Reach for the Stars

Gr 1-4--Calandrelli spins a story that will inspire girls to be whatever they want to be--an important message for the young. Even better, the story is told from the perspective of the child's mother. "The more you reach, the more you learn./ There's so much here to see./ The world has wonders waiting/ for your curiosity." This mother, whose features suggest that she is Asian, alongside her partner (the girl's father), who is white, is always encouraging her daughter to reach for the stars and experience all she can as she grows up. Whether it's about space, outdoor activities, or becoming president, she inspires her daughter through activities in the family. As the daughter grows older, the mother encourages her to ask her for assistance, be a team player, and help others. Eventually, the mother sends out a hope that when she can no longer teach her daughter things, they will still talk. VERDICT A timeless story of a family of strong intelligent women, this is a solid additional purchase for the shelves.--David Roberts

A dark-haired, light-skinned parent writes an ode to their pale, honey-haired infant in this rhyming picture book by TV personality Calandrelli, host of Emily's Wonder Lab. Using a light refrain of "The more you reach, the more you learn./ There's so much here to see," couplets encourage the maturing child to seek knowledge and experiences, as their parent wonders about future milestones including college and beyond, musing at what they'll teach when the time comes: "You'll reach for your boogie board/ and catch a wave or two.// I'll teach you how the lunar pull/ made those tides for you." Vintage-style digital illustrations by Jang supplement additional details as the child ages: alongside "I'll teach you words like 'universe'/ as you begin to talk," the parent is shown explaining a solar system model to their toddler, who sits rapt with hands folded atop the sun. A gentle affirmation for science-inclined kids and their parents. Ages 4-8. (Apr.)