New children's books tackle gnomes and environmental themes

Two new children’s books explore the lives of gnomes and aliens, appealing to young readers with fun characters and bright pictures. In "The Gnome Book" by Loes Riphagen, Kick, a small gnome, shares his adventures. He travels to school on a bird, creates tools from found objects, and cleverly hides from danger. This story is engaging and beautifully illustrated. Another book, "We Are Definitely Human" by X. Fang, follows three aliens as they visit a kind family. The family wants to help the aliens find their way home. The book teaches a lesson about acceptance, showing that aliens are not so different from us. In "The Watering Can" by Julien Baer, young Nina discovers that a discarded watering can has magical powers. This whimsical tale encourages daydreaming and is illustrated with playful imagery that can spark a child’s imagination. "Letters to a Monster" by Patricia Forde tells the story of Sophie, who writes to the monster under her bed. She hopes to convince it to leave. This clever story deals with childhood fears in a humorous way. Three new middle grade novels focus on environmental themes. "After" by Pádraig Kenny is a thrilling story set in a devastated future. A father and his daughter navigate a harsh world while trying to survive. The book raises questions about humanity’s impact on the earth. "Wildlands" by Brogen Murphy presents a brighter outlook, featuring a rewilded world where nature thrives. Astrid, the main character, learns valuable lessons while stranded in a beautiful but challenging environment created by her mother. Lastly, "The Green Kingdom" by Cornelia Funke explores 12-year-old Caspia’s journey in Brooklyn. She uncovers an old mystery and finds friendship in her new city. The story is rich in detail, combining themes of discovery and connection to nature.