Books are reviewed by Andrea Dochney of the Oakland Public Library.
Summer Jackson: Grown Up
By: Teresa Harris
Have one of those kids who cannot wait to grow up or is tired of being treated like “a baby”? This book features a young girl exactly like that. Summer Jackson decides she is ready to act as an adult but learns it may not be exactly what she had in mind. The illustrations adorably show the grown-up Summer Jackson in heels and her briefcase. By the end of the story, readers will agree that being a kid isn’t so bad after all.
The Boss Baby
By: Marla Frazee
This book takes the adult-child comparison even further. The baby, depicted as a high powered CEO, orders the family around with round the clock meetings. Parents and older siblings will relate to most of the illustrations which depict the neediness of a baby. The book is a clever take on the way a new baby can really change household dynamics.
Buzz Boy and Fly Guy
By: Ted Arnold
Fans of Fly Guy will surely love the newest installment to the series. Buzz, a young boy, creates a superhero comic book featuring himself and his pet fly. Buzz and Fly Guy partake in an epic adventure all written and drawn by Buzz. Fly Guy fans and new readers will enjoy the story within the story. The illustrations are simple and expressive. The comic book within the book realistically depicts a youthful energy and look.
Hugless Douglass
By: David Melling
An adorable book about a bear who longs to love, Douglass tries hugging trees and boulders to no avail. As he makes his way through the forest hugging everything in sight, Douglass eventually finds the perfect hug from the perfect source. The illustrations capture Douglass’ longing for the perfect hug and the end pages give a hilarious, descriptive manual of a variety of hugs.