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The Loud Librarian

Illustrated by Erika Lynne Jones

About The Book

A little librarian with a larger-than-life voice finds her place in this sweet and uproarious picture book about being true to yourself—no shushing required!

Penelope is perfect for the job of student-librarian. Friendly? Check. Helpful? Check. Book lover? Check. There’s just one snag. Penelope is...LOUD. Bookcases may topple and the ground may quake at the sound of her voice, but Penelope is determined to prove she’s perfect for the job and stay true to herself. Can a little librarian with a big voice find a place where she belongs?

About The Author

Photograph by Yvonne Beatrice

Jenna Beatrice has worked as a writer, a lawyer, and a space camp counselor. She adores libraries and has visited many around the world. Her favorite sound is the flip of a picture book page, and her favorite stories make her giggle out loud. She lives in New Jersey with her husband and their young son. The Loud Librarian is her debut picture book.

About The Illustrator

Photograph byTiffany Washington

Erika Lynne Jones loved the opportunity to hold new books when she was growing up. She relished the time spent reading in libraries, book mobiles, and bookstores. In fact, you can still find her hanging out in libraries and stores quietly gathering inspiration for books she is writing and/or illustrating. The Loud Librarian is Erika’s debut picture book. She lives in the Dallas, Texas, area. Find out more at ErikaLynneJones.com or on Instagram @ErikaLynneJones.

Product Details

  • Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers (April 11, 2023)
  • Length: 40 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781665910545
  • Grades: P - 3
  • Ages: 5 and up
  • Lexile ® AD550L The Lexile reading levels have been certified by the Lexile developer, MetaMetrics®

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Raves and Reviews

"In possession of vocal cords so loud they are registered by the International Space Station, would-be student-librarian Penelope struggles to reconcile her volume with the need for a “library voice” in Beatrice’s over-the-top story. . . Jones’s scenes lean fully into the chaos while showcasing Penelope’s cheerful resilience, and a clever conclusion emphasizes the idea that there’s a place for everyone at the library."

Publishers Weekly

"Character diversity is present and prominent throughout the pages . . . fun to read aloud. . . Recommended."

School Library Connection

"Finally, the secret’s out: librarians can be loud! . . . Jones’s mixed-media and collage illustrations are playful and eye-catching, with a three-dimensional feel. Penelope’s shouts explode across the page in giant speech bubbles. . . This one is sure to be a storytime favorite."

– The Horn Book

"The bright, blocky illustrations are pitch-perfect for the tone . . . This tale of an aspiring librarian is ideal for all kinds of storytimes."

Kirkus Reviews

Awards and Honors

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