On the Butler Bookshelf this week, we have some charming fiction and nonfiction picture books. Our featured book this week is Mahogany: A Little Red Riding Hood Tale by JaNay Brown-Wood. In the retelling of this fairytale, Mahogany is a spirited girl who likes listening to music, sewing, and wearing high-tops. She runs into the hungry wolf on her way to deliver honey cornbread to Grandma. Mahogany cleverly stands by a willow tree where her curly black hair merges with the branches. Hiding in the forest, her dark skin blends with the black shadows. Tricking the wolf’s nose, she knows her lavender essence will combine with the scent of the flowering plants. In the end, Mahogany’s sewing skills, smarts, and Blackness save her and her G-Ma in this fresh and delightful tale.

The Cat Who Couldn’t Be Bothered 

Written by Jack Kurland

Published by Frances Lincoln First Editions

Available March 26, 2024

 

I Am A Masterpiece 

Written by Mia Armstrong

Illustrated by Alexandra Thompson

Published by Penguin Random House Children’s Books

Available now!

 

Log Life

Written by Amy Hevron 

Published by Simon & Schuster

Available now!

 

Lucky Duck 

Written by Greg Pizzoli 

Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers

Available now!

 

Mahogany: A Little Red Riding Hood Tale

Written by JaNay Brown-Wood

Illustrated by John Joven

Published by Charlesbridge

Available March 19, 2024

 

Ride Beside Me

Written by Lucy Knisley

Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers

Available now!