A Summer Without Anna

• Illustrated by Risa Hugo

• Published by Kids Can Press

Junie misses her sister – and their summers together before Anna got sick.

When Junie’s mum and dad leave her with Nan and Pop for the summer, they promise they’ll be back to get her “the minute Anna’s well enough.” Then they hand her Anna’s camera with a note that reads, “In case you find Edmund.” Over the course of the long summer, Junie spends her days floating in the lake, fishing with Pop and taking lots of pictures – though none of Edmund, the elusive giant turtle. Edmund will have to wait, just like Junie’s waiting to finally see her sister again.

A heartfelt tribute to the love between siblings, this poignant exploration of a child’s inner world during uncertain times is perfect for any young person dealing with an ill family member or any type of uncertainty.

A Summer Without Anna available now for pre-sale now wherever books are sold (see below for links!)

As always, please consider supporting a local bookstore whenever you can!

Beatrice and Barb

• Illustrated by Vivian Mineker

• Published by Kids Can Press

In this heartfelt story of friendship, a young girl is determined to save her most unlikely pet.

Beatrice desperately wants a pet of her own. Her mom has other ideas. No dog. No cat. No hedgehog. They finally reach a compromise, and Beatrice gets … a Venus flytrap. Being a good sport, Beatrice makes the best of things. She gives her new friend a name, Barb. She does all the things with Barb that good pet owners do, such as taking walks and playing fetch. Only, now, despite all the love and care, Barb is starting to look sick, with black spots on her leaves and some parts of her turning mushy. Beatrice knows she has to find a way to save Barb. But how?

The debut picture book from author Kate Jenks Landry offers a universal and powerful message about how to take care of those we love. It also celebrates differences, unique friendships and what makes each of us special (like how Barb needs to eat bugs to survive!). This story has strong curriculum connections to social-emotional learning and offers excellent character education lessons on caring, perseverance and responsibility. Vivian Mineker’s illustrations are imbued with the soft greens of plant life and beautifully convey the warmth and affection at the heart of the story.

Beatrice and Barb is available at your local library, and wherever books are sold!