As with an intricately knotted Persian rug, each square inch of this book is maximized to include as much detailed beauty as possible. The case cover resembles the old frayed rug we soon learn will be replaced when the protagonists weave a new one, while the illustrations on the CIP...

Why are high-quality books for emerging readers so challenging to find? I ask this question as a parent of an emerging reader, as well as in my professional capacity as an elementary school librarian. I’m also asked this same question by teachers, other parents, and professional colleagues. After ruminating about...