A Treasure of Measures
By Mike Downs | Illustrated by Joy Hwang Ruiz
How would you measure the time it takes to read a good book with your brother or sister? Or to splash in a puddle? Do you mark your inches of growth on the wall? Author Mike Downs takes an imaginative look at the units of measurement in our lives. This interactive picture book covers speed, minutes of time on a clock, dates, stars at night, sound and science. The story shows family and friends coming together to capture the breeze, the curve of trees and raindrops. But is it possible to measure laughter or friendships? Does time unfold differently when we’re together? “Imagine the marvelous measures you’ll find!” Joy Hwang Ruiz is an illustrator and creator of the popular “Mom is Drawing” series which captures moments of new parenthood and family celebrations. Ruiz’s engaging illustrations depict delightful family and friendship scenes. Her colorful art helps introduce young readers to creative ways to quantify units of measurement. Three sections are included in the back of the book: “Systems of Measurement,” “Units of Measurement in this Book and Beyond” and “Let’s Measure Together!”
Brandon and the Baby
By Brian Pinkney
Is Brandon ready for a new baby brother? He isn’t so sure, but he has a feeling they could be best friends someday. Brandon loves to take a bath and be cozy with his special plaid blanket. He’s not so happy about the new baby who is getting a lot of attention from Mom and Dad. Luckily, his plaid blanket has an idea. “Swish, snap, soar!” When a toucan appears, Brandon laughs and enjoys his time with the bird. But what will he do with a sea lion when it’s time to take a bath or an owl when it’s time for bed? Brandon’s blanket has many ideas. Soon Brandon is having fun with his Mommy, Daddy and the baby. This is a beautiful picture book about welcoming a new baby. It’s filled with emotions about a family who needs to adjust. “Swish, snap, snuggle!” The illustrations are alive with colorful swirls on each page along with detailed facial expressions of family members. The art captures creative moments through love, hugs and being together. Caldecott Honor-winning artist and Coretta Scott King Award winner Brian Pinkney shares a story about imagination, emotions and becoming a big brother.
This article appears in BendNest Spring 2025.
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