Welcome to the online presence of the Butler Children's Literature Center, housed within Dominican's School of Information Studies, Crown Library room 214. Here, we celebrate the best in books for youth and those who delight in sharing them. For Fall 2026, BCLC will offer collection access to the Dominican community and general public during posted open hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 9am-4pm, and by appointment with the Curator. Contact Jen Clemons at butler@dom.edu or jclemons@dom.edu to make arrangements.
There is nothing quite like the vast world of space. It’s fascinated people for centuries, and it’s evident that readers can’t get enough of books about exploring the universe. The books we’re featuring in Butler Bookshelf for this week comes from our nonfiction section. Our featured pick is History Smashers: The Space Race (History Smashers 12) by Kate Messner. Messner explores humanity’s fascination with outer space in this latest addition to the series, and it isn’t limited to the infamous ‘space race’ between Russia and the United States (though it is covered in great detail). The book also features black-and-white graphic novel inserts, a Q&A with Laurie Leshin, a Jet Propulsion Laboratory Director for NASA from 2022-2025, a timeline of the ‘space race,’ and photographs of people, animals, and rockets that made the journey from Earth to the stars.
Here are some more books on the wonders of outer space:
History Smashers: The Space Race (History Smashers 12) Kate Messner Random House Children’s Books/Random House Books for Young Readers Available now!
Chasing the Moon: A Captivating Journey Through Its Magical Phases Susan Hayes Illustrated by Anna Stead The Quarto Group/Wide Eyed Productions Available now!
Star, Moon, Zoom!: A Book Full of Space Facts Moira Butterfield Illustrated by Ro Ledesma The Quarto Group/Happy Yak Available now!
Sound Explorers: Space Adventure Anna Claybourne Illustrated by Teo Georgiev The Quarto Group/Design Eye Available now!
National Geographic Kids: Little Kids First: Big Book of Space 2nd Edition Catherine D. Hughes Random House Children’s Books/National Geographic Kids Available now!
Nature is omnipresent and can be fun to interact with, especially for young children. Reading books about nature can introduce young readers to the wonders of the great outdoors, which is why we’re featuring nature literature from our nonfiction collection! This week’s feature pick is A Visit With the Birds: A Hands-On Nature Book by Sara Levine and illustrated by Ashley Barron. In this picture book, a child and their parent go to the park to feed and look at the birds that inhabit the city park. Young readers can point at which birds or other creatures they find on the pages. There is also a page spread that encourages readers to take a moment to move and make bird sounds. At the back of the book, there’s end matter about all the birds featured in the illustrations.
Check out this and other nature titles!
A Visit with the Birds: A Hands-on Nature Book Sara Levine Illustrated by Ashley Barron Sourcebooks Kids/sourcebooks eXplore Available now!
Buzz: A Family Guide to Bugs and Bees and How to Spot Them Richard “Bugman” Jones Illustrated by Sara Boccaccini Meadows ABRAMS/Magic Cat Publishing Available now!
Encyclopedia of Fungi Jules Howard Illustrated by Namasri Niumin The Quarto Group/Wide Eyed Productions Available now!
Nature School: In the Garden: Lessons and Activities to Cultivate Children’s Connection to the Natural World Lauren Giordano, Stephanie Hathaway, and Laura Stroup The Quarto Group/Quarry Books Available now!
Woodlore: Discover the Seasons and Stories of the Forest Kevin Parr Illustrated by Anja Sušanj ABRAMS/Magic Cat Publishing Available now!
Maptacular! Laura Baker Illustrated by Jorge De La Paz Lonely Planet Kids November 10, 2026 Age 8-12
Most maps divide the world by country borders, but what if it were split by favorite ice cream flavors, tallest trees, or global distribution of video gamers? Prolific children’s nonfiction author, Laura Baker, along with travel guide powerhouse Lonely Planet, offers middle grade readers this fascinating, infographic-like twist on cartography. Maptacular! features 70+ maps with chapters focused on countries, people, nature, transportation, history, and technology, then subdivided further into 2-page spreads exploring a single topic or question, such as “Do You Need a (School) Uniform?” or “Marco Polo’s Voyage.” The amount of easily digestible text varies from spread to spread, but most include a helpful key for understanding the map and fun facts associated with the topic, like that Australia is home to 28 million people and 40 million kangaroos (p24). Without a strong narrative structure, the title allows for consuming intriguing details at a reader’s own pace, either moving slowly through the ideas and images, or dipping in and out like a reference text, while wildly varied topics nurture curiosity about both the earth and the global community. Baker introduces deeper topics for consideration in age-appropriate ways, like that maps are organized the way they are (with Europe in the center) because they were developed by European explorers, gently encouraging readers to look at other things from a new perspective. De La Paz uses graphic design-inspired digital images in a candy-colored palette to clearly express the facts of each topic. Clean image overlays help simplify complex ideas, like the way Mercator Projection maps stretch out the land at the top/bottom of the globe. The inclusion of several wayfinding aids, an about section (explaining the parts of each spread), a world map, glossary, and resource list support both new nonfiction readers and those looking to dig deeper into a topic.
A vivid, info-packed guide for geography buffs and fun fact collectors alike.
Here at the Butler Center, our nonfiction collection features books about people who changed the world in their own ways. The women featured in these nonfiction titles made their mark whether it’s through their words, their artwork, or their dancing. This week’s feature pick is Remember Her Name!: Debbie Allen’s Rise to Fame written by Tami Charles and illustrated by Meredith Lucius. This picture book highlights the early life of world-renowned dancer, choreographer, and actress Debbie Allen. Charles lyrically tells the story of how Allen found acceptance taking dance classes in Mexico City and bringing her talent back to her old home in Houston, TX, where black girls weren’t allowed in prestigious dance schools because of racism and Jim Crow laws.
Remember Her Name!: Debbie Allen’s Rise to Fame Tami Charles Illustrated by: Meredith Lucius Charlesbridge Available now!
Beatrix and Her Friends: Celebrating the Life of Beatrix Potter Anne Lambelet Peachtree Publishing Co/Margaret Quinlin Books Available now!
Footeprint: Eunice Newton Foote at the Dawn of Climate Science and Women’s Rights Lindsay H Metcalf Charlesbridge/Charlesbridge Teen Available now!
Mary Oliver, Holding on to Wonder Erin Frankel Illustrated by Jasu Hu Astra Books for Young Readers/Calkins Creek Available now!
Marie’s Magic Eggs: How Marie Procai Kept the Ukrainian Art of Pysanky Alive Sandra Neil Wallace Illustrated by Evan Turk Astra Books for Young Readers/Calkins Creek Available now!
Part of our nonfiction collection highlights extraordinary people that made their mark on the world. This week we at the Butler Center are highlighting the books that spotlight extraordinary black people who created an impact that made the world a better place, in celebration of Juneteenth. Our feature pick is A Doctor at Heart: The Story of Groundbreaking Scientist and Teacher Vivien Thomas by Joan Schoettler and illustrated by Steffi Walthall. In spite of poverty and racial injustice, scientist and professor Vivien Thomas revolutionized the field of heart surgery and paved the way for other aspiring medical professionals to follow.
A Doctor at Heart: The Story of Groundbreaking Scientist and Teacher Vivien Thomas Joan Schoettler Steffi Walthall Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing/Beach Lane Books Available now!
Outspoken: Paul Robeson Ahead of His Time: A One-Man Show Carole Boston Weatherford Eric Velasquez Candlewick Press Available now!
Fighting with Love: The Legacy of John Lewis Lesa Cline-Ransome James E. Ransome Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing/Beach Lane Books/A Paula Wiseman Book Available now!
Black Lives Great Minds of Science Tonya Bolden David Wilkerson ABRAMS/Abrams Fanfare Available on September 9, 2026!
Little People, BIG DREAMS: Oprah Winfrey Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara Sera Latterell The Quarto Group/Frances Lincoln Children’s Books Available now!
I Am Not Boring: The True-Life Story of a Log Lena Podesta Ten Speed Young Readers Ages 3-5 Available May 26th, 2026
This log wants you to know that it is NOT boring! It might not talk, or sing, or eat, although countless creatures like fungi, lichens, and bugs make it their dinner. He might just sit there, but its cozy insides make for a great skunk home, and its mossy outsides are the perfect perch for a bird friend. The life of a log may not be glamorous, but it sure is useful.
In tandem with the quirkiness of her characterizations, Lena Podesta’s illustrations bring our narrating log to life in a way that makes it feel anything but boring. The wood is textured with colored pencils, and the surrounding flora & fauna, with that same sketchbook-esque style, add depth and movement to each page. The animals are drawn in a playful, cartoon-like style that keeps the story fresh, fun, and approachable. The scientific concepts are woven in smoothly, and it helps that the log itself has a bit of an attitude, making this an engaging, entertaining blend of both non-fiction and narrative picture book.
The backmatter includes all of the log’s roles: house, food, gardener, and helper, and Podesta’s author’s note adds a nice personal touch, sharing how she grew up flipping over logs and ended up discovering just how much life they can really hold. I Am Not Boring: The True-Life Story of a Log is a fun, informative read, bringing charm & wit to a topic we rarely see explored in science class. Maybe logs aren’t so boring after all!
With the holiday season officially in full swing, there’s no better way to spend the day than with a good book—cozy clothes & hot cocoa optional, but encouraged. From snowy stories to Yuletide tales, whether you’re counting down the days ‘til Santa or just enjoy the cold, our early gift to you is a list full of wonderful wintertime books for all ages. As a wise, jolly old man once said, be sure to check it twice.
PICTURE BOOKS:
The Muttcracker Written by Anna Kemp and illustrated by Sara Ogilvie Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing / Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers Ages 4-8 September 9th, 2025
Biff is not like other dogs; he’d rather be in ballet than barking—pliéing than playing! When their ballet teacher assigns The Nutcracker’s roles, aspiring Sugar Plum Fairy Biff is devastated to learn he and his human have been cast as measly bonbons. But the show must go on, and the two are determined to dazzle with their fine dancing. With charming illustrations and warm-and-fuzzy words, this picture book is perfect for ballerinas, dogs, and humans alike.
Elmore and the Big Christmas Rescue Written by Dev Petty and illustrated by Mike Boldt Random House Children’s Books / Doubleday Books for Young Readers Ages 4-8 October 28th, 2025
When Santa Claus comes down with a cold the week before Christmas, Elmore the trusty moose volunteers to take over. But he’s got a big to-do list, and he’d better check it twice. Exercise the reindeer! Don’t give the elves too much sugar! Easy-peasy, right? But things go south (no, not the pole) fast, and it’s up to Elmore to save the big day. With jokes that both kids and adults can appreciate, this holiday story is sure to be a Christmas crowd-pleaser.
NON-FICTION:
Joy to the Whole World!: A Round the World Christmas Lift-the-Flap Book Written by Lucy Brownridge and illustrated by Sang Miao The Quarto Group / Wide Eyed Editions Ages 3-6 September 2nd, 2025
Whether it’s an Ethiopian feast, snowballs & sledding in Finland, or a dip in the pool for Australians, Christmas looks different all around the world. Intricate, lively illustrations are paired with liftable flaps hiding all sorts of Yuletide treasures, making this the perfect way to travel internationally this holiday season, all from the comfort of your own home.
Our Frozen Planet Written by Leisa Stewart-Sharpe and illustrated by Kim Smith Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing / Beach Lane Books Ages 4-8 September 2nd, 2025
Bundle up for a trek through the tundra, and beyond, as tales are told of grandfatherly Greenland sharks, cuddly Japanese macaques, blubbery seals, and all of the other flora & fauna brave enough to (polar) bear the cold. With colorful pictures and a knowledgeable narrative that’s far from information-heavy, this book is apropos for aspiring Antarctic explorers. Or anyone looking to escape the snow… with more snow.
MIDDLE GRADE:
Twelve Classics of Christmas Louisa May Alcott, F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Brothers Grimm, et al. Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing / Aladdin Ages 8+ September 9th, 2025
Forget partridges in pear trees! With short stories from the Brothers Grimm, L. Frank Baum, Charles Dickens, and many more beloved authors, this collection of twelve Christmas classics might just be the best way to count down the days ‘til December 25th.
Snow Written by Meera Trehan Candlewick Press / Walker Books US Ages 8-12 January 21st, 2025
The Snow Princess spends her days in the snow, digging for something, anything, to save her kingdom. When twelve-year-old Ela’s boring family vacation prompts her to take a walk through the snow, the two girls and their worlds can’t help but collide. With wishes and twists and magic galore, this snowy story is the perfect wintertime tale for valiant princesses and family vacationers alike.
YOUNG ADULT:
Joy to the Girls: A She Gets The Girl Novella Written by Rachael Lippincott and Alyson Derrick Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing / Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers Ages 14+ September 30th, 2025
It’s the holiday season, and Alex and Molly are madly in love, so what better way to spend their last winter break together than with a romantic getaway to a small storybook town? And how about getting their friends to fall in love, too? With Christmas and a bit of matchmaking on their minds, the two girls scheme to make this the most memorable holiday yet. This short and sweet novella nicely pairs with a warm mug of cocoa.
Fake Skating Written by Lynn Painter Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing / Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers Ages 16+ September 30th, 2025
It’s been five years since they last talked, and childhood best friends Dani and Alec are now, pun intended, polar opposites. The once goofy Dani now keeps her nose quietly buried in books, and the once gangly Alec is now… a perfectly chiseled high school hockey star?! The ice rink and Minnesota snow might be frigidly cold, but when Alec and Dani begin “fake dating” to save face after a locker room mishap, things heat up. Fast. A perfectly formulaic rom-com story to satisfy all of your saccharine holiday Hallmark movie needs.
Sounds like the perfect time to bundle up with a book (or two).
Happy (almost) Thanksgiving, friends! In honor of this holiday’s incredibly iconic fowl, our Butler Bookshelf this week features a feast of bird stories, both non-fiction and picture, to satisfy all of your Turkey Day needs. What better way to celebrate Thanksgiving than with a spread? … Of books, that is! Our feature pick of the week is The Crane and the Keeper, written by Meeg Pincus and illustrated by Gillian Eilidh O’Mara, inspired by the true tale of zookeeper Chris Crowe (talk about nominative determinism!) and Walnut, one persnickety white-naped crane. As a rescued and hand-reared crane, Walnut is incredibly feisty and has no interest in her fellow birds, although keepers are eager for her to mate since white-naped cranes are nearing endangered. But with patience from brand-new birdkeeper Chris Crowe, the two begin an unlikely friendship… and courtship, in Walnut’s eyes! Thanks to Chris, she’s able to successfully lay eggs after years of not trying, and goes on to have eleven babies, along with a loving, caring, and unique bond to Chris. Talk about co-parenting!
Check out some other silly (and sweet!) tales of birds galore below.
Tiny Owl’s Scary Day Petr Horáček Candlewick Press Available now!
The Lonely Goose Lela Nargi Illustrated by Anne Hunter Random House Children’s Books / Random House Studio Available now!
Seven: A Most Remarkable Pigeon Sandra Nickel Illustrated by Aimée Sicuro Candlewick Press Available now!
The Crane and the Keeper: How an Endangered Crane Chose a Human as Her Mate Meeg Pincus Illustrated by Gillian Eilidh O’Mara Candlewick Entertainment / Smithsonian Kids Available now!
Born Inside a Nest So Small: Conversation with a Hummingbird Iza Trapani Charlesbridge Available now!
And from all of us at the Butler Center, have a Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃 Wishing you and your family all the best!
Galaxy Mapper: The Luminous Discoveries of Astrophysicist Helene Courtois Allie Summers Illustrated by Sian James Candlewick Press/mit Kids Press Ages 6-10 Available November 18, 2025
From the time she was a young girl in a remote village in the French Alps, Helene Courtois has looked up at the moon, and wondered what could lay beyond it. As she grows older, she finds herself chasing this question all the way into a career as a cosmographer, mapping the vast universe beyond the moon. Her maps of the galaxy eventually uncovers the existence of a supercluster of galaxies named Laniakea — perhaps finally answering her question of what lays past the moon.
Summers follows Courtois from childhood through to her discovery of Laniakea, with the moon as a constant companion in her journey. The sky dominates James’ illustrations on every page, always keeping the story oriented towards the stars. The narrative masterfully weaves together a cohesive story of Helene’s life, bringing her discoveries back to the maps and experiences of her childhood.
Future astronomers and cosmographers-in-training will be drawn to this book’s exploration of space, and humanity (and Helene’s) journey towards mapping it. Courtois’ mission of inspiring girls to pursue science means there is also ample inspiration for girls in STEM in its pages.
This is Orange: A Field Trip Through Color Rachel Poliquin Illustrated by Julie Morstad Candlewick Press Ages 5-9 Available October 21st, 2025
Whether it’s that first juicy bite of a mandarin, the fur of your feisty tabby cat, or even the Guianan cock-of-the-rock’s flamboyant, lady-wooing crest, the color orange is everywhere… but who exactly was the first to call it “orange?” This exploration of color begins over six hundred years ago, when Geoffrey Chaucer’s famous book TheCanterbury Tales describes a fox whose “colour was betwixe yelow and reed.” Although the word itself stems from the Tamil word for fragrant: naru, one of the English language’s first written accounts of the color orange comes from a description of the Queen of Scotland’s dress with “slevys of orenge colour.”This is Orange traces the color’s presence around our world, from the holidays we celebrate to the fruits we eat, even to the garb of astronauts and monks alike.
Author Rachel Poliquin draws inspiration from her Renaissance woman background—part museum curator, part humanities scholar, part literature PhD. She pairs simpler sentences for younger readers with fascinating fun facts for those who are a bit older, like how “the feet of mallard ducks turn bright orange when they are trying to find a mate, yet puffins’ feet are always orange” (22). The brisk pace and jumps from topic to topic—from color theory all the way to vexillology—keep This is Orange feeling bright and engaging rather than overwhelming, although the text may have benefited from the inclusion of a glossary for more curious readers.
A “field trip” might be one way to describe it, but in combination with Julie Morstad’s vibrant watercolor & pastel illustrations, where shades of apricot and calendula feel like they’ve been taken fresh from the paint palette, an “adventure” through color feels more like it.
