Reading Activities: The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López

On August 17, 2026August 17, 2026 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading ActivitiesLeave a comment

The Day You Begin
Author: Jacqueline Woodson
Illustrator: Rafael López
28 August 2018
Nancy Paulsen Books
32 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson and two-time Pura Belpre Illustrator Award winner Rafael Lopez have teamed up to create a poignant, yet heartening book about finding courage to connect, even when you feel scared and alone.

There will be times when you walk into a room
and no one there is quite like you.

There are many reasons to feel different. Maybe it’s how you look or talk, or where you’re from; maybe it’s what you eat, or something just as random. It’s not easy to take those first steps into a place where nobody really knows you yet, but somehow you do it.

Jacqueline Woodson’s lyrical text and Rafael López’s dazzling art reminds us that we all feel like outsiders sometimes-and how brave it is that we go forth anyway. And that sometimes, when we reach out and begin to share our stories, others will be happy to meet us halfway.”

Need some reviews of The Day You Begin?

Reading Activities inspired by The Day You Begin:

Before Reading–From looking at the front cover:
- What do you notice first about the child on the cover? What might she be thinking or feeling?
- What colors and patterns stand out? What mood do they create?
- What might “the day you begin” mean?
- Why might it feel hard to walk into a room where you feel different from everyone else?
- What questions would you like to ask Jacqueline Woodson or Rafael López before reading the book?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- Why does Angelina stay quiet while the other children talk about summer trips?
- How do Rigoberto and the other children feel left out?
- Why does it matter that the teacher says Rigoberto’s name carefully?
- What do the illustrations show about the characters’ feelings that the text leaves unsaid?
- What can people do to make room for someone who feels new, unseen, or left out?
- Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why/why not?
Map It Out: Angelina says that books can take you places. With a parent, sibling, or reading buddy, find a map or globe and locate Venezuela, France, Maine, India, Spain, and South Carolina (all places mentioned in the book). Which one would you most like to visit someday?
Ruler Spotter: López adds rulers into some of the illustrations. Look back through the book and see how many you can find. Now grab a ruler or tape measure and measure three ordinary things around the room. Then make your own paper ruler. Instead of numbers, fill its marks with things no ruler can measure: a good laugh, a favorite story, a hard-earned skill, a person who cheers you on, or anything else that matters to you.
Story Bag: Place three small objects into a bag (like a toy, a photo, a keychain, a library card, a sports medal, anything that means something to you). Sit with a parent, grandparent, sibling, or friend and take turns pulling out one object and telling its story.
Books, Books, and More Books!: Check out these real-world picture books about the first uneasy moments of feeling like the only one in the room:

The Arabic Quilt by Aya Khalil, illustrated by Anait Semirdzhyan
Kanzi’s grandmother’s Arabic quilt helps her new class see her differently.

The Many Colors of Harpreet Singh by Supriya Kelkar, illustrated by Alea Marley
After a move turns his world gray, Harpreet’s colors eventually come back.

My Two Blankets by Irena Kobald, illustrated by Freya Blackwood
Cartwheel’s familiar words become a blanket until a new friend arrives.

The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
A jar of possible names makes Unhei wonder whether her own name s is good enough.

The Proudest Blue by Ibtihaj Muhammad and S. K. Ali, illustrated by Hatem Aly
Asiya’s first blue hijab transforms an ordinary school day into something much bigger.

Reading Activities: My Block Looks Like by Janelle Harper, illustrated by Frank Morrison

On June 15, 2026June 8, 2026 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading Activities

My Block Looks Like
Author: Janelle Harper
Illustrator: Frank Morrison
2 January 2024
Viking Books for Young Readers
40 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “A love letter to the hustle, the bustle, the joy, and the grit of city life by debut author and Bronx native, Janelle Harper, and two-time Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award winner, Frank Morrison.

A lyrical and proud picture book that recognizes the beauty of the bodegas, subways, and playgrounds that characterize everyday life in the Bronx and pays homage to the ways that its residents have shaped pop culture through music, visual art, and dance. Perfect for fans of I Am Every Good Thing and Last Stop on Market Street, My Block Looks Like offers kids a reaffirming message to celebrate and uplift their communities in an energetic text that begs to be read aloud.”

Need some reviews of My Block Looks Like?

Reading Activities inspired by My Block Looks Like:

Before Reading–From looking at the front cover:
- What do you notice first on the cover?
- What clues tell you this neighborhood has a lot of movement and energy?
- What sounds do you imagine hearing on this block?
- How do the colors make the neighborhood feel?
- What details on the cover make this block feel like a place people know well?
- 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 details make this block feel alive?
- Which part of the neighborhood would you most want to visit, and why?
- How do the words and pictures show sound, rhythm, and movement?
- What ordinary places become special in this book?
- How does the illustrator show pride, joy, or confidence in the people on the block?
- What does this book suggest about the connection between place and identity?
- Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not?
The Beat of the Block: Think about a place you know well and make a “beat list” for it. What do you hear there? Sneakers squeaking? Doors closing? Music playing? Dogs barking? Cars passing? Turn your list into a short chant or read-aloud poem that begins, “My block sounds like…”
A Place with Personality: Choose one place from the book, such as a bodega, subway, playground, sidewalk, street corner, or mural. Then choose one place from your own community. What makes each place feel alive? Write a few lines comparing them.
Sidewalk Snapshot: Imagine you could freeze one busy moment from your neighborhood. Who would be there? What would they be doing? What details would make the scene feel real? Create a quick “snapshot” with words, pictures, or both. Try to include at least one tiny background detail someone might miss at first.
My Block Looks Like…: Use the book’s title as your starting point. Finish the sentence “My block looks like…” in three different ways. One answer can focus on what you see, one on what you hear, and one on how the place makes you feel. Push past easy answers and look for the specific details that make your place yours.
Neighborhood Pride Postcard: Create a postcard from your block, street, town, or favorite local place. On the front, show one image that captures the spirit of the place. On the back, write a short message to someone who has never been there before. What would you want them to notice first?
Books, Books, and More Books!: Check out these picture books about neighborhoods and noticing the places that shape us:

Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson
A boy and his grandmother ride a bus across the city, and the trip shifts how he sees the world around him.

Maybe Something Beautiful by F. Isabel Campoy and Theresa Howell, illustrated by Rafael López
A girl shares her art with her neighborhood, and this small creative act turns into something so much bigger.

My Papi Has a Motorcycle by Isabel Quintero, illustrated by Zeke Peña
A girl rides through her neighborhood with her father, taking in the people, places, smells, and sounds that make it home.

Uptown by Bryan Collier
A boy celebrates Harlem through brownstones, barbershops, music, food, art, and neighborhood landmarks.

The World Belonged to Us by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Leo Espinosa
A summer city book about the freedom, noise, and joy of kids playing outside.

Reading Activities: A Walk in the Words by Hudson Talbott

On February 16, 2026February 16, 2026 By Only Picture BooksIn Reading Activities

A Walk in the Words
Author: Hudson Talbott
Illustrator: Hudson Talbott
14 September 2021
Nancy Paulsen Books
32 pages

Book description from Goodreads: “When Hudson Talbott was a little boy, he loved drawing, and it came naturally to him. But reading? No way! One at a time, words weren’t a problem, but long sentences were a struggle. As his friends moved on to thicker books, he kept his slow reading a secret. But that got harder every year. He felt alone, lost, and afraid in a world of too many words.

Fortunately, his love of stories wouldn’t let him give up. He started giving himself permission to read at his own pace, using the words he knew as stepping-stones to help draw him into a story. And he found he wasn’t so alone–in fact, lots of brilliant people were slow readers, too. Learning to accept the fact that everyone does things in their own unique way, and that was okay, freed him up and ultimately helped Hudson thrive and become the fabulous storyteller he is today.”

Want some reviews of A Walk in the Words?

Reading Activities inspired by A Walk in the Words:

Before Reading–From looking at the front cover:
- What are you most curious about before opening the book?
- Why do you think there are so many words on the tree branches?
- What might it mean to “walk” in words instead of read them?
- The character looks small compared to the words. How does that size difference make you feel?
- This book is written and illustrated by the same person. What might that tell you about the story you’re about to hear?
After Reading–Now that you’ve read the story:
- At the beginning, what feels safe for the narrator, and what feels threatening?
- When the narrator feels stuck, what specific choice helps him move forward?
- The book uses pictures to show feelings like fear and feeling overwhelmed. Which image stayed with you the most, and why?
- Where do you see the shift from fear to curiosity? What changes right before that moment?
- What does this book suggest about reading slowly—or doing anything at your own pace?
- Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not?
Wall of Words Snapshot:
In the story, a full page of text feels like a wall keeping him out. Draw your own “wall of words” on one side of a page. On the other side, draw what helps you get through a hard moment: a person, a tool, a habit, a thought. Add labels if you want!
Break a Big Word:
The narrator takes “overwhelm” and makes it smaller by breaking it apart. Let’s do something similar! Choose one big feeling word and play with it.
- Write your word in BIG letters across the page.
- Circle a part you know.
- Underline the part that makes the word feel intimidating or too big.
- Rewrite the word in a way that feels more your size.
- Then write one sentence that begins: “I can handle this by…”
Stepping-Stone Reading:
Pick a short paragraph from any book. On a separate sheet of paper, write down the words you recognize instantly as you read. Those are your stepping stones.
- Read just those words in order to see what you can understand about the paragraph.
- Then read the full paragraph at your own pace.
- What felt different the second time? What helped you move forward?
Fear vs. Curiosity Tug-of-War:
Draw a line down the middle of a page. Title one side Fear and the other Curiosity.
- On the Fear side, list what fear says about reading or learning.
- On the Curiosity side, list what curiosity says.
- Circle the one curiosity thought that feels strongest. Keep it as a “bookmark sentence” you can return to.
Paint with Words:
The narrator says learning words is like finding new colors for art. Choose one scene you love (a storm, a birthday, a soccer game, a quiet night). Write two versions:
Version 1 uses only simple words.
Version 2 adds five “new colors,” more specific words, stronger verbs, sharper sensory details.
Compare the two. Which version feels more alive to you, and why?
Books, Books, and More Books!: Check out these picture books about learning differences, self-trust, and finding your way with words:

Aaron Slater, Illustrator by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts
Aaron struggles with reading, but drawing is where his ideas come alive.

I Talk Like a River by Jordan Scott, illustrated by Sydney Smith
A boy describes what it feels like to stutter, using metaphor instead of explanation.

Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You by Sonia Sotomayor, illustrated by Rafael López
Kids speak directly about their bodies, brains, and needs in a relatable way.

Thank You, Mr. Falker by Patricia Polacco
A girl carries deep shame about reading until one teacher finally sees what’s going on.

The Word Collector by Peter H. Reynolds
Jerome loves gathering words and noticing how they sound and feel.

Five-Word Reviews: November Picks

On November 3, 2025November 2, 2025 By Only Picture BooksIn Picture Book Reviews

Fresh releases, sharp impressions—five-word snapshots of picture books worth noticing.

Turns out, five words go a long way. I’ve done quite a few of these picture book speed-dates this year, and they’re still one of the most-requested features on the blog. No theme this time—just a fresh mix of the funny, strange, and beautifully told. Maybe one will follow you home.

And They Walk On
Author: Kevin Maillard
Illustrator: Rafael López
Roaring Brook Press
14 October 2025
4o pages

Ryan’s five-word review: Grief walks beside us, gently.

4.5 out of 5 memory seeds 🌱

Balloon
Author: Bruce Handy
Illustrator: Julie Kwon
Chronicle Books
14 October 2025
44 pages

Ryan’s five-word review: Tender hearts float, then land.

4.5 out of 5 orange strings 🎈

Moon Song
Author: Michaela Goade
Illustrator: Michaela Goade
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
7 October 2025
40 pages

Ryan’s five-word review: Dark woods glow with wonder.

4.5 out of 5 moonlit paths 🌕

Seven Babies
Author: Forest Xiao
Illustrator: Forest Xiao
Candlewick
26 August 2025
32 pages

Ryan’s five-word review: Baby blitz. Love multiplies fast.

4.25 out of 5 bath splashes 🛁

Yellow Is a Banana
Author: John Himmelman
Illustrator: John Himmelman
Harry N. Abrams
7 October 2025
40 pages

Ryan’s five-word review: Sibling logic spirals. Language mayhem.

4.25 out of 5 sibling standoffs 🧦

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.

Picture Book List: 4 Picture Books That Showcase Kidlit Agents’ Favorite Elements—and Why They Shine

On December 23, 2024July 13, 2025 By Only Picture BooksIn Bonus Goodies

Last month, I shared a list of picture books that kidlit editors frequently mention, and I got a lot of nice notes about it! So, I’m bringing back the concept—this time with insights from some of the wonderful literary agents who are friends of the blog.

I asked four agents to name a picture book they often reference when talking to clients or writers about what makes a story shine. Each book showcases qualities that agents admire, from compelling narratives to unforgettable art. While I’m keeping their names private to avoid any unintended favoritism, their thoughtful feedback is reflected in the commentary below.

If the language is in quotation marks, it’s directly from the agents. The rest is from me. Enjoy!

Julian Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love

Why Agents Love It:

Economy of Text: “This book is proof that less can truly be more. Every word is purposeful, and the space between the lines lets the illustrations tell so much of the story.”
Celebration of Individuality: Julian’s journey of self-expression is told with tenderness and authenticity, making it a standout example of how inclusive stories can feel universal without being preachy. “It’s the kind of book that shows you don’t need to explain everything—sometimes the best stories trust the reader to feel the message.”
Art That Transports You: The lush, painterly illustrations are a visual feast. “Every page feels like stepping into Julian’s world, and the quiet magic of the art lingers long after you close the book.”

Thank You, Omu! by Oge Mora

Why Agents Love It:

Timeless Themes: Omu’s generosity and the community’s gratitude create a feel-good story that celebrates kindness and connection. “It’s one of those books that feels like it’s been around forever—and I mean that as the highest compliment.”
Unique Art Style: Mora’s collage illustrations are rich, textured, and vibrant. “There’s a warmth and energy to the artwork that makes every page feel alive. You can almost smell the stew simmering!”
Perfect for Read-Alouds: With its rhythmic, repetitive structure, this book practically begs to be read aloud. “The storytelling cadence makes it a go-to for libraries and classrooms—it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.”

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

Why Agents Love It:

A Universal Yet Personal Theme: This book speaks to anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t belong. “It’s a quiet powerhouse of a story—one that gives kids (and adults) permission to embrace their differences and share their truths.”
Lyrical Text: Woodson’s poetic language lends the story an emotional depth that lingers long after the last page. “The writing is so lyrical and beautiful, you almost want to read it aloud just to hear the words again.”
Stunning Illustrations: López’s bold, vibrant illustrations perfectly complement the text, capturing the emotions of the characters and drawing readers into the story. “The interplay between the words and art is magical—this is what picture books are all about.”

We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins

Why Agents Love It:

Humor with Heart: This hilarious story about a dinosaur learning to navigate the social challenges of school strikes the perfect balance between funny and heartfelt. “It’s laugh-out-loud funny, but it also sneaks in such a sweet message about kindness and empathy.”
Relatable Concept: Starting school is a major milestone, and this book cleverly addresses first-day jitters in a way that feels fresh and engaging. “It’s such a smart take on school anxiety—familiar, but with a totally unexpected twist.”
Lasting Appeal: Its humor and relatability ensure that it’s a favorite for both kids and adults. “The kind of book parents don’t mind reading over and over—and believe me, that matters.”

If you’re a picture book creator, take note of what makes these books shine—they might just inspire your next project!