Librarian Mychal Threets talks rebooting Reading Rainbow and our panel eats goo

This book, originally titled 'Minna Unchi' in Japanese, aims to relieve shame and embarrassment around defecation by explaining that it is a natural process. It uses simple and colorful illustrations to show how different animals produce waste and how humans do the same. The book is intended for young children and is often used in potty training.

The book 'Dogman' by Bob Paski is set in a burnt-out part of a sprawling city, where the protagonist faces a threatening snowstorm. The narrative likely explores themes of survival, resilience, and possibly supernatural or mysterious elements given the title.

This debut picture book by Mychal Threets celebrates the welcoming nature of libraries, encouraging children to explore and feel seen. Illustrated by Lorraine Nam, it aims to inspire young readers to discover their own stories within the library's walls.

Set in the mid-1930s during the Great Depression, 'Bud, Not Buddy' follows the journey of 10-year-old Bud Caldwell, an African-American boy whose mother died when he was six. Bud has been living in foster homes but decides to set out to find his father, using clues from his mother's belongings. Along the way, he faces numerous challenges and meets various characters who influence his life. Eventually, Bud discovers that the man he believed to be his father, Herman E. Calloway, is actually his grandfather, and he finds a sense of belonging and family with Calloway and his jazz band, the Dusky Devastators of the Depression.

In this iconic children's book, Max, dressed in his wolf suit, causes chaos at home and is sent to bed without supper. His bedroom transforms into a jungle, and he sails to an island where he encounters the Wild Things. Max tames the creatures and becomes their king, but eventually returns home, missing his mother's love. The book is praised for its honest treatment of children's emotions, particularly anger and the need for parental love. It has been adapted into a movie and an opera and remains a beloved classic in children's literature.

Arnold Lobel's "Frog and Toad" series is a collection of charming and heartwarming stories about the friendship between two amphibian friends. The simple yet engaging narratives explore themes of friendship, kindness, and everyday life. The gentle illustrations perfectly complement the text, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The books are known for their timeless appeal and ability to resonate with readers of all ages.

The book begins with the story of Kunta Kinte, a young Mandinka man from The Gambia who is captured by slave traders and sold into slavery in America. It follows the lives of his descendants through seven generations, detailing their experiences under slavery, the Civil War, and the post-war period. The narrative shifts to Alex Haley's first-person account, recounting his own life and the oral traditions passed down through his family. The book is a powerful exploration of slavery, family history, and the importance of preserving cultural heritage.