Book Reviews

PIONEER LIBRARY SYSTEM — CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW

Author: Jason Rekulak Genre: Adult Fiction Pages: 372 Reviewer: Abby Curry, Librarian, Moore Public Library

Dear horror fans and armchair detectives, are you looking for spooks, chills, and eerie thrills? Then grab your notepad and magnifying glass and open up a copy of Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak…if you dare.

Inside you’ll find a twisted tale of ghosts, psychics, and haunted people. Though the skeletons in their closets aren’t always of the paranormal persuasion, if it’s terror you’re looking for, you merely need peek at the sketches scattered throughout the book. These drawings are the work of one of our main characters, a child named Teddy.

Mallory, Teddy’s new babysitter, initially finds them charming, but as our story deepens, Teddy’s drawings become disturbing and sinister. Follow along with Mallory as she digs for the hidden truth beneath the pictures and see if you can solve the mystery of a haunted town and a haunted family. Be brave, gentle readers, and don’t forget to check under your bed.

This title can be found at your local library, or check it out digitally using the PLS Connect app or Libby.

Sometimes, All I Need is Me

Author: Juliana Perdomo Illustrator: Juliana Perdomo Publisher: Penguin Random House Reviewer: Adara Bates, Children’s Library Associate, Southwest Oklahoma City Public Library

This children’s picture book follows a young girl as she reflects on all the reasons she loves spending time with others, while also learning to appreciate the time she spends alone. The story explores the ways in which spending time with friends or family can maximize our fun, create better relationships, and make us happy. It also discusses the ways alone time is beneficial to us and makes us happy. Its message is one that assures children that everyone needs alone time, and it can be just as fun and meaningful as spending time with others. Our main character recognizes that time alone can help foster a sense of home within herself, allowing her to conquer any challenges she may face.

This story contains themes around mindfulness, resilience, and self-confidence and is intended for children ages 2-5.

For more book recommendations or assistance, stop by the children’s desk at your local library or call 405.979.2200 to connect with a librarian at the SOKC Public Library. Happy reading!