrations. Would pair with Vacation by Blexbolex and Ammama’s Sari by Niveditha Subramaniam. The author is based in Bengaluru, India, and is a comic book writer, illustrator, and animation filmmaker. Shortlisted for the 2017 Publishing Next Award, Children’s Book of the Year. Ammachi’s Glasses is inspired by the author’s childhood memories with her grandmother in Kerala. Watch a reading interpretation of Ammachi's Glasses. [mi]
Dadaji's Paintbrush
By Rashmi Sirdeshpande, Ruchi Mhasane (Illustrator)
Dadaji’s Paintbrush. Rashmi Sirdeshpande. Illustrated by Ruchi Mhasane. Levine Querido, 2022. Originally published in the UK by Andersen Press. ISBN 9781646141722. 32 p. (Ages 4-8). Picture book.
A heartwarming story about a grandfather and grandson and their love for painting accompanied with illustrations created using colored pencils and pastels, that capture the beauty of Konkan coast of India. Would pair well with Cry, Heart, But Never Break by Glenn Ringtved. The author is based in London and is a lawyer turned children’s author. A Jhalak Prize Nominee for Children’s & YA (2023) and The Diverse Book Award for Best Picture Book (2023) Winner. Watch a read-aloud of Dadaji’s Paintbrush by the author, Rashmi Sirdeshpande. [mi]
Gobble You Up!
By Gita Wolf, Sunita (Illustrator)
Gobble You Up!. Gita Wolf. Illustrated by Sunita. Tara Books, 2013. Originally published in Chennai, in 2013. ISBN 9788193984154. 40 p. (Ages 3-6). Picture book.
A story written in rhyme about a lazy Jackal adapted from an oral Rajasthani trickster tale with traditional finger painting art from Meena tribe artist Sunita. The art style is popular in Rajasthan and used by women to paint walls and floors of their homes. The book was handmade using silkscreen printed in two colors by hand and craft paper. Would pair with The Magicians by Blexbolex. The author is one of the founders of Tara Books.The book has traveled to several other places and has also been translated into Korean. Here is a video about Gobble You Up! With some background about how the book was created and the inspiration behind it. [mi]
Icky, Yucky, Mucky!
By Natasha Sharma, Anitha Balachandran (Illustrator)
Icky, Yucky, Mucky!. Natasha Sharma. Illustrated by Anitha Balachandran. Young Zubaan Books, 2012. First published in New Delhi, in 2011. ISBN 9788189884963. 32 p. (Ages 4+). Picture book.
Believed to be one of the most disgusting rulers, Maharaja Icky and his wife Maharani Yucky drive their citizens of Ickhtarpur to their wit’s ends. With stunning illustrations this story gives a lesson to young readers about table manners. Would pair with You Can’t Kill Snow White by Beatrice Alemagna. The author is based in Mumbai and has written books across different age groups and formats. Voted in top 3 in the RivoKids Parent and Kids Choice Awards (2014) and Listed in Karadi Tales list of Top 12 books of 2011. Watch a short excerpt of the book read by the author.[mi]
The Mountains of Mumbai
By Labanya Ghosh, Pallavi Jain (Illustrator)
The Mountains of Mumbai. Labanya Ghosh. Illustrated by Pallavi Jain. Karadi Tales Picturebooks, 2020. First published in Chennai, in 2019. ISBN 9788193654293. 40 p. (Ages 4-6). Picture book.
A story of two friends, Veda and Doma, who live in different parts of India accompanied with illustrations created using watercolors, that brings alive the coastal city, Mumbai. Would pair with Small in the City by Sydney Smith. The author lives in Mumbai and works as a copywriter and remedial educator. A Neev Book Award Winner (2020). Watch a book reading of The Mountains of Mumbai by Labanya Ghosh. [mi]
Mukand and Riaz
By Nina Sabnani
Mukand and Riaz. Nina Sabnani. Tulika Books, 2007.Co-published with National Institute of Design, New Delhi. ISBN 9788181463432. 32 p. (Ages 5 and up). Picture book.
Set against the background of India and Pakistan’s partition, Mukund and Riaz is a gripping tale of friendship accompanied with appliqué art, a fabric art style commonly done by women of both Sindh in Pakistan and Gujarat in India. Would pair with Land of the Cranes by Aida Salazar. The author is an associate professor at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, where she is pursuing her doctoral research in the area of storytelling, with focus on Kaavad tradition in Rajasthan. She was inspired by the memories of her father and initially made Mukund and Riaz as a film for Big Small People Projects, Israel that won the certificate of merit from Tokyo Broadcasting System, Japan. This is the short film on Mukund and Riaz. [mi]
A Saree for Ammi
By Mamta Nainy, Sandhya Prabhat (Illustrator)
A Saree for Ammi. Mamta Nainy. Illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat. Tulika Books, 2019. First published in Chennai, in 2019. A Sari for Ammi, a revised edition of this book published by Amazon Crossing Kids in 2021, is also available. ISBN 9789389203608. 28 p. (Ages 5 and up). Picture book.
Two little daughters decide to buy a saree for their mother, who only weaves sarees for other people. A sweet story accompanied with illustrations that bring Kaithoon, a village in northern India, to life. Would pair with My Mother’s Sari by Sandhya Rao. The author is based in New Delhi and is an award-winning author of over thirty books. A Tata Trust’s Parag Honour List Book (2021). Watch the video of A Saree for Ammi read aloud by versatile Indian actress Revathy. [mi]
A Tangle of Brungles
By Shobha Viswanath, Culpeo S. Fox (Illustrator)
A Tangle of Brungles. Shobha Viswanath. Illustrated by Culpeo S. Fox. Karadi Tales Picturebooks, 2018. First published in Chennai, in 2018. ISBN 9788181903600. 40 p. (Ages 7-9). Picture book.
A coven of witches brew up a potion to summon Mr. Brungles, who one of the witches wants to marry. Accompanied with stunning illustrations, this book is a creative way to teach children the terms for collective nouns. Would pair with The Witches by Roald Dahl. The author is the co-founder and publishing director of Karadi Tales Company, an independent children’s publishing house based in Chennai, India. Watch a video on A Tangle of Brungles by Shobha Viswanath. [mi]
Thukpa For All
By Praba Ram and Sheela Preuitt, Shilpa Ranade (Illustrator)
Thukpa For All. Praba Ram and Sheela Preuitt. Illustrated by Shilpa Ranade. Karadi Tales Picturebooks, 2019. First published in Chennai, in 2018. ISBN 9788193388983. 48 p. (Ages 7-9). Picture book.
Tsering can’t wait to eat his grandmother's noodle soup, Thukpa. He invites all his friends and neighbors for a celebratory moment, but there is a power cut. Will his Abi, grandmother, be able to make the noodles? Narrated from a blind child’s, Tsering’s, perspective with remarkable illustrations, this story is perfect for readers who want to learn more about Ladakh region of India. Would pair with My Ocean is Blue by Darren Lebeuf. The first author, Praba Ram, is a children’s writer, reading specialist, and early childhood educator. She is also the founder of Saffron Tree— an award winning site dedicated for children’s literature from India and the US. Ram resides in Chennai with her family. The second author, Sheela Preuitt is based in Oregon, US and is a writer, cuisinière, applications developer, childhood literacy advocate, and craftswoman. Thukpa For All was selected for the 2019 IBBY list of Outstanding Books for Young People with Disabilities. It was also featured in the 2020 USBBY Outstanding International Books list. Shortlisted for Neev’s Book Award (2019) and listed as Highly Commended book by South Asia Book Awards (2019). Watch a book-reading of Thukpa For All by author Praba Ram. [mi]
Tiger on a Tree
By Anushka Ravishankar, Pulak Biswas (Illustrator)
Tiger on a Tree. Anushka Ravishankar. Illustrated by Pulak Biswas. Tara Books, 2014. Originally published by Tara Books, in Chennai, India, in 1997; first US edition by Farrar, Straus and Giroux Books for Young Readers, in 2004. ISBN 9789383145065. 40 p. (Ages 5 and up). Picture book.
A tale of a wild tiger who wanders into an Indian village and his encounters with the astonished inhabitants. Written in nonsense verse with unique illustrations depicting the essence of village life. Would pair with Elephants Never Forget by Anushka Ravishankar. The author is referred to as the Indian Dr. Seuss and was an editor for Tara Books. She is also the co-founder of Duckbill Books, a publishing house. The late illustrator received many awards for his work, including the Grand Prix from the Biennale of Illustrations, Bratislava. Tiger on a Tree is inspired by real life events. Watch an interesting read aloud of Tiger on a Tree from a young reader. [mi]
We are the Dancing Forest
By Raj Shekhar, Devashish Makhija (Translator), Venkat Shyam (Illustrator)
We Are the Dancing Forest. Raj Shekhar. Translated by Devashish Makhija. Illustrated by Venkat Shyam. Tulika Books, 2022. Originally published as Hum Jangal Ke Jagar Magar in Hindi by Tulika Books, in Chennai, in 2022. ISBN 9789390834716. 24 p. (Ages 5 and up). Picture book.
A story inspired by an Adivasi (Indigenous) song from Telangana, India, that pays tribute to forests and nature with beautiful art by a Gond (Indigenous folklore) artist. Would pair well with A Bhil Story by Sher Singh Bhil and Rainbow Crow by Nancy Van Laan. The author was born and brought up in a farming family in Bihar. He is a Hindi film lyricist based in Mumbai. Recognition includes a 2023 Green Literature Festival Children’s Honor book, 2023 Valley of Words Book Awards (shortlisted), 2023 Neev Book Awards - Junior Readers (longlisted), and 2023 Mehlli Gobhai Children’s Book Illustrator Award (shortlisted). Watch this video by the illustrator Venkat Shyam on his Gond art style. [mi]
Girls Want Azadi
By Kamla Bhasin, Shrujana Shridhar (Illustrator)
Girls Want Azadi. Kamla Bhasin. Translated by the author. Illustrated by Shrujana Shridhar. Pratham Books, 2021. Alternative title: Girls Also Want Azadi. Originally published in Hindi, in India. ISBN 9789390968756. 22 p. (Ages 9 and up). Poetry.
Written in a poetic style and illustrated in hand-painted gouache artwork, this book talks about the importance of understanding the fundamental rights granted by the Indian constitution especially to young girls and women. An empowering tale based on the original story, Betiya bhi chahe Azadi, in Hindi written by the author, it touches upon the gender equality for all women. Would pair with Dear Mrs. Naidu by Mathangi Subramanian. Kamla Bhasin is a feminist and development activist, closely linked to the women's movement. She passed away in 2021 in Delhi, India. This is a read-aloud video of the book. [mi]
Jamlo Walks
By Samina Mishra, Tarique Aziz (Illustrator)
Jamlo Walks. Samina Mishra. Illustrated by Tarique Aziz. Puffin Books, 2021. First published by Puffin Random House India, Haryana, India, in 2021. ISBN 9780143453178. 32 p. (Ages 7-9). Nonfiction.
A heart-wrenching story about Jamlo, a 12-year old child migrant worker, who passed away while trying to walk from Telangana to her village in Chattisgarh during COVID-19 pandemic. Accompanied with absorbing illustrations, this book exposes readers to the impact of the pandemic in India on young people, and ideas of death and struggle. Would pair with Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhhà Lai. The author is based in New Delhi and is a documentary filmmaker, writer, and teacher. This book is dedicated to honor the memory of Jamlo. Here is a video of a read-aloud of Jamlo Walks. [mi]
Korea
The Depth of the Lake and the Height of the Sky
By Kim Jihyun
The Depth of the Lake and the Height of the Sky. Kim Jihyun. Floris Books, 2021. First published in South Korea as Last Summer by Woongjin Thinkbig Co. Ltd, Seoul, in 2017. First published in English by Floris Books, Edinburgh in 2021, and in the US in 2022. ISBN 9781782507420. 48 p. (Ages 4-7). Picture book.
The first picture book by illustrator Kim Jihyun, it has been named among the best books of 2022 by The Boston Globe, New York Public Library, The Horn Book, Kirkus Reviews and School Library Journal. A wordless book, it recounts a city boy’s trip to his grandparents’ home in the countryside. The boy embarks on a walk into the woods alone with his dog, and the illustrations evoke palpable wonder and delight in nature. Inspired by her own trip to a lakeside town, Kim says she wanted to share the “serene feeling” she experienced being immersed in nature. [dj]
I Am the Subway
By Kim Hyo-eun, Deborah Smith (Translator)
I Am the Subway. Kim Hyo-eun. Translated by Deborah Smith. Scribble US, 2021. Originally published in Korean. ISBN 9781950354658. 52 p. (Ages 3-10). Picture book.
Narrated by the subway car itself, I Am the Subway brings to life the stories of the unknown people you see on the subway. It was rendered in English by star translator Deborah Smith, whose translation of The Vegetarian won the Man Booker International Prize. A recipient of six starred reviews. [dj]
Moon Pops
By Baek Heena, Jieun Kiaer (Translator)
Moon Pops. Baek Heena. Translated by Jieun Kiaer. Owlkids Books, 2021. Originally published as Dal Sha-bet in Korean by Bear Books, Inc. ISBN 9781771474290. 36 p. (Ages 3-7). Picture book.
The first title to appear in English by 2020 Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award winner Baek Heena (also the first Korean to win that prize). It is a creative and whimsical retelling of the Korean legend of the rabbit in the moon. A story perfect for hot summer nights, it is illustrated with cartoon-like figures that overlay deeply-detailed dioramas of city life. Baek’s earlier Magic Candies was included on the IBBY Honour List in 2018 and adapted as a musical in South Korea; it has been released in English by Amazon Crossing Kids. [cr/dj]
The Moon Tonight: Our Moon's Journey Around the Earth
By Jung Chang-hoon, Paige Morris (Translator), Jang Ho (Illustrator)
The Moon Tonight: Our Moon’s Journey Around the Earth. Jung Chang-hoon. Translated by Paige Morris. Illustrated by Jang Ho. Blue Dot Kids, 2023. Originally published in Korean by Woongjin Thinkbig Co. Ltd, Seoul, in 2007. ISBN 9781737603252. 36 p. (Ages 4-9). Picture book.
Children witness the waxing and waning of the moon in this poetic and informative text by astronomer Jung Chang-hoon. The luminous illustrations, by 2009 Bologna Children’s Book Fair illustrator-of-the-year Jang Ho, enable even the in-bed reader (or listener) to marvel at the night sky. [dj]
My GrandMom
By Gee-eun Lee, Sophie Bowman (Translator)
My GrandMom. Gee-eun Lee. Translated by Sophie Bowman. Amazon Crossing Kids, 2022. Originally published as Halmeoni eomma in Korean by Woongjin Thinkbig Co. LTD, in South Korea, in 2016. ISBN 9781662508257. 40 p. (Ages 3-7). Picture book.
Bologna Ragazzi Award-winning Gee-eun Lee bases this book on the times she spent with her own grandmother. A young girl, also named Gee-un, is left to the care of her grandmother because her parents are too busy. She cries at first, but comes to enjoy the time she spends cooking, napping and running with her grandmother, even hearing the grandmother’s stomach rumble. The story seamlessly introduces Korean words such as “Halmoni” (“grandmother”) and aspects of Korean culture such as eating on the floor and slurping noodles. [dj]
Pool
By Lee JiHyeon
Pool. Lee JiHyeon. Chronicle Books, 2015. Originally published in Korean by Iyagikot Publishing Co, in South Korea, in 2013. ISBN 9781452142944. 56p. (Ages 3-5). Picture book.
A New York Times Notable Book of the Year, Pool is a wordless story of two shy children who meet in a crowded pool and the strange and beautiful things they see—and imagine—together. It is Lee’s debut title which she created while still a student at Korea’s Hankuk Illustration School. [dj]
The Tailor Shop at the Intersection
By Ahn Jaesun, Sora Kim-Russell (Translator)
The Tailor Shop at the Intersection. Ahn Jaesun. Translated by Sora Kim-Russell. Transit Books, 2023. Originally published in Korean. ISBN 9781945492761. 48 p. (Ages 4 and up). Picture book.
A multi-generational saga… in a 48-page picture book! It chronicles three generations of tailors (dogs, actually) operating a tailor shop in Seoul. The story moves from the introduction of western-style tailoring, through the destruction of the Korean War to the present day. Author-illustrator Ahn bestows as much care in presenting the details of tailoring and the city outside as the tailors do to their suits. A paean to craftsmanship and hard work, The Tailor Shop at the Intersection received a special mention for the Bologna Ragazzi Award in the debut category. [dj]
The Three Water Drop Brothers
By Lee Eun-hee, Asuka Minamoto (Translator), Yun Mi-sook (Illustrator)
The Three Water Drop Brothers. Lee Eun-hee. Translated by Asuka Minamoto. Illustrated by Yun Mi-sook. Enchanted Lion Books, 2021. Originally published in Korean. ISBN 9781592703234. 40p. (Ages 4-8). Picture book.
A collaboration between science writer Lee Eun-hee and Bologna Ragazzi Award winning illustrator Yun Mi-sook. The story follows the travels of three water drop “brothers” who make their way through the heavens, oceans and underground (even through the body of a cow, coming out as milk) to illustrate the water cycle. They end up back together in the ocean, ready to explore the world again “because that is exactly what water drops like to do!” [dj]
Wave
By Suzy Lee,
Wave. Suzy Lee. Chronicle Books, 2008. Originally published in Korean. ISBN 9780811859240. 44p. (Ages 1-99). Picture book.
Multiple award-winning Suzy Lee was Korea’s first winner of the Hans Christian Andersen Award in 2022. Best known for her wordless books, Wave is a wordless story of a little girl who goes with her mother to play on the beach. Designed in alternating black and white and color pages (in which the girl is in black and white, and the ocean in vibrant blue), it captures the alternating delight and fear of the little girl as the waves ebb and surge. She ends up soaked by a tremendous wave, but finds delight in the sea stars and shells it leaves behind. [dj]
When Spring Comes to the DMZ
By Lee Uk-Bae, Chungyon Won and Aileen Won (Translators), Lee Uk-Bae (Illustrator)
When Spring Comes to the DMZ. Lee Uk-Bae. Translated by Chungyon Won and Aileen Won. lllustrated by Lee Uk-Bae. Plough Publishing House, 2019. Originally published in Korean. ISBN 978-0874869729. 40p. (Ages 5-8). Picture book.
A Batchelder honor book, When Spring Comes to the DMZ was a Korean contribution to the Peace Picture Book Project, a cross-national collaboration among picture book writers and illustrators from Japan, China and Korea. Lee’s book invites readers to view the amazing natural beauty that has developed in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the narrow strip of land between North and South Korea where people are still not allowed to go. Landscapes are punctured by rusting tanks and barbed wire, subtly reminding the reader of the war that separated and continues to separate the two Koreas. [dj]
China & Taiwan
China
Lemon Butterfly
By Cao Wenxuan, Roger Mello (Illustrator)
Lemon Butterfly. Cao Wenxuan. Illustrated by Roger Mello. Reycraft Books, 2020. ISBN 9781478869757. 32 p. (Ages 4-9).
One of China’s most popular children’s book authors, Cao Wenxuan was the first Chinese to receive the Hans Christian Andersen Award for Writing. This book is the fruit of pairing Cao’s text with the artwork of Brazilian illustrator (and also Hans Christian Andersen Award for Illustration winner) Roger Mello, who adds striking illustrations in vibrant primary colors. The story follows the quest of a butterfly to find a field of flowers, “the most beautiful thing in the world.” [dj]
Mao and Me
By Chen Jiang Hong, Claudia Zoe Bedrick (Translator)
Mao and Me. Chen Jiang Hong. Translated by Claudia Zoe Bedrick. Enchanted Lion Books, 2008. Originally published as Mao et moi in French by l’École des loisirs, in Paris, in 2008. ISBN 9781592700790. 96 p. (Ages 6-10). Picture book.
Though born and educated in China, artist Chen Jiang Hong has lived in Paris since 1987. Mao and Me is his first autobiographical picture book about his childhood during Cultural Revolution-era China. In a realistic style, Chen narrates his experiences growing up, as the cataclysmic events of the era rain hardship down on his family and neighbors. All the while, however, he retains a child’s view of Mao, and perhaps even some lingering affection for him. [cr/dj]
The Moose of Ewenki
By Gerelchimeg Blackcrane
The Moose of Ewenki. Gerelchimeg Blackcrane. Translated by Helen Mixter. Illustrated by Jiu Er. Greystone Kids, 2019. Originally published as Ewenke de tuo lu in Chinese, by Jie Li Chu Ban She, Nanning, 2018. ISBN 9781771645386. 68 p. (Ages 5-9). Picture book.
Written by a multi-award-winning, best-selling (and rare) author from Inner Mongolia, an autonomous region in China bordering the country of Mongolia. Features a hunter from the reindeer-herding Ewenki people who inadvertently kills a mother moose, leaving an orphan calf. The hunter takes in the calf, but their relationship proves hard to sustain as the moose gets bigger (and a lot hungrier), and the hunter ages. The text is accompanied by richly detailed, painterly illustrations by Jiu Er, the first Chinese illustrator named to the IBBY Honour List. [dj]
A New Year's Reunion
By Li Qiong Yu, Helen Wang (Translator), Zhu Chen Liang (Illustrator)
A New Year’s Reunion. Li Qiong Yu. Translated by Helen Wang. Illustrated by Zhu Chen Liang. Candlewick Press, 2011. Originally published in China, in 2008. ISBN 9780763667481. 40 p. (Ages 3-7). Picture book.
A New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book for 2011, this is the poignant story of a girl whose migrant worker father only returns home once a year at New Year’s—for just three days. The illustrations offer brightly-colored depictions of Chinese New Year traditions, but more importantly, reveal the touching relationship between father and daughter. [cr/dj]
Playing with Lanterns
By Wang Yage, Helen Wang (Translator), Zhu Chengliang (Illustrator)
Playing with Lanterns. Wang Yage. Translated by Helen Wang. Illustrated by Zhu Chengliang. Amazon Crossing Kids, 2021. ISBN 9781542029841. 40 p. (Ages 5-8). Picture book.
A White Ravens selection by first-time author Wang Yage, a literature professor, this story highlights the New Year Lantern Festival unique to Shaanxi, in northwest China. Award-winning illustrator Zhu Chengliang contrasts the bright, candy colors of bundled-up children and lanterns with the white of the snowy setting. The children’s fun in parading about with colorful lanterns lifts off the page, but is moderated by the sadness of having to crush and set aflame the lanterns on the 15th day of the New Year. [cr/dj]
The Story of Ink and Water
By Li Qingye, Chun Zhang (Translator), Peilong Liang (Illustrator)
The Story of Ink and Water. Li Qingye. Translated by Chun Zhang. Illustrated by Peilong Liang. Balestier Press, 2018. Originally published in China in 2013. ISBN 9781911221074. 36 p. (Ages 3 and up+).
An imaginative exploration of Chinese painting from a child’s perspective. We meet Water Girl, Brush Boy and Ink Boy, who discover that if they work as a team, they can create beautiful paintings. Former nursery school teacher Li Qingye weaves into the text details about traditional Chinese ink painting, which are complemented by the masterful ink paintings by illustrator Peilong Liang, which themselves are examples of the techniques described. Liang is an award-winning illustrator. [dj]
Rice
By Hongcheng Yu
Rice. Hongcheng Yu. Reycraft Books, 2020. ISBN 9781478869368. (Ages 8-12). Nonfiction.
A gorgeously illustrated nonfiction book on how rice is cultivated in China. Author/illustrator Hongcheng Yu lived in the mountains with farmers for two years to observe their planting and harvesting practices to create this book. Recipient of an honorable mention in the 2020 Freeman Book Awards, from the National Consortium for Teaching About Asia. [cr/dj]
Taiwan
Grandma Lives in a Perfume Village
By Fang Suzhen, Huang Xiumin (Translator), Sonja Danowski
Grandma Lives in a Perfume Village. Fang Suzhen. Translated by Huang Xiumin. Illustrated by Sonja Danowski. NorthSouth Books, 2015. Originally published in China by China Children’s Press and Publication Group. ISBN 9780735842168. 48 p. (Ages 4-8). Picture book.
An international collaboration, this Batchelder Honor book pairs a story by the prolific Taiwanese author Fang Suzhen with exquisite art from German illustrator Sonja Danowski, recipient of the Golden Island Award in the 2015 Nami Island International Picture Book Illustration Concours. A touching story of a young child learning to accept his grandmother’s death. [cr/dj]
The Middle East & North Africa
Morocco
Alya and the Three Cats
By Amina Hachimi Alaoui, Mehdi Retnani (Translator), Maya Fidawi (Illustrator)
Alya and the Three Cats. Amina Hachimi Alaoui. Translated by Mehdi Retnani. Illustrated by Maya Fidawi. CrackBoom! Books, Montreal, 2020. Originally published in Arabic by Yanbu Al Kitab, in Casablanca, in 2016. ISBN 9782898022364. 32 p. (Ages 2-4). Picture book.
Three curious cats watch the changes that come when their owner becomes pregnant and brings home a new baby. With time their uncertainty turns to love for the newcomer. Good for preparing little children for a new sibling. Well and widely reviewed by the international literature community. Also available in French as Alya et les trois chats. [ea]
Israel
Just One More Thing... and Then Bedtime
By Menahem Halberstadt, Romy Ronen (Translator)
Just One More Thing…and Then Bedtime. Menahem Halberstadt. Translated by Romy Ronen. Green Bean Books, 2023. Originally published in Hebrew by M. Mizrahi Publishing House, in Israel, in 2021. ISBN 9781784389475. 32 p. (Ages 3-7). Picture book.
A tired dad tries to put his preschool daughter and baby son to bed, but his talkative daughter’s observations about all the things she is thankful for – some mundane, some absurd – slow down the process. A nice blend of messy but loving real life and flights of fancy, illustrated in a cozy, cartoon style with a warm palette. The author is a well-known Israeli illustrator; this is the first book he has both written and illustrated. See this brief Q&A for some background about the book. [ayg]
The Mermaid in the Bathtub
By Nurit Zarchi, Tal Goldfajn (Translator), Rutu Modan (Illustrator)
The Mermaid in the Bathtub. Nurit Zarchi. Translated by Tal Goldfajn. Illustrated by Rutu Modan. Yonder: Restless Books for Young Readers, 2019. Originally published as Ambatyam in Hebrew by Am Oved, in Tel Aviv, in 2001. ISBN 9781632062116. 40 p. (Ages 5-10). Picture book.
This modernist riff on “The Little Mermaid” begins, “The day Mr. Whatwilltheysay found a mermaid sitting in his best armchair, he ran out of his apartment and wandered the streets until evening.” And so it goes… the fastidious protagonist avoids the mermaid, Grain-of-Sand, and the increasingly watery chaos in his apartment. But when she leaves, he is desperate to find her again. The comics-style illustrations by acclaimed graphic novelist Rutu Modan are full of clever details. When the couple is reunited it is on Grain-of-Sand’s terms – happily ensconced in Mr. Whatwilltheysay’s bathtub-cum-boat, on the open sea under a yellow pancake moon. [ayg]
Room for Rent
By Leah Goldberg, Jessica Setbon (Translator), Shmuel Katz (Illustrator)
Room for Rent. Leah Goldberg. Translated by Jessica Setbon. Illustrated by Shmuel Katz. Gefen Publishing House, 2018. Originally published as Dira Lehaskir in Hebrew by Sefarim Poalim in Tel Aviv, in 1983. ISBN 9789652299208. 24 p. (Ages 3-8). Picture book.
The animal inhabitants of an apartment building advertise for a new tenant. Each prospective renter finds fault with one of the neighbors, until the peace-loving Dove arrives. A modern classic of Israeli children’s literature. [ayg]
Qatar
Hamda and Fisaikra
By Kaltham Al-Ghanim, Andy Smart (Translator), May Al-Mannai (Illustrator)
Hamda and Fisaikra. Kaltham Al-Ghanim. Translated by Andy Smart. Illustrated by May Al-Mannai. Hamid Bin Khalifa University Press, 2011. Originally [or possibly simultaneously] published as حمدة وفسيكرة in Arabic by Hamid Bin Khalifa University Press, in Doha, Qatar, in 2011. ISBN 9992178876. 46 p. (Ages 6-8). Picture book.
Hamda, the daughter of a fisherman, saves a fish and gains a guardian to aid her escape from her difficult and drab life in this richly illustrated Qatari version of a Cinderella story. A variation for children familiar with the Western version and looking for a twist. [ea]
The Light of Hope
By Basmah El Khaṭīb, Ghenwa Yehia (Translator), Bilal Bassal (Illustrator)
The Light of Hope. Basmah El Khaṭīb. Translated by Ghenwa Yehia. Illustrated by Bilal Bassal. Hamid Bin Khalifa University Press, 2018. Originally published as Kandil Alma in Arabic by Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press in Doha, in 2018. ISBN 9789927129681. [unpaged]. (Ages 4-9). Picture book.
A young girl makes her way through a dark forest without losing her hope. An allegorical tale useful for talking about overcoming difficulties by a popular children’s author. [ea]
Mah and Me
By Ibtihaj Al-Harthi
Mah and Me. Ibtihaj Al-Harthi. Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press, 2019. Originally published as أنا وماه in Arabic by Bloomsbury, in 2015, in Qatar. ISBN 9789927119675. 32 p. (Ages 4 and up). Picture book.
A young boy is devastated by the news of his grandmother’s death. Reminiscing about their time together on her date farm, his mother helps him to understand they will never truly be separated. This book is perfect for talking to children about grief and loss. 2015 Etisalat Award Winner for Best Text. [ea]
Turkey
The Red Apple
By Feridun Oral
The Red Apple. Feridun Oral. minedition, 2015. Originally published as Kirmizi elma in Turkish by YKY, in Istanbul, in 2008. ISBN 9888240005. 28 p. (Ages 3-5). Picture book.
Forest animals work together to pick an out-of-reach apple for a hungry rabbit in the cold of winter. Pairs well with The Mitten by Jan Brett, a well-loved winter story about collaboration between forest animals. On USBBY’s 2016 list of Outstanding International Books. [ea]
Palestine
The Blue Pool of Questions
By Māyā Abū al-Ḥayyāt, Hanan Awad (Translator), Hassan Manasrah (Illustrator)
The Blue Pool of Questions. Māyā Abū al-Ḥayyāt. Translated by Hanan Awad. Illustrated by Hassan Manasrah. Penny Candy Books, 2017. Originally published in Arabic by Birzeit: Palestine Writing Workshop, in Palestine, in 2016. ISBN 9780997221985. 32 p. (Ages 4 and up). Picture book.
A man asks one question, and another, until his questions begin to fill the busy city that has no time for him. Taking a dive into the pool, he teaches a lesson about curiosity and courage. Educators have paired this poetic book with events on asking obvious or difficult questions, and questions from around the world can be found at #bluepoolofquestions on X (formerly Twitter). Event prompts, directions, prompts and a sample poster can be found at Curious City. Winner of a 2016 Etisalat Award for Arabic Children’s Literature, illustration category. [ea]
Sitti's Bird: A Gaza Story
By Malak Mattar
Sitti’s Bird: A Gaza Story. Malak Mattar. Translated by Interlink staff. Crocodile Books, 2022. ISBN 9781623718251. 32 p. (Ages 4-8). Picture book.
Malak loved her life in Gaza, watching the fish in the sea, seeing her friends at school and feeding her grandmother's bird. When she questions if her family is trapped like the bird, her grandmother advises her to escape the confines of her life in her imagination. While sheltering during the 2014 bombings in Gaza, Malak heeds this advice and finds strength through painting. This book provides an entry point to discussion of life in Gaza or of war with children. The book is based on the experiences of its now teenage artist/author who grew up and lives in Gaza. Mattar's work has been exhibited around the world. [ea]
Iran
In the Meadow of Fantasies
By Mohammad Hadi Mohammadi, Sara Khalili (Translator), Nooshin Safakhoo (Illustrator)
In the Meadow of Fantasies. Mohammad Hadi Mohammadi. Translated by Sara Khalili. Illustrated by Nooshin Safakhoo. Elsewhere Editions, 2021. Originally published as Haft Asb Haft Rang in Farsi by the Institute for Research on the History of Children’s Literature, Tehran, in 2017. ISBN 9781939810908. 42 p. (Ages 3-7). Picture book.
Seven horses, six colorful and one mysteriously colorless, transport a young disabled girl from her bed to a dreamy world where she learns of the power of compassion and imagination. Winner of the 2022 Batchelder Award. [ea]
Latin America
Colombia
As Time Went By
By José Sanabria, Audrey Hall (Translator)
As Time Went By. José Sanabria. Translated by Audrey Hall. NorthSouth Books, 2016. Originally published as Con el paso del tiempo in Spanish by Comunic-Arte, in Argentina, in 2015, but actually first appeared as Wie die Zeit vergeht in German, in Switzerland, a translation by Gabriela Stöckli of the original Spanish text. ISBN 9780735842489. 48 p. (Ages 4-8). Picture book.
Readers learn about change and its effects on human lives as a ship sails through time. A 2017 Batchelder Honor Book. [jm]
The Young Teacher and the Great Serpent
By Irene Vasco, Lawrence Schimel (Translator), Juan Palomino (Illustrator)
The Young Teacher and the Great Serpent. Irene Vasco. Translated by Lawrence Schimel. Illustrated by Juan Palomino. Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2023. Originally published as La joven maestra y la gran serpiente in Spanish by Editorial Juventud, Barcelona, in 2019. ISBN 9780802856173. 40 p. (Ages 5-9). Picture book.
As a teacher shares books with her students, they tell her the legends of a great serpent. On the Fundación Cuatrogatos Award list. The author is a prominent Columbian educator; she was recognized by the Colombian Ministry of Education with its “Life and Work” distinction for her long career working with children and teens. [jm]
Chile
The Beach
By Sol Undurraga, Kit Mod (Translator)
The Beach. Sol Undurraga. Translated by Kit Maude. Tapioca Stories, 2022. Originally published as La playa in Spanish by Saposcat, Santiago, Chile, in 2019, but actually first appeared as La plage in French by l’Agrume, in Paris, France, in 2017, likely a translation of the original Spanish text. ISBN 9781734783940. 32 p. (Ages 6-9). Picture book.
Children can explore the different types of people who visit the beach and the different things they do there within a 24-hour period. They will also get to use their imagination about the types of creatures at the beach and activities that could happen there. Winner of the Opera Prima Award at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair and the Green Island Award at the Nami International Picture Book Contest. The author-illustrator is from Chile and currently lives in Berlin. [jm]
9 Kilometers
By Claudio Aguilera, Lawrence Schimel (Translator), Gabriela Lyon (Illustrator)
9 Kilometers. Claudio Aguilera. Translated by Lawrence Schimel. Illustrated by Gabriela Lyon. Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2023. Originally published as 9 kilómetros in Spanish by Ediciones Ekaré Sur, Santiago, Chile, in 2020. ISBN 9780802856005. 56 p. (Ages 5-9). Picture book.
A 10-year-old boy enjoys his 5.5 mile walk home from school through Chilean rain forests and mountains. A White Ravens selection and children’s category winner of the Chilean Ministry of Culture's Marta Brunet Award. [jm]
Book of Questions
By Pablo Neruda, Sara Lissa Paulson (Translator), Paloma Valdivia (Illustrator)
Book of Questions: Selections/Libro de las preguntas: Selecciones. Pablo Neruda. Translated by Sara Lissa Paulson. Illustrated by Paloma Valdivia. Enchanted Lion Books, 2022. Originally published as Libro de las preguntas in Spanish by Editorial Losada, Buenos Aires, in 1974. ISBN 9781592703227. 80 p. (Ages 6 and up). Poetry.
A lavish, large-format bilingual abridged and illustrated version of Chilean Nobel Prize winner Neruda’s Book of Questions. Newly translated. Sweeping bold, stylized illustrations by Chilean illustrator Valdivia dramatize but do not answer rhetorical questions about the natural world, leaving plenty of room for exploration and wonder. Valdivia has been shortlisted for the Hans Christian Andersen Award for illustration. [ayg]
Argentina
Daytime Visions: An Alphabet
By Isol, Elisa Amato and Isol (Translators)
Daytime Visions: An Alphabet. Isol. Adapted into English by Isol and Elisa Amado. Enchanted Lion Books, 2016. Originally published as Abecedario a mano in Spanish by Fondo de Cultura Económica, México, in 2015. ISBN 9781592701957. 56 p. (Ages 3-8). Picture book.
An alphabet book in name only, this playful and intriguing book hints at stories implicit in the phrases and collage art that accompany each letter. Could be used as art and story prompts in the classroom as well as for pleasure reading. Isol is an internationally recognized illustrator from Buenos Aires, having won the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award and been twice shortlisted for the Hans Christian Andersen Award for illustrators. [ayg]
Sheep Count Flowers
By Micaela Chirif, Arthur A. Levine (Translator), Amanda Mijangos (Illustrator)
Sheep Count Flowers. Micaela Chirif. Translated by Arthur A. Levine. Illustrated by Amanda Mijangos. Levine Querido, 2021. Originally published as Las Ovejas by Limonero, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 2020. ISBN 9781646141197. 40 p. (Ages 4-7). Picture book.
If we count sheep, what do sheep count to get to sleep? This dream-like book speculates on the answer to that question and more about sheep. Peruvian author and poet Micaela Chirif's picture books have won the “A la Orilla del Viento” picture book competition from the Spanish-language publishing house Fondo de Cultura Económica. Three of her picture books were White Ravens selections. [jm]
Mexico
Ways to Make Friends
By Jairo Buitrago, Elisa Amado (Translator), Mariana Ruiz Johnson (Illustrator)
Ways to Make Friends. Jairo Buitrago. Translated by Elisa Amado. Illustrated by Mariana Ruiz Johnson. Greystone Kids, 2022. Originally published as Formas de hacer amigos in Spanish by Leetra Final, in Mexico City, in 2021. ISBN 9781771649759. 40 p. (Ages 4-7). Picture book.
Toad has lots of advice on how to make new friends. Some of it is great, some of it not so great. When all else fails, Toad finds out that learning about and befriending yourself can be a valuable way to spend your time as well. A 2023 USBBY Outstanding International Book. [jm]
Brazil
You Can't be Too Careful!
By Roger Mello, Daniel Hahn (Translator)
You Can’t Be Too Careful! Roger Mello. Translated by Daniel Hahn. Elsewhere Editions, 2017. Originally published as Todo cuidado é pouco! in Portuguese by Companhia das Letras, Sao Paulo, Brazil, in 1999. ISBN 9780914671640. 36 p. (Ages 5-8). Picture book.
Serious questions are explored even as the reader learns how tiny actions can cause big change. A 2018 Batchelder Honor Book. Roger Mello has illustrated over 100 children's books and written more than twenty. More of his notable books can be found listed here [jm]