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WORK TITLE: MONKEY KING AND THE WORLD OF MYTHS
WORK NOTES:
PSEUDONYM(S):
BIRTHDATE:
WEBSITE: https://www.maplelam.com
CITY: Los Angeles
STATE:
COUNTRY: United States
NATIONALITY:
LAST VOLUME:
RESEARCHER NOTES:
PERSONAL
Born in Hong Kong; immigrated to United States.
EDUCATION:University of California, Irvine, bachelor’s degree.
ADDRESS
CAREER
Designer, illustrator, and writer. Worked for a design firm as an event and exhibit designer for seven years, becoming art director; freelance illustrator.
AVOCATIONS:Badminton.
MEMBER:Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.
WRITINGS
SIDELIGHTS
[open new]Having started her career as a designer and art director, Maple Lam followed her passion to become an illustrator and author of children’s books. She was born in Hong Kong and moved with family to the Los Angeles area when she was eleven. Drawing was always a favorite pastime. She attended the University of California at Irvine, where she gained work illustrating comics and editorials for the school newspaper. Pursuing an arts education, she originally envisioned becoming a concept artist for movies and video games, but the required mind-set eluded her. In fact she preferred reading, in genres ranging from history to astronomy to graphic novels. It was while studying abroad in Cambridge as a junior that she realized, after reading a magazine article about creators of children’s books, that she wanted to become an author-illustrator someday. First she spent seven years at a design firm, specializing in events and exhibits. She then determined to forge a career in the children’s book industry, gaining wisdom and support through the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She mentioned to ShoutoutLA, “Picture book storytelling is a very unique art form, from pacing, to page-turn, to how the art and the text work with each other. I learned through reading and studying picture books everyday.” Lam made her debut as an illustrator with Ryan and Evie Cordell’s picture book Two Girls Want a Puppy, about sisters trying to convince their father they are ready for a puppy. Laura Hunter of School Library Journal admired Lam’s “delightful watercolor and colored-pencil” artwork, and a Kirkus Reviews writer affirmed that her “cheerful, cartoon-style illustrations capture the warm atmosphere.”
Lam made her self-illustrated debut in 2016 with My Little Sister and Me, about a boy walking his little sister home from their school bus stop by himself for the first time. He takes his task seriously, humoring her as she collects found treasures, singing along with her, and playing medieval knights with stick-swords. A thunderstorm dampens the fun, but sister is brave, brother is sweet, and mother is proud when they reach home. A Kirkus Reviews writer enjoyed the siblings’ “animated reactions” and how their “simple facial features are boldly expressive with just a few lines.” Natalie Braham agreed in School Library Journal that “expressive illustrations evoke the characters’ moods perfectly” in this “endearing … poignant tale.”
Dim Sum, Here We Come!, Lam’s next self-illustrated title, celebrates an extended family’s Sunday dim sum feast. The young narrator takes the reader through family greetings and a short wait inside the restaurant, with Uncle Irvin explaining the good fortune signaled by the kumquat tree, cat statue, and fish tank. The dozen relations enjoy jasmine tea, choose their favorite dishes, and patiently await their turns as the lazy Susan spins around on their circular table.
A Publishers Weekly reviewer praised Dim Sum, Here We Come! as “delectable” with its “yummy watercolor and colored pencil art.” Elisabeth LeBris observed in School Library Journal that the illustrations are “charming, with plenty of small details that invite a closer look.” Declaring that the “excitement is palpable,” a Kirkus Reviews writer affirmed that Lam “deftly weaves cultural details into the story.” The Kirkus Reviews writer concluded that “every small pleasure of this outing seems thrilling,” as even the passing of food proves “delightfully suspenseful.”
Lam opens her “Monkey King and the World of Myths” graphic-novel series with The Monster and the Maze. Destined to be known as the Monkey King, Sun Wukong, born from a mountaintop rock, realizes early on that he is not like other monkeys. A skilled fighter able to change forms, Wukong tries to fit in with humans but eventually decides to aspire to become a god. Recruited to help deal with the oncoming Age of Monsters, he is dispatched to Greece, where he nurtures a puppy named Cerberus and tries to figure out who the real monster in the Minotaur’s Labyrinth is. Reviewers enjoyed Lam’s clever amalgam of Chinese and Greek mythology. A Kirkus Reviews writer hailed The Monster and the Maze as “humorous and heartfelt … packed with exciting action scenes and a whole lot of monkey business unfolding in cute, colorful, and exaggerated illustrations.” Horn Book reviewer Kristine Techavanich admired how Lam “intertwines lessons in employing critical thinking skills … with plenty of humor, adventure, and heart.”[close new]
BIOCRIT
PERIODICALS
Booklist, June 1, 2015, Carolyn Phelan, review of Two Girls Want a Puppy, p. 125.
Horn Book, March-April, 2024, Kristine Techavanich, review of The Monster and the Maze, p. 96.
Kirkus Reviews, April 1, 2015, review of Two Girls Want a Puppy; March 1, 2016, review of My Little Sister and Me; January 15, 2018, review of Frenemies in the Family: Famous Brothers and Sisters Who Butted Heads and Had Each Other’s Backs; May 15, 2018, review of What Can You Do with a Toolbox?; December 1, 2022, review of Dim Sum, Here We Come!; February 1, 2024, review of The Monster and the Maze.
Publishers Weekly, February 5, 2018, review of Frenemies in the Family, p. 63; February 27, 2023, review of Dim Sum, Here We Come!, p. 65.
School Library Journal, June, 2015, Laura Hunter, review of Two Girls Want a Puppy, p. 79; April, 2016, Natalie Braham, review of My Little Sister and Me, p. 133; February, 2018, Laura Dooley-Taylor, review of Frenemies in the Family, p. 122; August, 2018, Kimberly Tolson, review of What Can You Do with a Toolbox?, p. 57; December, 2022, Elisabeth LeBris, review of Dim Sum, Here We Come!, p. 76; March, 2024, Lisa Rowland, review of The Monster and the Maze, p. 87.
ONLINE
Maple Lam website, https://www.maplelam.com (September 5, 2024).
ShoutoutLA, https://shoutoutla.com/ (February 22, 2021), “Meet Maple Lam: Author and Illustrator.”
MAPLE LAM
(The long biography)
Maple Lam was born in Hong Kong and immigrated to Greater Los Angeles at age 11. Upon the big move, Maple carefully put her small collection of manga and books into two small boxes. Books were what she treasured the most. It hasn't changed since.
Maple studied studio art at the University of California, Irvine, where she first got paid as a comic and editorial illustrator at the college's newspaper. In her third year, she enrolled in a study abroad program in Cambridge, England. That summer, she read a magazine article about children's book authors and illustrators. It was the first time she realized such an occupation existed. She didn't know how to become one yet, but it planted a seed in her.
↑ This spread in GRAPHICS INTERNATIONAL (Issue 97) made Maple realize children's book writing and illustrating is a profession.
After college graduation, Maple worked at an event design firm for seven years, where she worked from a design intern to an art director. While she enjoyed the work and appreciated the opportunity to travel, deep down, she wanted to write and illustrate books and graphic novels. She saved up, honed her craft on writing and drawing, gave the company a one-year notice, and began pursuing her dream as an author-illustrator.
At her first SCBWI Summer Conference, Maple won a portfolio mentorship award, where she had the opportunity to meet with a group of industry professionals for sound advice and direction. As she journeyed down her path as author-illustrator, she met amazing and talented friends, all of whom continue to inspire and encourage her as a creator.
↑ Maple met amazing friends at SCBWI, the organization that kickstarted her children's book career.
Maple has since published many books, including MY LITTLE SISTER AND ME, WHERE ARE THE TREASURES? (Chinese), FRENEMIES IN THE FAMILY (written by Kathleen Krull), SHAKE MY SILLIES OUT (written by Raffi), and more. She is currently working on her debut graphic novel series.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here are answers to the 10 most frequently asked questions I get.
Q. I like your name. Are you from Canada?
Thank you! I like my name too! That's to my parents' credit. I am actually from Hong Kong, and I moved to Greater Los Angeles when I was 11.
Q. How do you come up with ideas?
The more I read, the more artwork I see, the more creatives I meet, the more inspirations I get. I always keep a notebook and jot down things I find interesting, however trivial. You never know when you put two and two together and connect all those trivial dots.
Q. Is it true you are allergic to chocolate?
Yes and no. I was eleven when I did my first trick-or-treat in America. I was so excited, I gobbled up one too many pieces of chocolate. I got really sick and had since developed a psychological allergic reaction to chocolate. It might be psychological, but the reaction is real. I truly do get sick after.
Q. What book genres do you enjoy?
My default leisure reading rotates between history and astrophysics. I gravitates more towards non-fiction, but I do enjoy a good fiction occasionally, such as a good mystery.
Q. What else do you do when you are not drawing and writing?
I am an avid competitive badminton player – not the ones that you swing your racket leisurely in an open park, but the indoor, fast-paced, rigorous type. I play about 2 to 3 times a week in local badminton clubs. I also take care of about 10 community cats on my street with my neighbor. They are the most adorable cats, and I've grown really close to them. (Please TNR community cats!) I go in and out of my local library at least once a week – you will find me either reading or working there. It's my go-to happy place.
Q. How did you get started in children's book publishing?
Much like many of my peers, I joined the Society of Children's Book Writer and Illustrator (SCBWI). They are fantastic! Five stars! Highly recommend!
Q. Do you do school visits or library workshops?
Yes, absolutely! Due to Covid, most of my school visits and library workshops have shifted online. Please feel free to email me directly on schedule and cost. (maplelam@gmail.com)
Q. I wrote a story! Can I hire you to illustrate my book?
I am very flattered. Thank you for thinking of me on your project! Please contact my agent Joanna Volpe at New Leaf Literary Agency. Please note that I am currently not accepting commissions to illustrate self-published books. Thank you again!
Q. Can you donate your art or a book to my organization or event? It's for a good cause.
Much like my peers in the industry, I get this question a lot. I think there is an misconception that the publisher will send the author-illustrator tons of her own books for free. The truth is, we only receive a few copies of our own books, and we buy the rest of them with our own money. Please understand that even when I get a slight discount for buying my own books in bulk, I am still paying out of pocket, and am also responsible for all the shipping and handling cost. Because of time and financial limit, I am usually not able to participate in such donations. Thank you for your understanding.
Q. I love your artwork! Where can I buy your art?
Thank you for the love! I currently sell art prints on Inprnt.com. Feel free to check them out!
Meet Maple Lam: Author and Illustrator
February 22, 2021
Leave a reply
We had the good fortune of connecting with Maple Lam and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Maple, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think risk taking is a natural part of life. Some take more risks than others; some take higher risks than others. Honestly, there is a right or wrong in the number of risks one takes – it all depends on the individual’s level of tolerance. The great news is, we can always assess the level of risks involved, consider the pro and cons, and develop a plan to balance the opportunities versus the risks. I was an event and exhibit designer in a design firm for seven years before switching over full-time as a freelance author and illustrator. The switch was a huge risk: freelancing means an unstable financial situation for a long period of time. To prepare for that, I made sure I was extremely financially responsible when I was working full-time. (Reading a few books on finance early on can go a long way.) I gave my company a one year notice prior to my planned departure so that I could help them hire and train the next designer for the transition. We parted in great terms, and I periodically freelance for the firm when help is needed. I enjoyed the time I worked as a designer, but I am also happy to make the switch to become an author and illustrator, for that’s where my passion resides.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
It was a zig-zag type of journey in terms of my art career. I always loved to draw, but I didn’t know how to bridge that into a career when I was young. In college, I thought I would be a concept artist, as I assumed I enjoyed watching movies and playing video games. Turns out, I didn’t enjoy it the way concept artists in the industry enjoyed it. (I did get a wonderful art education in the process, all of which is tremendously helpful later on in my career.) What I truly enjoyed was reading books, from history to astronomy, from wordless to graphic novels. And yet, I didn’t put two and two together until much later, when I began noticing the amazing artwork and illustration in picture books. Picture book storytelling is a very unique art form, from pacing, to page-turn, to how the art and the text work with each other. I learned through reading and studying picture books everyday. (I still do!) It’s definitely not easy, as book publishing is a very slow process. But the journey along is also filled with gems. I get to bounce ideas with my agent, my critique group, my illustrator friends, my editors and art directors, etc. I’ve learned to be patient and enjoy every step of the creative process.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There are a lot of places I would recommend! There is Gallery Nucleus in Alhambra. It’s a tiny gallery with a lot of great rotating illustration exhibits. A great ice-cream place called Fosselman is also nearby. The Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena has a strong art selection, and after seeing lots of great art, we can walk down Old Town Pasadena, where we can also get unique ice-cream at Wanderlust Creamery (I really like ice-cream!). Sushi Gen in Little Tokyo has the best sushi in town, and their sashimi lunch on the weekday has huge portions! West LA has a lot of cool shops to check out, from vintage to all the streetwear brands on Fairfax. The Griffin Observatory is a fun place to hike. Wi Spa in Koreatown is a great place to spend an entire afternoon for relaxation. Biking at Venice Beach and walking down Abbot Kinney after is always a great way to spend the day. JPL in La Canada offers a free lecture every month, and we get to hear some of the top aerospace scientists discuss their latest work in person! Walking down Honolulu Avenue in Montrose is great, and we can grab coffee and ice-cream and visit one of my favorite indie bookstores: Once Upon A Time. It’s the oldest children’s book bookstore in America. I LOVE Los Angeles. It’s a very spread-out city with lots of hidden gems! The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give my shoutout to SCBWI, the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. Before I joined the organization, I had very limited knowledge of how the children’s book publishing industry works. Attending conferences and workshops gave me the necessary knowledge of being a children’s book author and illustrator. More importantly, I met many talented creatives there, and over time, we’ve become lifelong friends. We support each other through the ups and downs of our creative journey, and I cherish that tremendously.
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Cordell, Ryan TWO GIRLS WANT A PUPPY Harper/HarperCollins (Children's Picture Books) $17.99 6, 30 ISBN: 978-0-06-229261-2
Sisters Cadence and Emi use both logical and creative approaches to convince their dad they should be allowed to adopt a puppy. The bubbly little girls are full of reasons for a puppy, but their firm but fair father is just as full of explanations why the girls aren't ready for the responsibilities of dog ownership. The steps to successful achievement of a difficult goal and management of negotiations between opposing sides are skillfully woven into the story, with key vocabulary words highlighted in boldface type. The sisters draw up a written plan to achieve their goal and address each point of their numbered list in some way. The girls take care of a neighbor's dog, research different dog breeds, and create their own book about the value of owning a dog. Their efforts result in their father's admission that his daughters have shown they can be "persistent, responsible, smart, and creative." Together, girls and dad choose an appealing puppy from a shelter. Cheerful, cartoon-style illustrations capture the warm atmosphere of this single-parent household, complemented by lots of display type in varying sizes and colors. Lots of stories address getting a dog, but this tale recounts practical steps in successfully working toward a goal, with the kids solving their own problem. (Picture book. 4-7)
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2015 Kirkus Media LLC
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"Cordell, Ryan: TWO GIRLS WANT A PUPPY." Kirkus Reviews, 1 Apr. 2015. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A407413164/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=f1b9e013. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
CORDELL, Ryan & Evie Cordell. Two Girls Want a Puppy. illus. by Maple Lam. 32p. HarperCollins. Jun. 2015. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9780062292612.
PreS-Gr 2--Cadence and her little sister Emi really want a puppy. Luckily, they have a "Brilliant Plan" to convince their skeptical father to get them one. Their plan is simple and straightforward. They show persistence by repeatedly asking dad for a puppy, to no avail. Next, they demonstrate responsibility by successfully caring for the vacationing neighbor's dog. Dad is still unconvinced. The sisters show their smarts by researching dogs and display creativity by writing a book about their findings. The result is factual and persuasive: "People are happier and healthier with pets. Doctors say pets help people live longer." Dad is very impressed by both the book and his daughters, and announces that it is time to adopt a dog. The family visits the shelter, where one puppy stands out. The new addition is named Millie, "because we wished for her one million times ... and now she's ours!" Delightful watercolor and colored-pencil illustrations depict a simple, relatable story. VERDICT Parents should beware, kids might be inspired to try their own skills of persuasion after reading this selection.--Laura Hunter, Mount Laurel Library, N]
Hunter, Laura
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2015 A wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
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Hunter, Laura. "Cordell, Ryan & Evie Cordell. Two Girls Want a Puppy." School Library Journal, vol. 61, no. 6, June 2015, p. 79. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A417472598/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=8528a2bb. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
Two Girls Want a Puppy. By Evie Cordell and Ryan Cordell. Illus. by Maple Lam.
June 2015. 32p. Harper, $17.99 (9780062292612). PreS--Gr. 2.
In this cheerful picture book, two girls introduce themselves, their eagerness to have a puppy, and their plan for overcoming their father's reluctance. Step one is persistence, as Cadence and Emmy repeatedly ask, "Can we get a puppy?" In step two, they show responsibility by caring for their vacationing neighbors' dog. Step three, super smarts, means researching canine breeds and characteristics. For super creativity, step four, they write and illustrate their own book about dogs. Finally convinced, Dad relents and takes them to the shelter, where they adopt a puppy. Inspired by the Cordell children's successful Facebook-based plan to get a puppy, this picture book will interest the millions of people who supported their campaign, as well as the millions of kids who wish for pets of their own. Upbeat line-and-wash artwork illustrates the engaging story. While plenty of picture books revolve around a child longing for a pet, few actually address the reasons for their parents' reservations. This story hits the sweet spot between making wishes and making them come true.--Carolyn Phelan
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2015 American Library Association
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Phelan, Carolyn. "Two Girls Want a Puppy." Booklist, vol. 111, no. 19-20, 1 June 2015, p. 125. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A421080469/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=628cd740. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
Lam, Maple MY LITTLE SISTER AND ME Harper/HarperCollins (Children's Picture Books) $17.99 5, 10 ISBN: 978-0-06-239697-6
For the first time, a boy walks his younger sister home all by himself. Big brother is proud of his newfound responsibility: walking his little sister home from the school bus stop. He takes his duty very seriously as he tries to keep up with his sister's boundless energy. The narrator keeps a watchful eye on little sister as she picks up trinkets, chases dogs, and hides from squirrels. Even though he thinks the trinkets she collects are trash, he doesn't discourage her curiosity. He thoughtfully answers her many questions. The siblings stop for a quick game of medieval knights, dueling with tree branches. Little sister slips on a puddle when their walk is interrupted by a thunderstorm. Big brother soothes her and they make it home after the storm passes. Lam captures the earnest relationship between young siblings. Her soft-colored pencil-and-watercolor illustrations flow with little sister's energy. Young readers will relate to the siblings' animated reactions to each part of their walk. Her characters' simple facial features are boldly expressive with just a few lines. Asian-American Lam's siblings and mom are black-haired and golden-skinned, though their physiognomies are ethnically ambiguous. Lam's words and drawings offer tangible evidence to the intangible love between siblings. (Picture book. 3-5)
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2016 Kirkus Media LLC
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"Lam, Maple: MY LITTLE SISTER AND ME." Kirkus Reviews, 1 Mar. 2016. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A444420665/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=7e3b6d90. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
LAM, Maple. My Little Sister and Me. illus. by Maple Lam. 40p. HarperCollins/Harper. May 2016. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9780062396976.
PreS-Gr 2--In this endearing tale, two siblings walk home from school together for the first time. Readers bounce, hop, and giggle with a boy and his little sister as they embark on an adventure from the bus stop to their front door. Along the way, they dodge a thunderstorm, hide from some eager squirrels, pick up found treasures, play medieval knights, and sing new songs. Challenges arise when the little sister misses her teddy bear and when she has to use the potty. When she falls in a puddle, she doesn't cry at all, and her big brother agrees that she's number one and very brave. A proud mom waits for the pair at home, where they're greeted with hugs and kisses. After dinner, the boy is given a most special honor from his proud family. Expressive illustrations evoke the characters' moods perfectly, and the simple compositions are paced for easy visual navigation. Watercolor and pencil illustrations lend themselves to the relatable quality of this poignant tale. VERDICT Caregivers and children alike will enjoy this book as a way to introduce an important milestone.--Natalie Braham, Denver Public Library
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2016 A wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
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Braham, Natalie. "Lam, Maple. My Little Sister and Me." School Library Journal, vol. 62, no. 4, Apr. 2016, p. 133. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A448686244/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=1e942391. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
Krull, Kathleen FRENEMIES IN THE FAMILY Crown (Children's Informational) $17.99 3, 13 ISBN: 978-0-399-55124-6
Krull delves into the intriguing subject of famous sibling rivalries.
Krull's stories come from the worlds of art, entertainment, technology, politics, sports, and aristocracy. Among the most compelling is that of Chang and Eng Bunker, the conjoined twins from Siam permanently connected at the base of their chests by a thick band of flesh. "Peeing, pooping, sleeping, doing everything that humans do," Krull explains, is what they did for 62 years, "with never a moment's privacy." Both brothers married and had a total of 21 children. Fortunately, they were experts at living cooperatively, the only way to live happy lives. Less cooperative were queens Mary I and Elizabeth I. Elizabeth imprisoned her sister in the Tower of London, although it was Mary who paved the way for Elizabeth's long reign, proving that a woman was capable of ruling England. Other sibling relationships profiled include the Wright Brothers, the Romanovs, the Jacksons, Vincent and Theo Van Gogh, Serena and Venus Williams, and Roy and Walt Disney. Concluding each profile is information giving historical context to the subjects' times and accomplishments. Lam's frequent black-and-white cartoons add to both humor and context.
Readers with siblings will relate to these stories of brothers and sisters who got along and who didn't, and only children may feel relieved to be alone. (Collective biography. 8-12)
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2018 Kirkus Media LLC
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"Krull, Kathleen: FRENEMIES IN THE FAMILY." Kirkus Reviews, 15 Jan. 2018. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A522642913/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=a6ef5ca8. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
KRULL, Kathleen. Frenemies in the Family: Famous Brothers and Sisters Who Butted Heads and Had Each Other's Backs, illus. by Maple Lam. 240p. bibliog. index. Random. Mar. 2018. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9780399551253.
Gr 4-7--Keeping your friends close and enemies closer has been a tried-and-true sibling strategy through the centuries. Prolific nonfiction writer Krull has organized a unique biography collection that is sure to be a cult classic. Famous siblings include Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary, the van Gogh and Wright brothers, the Romanovs and Kennedys, the Jacksons (Michael, Janet, et al.), Serena and Venus Williams, Demi Lovato and Madison De La Garza, and others. The sibling tales are short and packed with humor and playful illustrations, as well as additional facts in comic form. The narratives cover rivalry, competition, love, loss, illness, and genuine devotion.. Serious topics are lightly covered, such as Michael Jackson's facial surgeries and Lovato's bipolar diagnosis. This book is an inventive choice for reluctant readers or a companion text to social studies lessons. VERDICT Perfect for those who loved Georgia Bragg's How They Croaked: The Awful Ends of the Awfully Famous and a great companion for National Sibling Day (April 10) lessons or as a read-aloud.--Laura Dooley-Taylor, Lake Zurich Middle School North, IL
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Dooley-Taylor, Laura. "KRULL, Kathleen. Frenemies in the Family: Famous Brothers and Sisters Who Butted Heads and Had Each Other's Backs." School Library Journal, vol. 64, no. 2, Feb. 2018, p. 122. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A526734181/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=9f11dfb1. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
Frenemies in the Family: Famous Brothers and Sisters Who Butted Heads and Had Each Other's Backs Kathleen Krull, illus. by Maple Lam. Crown, $17.99 (240p) ISBN 978-0-399-55124-6
This entertaining compendium of 15 concise, chatty tales spotlights the relationships among siblings renowned for their achievements, foibles, eccentricities, or birthrights: Wilbur and Orville Wright, Serena and Venus Williams, the Jacksons, and others. Krull (One Fun Day with Lewis Carroll) opens with her most sensational entry, about Mary I and Elizabeth I, Henry VIII's sparring daughters, revealing how Mary's perpetuation of her father's ruthless treatment of family and foes earned her the nickname Bloody Mary ("She revived the laws against heresy ... and started torturing and killing Protestant heretics, displaying the rotting corpses all around London as warnings"). Among the most moving chapters are those on Vincent van Gogh and his devoted brother, Theo, and on Princes William and Harry, whose bond was strengthened by tragedy. Comics sequences at the end of each chapter offer supplementary details about these siblings and about families in general. Krull's wry asides and droll observations make for a light and lively narrative, as do Lam's loose caricatures. Ages 8-12. Author's agent: Susan Cohen, Writers House. Illustrator's agent: Joanna Volpe, New Leaf Literary. (Mar.)
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2018 PWxyz, LLC
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"Frenemies in the Family: Famous Brothers and Sisters Who Butted Heads and Had Each Other's Backs." Publishers Weekly, vol. 265, no. 6, 5 Feb. 2018, p. 63. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A526810465/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=c3b194b3. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
COLANERI, John & Anthony Carrino. What Can You Do with a Toolbox? illus. by Maple Lam. 32p. S. & S./Paula Wiseman Bks. Aug. 2018. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9781534402966.
PreS-K--HGTV stars Carrino and Colaneri make their picture book debut with this simple introduction to tools and construction. The story starts with the discovery of a red toolbox by two curious young girls, and the question, "What's that big red box?" Cartoon-versions of the authors show the two girls, joined by a steadily increasing number of kids, that it's what's inside a toolbox that makes it useful. Starting with safety glasses and moving through wrenches, screwdrivers, and saws, the two men demonstrate what each tool can do. Parents will appreciate the inclusion of safety practices. Larger tools like a shovel and a ladder show that not all tools fit in a toolbox. The demonstrations of each tool's use will give clues as to what is being built throughout the book. Young readers will guess long before they get to the ending but nonetheless will enjoy seeing the finished product. Soft watercolor and pencil drawings set the scene. The faces of the children, drawn with simple lines, are expressive and primarily display excitement. VERDICT While there is nothing new here, this is a solid selection for young construction fans.--Kimberly Tolson, Millis Public Library, MA
Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2018 A wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
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Tolson, Kimberly. "COLANERI, John & Anthony Carrino. What Can You Do with a Toolbox?" School Library Journal, vol. 64, no. 8, Aug. 2018, pp. 57+. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A548561688/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=7a3b45ef. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
olaneri, John WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH A TOOLBOX? Paula Wiseman/Simon & Schuster (Children's Fiction) $17.99 8, 28 ISBN: 978-1-5344-0296-6
TV designers and builders Carrino and Colaneri, aka "The Cousins," teach a bunch of preschoolers how to use tools to build a playground.
The men introduce the children to safety precautions and emphasize the need for adult supervision. They show various tools in action--a wrench, bolts, a shovel, a screwdriver, a tape measure, a level, a hammer and nails, a saw, a drill, a ladder, and paintbrushes--and the kids watch raptly and run around. The pencil-and-watercolor vignettes are attractively busy and convey the excitement of the project, but too many details are missing or inaccurate to adequately explain the building process. The text states "We use a wrench and bolts to assemble the swing set," but the swing set looks finished (there is a kid on a swing), and there is no visible explanation of the mechanics of this operation. Readers learn that "a screwdriver turns a screw to fasten the cargo net," but there is no demonstration of how the screwdriver (held by a squirrel) is intended to be used or what a screw is. Descriptions are inaccurate: A tape measure is used "to measure how tall to make the slide"--but in fact it is to calculate where the slide needs to be attached. A level is used to "make sure the monkey bars are straight," but "straight" does not sufficiently convey the concept of "level."
A sadly missed opportunity to show kids the real nuts and bolts of construction. (Picture book. 3-6)
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"Colaneri, John: WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH A TOOLBOX?" Kirkus Reviews, 15 May 2018. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A538293937/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=873124f4. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
LAM, Maple. Dim Sum, Here We Come! illus. by Maple Lam. 40p. HarperCollins. Jan. 2023. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780062396983.
PreS-Gr 2--A multigenerational family meets every Sunday to enjoy dim sum. A younger member of the extended family, sporting a tousled black bob, red shirt, and white shorts, is the enthusiastic narrator. The color illustrations are charming, with plenty of small details that invite a closer look. One uncle explains some of the restaurant's decor, including a kumquat tree, a happy cat statue, and a tank of brightly colored fish. They are all symbols of good luck. The customs of the meal are revealed as the 12 family members gather at a large round table. Bird's-eye views offer different appreciations for the enjoyment of tea and the vast array of dishes from which to choose. The young narrator naturally talks about the importance and fun in the sharing of the dishes. The love this family shares is clear. The endpapers are an added delight. The front ones show 18 dishes to savor. The back ones are the now empty vessels with happy reviews. VERDICT An engaging story that fits into any collection; the sharing of food crosses cultural lines and will make everyone hungry for some great dim sum.--Elisabeth LeBris
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LeBris, Elisabeth. "LAM, Maple. Dim Sum, Here We Come!" School Library Journal, vol. 68, no. 12, Dec. 2022, p. 76. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A729548008/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=fc60cbfc. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
Dim Sum, Here We Come!
Maple Lam. HarperCollins, $18.99 (40p) ISBN 978-0-0623-9698-3 Sharing, caring, and cultural traditions mark a Chinese American family's weekly meal together in author-illustrator Lam's delectable picture book. "Every Sunday, our whole family meets to share dim sum," begins this title's unnamed young narrator, referencing an event that brings together grandparents, aunties, uncles, cousins--a dozen in all. While they wait for a table, "Uncle Irvin takes us around the restaurant," noting the cat statue that stands for good luck, and fish tanks whose "dancing fish" mean "good feng shui." The book's plot doubles as a dim sum primer for those not in the know, showing the family ordering via a card, sharing from steamer baskets rotated around the table, and, via a revealing bird's-eye view of the table, respectfully taking turns. The only tension is the narrator's impatience--"Will it ever be my turn?"--as Lam's yummy watercolor and colored pencil art depicts char siu buns, pork dumplings, and spring rolls that are surely worth the wait. Ages 4-8. (Jan.)
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"Dim Sum, Here We Come!" Publishers Weekly, vol. 270, no. 9, 27 Feb. 2023, p. 65. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A739891305/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=de578294. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
Lam, Maple DIM SUM, HERE WE COME! Harper/HarperCollins (Children's None) $18.99 1, 3 ISBN: 978-0-06-239698-3
It's dim sum time!
Every Sunday, a child's family meets at a dim sum restaurant, and right from the first page (or even the delectable endpapers), the excitement is palpable. This is going to be a full-on experience. Bright watercolor illustrations outlined lightly with colored pencil offer a charming view of this apparently Chinese extended family of a dozen members. The narrator exudes enthusiasm with expressive dot eyes and a wide mouth as they greet everyone and enter the restaurant. There's a wait, but Uncle Irvin takes the cousins around the restaurant to see the good-fortune kumquat plant, the good-luck cat statue, and the fish tank. Then it's time to eat. There's jasmine tea and carts stacked high with bamboo baskets full of food--too many dim sum options to choose from. Lam's love of both dim sum and family is infectious, and she deftly weaves cultural details into the story, such as family members tapping their fingers to thank Uncle Jeremy for refilling hot tea for everyone. "Tap tap tap! Tap tap tap! Tapping your finger on the table means thank you." Grandma also teaches the child to wait their turn for the Lazy Susan. The spread listing every person it passes on its way around is delightfully suspenseful, worth the char siu bun at the end. Every small pleasure of this outing seems thrilling, but there's also a comfortable ease to this family, shown in all their loving ways. (This book was reviewed digitally.)
Delicious. (Picture book. 4-8)
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"Lam, Maple: DIM SUM, HERE WE COME!" Kirkus Reviews, 1 Dec. 2022, p. NA. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A729072540/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=ef00da31. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
Lam, Maple MONKEY KING AND THE WORLD OF MYTHS Putnam (Children's None) $23.99 4, 2 ISBN: 9780593524633
East meets West in this mythological adventure.
Monkey King Sun Wukong was destined for greatness from the moment he burst from a rock that was sitting atop Flowers and Fruit Mountain. But what makes him special--his fighting prowess and ability to transform--is also what makes him an outcast. Tired of being misunderstood, Wukong longs to become a god so that he can be worshipped and loved. When a great ancient evil returns to threaten the peace in the three worlds of the gods, humans, and beasts, the gods promise to fulfill his wish if he can track down the monsters and defeat them. Wukong's first stop is Greece, where he hears of the man-eating Minotaur, who's trapped in a labyrinth. But could there be more to this story than meets the eye? This humorous and heartfelt series opener is packed with exciting action scenes and a whole lot of monkey business unfolding in cute, colorful, and exaggerated illustrations that are reminiscent of manga. Lam seamlessly weaves together threads from Chinese and Greek mythology to great effect, throws in a cast of highly likable characters, and presents a compelling story focused on a quest for friendship, self-acceptance, and belonging. A closing note contains additional information about the characters featured and is sure to spark further interest in the original myths.
A thrilling, wholesome remix of a classic Chinese tale. (author's note) (Graphic adventure. 8-12)
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"Lam, Maple: MONKEY KING AND THE WORLD OF MYTHS." Kirkus Reviews, 1 Feb. 2024, p. NA. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A780840930/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=13b224a0. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
LAM, Maple. Monkey King and the World of Myths; The Monster and the Maze. illus. by Maple Lam. 240p. Putnam. Apr. 2024. pap. $13.99. ISBN 9780593524640.
Gr 3-7--The Monkey King tale crosses over into Greek mythology. Sun Wukong, born from a stone, is destined to become the mightiest beast and save the three worlds. He is different from the other monkeys and does not fit in, so he leaves his realm and enters the world of humans. There, he still faces loneliness, so he desires to become a god instead, despite cautions from the god Venus that it will not ensure that he will be loved and worshipped. Transforming into a bug, he sneaks a ride to the Heavenly Palace. After being captured, he is told that the Age of Monsters is close and already threatening a Western land. If he becomes a monster hunter and completes his missions, they will grant him godhood. Sun takes on the challenge and is sent to Greece. Many elements of the lore of the Monkey King are represented in the book: Sun has transformation powers, wields a staff that shrinks and grows at his command, and rides a cloud. The story transitions into Greek mythology, where Lam really takes liberties like Cerberus being a puppy in need of potty-training, and the real monster of the labyrinth not being the Minotaur. Well-defined panels are easy to follow and filled with cute artwork. The story is in full color, which works well with the sometimes-minimal backgrounds. VERDICT A fun introduction to the Monkey King for a younger audience, with room for sequels. Recommended.--Lisa Rowland
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Rowland, Lisa. "LAM, Maple. Monkey King and the World of Myths: The Monster and the Maze." School Library Journal, vol. 70, no. 3, Mar. 2024, p. 87. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A786340687/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=5389919b. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.
The Monster and the Maze
[Monkey King and the World of Myths]
by Maple Lam; illus. by the author
Intermediate Putnam 240 pp.
4/24 9780593524633 $23.99
Paper ed. 9780593524640 $13.99
e-book ed. 9780593524671 $8.99
Worlds collide when brazen Chinese Monkey King Sun Wukong sneaks into the heavenly kingdom and strikes a deal to become a monster hunter and the first beast to earn his godhood. Seeking the Yao-Qi, a monster transformed by an evil energy, Wukong travels to the far west, meeting gods, humans, and creatures from Greek mythology. Although considered a lowly beast by gods and humans, energetic and curious Wukong is instrumental to challenging the prejudices of those around him. Lam intertwines lessons in employing critical thinking skills to understand others with fast-paced writing and appealing panel illustrations. With plenty of humor, adventure, and heart, this first book in a projected graphic novel series makes for a rousing read. A character glossary provides additional information and an invitation to explore their original stories. In a note, Lam discusses how the "mixed-cultural experience" of growing up in Hong Kong and Los Angeles inspired her story.
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Techavanich, Kristine. "The Monster and the Maze." The Horn Book Magazine, vol. 100, no. 2, Mar.-Apr. 2024, pp. 96+. Gale General OneFile, link.gale.com/apps/doc/A789719416/ITOF?u=schlager&sid=bookmark-ITOF&xid=0e69d57c. Accessed 3 Aug. 2024.