Reading Activities: Fireworks by Matthew Burgess, illustrated by Cátia Chien

On May 19, 2025May 19, 2025 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading ActivitiesLeave a comment

Fireworks
Author: Matthew Burgess
Illustrator: Cátia Chien
13 May 2025
Clarion Books
44 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “POP! As a hot day sizzles into evening, everyone on stoops and sidewalks looks skyward on this special summer night—the Fourth of July! Words and art blossom into flowers of fire across the sky, making this a perfect read for firework enthusiasts in cities and suburbs everywhere. POP! POP!”

Need some reviews of Fireworks?

As a special bonus, here’s a page at the author’s website which has a book trailer for this book, along with multiple interior pages. Enjoy!

www.matthewjohnburgess.com/fireworks

Reading Activities inspired by Fireworks:

Before Reading–From looking at the front cover:
- What words come to mind when you think about fireworks?
- What time of year do you think this book takes place? What makes you think that?
- Do you enjoy loud celebrations, or do you prefer quiet ones? Why?
- What do you notice about the art style on the cover? How does it make you feel?
- What questions would you like to ask the author or illustrator before reading the book?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- What are some of the things the children do while waiting for the fireworks?
- How does the author use sounds in the text to make the day come alive?
- How does the illustrator show the heat of the day? What changes when night falls?
- What moment felt the most exciting to you? Why?
- What do you think the characters mean when they say they’re “tucked in with summer on our skin”?
- What made the rooftop fireworks feel so special after such a busy day?
- Would you like to spend a day like this? Why or why not?
- Would you recommend this book to a friend? What part would you tell them about first?
Rooftop View Drawing
The children in Fireworks climb to their rooftop to see the sky light up. Imagine you’re doing the same. What would your rooftop view look like—buildings, bridges, trees, birds, stars? Use crayons, pastels, or paint to create your own “rooftop moment,” just before the first firework explodes.
Boom! Pop! Swish!: Sound Words Game
This book is filled with onomatopoeia—words that sound like the thing they describe. Make a list of all the sound words you remember from the story. Then come up with your own sound words for other things: splashing in a pool, biting into a Popsicle, or jumping on the sidewalk. Can your friends guess what you’re describing just from the sounds?
City Summer Scavenger Hunt
Make a list of small details the book celebrates—like a fire hydrant spray, a saxophone, the smell of something cooking, or bright pink flip-flops. Then go outside with an adult and try to spot your own version of a city summer. Take photos or draw what you find and label them with your own poetic lines.
Watermelon Words
One of the best parts of the day in Fireworks is sitting down to eat sweet, juicy watermelon. Pretend you’re writing a poem just about that one moment. How does it taste? Feel? Sound? Smell? Use sensory words and bright colors to create a “watermelon moment” poem or mini book.
Music in the Air: Dance Story
In the park, the kids hear music and can’t help but dance. Think of a song that makes you want to move. Create a short story or comic showing a character dancing through the city. Where do they go? Who do they see? Let the rhythm lead the way!
Books, Books, and More Books! Check out these real-world picture books that celebrate summer, city life, and the joy of everyday magic:

Apple Pie Fourth of July by Janet S. Wong, illustrated by Margaret Chodos-Irvine

While her parents cook Chinese food in their store, a girl worries it doesn’t belong on the Fourth of July…until fireworks and apple pie help her see things differently.

Carmela Full of Wishes by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson

On her birthday, Carmela explores her neighborhood and collects wishes. It’s a quiet, reflective city story about noticing details and finding joy in small things.

Hot Day on Abbott Avenue by Karen English, illustrated by Javaka Steptoe

Two best friends spend a sweltering summer day not speaking to each other. Then the games begin and the heat melts more than just the pavement.

My Chinatown: One Year in Poemsby Kam Mak

Through a series of seasonal poems, a boy reflects on his new life in Chinatown. It’s a powerful mix of city life, cultural identity, and lyrical beauty.

Water in the Park by Emily Jenkins, illustrated by Stephanie Graegin

A tender and observant look at one day in a city park, hour by hour.

Reading Activities: Something Good by Kenneth Kraegel

On April 21, 2025April 21, 2025 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading Activities

Something Good
Author: Kenneth Kraegel
Illustrator: Kenneth Kraegel
11 February 2025
Candlewick
40 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “In need of a bad day remedy? One girl’s terrible day takes an unexpected—and extraordinary—turn when she comes upon a pair of magic socks.

Blah. Nothing good ever happens to me.

This morning a little girl wakes up with a chicken on her head. (Ouch.) Then she finds worms in her cereal (after she’s had a few bites—yuck!). Then she realizes, too late, that her boots are full of mud. Ack! Then her best friend ignores her, a big hole appears where it wasn’t yesterday, and it starts to rain—cold rain, of course. Could this day get any worse? When a mysterious gift shows up out of nowhere, wrapped in a bow, the girl dares to wonder if it could finally be something good. Get ready for a high-flying tale as the beloved creator of Wild Honey from the Moon brings his signature deadpan humor, quirky charm, and appealingly simple text to a fantastical adventure sure to turn even the worst days around.”

Need some reviews of Something Good?

Reading Activities inspired by Something Good:

Before Reading–From looking at the front cover:
- What do you think this book will be about?
- What kinds of things do you think count as “something good”?
- What kind of mood does the cover character seem to be in? Why do you think that?
- Have you ever had a day that started out really bad? How did it make you feel?
- What are some small things that can help turn a day around?
- What questions would you like to ask the author before reading the book?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- What questions would you like to ask the author before reading the book?
- Why did the gift of socks feel disappointing at first?
- How did the socks change the character’s day—and mood?
- Why do you think Zoe ignored the main character at the beginning? What was really going on?
- How did the main character’s feelings change throughout the story? What caused those changes?
- Why do you think they decided to give the socks to someone else at the end?
- What message do you think this book is trying to share?
- Would you recommend this book to a friend? What part would you tell them about first?
Blah-Day Bingo: Make one bingo board with silly bad-day moments like “stepped in something squishy,” “ran out of cereal,” or “lost your sock.” Then, during the day or while reading the book, see how many squares you can check off. Now make a second board filled with cheerful things like “someone smiled at me,” “found a cool rock,” or “heard a funny joke.” The goal? Try to fill your “something good” board faster than your “blah” one—and see how your mood shifts as you look for the good stuff!
Chicken Hat & Magic Socks Craft: Create your own ridiculous chicken hat using paper, feathers, and imagination, just like the one from the beginning of the book. Then make a pair of “magic socks” using cardstock or paper. Decorate them with drawings of the adventures you would go on if your socks could fly. What powers would they give you? Who would you share them with?
Mood Meter Map: Draw a line across a page and mark one end as “Total Blah” and the other as “Amazing!” As you reread the story, track the main character’s mood on this line. What made things worse? What helped? Then make your own mood meter for a recent day and chart what affected your feelings. Did something small help shift your mood in a big way?
The Gift You Didn’t Expect: In the story, a plain pair of socks turns out to be the best surprise of all. Think of something simple—like a pencil, a pebble, or a balloon—and invent a story where it becomes magical. What does it do? How does it change your day? Write a short paragraph or comic strip to show how an ordinary object became something good.
From Blah to Hooray! Mini Book: Fold a piece of paper into a tiny book. On the first page, draw or write about a “blah” thing. On each following page, draw or write what helps that mood shift—maybe a friend shows up, a silly animal appears, or magic socks arrive! End your mini book with a big “Hooray!” moment to show how things got better.
Share Something Good Challenge: The character realizes that sharing something good makes it even better. Try it yourself! Choose one small, good thing to share today: a compliment, a snack, a toy, or a funny story. What happened when you shared it? Did someone smile? Did it change their day, or yours? Write or draw what you noticed.
Peanuts Vibes Soundtrack
This story has been compared to Peanuts comics—funny, moody, and full of charm. Imagine this book had a soundtrack. What kind of music would you play at the beginning when everything is going wrong? What about when the magic socks appear? Make a playlist or just describe the sounds. Slow and rainy? Bouncy and silly? Dreamy and floaty?
Books, Books, and More Books! Check out these real-world books about bad days, surprising joys, and learning to see the good:

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst, illustrated by Ray Cruz

The ultimate bad-day picture book. Alexander has one frustrating moment after another—but readers come to see that some days are just like that, and they still end with love.

A Bad Case of the Stripes by David Shannon

Camilla is worried about fitting in, and it causes her to literally break out in stripes—and then polka dots, and even worse! A story about staying true to yourself, even when things feel weird or overwhelming.

The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi, illustrated by Lorena Alvarez

For anyone feeling frustrated about what they can’t do yet, this book shows that hope, patience, and persistence can turn almost any day around. A great reminder that something good might be just around the corner.

Rain! by Linda Ashman, illustrated by Christian Robinson

One rainy day is seen two totally different ways by two characters. This joyful story reminds us that perspective shapes how we experience the world—and a “blah” day for one person might be a magical one for someone else.

What If, Pig? by Linzie Hunter

Pig is having a worry-filled kind of day, but thanks to a kind friend, things start to look brighter. A great book about friendship, anxiety, and noticing when we need support—and when others might, too.

Reading Activities: Nearly Exactly Almost Like Me by Jennifer Bradbury, art by Pearl AuYeung

On March 17, 2025March 17, 2025 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading Activities

Nearly Exactly Almost Like Me
Author: Jennifer Bradbury
Illustrator: Pearl AuYeung
11 February 2025
Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books
40 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “A loyal big brother makes a case for why his adopted little brother is just like him when a pesky kid on the playground questions their physical differences in this charming picture book.

When they hear the singsong tune of an ice cream truck, two brothers race to get in line! Big brother beats little brother and holds their spot. But when little brother catches up, another kid challenges him joining his brother in no cutting! Everyone knows that cutting doesn’t count when you’re siblings, but the kid doesn’t believe they can be brothers when they don’t look anything alike.

The brothers may not be biologically related, but they’re still brothers, and they have so much else in common! They both like candy way too much, love swimming but hate baths, and know their parents love them. Big brother knows that differences on the surface don’t matter when in his heart, his little brother is just like him.”

Need some reviews of Nearly Exactly Almost Like Me?

Reading Activities inspired by Nearly Exactly Almost Like Me:

Before Reading–From looking at the front cover:
- What do you think the title Nearly Exactly Almost Like Me means? What does it suggest about the characters?
- Look at the two kids on the cover—how do they seem alike? How do they seem different?
- What does it mean to be part of a family? Does everyone in a family have to look alike? Why or why not?
- Have you ever had someone assume something about you that wasn’t true? How did it make you feel?
- What are some ways people in a family can be similar besides their appearance?
- Why do you think the author wanted to tell this story? What message do you think it will have?
- What questions would you like to ask the author before reading the book?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- How did the big brother react when someone questioned whether Dev was really his brother?
- What were some of the things the brothers had in common? What were some ways they were different?
- How do you think Dev felt when the other child didn’t believe they were brothers?
- Why do you think it was important for the big brother to show that family is about more than just looking alike?
- What was your favorite moment in the book? Why did it stand out to you?
- How did the illustrations help tell the story? What details in the pictures stood out to you?
- How do you think the skeptical kid at the playground felt at the end of the story? Did their view change?
- Would you recommend this book to a friend? What would you tell them about first?
The “Almost Like Me” Sibling Challenge: Grab a friend, sibling, or family member and write down ten things about yourselves—your favorite foods, hobbies, pets, bedtime routines, anything! Then, compare your lists. How many things do you have in common? What surprised you? Just like Dev and his big brother, you’ll probably find that the things that matter most go beyond appearances!
Family Portrait—Remixed!: Most people think of family portraits as everyone smiling for a photo together, but what if a portrait captured something deeper? Instead of drawing a picture of just how your family looks, make a family portrait that shows what makes you all unique. Maybe you love the same food, play the same games, or share inside jokes. Include those details in your artwork to celebrate what really makes your family yours!
What’s in a Name? A Family Storytime: In the book, Dev and his brother share family traditions and history. Now, let’s explore your own family’s story! Ask a parent, grandparent, or guardian about your family history. Do you have a name with a special meaning? Are there stories about how you became part of your family? Write down what you learn and share it with someone close to you.
“You Can’t Tell By Looking!” Discovery Game: People often assume things about others based on how they look, but appearances don’t tell the whole story! Play this game with friends or classmates: Everyone writes down one fact about themselves that others wouldn’t guess by looking at them. Then, mix up the papers and take turns reading them aloud, guessing who wrote each one. It’s a fun way to see how much more there is to people than what we see!
The Love List: What Really Makes a Family?: Dev and his brother know that family is about love, not just looks. Think about what makes your own family special—whether it’s a family you were born into, adopted into, or chosen. Make a list of ten things that show love in your family. Do you have special traditions? Do you help each other in different ways? Decorate your list and keep it as a reminder that family is about what we do, not just what we look like!
Letters of Belonging: A Note to Someone Who Feels Left Out: In the book, Dev faces a moment where someone doesn’t believe he and his brother belong together. Write a letter to someone (real or imaginary) who might feel left out or different. What would you say to make them feel welcome? Decorate your letter and share it with a friend, family member, or teacher to spread kindness!
Books, Books, and More Books!: Check out these real-world picture books about family, adoption, and sibling bonds:

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López

This heartfelt story is about feeling different but finding connections with others. Like Nearly Exactly Almost Like Me, it reminds us that even when we don’t look like those around us, we all have something in common.

A Family Is a Family Is a Family by Sara O’Leary, illustrated by Qin Leng

This book introduces a classroom full of children, each with a different type of family. Some have two dads, some live with grandparents, and some are adopted. It beautifully illustrates that what makes a family is love.

We Belong Together: A Book About Adoption and Families by Todd Parr

A warm and simple book that explains adoption in a way young kids can understand. It celebrates how families come together in different ways and the love that binds them.

Big Brothers Don’t Take Naps by Louise Borden, illustrated by Emma Dodd

A sweet story about an older brother passing on wisdom to his younger sibling. It highlights the joys of having a little brother—whether they look alike or not!

Real Sisters Pretend by Megan Dowd Lambert, illustrated by Nicole Tadgell

Two sisters play pretend, reminding each other that even though they weren’t born into the same family, their bond is real. Like Nearly Exactly Almost Like Me, this story affirms that love is what makes a family.

Reading Activities: Mamiachi & Me, written by Jolene Gutiérrez and Dakota Gutiérrez, illustrated by Mirelle Ortega

On February 17, 2025March 17, 2025 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading Activities2 Comments

Mamiachi & Me: My Mami’s Mariachi Band
Author: Jolene Gutiérrez and Dakota Gutiérrez
Illustrator: Mirelle Ortega
7 January 2025
Harry N. Abrams
40 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “Today’s the day! Rosa will take the stage next to her mami and play along with her popular mariachi band. But as they fasten the shiny botonaduras and tie the moños on their charra suits, Rosa begins to worry. What if the audience doesn’t like her? Is she ready to perform?

With her ‘mamiachi’ and madrinas by her side, Rosa’s stage fright is soothed away by the sound of trumpets, guitars, and violins. Centering on the power of sisterhood, community, and music, the warm and lively text by mother-and-son writing duo Jolene and Dakota Gutiérrez—joined by Mirelle Ortega’s beautiful illustrations—provides a unique perspective to the male-dominated world of mariachi. Back matter includes additional context on the history of the beloved Mexican tradition and the rise of all-female mariachi groups, as well as a glossary, a bibliography, further reading, and a fun, detailed look at a mariachi’s signature charro suit!”

Need some reviews of Mamiachi & Me: My Mami’s Mariachi Band?

As a bonus, here’s a podcast interview about this book (from The Growing Readers) with the author.

Reading Activities inspired by Mamiachi & Me: My Mami’s Mariachi Band:

Before Reading–From looking at the front cover:
- What do you think this book might be about based on the title and images?
- What do you notice about the characters’ outfits? Why might they be wearing matching clothes?
- What emotions do the characters seem to be feeling? How do their expressions and body language show this?
- Have you ever heard mariachi music before? If so, where? If not, what do you think it sounds like?
- What does it mean to be part of a band? How do musicians work together?
- Have you ever performed in front of a group of people? How did it make you feel?
- What questions would you like to ask the authors before reading the book?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- How did Rosa feel before her performance? How did she feel afterward? What helped her gain confidence?
- How did Rosa’s mother and madrinas support her throughout the story?
- What role does mariachi music play in Rosa’s family and community? How does the audience react?
- What was your favorite part of the book? Why?
- What do you think Rosa learned from her first performance?
- How do the illustrations help tell the story? What details stood out to you?
- What is something new you learned about mariachi music? Did anything surprise you?
- If you could ask Rosa a question about her experience, what would you ask her?
- Would you recommend this book to a friend? What would you tell them about first?
Design Your Own Mariachi Suit: Mariachi musicians wear special suits called trajes de charro, decorated with embroidery, buttons, and bold colors. Look at pictures of real mariachi outfits, then design your own! Draw a suit and color it with the designs and patterns you would want if you were a mariachi. What colors will you use? What symbols or decorations would make it special to you?
Make a Mariachi Instrument: Mariachi bands include violins, trumpets, guitars, and a special large bass called a guitarrón. Choose one of these instruments and make your own version using recycled materials! Use rubber bands over a shoebox for a guitar, fill a plastic bottle with rice for maracas, or use an empty oatmeal container as a drum. Play along to a mariachi song and feel the rhythm!
Confidence Booster Pep Talk: Just like Rosa, many people feel nervous before they perform. Think of a time when you were nervous about trying something new. Write or draw a pep talk that someone could give to help you feel confident. Then, practice saying it out loud to yourself or a friend. You can even write a short letter to Rosa, encouraging her before her next performance!
Create a Concert Poster for Rosa’s Band: Imagine Rosa’s mariachi band is performing a big show! Design a colorful concert poster to advertise their performance. What will the band name be? What date and time is the concert? What will the audience see and hear? Include drawings of instruments, music notes, and the musicians in their mariachi suits!
Mariachi Music Listening and Dance Party: Find a mariachi song online and listen closely. What instruments do you hear? What emotions do the music and singing make you feel? Now, stand up and move to the rhythm! Try clapping along or making up a dance that matches the energy of the song. If you have friends or family with you, dance together and create your own mini celebration!
Explore the History of Women in Mariachi: At the end of the book, you’ll find real stories about female mariachi musicians. Choose one of the musicians mentioned and research her story. What challenges did she face? What impact did she have on mariachi music? Create a short report, poster, or presentation about what you learned and share it with a friend or class.
Books, Books, and More Books!: Check out these real-world picture books about music and performing:

This inspiring picture book tells the story of a young girl who, with guidance from her mentor, overcomes self-doubt to achieve her dreams in ballet. The story emphasizes the importance of dedication and self-belief in the performing arts.

This autobiographical picture book tells the inspiring story of Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews, who grew up in New Orleans with a passion for music. Despite challenges, his determination and love for the trombone led him to become a renowned musician, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of his hometown.

A nostalgic tale where a grandfather reminisces about his vaudeville days, entertaining his grandchildren with tap dancing and songs. The story highlights the joy of performing and the special bond between generations.

Inspired by a true story, this book follows a young girl in Cuba who dreams of playing the drums, despite societal norms. Her perseverance and passion lead her to break barriers, emphasizing the importance of following one’s dreams.

This biography introduces readers to Juan García Esquivel, a Mexican musician who pioneered a unique style of music in the 1950s. The book celebrates his innovative spirit and contributions to the world of sound.

Reading Activities: I Want to Read All The Books by Debbie Ridpath Ohi

On January 20, 2025January 20, 2025 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading Activities1 Comment

I Want to Read All the Books
Author: Debbie Ridpath Ohi
Illustrator: Debbie Ridpath Ohi
17 September 2024
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
48 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “An insatiably curious girl decides the only way to answer all her questions is to read all the books in this funny and charming picture book in the spirit of The Library Fish and Tom Chapin’s The Library Book. Hana wants to know everything about the world around her. When she starts asking questions, her mother gives her a book. She learns so much, but now she has even more questions! She also has a big she will read all the books—every single one! She reads every book in her house…and then her friends’ houses…and then the whole block. Nonfiction, fiction, romance, mysteries, and science fiction. But when her mother takes her to the downtown library, she realizes there are a lot more books than she thought…way more. Maybe she can’t really read all the books—now what?”

Need some reviews of I Want to Read All the Books?

Reading Activities inspired by I Want to Read All the Books:

Before Reading–From looking at the front cover:
- What do you think it means when someone says they want to read “all the books”?
- Do you think it’s possible to read every book in the world? Why or why not?
- Why do you think people read books?
- Have you ever shared a favorite book with a friend or family member? What was it, and why did you share it?
- Why might libraries and librarians be important to someone who loves books?
- From looking at the cover, what kind of character do you think Hana is?
- What questions would you like to ask the author (who is also the illustrator!) before reading the book?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- What made Hana decide she wanted to read all the books?
- How did Hana feel when she realized she couldn’t read every book? Why?
- What did the librarian teach Hana about reading?
- How did Hana’s Book Club change her idea about reading?
- What was your favorite part of the story? Why?
- How did Hana’s friends and family help her on her reading journey?
- If you started your own book club, who would you invite and why?
- What book would you recommend to Hana? Why do you think she would like it?
- What do you think is the main message of the story?
- Would you recommend this book to a friend? What part would you tell them about first?
Big Questions, Bigger Reading List: Make a list of all the big questions you’ve ever wondered about, like “Where does rain come from?” or “How do dolphins talk?” Then write or draw a list of books you’d like to read to answer those questions. Keep it somewhere special to check off as you go!
My Dream Library Blueprint: Design the ultimate library of your dreams! Will it have bean bag chairs, reading nooks shaped like castles, or even a slide between floors? Draw or build your dream library and share it with your friends or family.
Bookworm Club Kickoff: Just like Hana, start your own book club! Invite friends or family members, pick a fun book to read, and meet up to chat about your favorite parts. You can even come up with a cool club name and make bookmarks for everyone!
Rain Drop Science Adventure: Hana’s reading journey started with a question about rain. Make your own mini water cycle experiment using a clear bowl, warm water, and plastic wrap. Watch how rain forms, and learn about the science behind those raindrops!
Reading Marathon Party: Set up a “read-a-thon” day with cozy pillows, snacks, and all your favorite books. Keep track of how many pages or books you can finish in a day. Bonus points if you share a favorite story with a friend or family member!
Wonder Wall of Questions: Take inspiration from Hana and create your own “Wonder Wall” by writing or drawing your big questions on sticky notes. Stick them on a wall or board, then grab books to start answering them one by one.
Books, Books, and More Books!: Check out these real-world books about the magic of reading and libraries:

What happens when a group of bats sneaks into a library at night? A magical, bat-filled storytime!

This bilingual celebration of books and reading showcases how reading brings communities together.

Leopold the goat loves his bookstore, but when he meets a customer who seems more interested in eating books than reading them, chaos ensues!

Set in a magical library that opens only at night, this story follows a little librarian and her owl assistants as they help visitors find the perfect books.

Based on the real-life story of Pura Belpré, the first Puerto Rican librarian in New York City, this inspiring book celebrates cultural heritage, storytelling, and the role libraries play in communities.

Reading Activities: Frostfire by Elly Mackay (Guest Post: Lexi Hall)

On December 16, 2024December 16, 2024 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading Activities1 Comment

Frostfire
Author: Elly Mackay
Illustrator: Elly Mackay
1 October 2024
Tundra Books
44 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “Follow dragon-expert Miriam and curious Celeste on a magical winter’s day walk through their garden, where a snow dragon just might be hiding! Elly MacKay’s luminous artwork and sweet sibling story will cast a spell over readers of all ages in this playfully imaginative picture book that’s perfect for fans of Frozen.

On a walk through a snow-covered garden, big sister Miriam claims to hear the sound of a snow dragon. Little sister Celeste has lots of questions: snow dragons are real? Where do they hide? What do they eat? And is that frost on the greenhouse windows or is it … frostfire?

Miriam seems to have an answer for everything about snow dragons. But when Celeste wanders off, she has a magical encounter that changes everything she thought she knew.

Told through gently playful dialogue and brought to life with spectacular works of paper diorama art, Elly Mackay’s newest picture book is an enchanting wintertime adventure destined to become a classic seasonal fairy tale that readers will enjoy for years to come.”

Need some reviews of Frostfire?

Reading Activities inspired by Frostfire:

Before Reading–From looking at the front cover:
- What do you think the word Frostfire could mean?
- What do you think could make frostfire?
- What do you see behind the two foxes? Can you make up a name for it?
- Do you think that the foxes are the same age? Which one might be older?
- Why do you think they are out in the snow? Where could they be going?
- What questions would you like to ask the author or the illustrator before reading the book?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- How did Miriam know so much about snow dragons? Did she get anything wrong about them?
- How does the snow dragon camouflage? Where does it go in the summertime?
- What did Celeste give to the snow dragon?
- How do you think the sisters felt when they both saw the snow dragon in the clouds?
- How did the illustrations add to the story? How do you think Elly Mackay made them?
- What do you think is the main message of the story?
- Have you ever played games using your imagination?
- Would you recommend this book to a friend? What part would you tell them about first?
Go Cloud Gazing: Lie down outside and look up at the sky like Celeste and Miriam. What sort of shapes do you see in the clouds? What creatures might be flying there, camouflaged as clouds?
Camouflage Your Own Dragon: Draw a dragon on paper using colored pencils, crayons, watercolors, or markers, and glitter! Cut out the shape. Find different places where your dragon blends in and think about why it might live in that habitat.
Treasure Hunt: Head outside and pretend you’re a snow dragon out in the wild! What sort of things would you take for your hoard? A pine cone? Acorn tops? Shiny pebbles?
Write Your Own Imaginary Creature: Imagine you are telling a tall tale to a friend or sibling! What sort of details can you create about a mysterious magical creature? Where does it live? What does it eat? Write a story about meeting one in the wild. Draw a picture of it! What sound does it make?
Further Reading: If you loved Frostfire, you might enjoy other books about mysterious, magical creatures and winter adventures. Which of these have you already read?

Margaret’s Unicorn by Briony May Smith

Margaret watches the herd leap from the mountain, fading into the clouds that streak across the sky. The unicorns had migrated for the winter, but they accidentally left a baby behind. It’s up to Margaret to care for him! This story gently holds the magic and wonder of childhood imagination.

Dear Yeti by James Kwan

Two young hikers venture into a winter wonderland in search of the mysterious and elusive yeti! Will their letters be enough to coax the shy creature out of hiding? A hilarious tale about making unlikely friends and being kind.

The Little Forest Keepers by Mary Lundquist

A story about being kind and open. Ash and Pudd are forest keepers! They take care of everything in the cold wintry wood. It’s very important that all of the animals have hats and scarves to keep warm. Even the trees need to be bundled up! One day, a strange new creature arrives, and Ash and Pudd have never seen anything like it before.

Owl Moon by Jane Yolen

Late one night, a little girl and her father go owling. It’s her first time, and she is so excited! But she must stay very quiet. She hopes their calls will work, and that they will spot an owl. A timeless story of the quiet beauty in a small moment.

Lexi Hall is a children’s writer and illustrator from Pittsburgh PA. Growing up, she fell in love with writing and illustrating her own little stories to share with her friends. Now, she lives and works in Boston, MA as the children’s bookseller at Beacon Hill Books & Café, where she is spoiled with daily access to all the picture books she can read!

Lexi is pursuing her MFA in children’s book writing and illustration from Hollins University. She has illustrated for Hollins University Magazine and The Big Kit & Lil’ Kaboodle children’s magazine. She has also illustrated an upcoming 2025 picture book written by author Heather Harris Bergevin, Enough Elizabeths, with Lucky Rabbit Publishing.

Website: www.lexihall.com

Instagram: @lexi.paints