(2) K-3 Violet spots a pack of eighty-four "brand-new, never-used, perfect crayons" in a store and is ecstatic when (after some wheeling and dealing) they become hers. She imagines all of the wonderful, colorful things she can draw, but soon realizes that she can't bring herself to use the crayons. Little sister Marigold questions why; Violet responds, "They are too pretty. I don't want to ruin them...I think I'll save them for another day." But that day doesn't come, and Violet's mood declines--especially once Marigold decides to help herself to their use. Thankfully, the sisters are able to come to an understanding, "and together, they wore down the perfectly pointed tips of eighty-four brand-new, never-used, perfect crayons." The illustrations are drawn digitally, with the palette sometimes reflecting Violet's emotions (e.g., when she first encounters the crayons, gray backgrounds give way to more varied colors). Textured, crayon-like strokes create a colorful, relatable world. The text uses accessible language and conveys its message about embracing the imperfect without being overly didactic. This story makes a useful social-emotional learning resource and will resonate with anyone hesitant to change or with tendencies toward perfectionism.

Reviewer: Sara Danver | Horn Book Magazine Issue: July, 2023

(2) YA Nishat is a Bengali Muslim teen attending a conservative Catholic school in Dublin. When she comes out as lesbian to her parents, she is met with near-silence. Meanwhile, Nishat creates a henna business for a school competition, and her longtime crush Flávia (an Afro-Brazilian Irish classmate) complicates things by creating a rival business. As the competition heats up, so do the young women's feelings for each other. Their will-they-or-won't-they? romance will keep readers engrossed. Jaigirdar's debut novel features realistically complex queer girls of color at its center and honestly addresses the conflicts they face as such--micro- and macro-agressions, hitting up against family traditions while trying to pursue one's own desires and wants--though always standing in Nishat's corner is her supportive sister Priti, who offers the approval the protagonist longs for from her family. All major conflicts are tied up, and probably most touching of all is the hopeful understanding that Nishat and her family reach.

Reviewer: Sara Danver | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2020

(2) K-3 Illustrated by Jana Christy. In Brenner's inviting story, chilly weather, holiday decorations, delicious baked goods, and all the other trappings of Christmas act as guideposts for a brother and sister as they eagerly await Christmas morning. Soft-focus digital illustrations in vibrant hues reflect the season's coziness and industry. Those looking for an accessible book about secular celebration of Christmas will enjoy this warm-hearted offering.

Reviewer: Sara Danver | Horn Book Magazine Issue: November, 2014