Comic from Nobrow!

Fish by Bianca Bagnarelli

After the death of his parents, Milo sees death everywhere. He is at once compelled and disgusted by it, trying to come to terms with his place in the delicate balance of life and death. The pink and purple palette imbues the work with the warmth and long shadows of late summer, while bringing to mind the blood and bruises Milo can't hide. A poignant comic that begs to be reread and pondered. 

You can check out some interiors on Comics&Cola. 

Thanks to Tucker Stone for sending me a copy. 

Patrick Eats His Peas and Other Stories

New comics for beginning readers from Geisel Award-winning author Geoffrey Hayes and Toon Books. 

 

Patrick's adventures capture the funny, sweet, and naughty moments that may be found in any household on a daily basis. Geoffrey Hayes distills these moments, his clean dialogue and clear emotional indicators making Patrick's adventures easy to read for even the youngest readers. The expressive characters and soft illustrations capture the warmth and humor of everyday adventures, ones children will recognize from their own lives. A fine addition to a strong early reader series.

Creston Books

Creston Books is a new publisher of children's books, begun by author Marissa Moss. I was lucky enough to meet Marissa at Book Expo America and I must admit it was hard to contain my excitement. I grew up reading Amelia's Notebook and even had the doll. Talking with Marissa about her own books and her new publishing venture I was inspired. Marissa is passionate about children's books and her passion is infectious. I'm looking forward to watching her list grow. 

Two upcoming Creston Books: 

Rotten Pumpkin: A Rotten Tale in 15 Voices by David M. Schwartz, Photos by Dwight Kuhn 

 

Follow the life cycle of a Jack o'lantern as it is eaten by animals, molds, bugs, and worms. Stunning photographs detail mold growth and the intricacies of rot. The clear photos will have students peering at their own classroom experiments and their Jack o'lantern in a new light. With a comprehensive glossary, this book would be a fascinating addition to classroom libraries.

Cozy Light, Cozy Night by Elisa Kleven 

 

In winter, pajamas are cozy. In the summer, a special rock might be cozy in your pocked. Elisa Kleven encourages readers to consider the small treasure each season brings. Her colorful illustrations are layered with patterns and textures reminiscent of cozy quilts. This would make a lovely gift for any family. I encourage you to curl up under a quilt and read it together!

 

Quarkbeasts (and Jennifer Strange) return! Hip, hip, hooray!

The Song of the Quarkbeast: The Chronicles of Kazam Book 2 by Jasper Fforde 

Harcourt, September 3, 2013

Book two of The Chronicles of Kazam is finally here! Jennifer Strange is back and King Snodd is back to causing trouble for her. This time, there are more Quarkbeasts, trolls, political shenanigans, and even a contest versus imagic. Jasper Fforde's books are the perfect blend of smart and funny. Even adults who like the Thursday Next Series should check out Kazam! 

The first book in this series was the tightest book I've read in a long while. The second volume isn't quite as good, but still enjoyable. Jasper Fforde is definitely on my list of "authors whose books I will always buy".  In this case, I picked up a paperback copy when I was in London because galleys weren't yet ready in the United States...

A strange and surreal novel from Patrick Ness

More Than This by Patrick Ness 

Candlewick Press, September 2013

 

When Seth kills himself, he's surprised to wake up in his family's old house in England. How is this possible? And why is no one else there? And why does he have vivid memories when he dreams? A chilling story of death, life, catastrophe, and connection, More Than This asks questions of what life means and if we can ever have more than what we experience. Like the cold sea, this book pulled me in and wouldn't let me go.

New from David Almond

The Boy Who Swam with Piranhas by David Almond, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers

Candlewick Press, August 20139

When Stanley's uncle becomes obsessed with canning fish-even Stanley's beautiful birthday goldfish- Stanley runs away with a carnival. But can Stanley become the Boy who swam with Piranhas and completely leave his home behind? Peculiar and surreal, with interesting characters and surprising truths, this book will appeal to readers who enjoyed the Mysterious Benedict society.

Three-Ring Rascals: The Show Must Go On!

By Kate Klise, illustrated by M. Sarah Klise

September 10, 2013, Algonquin Books for Young Readers 

 

When Sir Sidney realizes it's time to retire, he must find a new Ringmaster for his circus. But the animals aren't happy with Barnabas Brambles. Can Barnabas change? Or will the circus fall apart without Sir Sidney? Kate and M. Sarah Klise are a great team and their newest book with have young readers laughing aloud and maybe even cheering.