Over in the Woodland: A Mythological Counting Journey by Nicole and Shar Abreu - Illustrated by Susanna Covelli

A rhyming adventure for the youngest of readers. Follow a pride of griffins as they fly through the woodlands watching over all the inhabitants of their magical home. In simple rhyme, mythological characters are introduced in a family setting; each featuring or performing their principal attributes. Ten families are introduced, beginning with the rebirth of the phoenix and his son. Familiar characters are present, like the elusive unicorn and fire breathing dragons. An index of creatures in the end provide a short definition and summary.

Shiny, dewy and magical are the illustrations Susanna Covelli has created for this mythical world. Playful trolls under a bridge or hardworking dwarves learning their craft displayed with earnestness and innocence. The woodland seems like a happy place to be. Recommended for ages 3+.

Amazon
Familius LLC 2020
Hardcover 32p
9.3" x 11.1"

Shirley Barber's Fairy Tales Treasury

Shirley Barber's fairies and magical beasts make a reappearance in her new book Fairy Tales Treasury. This is a compilation of Fairyland Treasury and Wonderland Treasury. Her gentle stories with themes young children can relate to and of course her magical art have received an updated look. The cover uses lenticular printing for a 3D effect in lieu of a dust jacket.

Collected are thirteen very short stories and five poems. These have been previously published in her older books. Barber's books are popular and sell out very quickly. They were out of print for many years and now are seeing new life through a different publisher. Children and fairy lovers have been delighted by her work for decades and can now enjoy it in a new layout with borders eliminated. The last image shows the difference between the old and new layout. The older book in the back is from Shirley Barber's Fairy Collection, which includes an audio CD. The main characters are the fairies but other fantastic creatures like mermaids, unicorns and dragons also appear. Barber's artwork is also published as jigsaw puzzles and calendars. Recommended for ages 3+.

Amazon
Brolly Books 2020
Hardcover 96p
8.8" x 11.8"

The Yin-Yang Sisters and the Dragon Frightful by Nancy Tupper Ling Illustrated by Andrea Offermann

Twins Wei and Mei work together to defend their village against a terrible dragon named Frightful. Wei is brave and impatient while Mei is timid and clever. A fun and exciting read, this modern fairy tale shows how two little girls use teamwork to overcome their obstacles. Wei trains hard at kung fu lessons and Mei studies hard at the library, reading and learning. By combining their strengths, the twins prove that girls can be strong and intelligent.

With influences from Chinese landscape painting, the illustrations lush and detailed, display a sense of authenticity to the land and culture of its subjects. The scenery and people are descriptive without being stereotypical. The art is done in watercolour, pen and ink with digital touch ups.

The book design is quite attractive as well, having two different covers. A dust jacket is always appreciated especially when the inner cover is as fierce as this one! The thick paper selected is also handy and durable as this book will most likely be read many times over. Recommended for ages 5+.

Amazon
G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers 2018
Hardcover 40p
7.7" x 11.9"

Prince & Knight by Daniel Haack - Illustrated by Stevie Lewis

Prince & Knight, a fairy tale for modern times. A dashing and courageous prince searches far and wide for a worthy partner in this lighthearted take on true love. This story has the elements of a classic fairy tale: a charming prince who lives in a land far far away, he fights a fire-breathing dragon, finds his one true love and live happily ever after. His love however, is not the typical damsel in distress; he did not kiss her awake or save her from an evil witch but is a knight in shining armour. This knight, who is equally courageous and handsome as our prince shows that love doesn't have to follow the norm, it just needs to follow the heart. Written by Daniel Haack in rhyme, this book is a fun read and the messages in this LGBTQ friendly story will be easy to understand for young readers.

Stevie Lewis' illustrations are whimsical and cute; aptly chosen for this sensitive story. There is great use of colour for dramatic emphasis throughout. Her illustrations are clean, upbeat and a bit retro. The princesses are painted with different skin tones is a nice plus. Recommended for ages 5+.

Amazon
little bee books 2018
Hardcover 40p
9.8" x 8.2"