<![CDATA[Green Bean Books

<![CDATA[Green Bean Books - blog]]>Thu, 07 May 2026 15:48:32 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[First Day of School Picks!]]>Sun, 25 Jul 2021 20:19:54 GMThttp://www.greenbeanbookspdx.com/blog/first-day-of-school-picksGet into the school spirit!

The first day of school is an exciting time for children! It can also be scary, though- especially this fall with so much uncertainty around in-person learning starting up again for many students. For some kids, it may have been nearly a year and a half since they've been inside a classroom. This factor may magnify the typical anxiety about being in a new environment and meeting new people.

We'd love to ease your child's transition (and yours too!) by recommending some picture books geared to help kids with their first day of school jitters! We hope these books help your family prepare for the coming school year!

Becoming Vanessa
by Vanessa Brantley-Newton

Based on the author/illustrator's own childhood experiences, Vanessa wants to make a good first impression with her classmates. But when her outfit is deemed too much and her name too long, she starts second guessing her approach until her parents remind Vanessa to just be herself and people will see what makes her special that way.

El Cucuy is Scared, Too!
written by Donna Barba Higuera
and illustrated by Juliana Perdomo

Ramon is nervous about his first day of school- and so is his boogeyman friend El Cucuy. In a hilarious turn of events, Ramon ends up comforting El Cucuy that he is scary enough despite all the changes happening in their lives. This sweet story of facing one's fears incorporates Spanish words into the text.

Bird Boy
written by Matthew Burgess
and illustrated by Shahrzad Maydani

Being the new kid in school is never easy, especially when you get teased and nicknamed "Bird Boy." But even though Nico wants to fit in, he can't help his flights of fancy and, soon, his classmates are drawn in by his inner confidence and want to become his friend!

The poetic text is paired nicely with the whimsical illustrations.

Never, Not Ever!
by Beatrice Alemagna

Beatrice Alemagna creates a memorable new character with Pascaline, a little bat who "never, not ever" wants to go to school! But when she accidentally shrinks down her parents and takes them with her to school, she's not as scared. It seems like the perfect solution to her problem until she learns she may have more fun learning to do things on her own!

My First Day
written by Phùng Nguyên Quang
illustrated by Huỳnh Kim Liên

Set in the Mekong Delta and featuring a Vietnamese boy, this is a universally relatable story about facing one’s fears and living through struggles in order to reach a better place- in this case, his school. The illustrations are gorgeous.

Great to pair with Jacqueline Woodson's The Day You Begin.

Sounds Like School Spirit
written by Meg Fleming
and illustrated by Lucy Ruth Cummins

Build up excitement for the upcoming school year with this fun picture book. Chant along in celebration of meeting cool teachers and making new friends.

Click on the cover or title to find out more about each book and to order from our online shop! Or give the store a call!
503-954-2354

]]><![CDATA[Pride Month Picks!]]>Sun, 30 May 2021 22:11:18 GMThttp://www.greenbeanbookspdx.com/blog/pride-month-picksJune is Pride Month!
There's Still Time to Celebrate!
Be who you are- proudly!
Here are some of our favorite new LGBTQ books for children:

Born Ready
by Jodie Patterson
with illustrations by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow

Adapted from the adult memoir The Bold World, this picture book tells the story of Jodie Patterson's child letting others know who he really is- a boy named Penelope. While a difficult subject to broach, Penelope knows that he's no ordinary kid and with his ninja-like skills- and the help of his mom- he's confident he can show he was born ready to be who he truly is!

Adventures with My Daddies
by Gareth Peter
with illustrations by Garry Parsons

Story time leads to all kinds of adventures in this inclusive picture book celebrating family and imagination! Full of rhyme and vibrant illustrations, readers will be charmed by the family here! Many kids having a different family configuration, may see their own families reflected back at them. It's so wonderful how stories are able to bring people together!

Sharice's Big Voice
by Sharice Davids and Nancy K Mays
with illustrations by Joshua Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley

Sharice Davids shares her story of overcoming obstacles to become the first LGBTQ Native American Congressperson. Learning about and experiencing firsthand the unequal treatment she and her people have endured over the years, she demonstrates how she has been able to courageously use her voice to make a difference. This is an inspiring picture book autobiography that will introduce readers to an incredible political figure who spoke out not just for her rights but for others.

Two Grooms on a Cake
by Rob Sanders
with illustrations by Robbie Cathro

Told from the perspectives of two male wedding cake toppers, Rob Sanders shares the story of the first same-sex wedding in America.

It's about how Jack Baker and Michael McConnell met, fell in love, and fought to be legally married. It's also about how their not so typical love story became an important part of LGBTQ history!

This book includes photos and a Marriage Equality Timeline.

Little People, Big Dreams: RuPaul
by Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara
with illustrations by Wednesday Holmes

Little People, Big Dreams is a beautiful nonfiction picture book series imported from Spain. Books in this series are simple, picture book biographies which introduce young readers to brave and famous people. Each book also includes a timeline and photos in the end.

In the latest installment, the famous drag artist, RuPaul, is in the spotlight! His story begins with his childhood spent playing dress-up to his success in adulthood helping others show off what makes them special. This is a perfect book to help kids understand that they can be exactly who they are and have fun at the same time!

Too Bright to See
by Kyle Lukoff

Eleven-year-old Bug has a lot on her mind.

It's the summer before middle school and she and her best friend are trying to prepare for it as much as they can.

She's also being haunted by a ghost in the haunted house she lives in.

But the biggest thing that's frightening her is coming to terms with who she really is.

Part ghost story. Part coming-of-age story. One hundred percent captivating.

Thanks a Lot, Universe
by Chad Lucas

Two boys. Friends. As different from each other as one can be. Each one dealing with their own thing. Brian's anxiety is getting worse. Ezra wants to help but worries the crush on his friend might show.

When things come to a breaking point, they must learn to step up and be who they are to face the problems in their lives.

The Cardboard Kingdom #2: Roar of the Beast
by Chad Sell

The kids of the Cardboard Kingdom are back just in time for Halloween and facing their biggest challenge ever!

When a mysterious beast suddenly appears out of nowhere, it'll take all of all the kids setting aside their differences and working together to put an end to its sudden reign of terror. While full of imagination and creativity, the "real" moments of figuring out oneself and navigating complicated feelings are what sets this graphic novel series apart from the rest.

Click on the cover or title to find out more about each book and to order from our online shop! Or give the store a call!
503-954-2354

]]><![CDATA[Book Recommendations for Earth Day]]>Tue, 20 Apr 2021 22:05:39 GMThttp://www.greenbeanbookspdx.com/blog/book-recommendations-for-earth-dayEarth Day is an annual event to raise awareness about the need to come together and take care of our planet. While it technically falls on April 22nd every year, we recommend celebrating it every day!

Activists Assemble – Save Your Planet
by Ben Hoare, Illustrated by Jade Orlando

This book is perfect for kids who are ready to gain more in-depth knowledge about the problems our planet is facing, as well as the various steps we can take to help save it. Complete with a glossary, discussion and activity sections, Save Your Planet will equip your child to be a young environmental activist.

Reuse This Book
by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Illustrated by Emma Morris

This interactive picture book is the perfect way to introduce young children to recycling, composting, and taking care of the planet. This book offers an encouraging look at how little ones can help plants grow and keep the earth green.

The Extraordinary Book That Eats Itself
by Susan Hayes and Penny Arlon, Illustrated by Pintachan

The Extraordinary Book That Eats Itself is the ultimate activity book to teach your child how to be eco-friendly and promote zero waste. Every single page is full of fun and educational ideas and activities to help your child and their friends save the earth.

Greta’s Story: The Schoolgirl Who Went on Strike to Save the Planet
by Valentina Camerini, Translated by Moreno Giovannoni, Illustrated by Veronica “Veci” Carratello

This biographical chapter book about Greta Thunberg is a great way to introduce your child to climate change and show them that no one is too young to make a difference. Greta’s Story is an inspiring and informative look at how we can address the challenges facing our planet.

Click on the cover or title to find out more about each book and to order from our online shop! Or give the store a call!
503-954-2354

]]><![CDATA[AAPI Book Recommendations from Green Bean Books!]]>Sat, 27 Mar 2021 23:31:27 GMThttp://www.greenbeanbookspdx.com/blog/aapi-book-recommendations-from-green-bean-booksThere has been a troubling increase in anti-Asian attacks recently. Racism and prejudice are not new and it is a reminder that we all need to do our part to stop this- or any type of hate crime.

Look out for one another. Support those affected. Express to others that it's our differences that make us strong. Different doesn't mean inferior or less than.

And, once again, we think diversifying our bookshelves is one of the many steps we should be taking to open minds and build empathy.

Here are some of our recent favorites:

Eyes That Kiss in the Corners
written by Joanna Ho
illustrated by Dung Ho

A young girl embraces the uniqueness of her eyes by way of celebrating the women in her life- her mom, her grandma, and her baby sister- as well the rich history and stories of their culture.

We hope that this beautiful book finds its way into as many hands as possible so in can be appreciated and fawned over in every corner of the world!

The Ramble Shamble Children
written by Christina Soontornvat
illustrated by Lauren Castillo

Fresh from her Newbery honor wins for her middle grade novel A Wish in the Dark- a Thai reimagining of Les Misérables by Victor Hugo- and nonfiction book All Thirteen: The Incredible Cave Rescue of the Thai Boys' Soccer Team, Christina Soontornvat offers up a sweet story about siblings who learn they- and the house they live in- are perfect just the ramble shamble way they are. Lauren Castillo's illustrations are lovely!

Amy Wu and the Patchwork Dragon
written by Kat Zhang
illustrated by Charlene Chua

The titular character is back and this time she must draw from her Chinese culture to solve a problem that arises during a class craft project. Her dragon doesn’t look like the other dragons her classmates have made. With the help of her family and friends, she’ll make a dragon that she can be proud of! Also perfect to introduce eastern and western mythology as the backmatter features a little bit about dragons through these two lenses.

In My Mosque
written by M. O. Yuksel
illustrated by Hatem Aly

This wonderfully inclusive picture book is a vibrant look into the world’s second largest religion. Readers are invited to learn about what happens inside these places of worship for Muslims which function as both sacred places to pray and centers to build community.

Great backmatter material is included.

Prairie Lotus
by Linda Sue Park

This middle grade novel is perfect for fans of Little House in the Prairie, although it's about a biracial family who wouldn't have been welcomed in Wilder's World. This book will provide an opening for talking about the cultural limitations and biases in some classics. It offers a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of our diverse world within a historical context.

Amina's Song
by Hena Khan

After finding her voice, Pakistani seventh grader Amina feels like no one is interested in what she has to say about her culture or herself. There's plenty of middle school drama that readers can relate with while getting to see things from a different perspective. Also of note is the difficulty in trying to maintain relationships with family members who live in a different country.

American as Paneer Pie
by Supriya Kelkar

This middle grade novel is an engaging read that features an earnest Indian American protagonist trying to fit in and balance two worlds. It addresses the dangers of over-assimilating when main character, Lekha, ends up looking down at a new girl in school- a Desi girl like herself who is not yet “accustomed” to the American way of life. This story reveals another form of bias that new immigrants may face when they first arrive. Newcomer students will possibly relate and hopefully other students will develop empathy for this experience.

Everything Sad is Untrue
by Daniel Nayeri

This is an Iranian autobiographical novel that merges two cultures together. It's about how when you leave one set of problems in one country, you may be gaining a whole new set in your new country. It's also about trying to fit into a new place, while simultaneously trying to not to let go of everything that makes you who you are from your previous place. And mostly it's about how stories shape our lives. The style and structure may not be standard but even that is integral to the story.

Awesome Asian Americans:
20 Stars Who Made America Amazing
written by Phil Amara and Oliver Chin
illustrated by Juan Calle

This much-needed biography collection is a wonderful way to get introduced to people who may not have had their contributions to various fields acknowledged. It includes a diverse set of groundbreakers including activists, athletes, chefs, politicians, astronomers and more.

The "comics" style illustrations really add to the appeal of the book.

Measuring Up
written by Lily LaMotte
illustrated by Ann Xu

One of our favorite graphic novels this year! Main character, Cici, is such an earnest character who must deal with cultural misunderstandings as well as microaggressions as she tries to fit in after moving from Taiwan to Seattle with her family. She struggles to feel pride in her culture and find the courage to be herself. Students who love cooking and cooking competition shows will really get into this book as will those with nearby Seattle connections.

Click on the cover or title to find out more about each book and to order from our online shop! Or give the store a call!
503-954-2354

]]><![CDATA[Books for Women's History Month, Part 2]]>Sun, 07 Mar 2021 00:32:25 GMThttp://www.greenbeanbookspdx.com/blog/books-for-womens-history-month-part-2More book reviews for Women's History Month!

Make sure you check out our previous post, too!

G My Name Is Girl: A Song of Celebration from Argentina to Zambia
Written and Illustrated by Dawn Masi

G My Name Is Girl is a sweet celebration of girlhood from all over the world. Different girls from different countries are represented with other females in their lives and what makes them unique. The illustrations are worth a longer look-over to see a connecting factor amongst them.

Ambitious Girl
Written by Meena Harris and Illustrated by Marissa Valdez

Ambitious Girl is a wonderful exploration of what it means to be ambitious, and that girls can be and do anything they set their minds to. The book features a Black protagonist and vividly inclusive illustrations featuring girls of all sizes, shapes, colors, ages, religions, abilities, as well as LGBTQ representation. This is an inspiring, feel good, girl power book for every kind of girl.

Lumber Jills: The Unsung Heroines of World War II
Written by Alexandra Davis and Illustrated by Katie Hickey

Lyrically told, this is the story of British girls who answered the call when their country needed their help! During World War II, there was a shortage of workers in the lumber industry to make the necessary items to help fight the war so thousands joined the Women's Timber Corps despite having no prior experience. They were determined to learn and succeed, and they did! Their camaraderie and dedication will inspire young readers today to step up and make a difference!

Click on the covers or book titles to be directed to our online shop!

Stay tuned for more reviews!

]]><![CDATA[Recommendations for Women's History Month]]>Thu, 25 Feb 2021 00:50:23 GMThttp://www.greenbeanbookspdx.com/blog/womens-history-month-book-recommendationsCelebrate Women's History Month with Green Bean Books as we share some of our favorite books of fantastic females!

Noisemakers: 25 Women Who Raised Their Voices & Changed the World
Edited by Kazoo

This book is a collection of incredible illustrated comics about brave, intelligent, trailblazing women across time. From storytellers to mountain climbers, and scientists to detectives, every young reader will find inspiration in Noisemakers.

The ABCs of AOC: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from A-Z
Written by Jamia Wilson and Illustrated by Krystal Quiles

The ABCs of AOC is an exciting introduction to US government and activism for young progressive readers. This book breaks down many of the concepts that Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez fights for and participates in, including Democracy, Human Rights, and Protests. This book is a great way to get your child interested in government and activism.

She Persisted Around the World
Written by Chelsea Clinton and Illustrated by Alexandra Boiger

She Persisted Around the World introduces thirteen women who did not let significant
obstacles discourage their persistence. The majestic illustrations are warm and inviting, showing
girls that they can be and do anything they set their minds to. This empowering picture book is a
must have for all young girls.

Click on the covers or book titles to be directed to our online shop!

Stay tuned for more reviews!

]]><![CDATA[Early Chapter Book Recommendations]]>Sun, 21 Feb 2021 22:35:10 GMThttp://www.greenbeanbookspdx.com/blog/early-chapter-book-recommendationsDo you have a child who is building their reading confidence and ready to move up from beginning reading books? Whether starting early chapter books as read-alouds first or immediately using them for independent reading, they’re a great choice! Most feature more text but they are divided into manageable chapters with plenty of illustrations to give your eyes a visual treat.

Here are just some of our favorites that we think you’ll enjoy as much as we do!

Polly Diamond and the Magic Book
Written by Alice Kuipers, Illustrated by Diana Toledano

It’s every writer’s dream! Polly Diamond finds a magic book that makes everything come true. Through hilarious trial and error, she realizes she has to be more careful with what she writes down because it might just happen!

Skunk and Badger
Written by Amy Timberlake, Illustrated by Jon Klassen

In a new series for fans of The Wind in the Willows comes a story of an unlikely friendship. When Skunk shows up at Badger’s doorstep, the latter’s whole world which was orderly and quiet and turns upside down. Will they be able to get along or will the appearance of too many chickens be too much for them?

The Fabled Stables: Willa the Wisp
Written by Jonathan Auxier, Illustrated by Olga Demidova

Readers looking for a beginning light-hearted (and big hearted!) fantasy will find their perfect book in this first installment of a new series. Auggie is tasked to take care of magical and one-of-a-kind creatures. When one of them needs help, he’ll do everything to save them. Full color illustrations.

Sydney & Taylor Explore the Whole Wide World
Written by Jacqueline Davies, Illustrated by Deborah Hocking

Get ready for an adventure with two best friends- a hedgehog named Taylor and a skunk named Sydney. They will travel to Places Unknown and hunt like the ferocious animals they are...or, at least try to! The whole wide world can be a scary thing but with a good friend by your side, anything is possible!

Our Friend Hedgehog: The Story of Us
Written by Lauren Castillo

Winnie the Pooh fans will find themselves charmed with Lauren Castillo’s new series about the loveable creatures of Hedge Hollow. When a storm separates Hedgehog from her best friend Mutty, it will take a lot of courage and a lot of friends to help them reunite!

Planet Omar: Unexpected Super Spy
Written by Zanib Mian, Illustrated by Nasaya Mafaridik

Fresh from facing down bullies in the first book in the series, trouble-magnet Omar is back and this time it’s up to him to solve the case of some missing money that would have helped his family’s favorite mosque open. Will his quick thinking save the day or will he end up running out of ideas?

Click on the cover or title to find out more about each book and to order from our online shop! Or give the store a call!
503-954-2354

Happy reading!

]]><![CDATA[New Books to Read!]]>Tue, 02 Feb 2021 23:41:14 GMThttp://www.greenbeanbookspdx.com/blog/new-books-to-readThere have been so many good books released in 2021 already!

We want to share some of our recent favorites...

When Life Give You Mangos
by Kereen Getter

Twelve-year-old Clara should be having the time of her life- living in what some may call an island paradise and spending time with her best friend eating ripe mangos. But something happened last summer- after a hurricane hit- that affected her memory and Clara's never felt the same then. Now there's a new girl in the village that may change everything. Readers will be immediately enticed by Kereen Getten's debut middle grade novel and will be turning pages to discover the secrets of the past. For Clara it'll be a summer to remember- and for remembrance.

The Smartest Kid in the Universe
by Chris Grabenstein

What starts out as an innocent act of snacking on some jelly beans at his mom's work ends up with Jake being pursued by the government and mega corporations. Because unbeknownst to him, the jelly beans were digestible information pills and now he knows everything there is to know! Chris Grabenstein delivers another rollicking middle grade novel full of pirate treasure and school quiz bowl competitions.

The Lion of Mars
by Jennifer L. Holm

Bell is your typical eleven-year-old boy living in Mars in the year 2091. He wonders what it would be like to travel beyond his own planet- to Earth, even, where his people used to live and have been cut off from for generations. When a mysterious illness befalls the adults, it's up to Bell and other kids to find a solution and perhaps bridge the gap between the Mars colonies once again.

The Beast and the Bethany
by Jack Meggitt-Phillips

Ebenezer Tweezer has discovered the secret to immortality- and it's the beast in his attic that he has to continuously feed to maintain his youthful appearance. For 511 years, it's worked like a charm. But now the beast is hungrier than ever and wants a child to feast on. What they didn't bargain for was Bethany! Have they bitten off more than they can chew when they've met the most unpleasant child in all of existence?

What have you read recently? Share it in the comments below!

You can click the book titles to order it from our website- or give the store a call!
503-954-2354
greenbeanbookspdx.indielite.org/

]]><![CDATA[Middle Grade Reviews, Part Five]]>Tue, 02 Feb 2021 08:00:00 GMThttp://www.greenbeanbookspdx.com/blog/middle-grade-reviews-part-fiveWe know you’ve been missing browsing our shelves and discovering a book that wasn’t on your radar. So, we’ll be sharing some newer middle grade releases throughout the week.

Give us a call at 503-954-2354 if you want any of them. And have your kids leave reviews in the comments of good books they’ve read recently.

How to Make Friends with the Sea by Tanya Guerrero

After moving around all his life, Pablo and his recently divorced mother have settled down in the Philippines. As if that wasn’t enough to take in, they end up taking in an orphaned girl with a cleft lip. Will Pablo find a way to make his new situation feel like home?

For fans of Everlasting Nora by Marie Miranda Cruz, Hello, Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly and Pie in the Sky by Remy Lai

All the Impossible Things by Lindsay Lackey

Ruby “Red” Byrd has moved around from one foster home to another. And, when she thinks her life is settling down a bit, an unexpected arrival shakes things up again. Not to mention she also has the magical power to control the wind based on her emotions. If you want a moving story with a touch of magical elements, look no further!

For fans of The Thing about Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin.

]]><![CDATA[New Year, New You!]]>Sun, 27 Dec 2020 21:44:00 GMThttp://www.greenbeanbookspdx.com/blog/new-year-new-youIt's that time of year again when many of us make our annual resolutions!

We can help you do this with books!!!

Explore the outdoors and your neighborhood more! (Safely, of course!)

Write more letters!

Have more music in your life!

Read more biographies!

Wear fun socks!

Continue your antiracist reading!

Read more classics!

Learn a new language!

Give us a call if you want any of these books to help you with your resolutions.

Let us know if you need book recommendations for other resolutions.

We are here for you!
Happy New Year!

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