Media Matters

 Book by Gary Schmidt. This is a beautiful book, tackling heavy themes such as physical abuse with both realism and hope. The characters are incredibly nuanced, with even the most unlikeable showing some redeeming qualities later on. It tackles toxic masculinity in an era before that was even a term, and it does so by telling, never preaching. It also makes a big impact in showing how the words we say can make a huge difference in the way someone feels. The serious themes are lightened by the heartwarming friendships Doug makes in his new town. And there is no adult content that would make this inaccessible to older children. This is a book the entire family could read and discuss together.  I listened to the audiobook and it was excellent.

 Board book by Kathi Appelt. The illustrator’s style is not my favorite, but the words have a perfect rhythm and rhyme that begs to be sung. I made up a tune, and my granddaughter loves to listen. It’s a charming and soothing bedtime book.

 Picture book by Janet Stevens. A fun trickster type story with a great ending! 

 Picture book by Timothy Robinson. This is a quality retelling of a Book of Mormon story. It would be a particularly good read in preparation for a baptism.

 Picture book by Brad Wilcox. This is a lovely picture book that teaches about the atonement of Jesus Christ by using a parable children will be able to relate to and understand. It is quite well done, and would be a great addition to an Easter bookshelf.

 Picture book by John Hendrix. Beautifully and faithfully written, while also remarkably accessible to modern children.  Includes retellings of The Good Samaritan, The Sermon on the Mount, The Wise Man and the Foolish Man, The Pearl of Great Price, The City on a Hill, The Lost Sheep, and The Prodigal Son.