<p>Happy Monday!</p><p>No matter what’s going on in my life, reading ALWAYS makes me feel better and always has. Whether I escape into a fictional novel, learn something new in a non-fiction book or dip my toes into some poetry, life always feels better after a session of reading. </p><p>But my favorite books to lean into when life feels hard are books that adults typically do not gravitate toward: picture books. I’m thrilled to share a few new releases today that might be just what your adult reading heart needs, too. </p><p>Then, if you like this idea of reading children’s picture books to soothe the adult life, you might like to listen to the podcast episode I recorded on this very topic:</p><p>Keep scrolling to see the picture books that caught my attention and then press play on my most recent podcast episode with Melanie Dale. Her book was so good, I hugged it once I turned the final page. =)</p><p>Happy reading and listening!</p><p>Stephanie</p><p><strong>Book Birthdays and Other Book Reviews🎈🎁📖🎂📚🎉</strong></p><p>Here are the newly released books that have made their way to me along with other books that I have read and reviewed:</p><p>🎉FOUND SOUND by Meg Wolitzer & Charlie Panek (<a target="_blank" href="https://amzn.to/4tlKgce">Amazon</a> / <a target="_blank" href="https://bookshop.org/a/13963/9781101994627">Bookshop</a>)</p><p>This book includes the coolest sound-inspired scavenger hunt that begins when Felix finds a box with the words OPEN ME on it. Inside, he finds an audio recorder and a list of codes that launch his adventure. It’s a fast-paced mystery about family and friendships lost and found. It’s a delight!</p><p>🎉TAKING FLIGHT by Taking Flight by Kashmira Sheth & Illustrated by Nicolò Carozzi (<a target="_blank" href="https://amzn.to/4esNlCy">Amazon</a> / <a target="_blank" href="https://bookshop.org/a/13963/9798217003884">Bookshop</a>)</p><p>Get ready to go deep in your reading heart for this one. This is a moving and stunningly illustrated exploration of the refugee experience, through the eyes of those most impacted: children. The world needs this book.</p><p>🎉Can You Grow a Striped Banana? by Jill Santopolo & Illustrated by Momoko Abe (<a target="_blank" href="https://amzn.to/42cSmrs">Amazon</a> / <a target="_blank" href="https://bookshop.org/a/13963/9780593858851">Bookshop</a>)</p><p>This is the most beautiful picture book full of tender love. In it, a mom assures her daughter that while mothers may not be perfect, they’ll always be full of love. It’s perfect for every parent and caregiver and with Mother’s Day just around the corner, is the perfect gift, too. </p><p>🎉TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALL GAME by Jack Norworth & Illustrated by Gary Clement (<a target="_blank" href="https://amzn.to/41HlaZ7">Amazon</a> / <a target="_blank" href="https://bookshop.org/a/13963/9781778403248">Bookshop</a>)</p><p>This inviting picture book is a moving tribute to baseball’s most beloved anthem, something I used to love singing as a child and with my own children. With only song lyrics for words and the most perfect illustrations, this book will immerse you in the baseball experience. </p><p><strong>E217: A Paranormal Atmospheric Read: GIRL OF LORE by Melanie Dale</strong></p><p>On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with Melanie Dale about her newest upper middle grade novel: A GIRL OF LORE.</p><p>In this atmospheric paranormal novel, inner demons and town secrets collide in the haunting Southern town of London, Georgia. It had me guessing on every page, closing my eyes on some of them and truly inviting me into Mina’s world throughout.</p><p>Come listen as we talk about the unexpected way Melanie decided to write her first middle grade novel, the varied themes and entry points for all readers and why you should read it and hug it, too. Don’t be mistaken: even if you do not typically read novels like this, this book is for you. It’s enchanting.</p><p>Here is the book featured in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!</p><p>GIRL OF LORE by Melanie Dale (<a target="_blank" href="https://amzn.to/4chYepP">Amazon</a> / <a target="_blank" href="https://bookshop.org/a/13963/9781665969826">Bookshop</a>)</p><p>Here’s where you can find Melanie online:</p><p>Website: <a target="_blank" href="https://melaniedale.com/">https://melaniedale.com/</a></p><p>Instagram: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.instagram.com/melanierdale/">https://www.instagram.com/melanierdale/</a></p><p>I’d love to know what you think of this episode. 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