Emily Kilgore

The northern lights dance, snow blankets the ground, it's the Christmas season-so the Book Flood begins! People plan and they dream, and they visit the shops for books to give loved ones, and families, and friends. And when Christmas Eve comes, they'll share magical stories, curl up by the fire, and read, read, read, read . . . This lovely and lyrical picture book, based on a real Icelandic tradition, brings all the sparkle and anticipation of Christmas-and the joys of reading-to the page.

Mason is struggling with his Iheards in this picture book about gossip from the author/illustrator team behind The Whatifs. It didn't matter if the Iheards were true or made-up, harmless or hurtful.As soon as Mason thought about them, the Iheards burst out. Mason is constantly gossiping about everyone. Because of this, the Iheards love him. They sneak up to him and whisper all kinds of rumors in his ear: real things or pretend, innocent or mean. As he prepares for an upcoming history presentation, the Iheards buzz all around, making him blurt out more rumors than usual. Will he be able to change from spreading gossip to sharing something more positive?

"Persico's atmospheric illustrations aptly reflect Cora's shifting emotions, and Kilgore successfully balances the whimsical with a tale grounded in reality." -Publishers Weekly "Cora and her Whatifs have a charming appeal beyond their focus on tackling anxious thoughts, making an enjoyable read-aloud for wide audiences. . . . A thoroughly welcome addition to growing collections of socio-emotional development materials." -Kirkus ReviewsCora is struggling with her Whatif questions ahead of a big piano recital in this timely picture book about overcoming anxiety. What if my dog runs away?What if I forget my homework?What if the sun stops shining?What if my crayon breaks? Cora is constantly worrying about everything. Because of this, the Whatifs love her. They sneak up to her and give her all kinds of doubts: big or small, silly or frightening, likely or impossible. As she prepares for an upcoming piano recital, the Whatifs cling on tighter and drag her down, making her anxious about messing up during the concert. Will she be able to change her worry-filled thoughts into hopeful ones?