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.
Author Annie Hunter Eriksen shares Steve Ditko’s strange journey creating Spider-Man in Along Came a Radioactive Spider: Strange Steve Ditko and the Creation of Spider-Man. Steve is an introverted child, making artwork that is shadowy and doesn’t fit the mold of other handsome superheroes. But these characteristics make his work stand out. Steve produces the nerdy and awkward teenager that is transformed into a superhero by a spider bite. He puts forth a representation of drawing inner strength over super strength. This biography is perfect for young Marvel fans.
Check it out along with other non-fiction books we received this week!
Along Came a Radioactive Spider: Strange Steve Ditko and the Creation of Spider-Man Written by Annie Hunter Eriksen and illustrated by Lee Gatlin Published by Page Street Books Available Now!
Born Reading: 20 Stories of Women Reading Their Way into History Written by Kathleen Krull and Virginia Loh-Hagan and illustrated by Aura Lewis Published by Simon and Schuster Available Now!
Hands-On Science: Matter Written by Lola M. Schaefer and illustrated by Druscilla Santiago Published by Charlesbridge Publishing Available Now!
The Lobster Lady Written by Alexandra S. D. Hinrichs and illustrated by Jamie Hogan Published by Charlesbridge Publishing Available Now!
Our Blue Planet Written by Leisa Stewart-Sharpe and illustrated by Emily Dove Published by A Paula Wiseman Book Available Now!
Stand as Tall as the Trees: How an Amazonian Community Protected the Rain Forest Written by Patricia Gualinga and Laura Resau and illustrated by Vanessa Jaramillo Published by Charlesbridge Publishing Available Now!
Bitsy Bat: School Star Written by Kaz Windness Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers
Bitsy Bat is bold and fun at home, but when she gets to school, she realizes she is different. Windness is an autistic author that created Bitsy Bat, who is a lot like her. They both don’t like a lot of noise or bright lights. Bitsy has trouble fitting in so she comes up with an idea where all her classmates share what makes them special. This story is a perfect tool to teach children about the autism spectrum.
Breathe Like a Bear: First Day of School Worries Written by Kira Willey Illustrated by Anni Betts Rodale Kids
Bear and Bird are both anxious about their first day of school. They meet Owl on their path who teaches them about breathing and mantras which soothes their nerves. The text includes prompts that guide children through a repeated exercise to help change their mood and promote mindfulness with endearing woodland digital illustrations.
Our Classroom Rules! Written by Kallie George Illustrated by Jay Fleck Rodale Kids
Going to school doesn’t have to be scary, it can be fun when everyone looks out for one another! George plays with the double meaning of rules and teaches children what school will look like for them. It covers a range of topics. Children learn to be on time, manners, the importance of sharing their ideas and expressing themselves, and trying new things. This story enforces a strong community, supports emotional learning, and is perfect for preschool and kindergarten children starting class for the very first time.
Salat in Secret Written by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow Illustrated by Hatem Aly Random House Studio
Muhammad turns seven years old and is gifted a salat rug, which he is determined to use to pray five times a day–on time. But one of the times interferes with his school schedule and he’s afraid to ask Mrs. Baker for a space to pray. The vibrant illustrations of ink washes and textures contribute to the mood and themes of overcoming anxiety in a school setting and acceptance of diversity.
Shy Robin and the First Day of School Written by Jamie Kim Candlewick Press
Robin is a hippo that is big and brave at home, but becomes shy when she arrives at school. She meets a shy otter named Marco, they become friends, and learn they can be more courageous together. This charming book uses spot art and spreads in a new environment to assure shy children they are not alone in feeling nervous.
Rocket Says Speak Up! written by Nathan Bryon and illustrated by Dapo Adeola is a motivating picture book for library lovers. Rocket discovers that her favorite place to visit, her town’s library, is going to shut down for good. She is outraged and becomes an activist, inspired by Rosa Parks, and rallies the community together. They stage a peaceful protest and raise enough money to save her precious library. Children and parents will be encouraged by Rocket to participate in activism in effective and appropriate ways.
Check it out along with other picture books we received this week!
Cookie Queen: How One Girl Started Tate’s Bake Shop Written by Kathleen King with Lowey Bundy Sichol and illustrated by Ramona Kaulitzki Published by Random House Available Now!
The First Day of Peace Written by Todd Shuster and Maya Soetoro-Ng and illustrated by Tatiana Gardel Published by Candlewick Press Available August 8th!
If You Get Lost Written by Nikki Loftin and illustrated by Deborah Marcero Published by Anne Schwartz Books Available Now!
My Bollywood Dream Written by Avani Dwivedi Published by Candlewick Press Available August 8th!
Rivka’s Presents Written by Laurie Wallmark and illustrated by Adelina Lirius Published by Random House Studio Available Now!
Rocket Says Speak Up! Written by Nathan Bryon and illustrated by Dapo Adeola Published by Random House Available Now!
Author Zaila Avant-Grade became the first Black American student to win the Scripps National Spelling Bee in 2021. In her first book, Words of Wonder from Z to A, Avant-Grade shares 26 of her favorite words with poetic thoughts and their fascinating origins. Some of the words include kindness, hope, and resilience. These colorful pages and words are inspiring to young children across America.
Check it out along with other books we’ve gotten this month below!
Marcus Stroman: The Spin Written by Marcus Stroman Published by Aladdin Available September 26th!
Name your Numbers: With a Pop-Up Surprise Written by Smriti Prasadam-Halls and illustrated by Edward Underwood Published by Candlewick Press Available Now!
Peppa Pig and the Day at the Farm Published by Candlewick Press Available Now!
Salat in Secret Written by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and illustrated by Hatem Aly Published by Random House Studio Available Now!
Show your Colors: With a Pop-Up Surprise Written by Smriti Prasadam-Halls and illustrated by Edward Underwood Published by Candlewick Press Available Now!
Words of Wonder from Z to A Written by Zaila Avant-Garde and illustrated by Keisha Morris Published by Doubleday Books for Young Readers Available Now!
All You Have To Do Autumn Allen Kokila August 1, 2023 Ages 12 to 17
It’s a privilege to attend an elite school, but as a Black kid, it has always come with its challenges. Kevin is a freshman at Columbia College in 1968, participating in a sit-in at his institution following Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination. When he discovers his school is removing people from their homes to further expand, he takes action. Gibran is completing his senior year at a prep school in 1995. He rallies Black students to petition a “Day of Absence” to attend the Million Man March. They encounter resistance and criticism. Gibran and Kevin are connected in their avocation to change society despite the personal cost.
Allen manages time travel with dual timeline narratives almost thirty years apart. The point of views alternate with chapters, revealing the struggles each character faces. Gibran and Kevin’s stories are similarly paced, written so each reaches their personal transformations simultaneously. Both characters fight for racial equality but risk losing the opportunities their families worked extensively to provide. Kevin may continue to push Dawn, his little sister, away for good if he throws away his future. His frustration with societal issues is stronger than his relationship concerns. Gibran may not graduate from his prep school or keep his scholarship to the college of his choice. His anger typically overrides his rational decisions. Both characters allow their ambition and courage to battle society. Themes of acceptance, power, and racial identity are explored through overlapping connections and characters. A tribute to generations that have fought and continue to fight for social justice.
This review is based on an ARC that did not include the images used in the final publication.
The Skull written by Jon Klassen is a riveting retelling of a Tyrolean folktale. A skull lives in this large abandoned house on a barren hill. Otilla is a brave girl that escaped a terrifying danger, when she stumbles upon the quiet house. She befriends the skull in his lonely home. They both become frightened when night falls. Can they both brave the uncertainties? The enchanting text is paired with monochromatic and shadowy artwork that is mysterious and enticing. Middle grade children will love this mystifying and creepy tale.
Check it out along with other Halloween themed books!
Crimson Twill: Witch in the Country Written by Kallie George and illustrated by Birgitta Sif Published by Candlewick Press Available Now!
Deephaven Written by Ethan M. Aldridge Published by Quill Tree Books Available September 5th!
Ham Helsing: Raising the Stakes (#3) Written by Rich Moyer Published by R.H. Graphic Available Now!
Peekaboo Pumpkin Written by Camilla Reid and illustrated by Ursela P. Arrhenius Published by Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers Available Now!
The Skull Written by Jon Klassen Published by Candlewick Press Available Now!
When Ghosts Call Us Home Written by Katya De Becerra Published by Page Street Publishing Available October 3rd!
Martina Has Too Many Tias written by Emma Otheguy and illustrated by Sara Palacios is a reimagined Caribbean folktale of La Cucaracha Martina. In this bilingual picture book, Martina is described as a quiet girl who is quickly overwhelmed by her rowdy family members. She finds a magical land full of peace, it’s a solitude island all to herself. But in the process, she discovers what truly makes a home a home. The beautiful textured art paired with a relatable large family dynamic is perfect for children ages 4-8.
Check it out along with other books we’ve gotten this month below!
All you Have to Do Written by Autumn Allen Published by Penguin Random House Available August 1st!
Being Ace Written by Madeline Dyer Published by Page Street YA Available October 10th!
I Am Hungry Written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Robert Starling Published by Candlewick Press Available Now!
I Can Be All Three Written by Salima Alikhan and illustrated by Noor Sofi Published by Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers Available Now!
Martina Has Too Many Tias Written by Emma Otheguy and illustrated by Sara Palacios Published by Atheneum for Young Readers Available Now!
Where the Water Takes Us Written by Alan Barillaro Published by Candlewick Press Available Today!
Where the Water Takes Us Alan Barillaro Candlewick July 11, 2023 Ages 8 to 12
Award-winning filmmaker Alan Barillaro makes his debut as an author with Where the Water Takes Us. Eleven-year-old Ava is sent to spend the summer on her grandparents’ island when her mother experiences unexpected pregnancy issues while carrying twins. Ava struggles with anxiety away from her parents, which only increases when a bird dies in front of her, which according to her Nonna, is a curse. She believes she is the reason her mother is in the hospital. She tries to reverse the curse by taking care of two abandoned robin eggs with a friend she meets from across the lake, Cody.
Barillaro uses Ava in third-person prose to explore the challenges faced when transitioning from childhood to adolescence. Multigenerational relationships and strong characters are woven together with enchanting nature descriptions to create an engaging story. Ava poorly hides her worries while trying to balance reversing the curse and having a normal summer. Instead of swimming, which is one of her favorite pastimes, she asks Nonna consistently to call her parents or is hyper fixated on caring for the birds. Cody is introduced as a cheerful yet annoying young boy. He is the perfect companion for Ava, he is able to distract her from her intrusive thoughts. Nonno and Nonna, Ava’s grandparents, assist their granddaughter in caring for the robin eggs and saving her from harm’s way as she makes difficult decisions while growing up. This debut book reveals confrontation with the unknown and acceptance of change at a young age.
Believe it or not, this is the first time I’ve attended the ALA Annual Conference in Chicago (more or less where the Butler Center lives–check out the links to find us). I’m used to catching a flight and totally submersing myself in a new town and new experience. This year was not that! It was lovely to explore some Chicago hot spots and then end up in my own bed after a long day of conferencing, even if it did mean fighting Chicago rush hour traffic—yikes! Balancing a conference and home schedule over Annual weekend—also yikes!
Opening Session with Judy Blume—fangirl sigh…
Judy Blume was nothing less than a delight. But her sweet demeanor masks a passionate advocate for books and literacy, and a sharp wit focused on connecting kids with books no matter the challenge. In conversation with S&S executive Justin Chanda, she enchanted the audience with stories from her illustrious career, including her first experience with her own books being challenged (by her children’s principal, no less) and teaching the young actresses from the new Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret movie how to do the exercise. Her thoughts on book challenges coming from a place of fear will stay with me long after this year’s event.
DU SOIS Table
In a hometown twist, I was able to spend time at Dominican’s School of Information Studies booth. I’ve never been on the other side of the table at ALA and it was a great change of perspective. The chance to visit with DU alumni (I spoke with a librarian that graduated from (then) Rosary College the year I was born!) and potential MLIS and PhD candidates was a thrill. ALA is a bit of a captive audience of those that support libraries, therefore something of a weekend-long love song to librarians and library school.
DU Alumni
And I didn’t just chat up DU alumni at our booth. The exhibit floor was teeming former SOIS students as vendors, speakers, and attendees. Be sure I’ll connect with many of them to participate in Butler Center and SOIS events in the future. Another benefit of the Chicago setting—enough alumni to plan a party! SOIS gathered at Fatpour Tap Works, across from the convention center, to unwind and reconnect after a long day of learning and working. Good food, good company, and good networking for all!
Conference Sessions—Book Banning
There was a definite, though not intentional, theme to my sessions this year. As you might expect, book banning was the topic of the conference. From Judy Blume, to Alexi Giannoulias (IL Secretary of State), to Ellen Oh (WNDB), nearly every session I attended touched on book banning in some way, shape, or form. The American Association of School Librarians hosted an especially emotional and thought-provoking panel for their Freedom to Read Ambassadors. An author, academic, and several librarians discussed their experiences with book banners and the support they needed and received through some heartbreaking professional and personal trials. Their commentary on the stories they are trying to protect and the young readers they are championing were truly inspiring.
New Books
And, despite my best efforts to be circumspect in my book haul, I brought home so many fabulous books for the BCLC collections. Signed copies, new picture books, ARCs galore, and SO MANY tote bags. Thank you to all our amazing publishers (and a few new publishing friends) for all the goodies and your ongoing support of BCLC and libraries–we appreciate your partnership! If you’re in the area, stop in to see the new collection additions and maybe I’ll share some swag. Puppet anyone?
Hope to see you all next year in San Diego, CA at #ALAAC24!
Sam with Ants in His Pants written by April Reynolds and illustrated by Katie Kordesh is a wildly clever adventure. Momma tells Sam it’s naptime, but Sam is absolutely not sleepy. He can’t stop moving! Momma says Sam has ants in his pants and he needs to calm down. Instead, Sam opens African Wildlife, his favorite book, and it comes to life. Gazelles, lions, and zebras parade out and into his room! They’re jumping and prowling until there’s a growling. It’s coming from Sam’s tummy. After a snack, he’s finally feeling tired from a crazy fun-filled day. This picture book is perfect for animal lovers and children who resist naptime!
Check it out along with other summer-themed books we’ve gotten this month below!
Gnome and Rat Written by Lauren Stohler Published by Alfred A. Knopf Available Now!
How to: Go Hiking Written by Jean Reagan and Janay Brown-Wood, illustrated by Lee Wildish Published by Random House Books for Young Readers Available Now!
The Ice Cream Vanishes Written by Julia Sarcone-Roach Published by Alfred A. Knopf Available Now!
Mary, Olive, and Dexter Play Hide-and-Seek Written by Catherine Rayner Published by Candlewick Press Available Today!
Our Pool Written by Lucy Ruth Cummins Published by Atheneum for Young Readers Available Now!
Sam with Ants in His Pants Written by April Reynolds and illustrated by Katie Kordesh Published by Anne Schwartz Books Available Now!
