Seattle's Child

Your guide to a kid-friendly city

Book picks: ‘Carpenter’s Helper’ is a heartwarming story about nature

Also: A thought-provoking look at aging, identity and loss from Julie Otsuka.

Book picks for kids (and adults):

Looking for some reading inspiration? Here’s a peek at what KCLS staff and the young readers in their lives are digging into this month!

All KCLS libraries are open. Plan your next visit at kcls.org/visit.

AdultsThe Swimmers, by Julie Otsuka

“The Swimmers” is a slim but rich novel about community and common purpose that features a collective group of narrators. A diverse assembly of swimmers notice a crack has begun to form at the bottom of their local pool. As they investigate its cause and discuss its remedy, the story shifts focus to a particular swimmer named Alice who is experiencing cognitive decline. Otsuka manages to combine broad social commentary about identity and aging in a cohesive and thought-provoking way in this intimate portrayal of loss.

KidsCarpenter’s Helper, by Sybil Rosen

Renata has been busy helping her Papi renovate their bathroom. One morning, they find leaves piled up in the corner of an open cabinet. They discover that it’s a nest for two little birds who soon have eggs to tend to. Renata learns how the nest was built, watches the eggs hatch and sees the fledglings fly for the first time. This heartwarming story demonstrates how to observe and respect the natural world through simple language and softly colored pencil art.

More book picks for kids (and other book news):

Favorite kids’ books of local authors and educators

Combine kids’ books and real-life adventures around Seattle

How to start your own little free library

Dad Next Door: Harry Potter will set you free (from reading tedious bedtime stories to your kids)

 

Find the latest book news, recommendations and more by signing up for our monthly Book Corner newsletter

 

 

 

About the Author

Rekha Kuver

Librarian Rekha Kuver is the youth and family services manager for the King County Library System. As a reader, she likes characters with rich internal lives and settings with a vivid sense of time and place. When she’s not reading or listening to audiobooks, she’s making art or spending time outdoors.