Plumfield Moms

The Gardener of Alcatraz

Reviewed by Sara Masarik
The story is powerful not only for its themes of redemption and personal growth but also for the meticulous research behind it. The author’s note at the end details the careful efforts Smith and illustrator Jen Ely took to ensure historical accuracy—from the prison uniforms to the specific flowers Michener cultivated. Read the full review

Giants Come in Different Sizes

Reviewed by Sara Masarik
In Giants Come in Different Sizes, we are treated to the same crayon and marker illustration style that we enjoyed in the Pickle Chiffon Pie books. This story, however, is set in a different kingdom. A silly little kingdom on a tiny island where the sun was nearly always shining and hamburgers grew on bushes. (How else would we get them if they didn’t grow on bushes?) Read the full review

The Giraffe That Walked to Paris

Reviewed by Sara Masarik
The Giraffe That Walked to Paris by Nancy Milton, illustrated by Roger Roth, is a delightful gem of a picture book that uncovers one of history’s best-kept secrets in a way that captivates readers of all ages. The story brings to life the remarkable tale of La Girafe, a young giraffe given to King Charles X of France in 1826. Her extraordinary journey from Egypt to Paris included walking hundreds of miles through the French countryside! Read the full review