Picture Books A - B
Picture books are generally for ages 4 to 8, but some will be appropriate for the younger children and others for older children.
These are some of my favorite picture books, many of which have been monthly selections. I am constantly adding to this list so be sure to check back often for an updated list.
These are some of my favorite picture books, many of which have been monthly selections. I am constantly adding to this list so be sure to check back often for an updated list.
Ages 4 to 8
Arranged alphabetically by author.
(Books with starred reviews are marked with a * after the title)
Arranged alphabetically by author.
(Books with starred reviews are marked with a * after the title)
It's Only Stanley*
Agee, Jon Ages 6 to 8 Fans of Jon Klassen and Oliver Jeffers will love this mischievously funny read-aloud from award-winning author/illustrator Jon Agee Mysterious noises keep waking up the Wimbledon family. "That's very odd," says Mr. Wimbledon each time, but when he returns from checking on the sounds, he's always reassuring: "It's only Stanley; he's fixing the oil tank." "It's only Stanley; he's clearing the bathtub drain." But what Stanley the dog is actually doing while his oblivious family goes back to bed is deliciously absurd: he's turning the house into a rocket ship to zoom himself and his family to another planet for an alien encounter. This is a perfect rhyming read-aloud for fans of irreverent tales like Click Clack Moo and I Want My Hat Back. 
Thunder Boy Jr.*
Alexie, Sherman Morales,Yuyi Ages 4 to 7 Thunder Boy Jr. is named after his dad, but he wants a name that's all his own. Just because people call his dad Big Thunder doesn't mean he wants to be Little Thunder. He wants a name that celebrates something cool he's done, like Touch the Clouds, Not Afraid of Ten Thousand Teeth, or Full of Wonder. But just when Thunder Boy Jr. thinks all hope is lost, he and his dad pick the perfect name...a name that is sure to light up the sky. National Book Award-winner Sherman Alexie's lyrical text and Caldecott Honor-winner Yuyi Morales's striking and beautiful illustrations celebrate the special relationship between father and son. 
McToad Mows Tiny Island*
Angleberger, Tom Hendrix, Jon Ages 4 to 8 McToad likes Thursdays. Why? Because on every other day of the week, McToad mows Big Island, but on Thursdays, McToad mows Tiny Island. To do so, he puts his mower on the back of a truck, which drives to a train, which goes to a helicopter, which flies to a boat, which uses a crane to put the lawn mower onto Tiny Island. There McToad mows and drinks some lemonade, and before you know it, it's time to turn around and go back home. But first, the mower has to get lifted by a crane, to get put back on a boat, which is lifted by a helicopter, and . . . well . . . you get the idea. From master storyteller Tom Angleberger and celebrated illustrator John Hendrix comes this playful narrative that treasures the journey over the destination, with lots of planes, trains, and automobiles to boot. 
Somos como las nubes / We Are Like the Clouds*
Argueta, Jorge Ruano, Alfonso Ages 8 and up Why are young people leaving their country to walk to the United States to seek a new, safe home? Over 100,000 such children have left Central America. This book of poetry helps us to understand why and what it is like to be them. This powerful book by award-winning Salvadoran poet Jorge Argueta describes the terrible process that leads young people to undertake the extreme hardships and risks involved in the journey to what they hope will be a new life of safety and opportunity. A refugee from El Salvador's war in the eighties, Argueta was born to explain the tragic choice confronting young Central Americans today who are saying goodbye to everything they know because they fear for their lives. This book brings home their situation and will help young people who are living in safety to understand those who are not. Compelling, timely and eloquent, this book is beautifully illustrated by master artist Alfonso Ruano who also illustrated The Composition, considered one of the 100 Greatest Books for Kids by Scholastic's Parent and Child Magazine. 
The Moon Over Star
Aston, Dianna Hutts Pinkney, Jerry Ages 6 to 9 n July 1969, the world witnessed an awe-inspiring historical achievement when Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to set foot on the moon. For the young protagonist of this lyrical and hopeful picture book, that landing is something that inspires her to make one giant step toward all of the possibilities that life has to offer. Caldecott Honor-winning painter Jerry Pinkney and the poetic Dianna Hutts Aston create a moving tribute to the historic Apollo 11 Mission, just in time to commemorate its upcoming fortieth anniversary. 
To the Sea
Atkinson, Cale Ages 2 to 6 Sometimes Tim feels invisible at school-until one day, when Tim meets Sam. But Sam isn't just any new friend: he's a blue whale, and he can't find his way home! Returning Sam to the sea is hard work, but Tim is determined to help. After all, it's not every day you meet a new friend! This picture book about the power of friendship by new talent Cale Atkinson is brought to life by charming, dynamic illustrations. 
Worm Loves Worm*
Austrian, J. J. Curato, Mike Ages 3 to 8 Perfect for fans of And Tango Makes Three and The Sissy Duckling, this irresistible picture book is a celebration of love in all its splendid forms from debut author J. J. Austrian and the acclaimed author-illustrator of Little Elliot, Big City, Mike Curato. You are cordially invited to celebrate the wedding of a worm . . . and a worm. When a worm meets a special worm and they fall in love, you know what happens next: They get married! But their friends want to know-who will wear the dress? And who will wear the tux? The answer is: It doesn't matter. Because Worm loves worm. 
One Word from Sophia*
Averbeck, Jim Ismail, Yasmeen Ages 4 to 8 Sophia tries varied techniques to get the giraffe she wants more than anything in this playfully illustrated story about the nuances of negotiation. Sophia has one true desire for her birthday. But she has Four Big Problems in the way: Mom, Dad, Uncle Conrad...and Grand-mama. Will her presentations, proposals, and pie charts convince them otherwise? Turns out, all it takes is one word. 
My Grandfather's Coat*
Aylesworth, Jim McClintock, Barbara Ages 4 to 9 A rollicking, rhyming, fun rendition of a favorite folksong about a many-times recycled coat--by the award-winning, bestselling team of Jim Aylesworth and Barbara McClintock. When my grandfather came to America he made himself a handsome coat! Then he wore it and he wore it and he wore it-- until it was all worn out! So what did he do? He snipped and he clipped-- and he stitched and he sewed. . . and out of the still-good cloth of his coat-- he made himself a smart jacket! How many things can Grandfather make out of that old frayed coat? Jim Aylesworth's satisfying retelling and Barbara McClintock's heart-warming pictures celebrate how Grandfather cleverly recycles his beloved coat through four generations. 
Morris Micklewhite and the Tangerine Dress*
Baldacchino, Christine Malenfant, Isabelle Ages 4 to 8 Morris is a little boy who loves using his imagination. But most of all, Morris loves wearing the tangerine dress in his classroom's dress-up center. The children in Morris's class don't understand. Dresses, they say, are for girls. And Morris certainly isn't welcome in the spaceship some of his classmates are building. Astronauts, they say, don't wear dresses. One day when Morris feels all alone and sick from their taunts, his mother lets him stay home from school. Morris dreams of a fantastic space adventure with his cat, Moo. Inspired by his dream, Morris paints the incredible scene he saw and brings it with him to school. He builds his own spaceship, hangs his painting on the front of it and takes two of his classmates on an outer space adventure. With warm, dreamy illustrations, Isabelle Malenfant perfectly captures Morris's vulnerability and the vibrancy of his imagination. 
At Night*
Bansch, Helga Ages 2 to 6 A whimsical and soothing bedtime story At night, all the animals return to their homes to sleep. Birds dream in their nests, polar bears snore inside their ice caves, and children snuggle under the covers of their beds. Everything is in order. Unless, of course, it isn't. Sometimes the world -- or the book -- gets turned upside down. And then things aren't quite as simple.With its sweet, winsome illustrations, this book is perfect for sharing with children as they drift off into their own imaginative dreams. 
President Taft Is Stuck in the Bath
Barnett, Mac Van Dusen, ChrisAges 6 to 9 Inspired by a true anecdote, this larger-than-life tale of a presidential mishap is brimming with humor and over-the-top illustrations. "Blast!" said Taft. "This could be bad." George Washington crossed the Delaware in the dead of night. Abraham Lincoln saved the Union. And President William Howard Taft, a man of great stature - well, he got stuck in a bathtub. Now how did he get unstuck? Author Mac Barnett and illustrator Chris Van Dusen bring their full comedic weight to this legendary story, imagining a parade of clueless cabinet members advising the exasperated president, leading up to a hugely satisfying, hilarious finale. 
Sam & Dave Dig a Hole*
Barnett, Mac Klassen, Jon Ages 4 to 8 With perfect pacing, the multi-award-winning, New York Times best-selling team of Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen dig down for a deadpan tale full of visual humor. Sam and Dave are on a mission. A mission to find something spectacular. So they dig a hole. And they keep digging. And they find . . . nothing. Yet the day turns out to be pretty spectacular after all. Attentive readers will be rewarded with a rare treasure in this witty story of looking for the extraordinary - and finding it in a manner you'd never expect. 
The Skunk*
Barnett, Mac McDonnell, Patrick Ages 6 to 10 When a skunk first appears in the tuxedoed man's doorway, it's a strange but possibly harmless occurrence. But then the man finds the skunk following him, and the unlikely pair embark on an increasingly frantic chase through the city, from the streets to the opera house to the fairground. What does the skunk want? It's not clear—but soon the man has bought a new house in a new neighborhood to escape the little creature's attention, only to find himself missing something. . . This slyly hilarious tale brings together picture book talents Mac Barnett and Patrick McDonnell for the first time. 
Telephone*
Barnett, Mac Corace, Jen Ages 4 to 8 It's time to fly home for dinner! In this witty picture book from award-winning and bestselling author Mac Barnett, a mother bird gives the bird next to her a message for little Peter. But passing messages on a telephone line isn't as simple as it sounds. Each subsequent bird understands Mama's message according to its own very particular hobbies. Will Peter ever get home for dinner? This uproarious interpretation of a favorite children's game will get everyone giggling and is sure to lead to countless rereads. 
Have You Seen Elephant?*
Barrow, David Ages 3 to 5 Elephant wants to play hide and seek. See if you can help the others find him?he's very good! Have You Seen Elephant? is an assured and exciting debut from a top emerging talent. 
Little Elephants
Base, Graeme Ages 4 to 8 One little boy living on a farm in rural Texas gets a big surprise when he discovers tiny flying elephants under his bed. But his mom doesn't like critters in the house, so he tries to keep them a secret. Until one day they escape from his bedroom and cause havoc in the house. But when locusts invade the farm and start to destroy crops, the elephants come to the rescue! Bestselling author-illustrator Graeme Base has created a unique story with his signature illustrations, which are sure to appeal to young readers. 
The Last King of Angkor Wat
Base, Graeme Ages 4 to 8 Among the ruins of Angkor Wat, Tiger, Monkey, Water Buffalo, and Gecko argue over who would make the greatest king. An ancient elephant suggests a race to the top of the hill to prove each creature's speed, strength, and cunning. But along the way, their strengths and weaknesses are revealed. Will any of them be good enough to be king?Graeme Base's luscious illustrations of the Cambodian temple complex Angkor Wat-one of the most beautiful ruins in existence and known to people all over the world-are combined with a search-and-find feature in this exciting new tale! A brief history of the temple is included. 
King Baby*
Beaton, Kate Ages 4 to 8 All hail King Baby! He greets his adoring public with giggles and wiggles and coos, posing for photos and allowing hugs and kisses. But this royal ruler also has many demands, and when his subjects can't quite keep up, King Baby takes matters into his own tiny hands. Created by Kate Beaton, author of The Princess and the Pony and #1 New York Times bestsellers Hark! A Vagrant and Step Aside, Pops!, this modern, funny, and (let's be honest) realistic take on life with a new baby is the perfect gift for anyone with an adorable little monarch in their world. 
The Princess and the Pony*
Beaton, Kate Ages 4 to 8 Introducing Kate Beaton, a major new picture book talent, and author/illustrator of #1 New York Times bestseller Hark! A Vagrant! Princess Pinecone knows exactly what she wants for her birthday this year. A BIG horse. A STRONG horse. A horse fit for a WARRIOR PRINCESS! But when the day arrives, she doesn't quite get the horse of her dreams... From the artist behind the comic phenomenon Hark! A Vagrant, The Princess and the Pony a laugh-out-loud story of brave warriors, big surprises, and falling in love with one unforgettable little pony. 
Knock Knock: My Dad's Dream for Me*
Beaty, Daniel Collier, Bryan Ages 4 to 8 Every morning, I play a game with my father.He goes knock knock on my doorand I pretend to be asleeptill he gets right next to the bed.And my papa, he tells me, "I love you." But what happens when, one day, that "knock knock" doesn't come? This powerful and inspiring book shows the love that an absent parent can leave behind, and the strength that children find in themselves as they grow up and follow their dreams. 
Wild About Us!
Beaumont, Karen Stevens, Janet Ages 4 to 8 Warty Warthog may have warts and tusks, but he likes himself that way! Join him as he celebrates all of his animal friends and the attributes that make each one unique. Whether it's Crocodile's toothy grin or Kangaroo's huge feet or Leopard's spottiness, each animal is different. Wouldn't it be dull if all the animals at the zoo--and all the people in the world--looked alike? A joyful picture-book celebration of everything that makes us individuals! 
Journey*
Becker, Aaron Ages 3 and up Wordless Follow a girl on an elaborate flight of fancy in a wondrously illustrated, wordless picture book about self-determination - and unexpected friendship. A lonely girl draws a magic door on her bedroom wall and through it escapes into a world where wonder, adventure, and danger abound. Red marker in hand, she creates a boat, a balloon, and a flying carpet that carry her on a spectacular journey toward an uncertain destiny. When she is captured by a sinister emperor, only an act of tremendous courage and kindness can set her free. Can it also lead her home and to her heart's desire? With supple line, luminous color, and nimble flights of fancy, author-illustrator Aaron Becker launches an ordinary child on an extraordinary journey toward her greatest and most exciting adventure of all. 
Quest*
Becker, Aaron Ages 4 to 8 Wordless Aaron Becker, creator of Journey, a Caldecott Honor book, presents the next chapter in his stunning wordless fantasy. A king emerges from a hidden door in a city park, startling two children sheltering from the rain. No sooner does he push a map and some strange objects into their hands than he is captured by hostile forces that whisk him back through the enchanted door. Just like that, the children are caught up in a quest to rescue the king and his kingdom from darkness, while illuminating the farthest reaches of their imagination. Colored markers in hand, they make their own way through the portal, under the sea, through a tropical paradise, over a perilous bridge, and high in the air with the help of a winged friend. Journey lovers will be thrilled to follow its characters on a new adventure threaded with familiar elements, while new fans will be swept into a visually captivating story that is even richer and more exhilarating than the first. 
Return*
Becker, Aaron Ages 3 to 8 Wordless Welcome the much-anticipated finale of Caldecott Honoree Aaron Becker's wordless trilogy-a spectacular, emotionally satisfying story that brings its adventurer home. Failing to get the attention of her busy father, a lonely girl turns back to a fantastic world for friendship and adventure. It's her third journey into the enticing realm of kings and emperors, castles and canals, exotic creatures and enchanting landscapes. This time, it will take something truly powerful to persuade her to return home, as a gripping backstory is revealed that will hold readers in its thrall. Caldecott Honor winner Aaron Becker delivers a suspenseful and moving climax to his wordless trilogy, an epic that began with the award-winning Journey and continued with the celebrated follow-up Quest. 
Digger Dog*
Bee, William Johansson, Cecilia Ages 2 to 6 Digger Dog loves to dig up bones, the bigger the better. But for the biggest bone in the world, what will Digger Dog need? The biggest digger in the world, of course! All through the story, the diggers get bigger, the hole gets deeper, and there is a fantastic fold-out surprise at the end! 
Brother Hugo and the Bear*
Beebe, Katy Schindler, S. D. Ages 5 to 9 Brother Hugo can't return his library book -- the letters of St. Augustine -- because, it turns out, the precious book has been devoured by a bear! Instructed by the abbot to borrow another monastery's copy and create a replacement, the hapless monk painstakingly crafts a new book, copying it letter by letter and line by line. But when he sets off to return the borrowed copy, he finds himself trailed by his hungry new friend. Once a bear has a taste of letters, it appears, he's rarely satisfied! Brother Hugo and the Bear is loosely based on a note found in a twelfth-century manuscript -- and largely on the creative imaginings of author Katy Beebe. Lavishly illustrated by S. D. Schindler in the style of medieval manuscripts, this humorous tale is sure to delight readers who have acquired their own taste for books. |
Captain Jack and the Pirates*
Bentley, Pete Oxenbury, Helen Ages 3 to 6 The boys from King Jack and the Dragon are back in this swashbuckling pirate adventure with pictures by the New York Times bestselling illustrator of Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes Jack, Zack, and Caspar are building a ship--on the beach, out of sand. When they set sail on their imaginary adventure, Jack spies an enemy pirate ship nearby. They chase after the pirates, but a storm wrecks their ship and sweeps them up on a desert island. The island isn't totally deserted, though--their pirate enemies are there too. Just as the boys discover the pirates' treasure (an array of delicious desserts), the pirates (their parents) capture them. But these pirates are friendly--they're willing to share the treasure, and they throw in some ice cream just for good measure! Perfect for storytime read-alouds, this picture book is just right for fans of Three Bears in a Boat, How I Became a Pirate, and We're Going on a Bear Hunt. 
Finding Spring*
Berger, Carin Ages 2 to 6 Instead of hibernating as he should, a little bear cub goes out in search of spring-and he thinks he's found it! Gloriously illustrated with dioramas and cut-paper collages by the award-winning designer and illustrator Carin Berger, this stunning picture book celebrates the changing of the seasons. A baby bear cub named Maurice is curious about spring-and he's upset when Mama tells him that before he can experience his first spring, he has to hibernate through his first winter! Mischievous Maurice decides to leave their warm den and go find spring for himself. He asks all his friends for help . . . and finally finds something beautiful and full of magic and light. Spring! He wraps it up and takes it home, determined to show Mama and everyone else. The only problem? When Maurice wakes up, his little piece of spring (a snowball) has melted. This gloriously illustrated book celebrates friendship, curiosity, discovery, and the meaning and beauty of two seasons-winter and spring. Ideal for the classroom, seasonal story times, and bedtime reading. 
Dream Dog*
Berger, Lou Catrow, David J. Ages 4 to 8 Written by a ten-time Emmy Award winner and former head writer for Sesame Street, here's a story that will resonate with every dog-loving child out there. Harry wants wants wants a dog, and, instead of getting one, his parents try to placate him with a pet that's decidedly less interesting--a lizard. So Harry takes matters into his own hands and places his X-35 Infra-Rocket Imagination Helmet on his head, and soon something--with paws! a tail! a wet nose!--pops into the world. Sure, nobody else can see the dog named Waffle, but that doesn't matter to Harry. But what happens when a real dog comes into his life? Catrow's signature loose drawings and Berger's humorous text bring the bond between a boy and his dog exuberantly to life. 
My Three Best Friends and Me, Zulay*
Best, Cari Brantley-Newton, Vanessa Ages 5 to 8 Zulay and her three best friends are all in the same first grade class and study the same things, even though Zulay is blind. When their teacher asks her students what activity they want to do on Field Day, Zulay surprises everyone when she says she wants to run a race. With the help of a special aide and the support of her friends, Zulay does just that. 
Blown Away*
Biddulph, Rob Ages 3 to 7 Come on an unexpected journey with a fearless blue penguin in Rob Biddulph's debut picture book, Blown Away. In this brilliantly captivating and gloriously illustrated story, a brave young penguin takes a kite flight to a tropical paradise. But in the end, he realizes that home is where his igloo is. 
Everything Goes: In the Air
Biggs, Brian Ages 4 to 8 Jets and blimps and helicopters and gliders! Balloons and biplanes too! everything goes! Zoom along with Henry and his parents as they take off on an airborne journey and learn about all kinds of flying vehicles. With clever mini-story lines, seek-and-find activities, dozens of funny details, and cool cutaways, Everything Goes: In the Air is an interactive book that provides hours of fun! 
Everything Goes on Land
Biggs, Brian Ages 4 to 8 Cars and trucks and bikes and trains! Rvs and construction vehicles too! Everything goes Ride along with Henry and his dad as they visit the big city and check out all the amazing vehicles around them. Full of mini-story lines, endless seek-and-find activities, and hundreds of funny details, Everything Goes: On Land is an interactive book that provides hours of fun! 
Everyone Is Yawning*
Bijsterbosch, Anita Ages 2 to 8 It's time for bed! The kitten yawns. Look. I think it is tired. All the little animals yawn. And the little kid? Does the little kid yawn too? You'll find out as you lift-the-flaps in this surprising book. A sleepytime book filled with tired animals and friendly flaps from the author-illustrator of the Oppenheim Gold Award winner Whose Hat is That? 
Circle, Square, Moose*
Bingham, Kelly Zelinsky, Paul O. Ages 4 to 6 In this companion to the acclaimed Z Is for Moose, Moose infiltrates a book about shapes (because he loves shapes, naturally) and it is up to his best friend, Zebra, to restore order and save the day. Another triumph from the award-winning team of Kelly Bingham and Paul O. Zelinsky. This hilarious book manages to illustrate a fact or two about shapes while providing a three-dimensional stomping ground for best friends Moose and Zebra. What will happen? Who will save the day? It's all up in the air until the final page, where Moose and Zebra (and Cat, too) create a perfect-and perfectly heartwarming-ending. This stand-alone companion to Z Is for Moose features a multilayered story told through text, asides, conversation bubbles, and pictures. Themes of friendship, exploration, and conflict resolution-and of course the concept of shapes, including the shape of a book-make this an ideal read-aloud for the elementary school classroom and for home! 
Tap Tap Boom Boom*
Bluemle, Elizabeth Ages 3 to 7 When a thunderstorm hits a city street, children and grown-ups dash to the subway for shelter - and an impromptu friendly gathering. The clouds are gathering above a city street and soon - tap, tap, boom, boom! As a thunderstorm rolls in, people of all stripes race down to the subway to get away from the crackling rain and wind. With quirky wordplay and infectious rhymes, Elizabeth Bluemle crystallizes an unexpected moment of community, while G. Brian Karas's warm illustrations show the smiles to be had when a storm brings strangers together as friends. 
Under the Ocean*
Boisrobert, Anouck Rigaud, Louis Ages 4 and up Climb aboard the sailboat Oceano and get ready to depart on an expedition around the world! The scenery changes as we sail from busy port to icy Arctic, over stormy seas, and toward an idyllic sunset. This book's gorgeous palette and lyrical prose make an appealing package, though it's what lies under the ocean that will surprise and thrill the most. 
Beautiful Moon: A Child's Prayer*
Bolden, Tonya Velasquez, Eric Ages 4 to 8 A young boy wakes. He has forgotten to say his prayers. Outside his window, a beautiful harvest moon illuminates the city around him and its many inhabitants. As the moon slowly makes its way across the heavens, the boy offers a simple prayer for the homeless, the hungry, and others. Critically acclaimed author Tonya Bolden teams up with award‑winning illustrator Eric Velasquez to create a richly painted and emotionally complex book that celebrates prayer and kindness while recognizing the diversity of the world around us. 
123 versus ABC*
Boldt, Mike Ages 4 to 7 Mike Boldt's bright and playful picture book asks a big question: Which is more important, numbers or letters? Numbers and letters, the colorful characters in this story, compete to be the stars of this book. Their debate escalates when funny animals and props arrive-starting with 1 alligator, 2 bears, and 3 cars. Who is this book really about? In the end, the answer is clear. This fresh and funny picture book plays with both numbers and letters in the most imaginative way. 
Out of the Woods: A True Story of an Unforgettable Event*
Bond, Rebecca Ages 4 to 9 Antonio Willie Giroux lived in a hotel his mother ran on the edge of a lake. He loved to explore the woods and look for animals, but they always remained hidden away. One hot, dry summer, when Antonio was almost five, disaster struck: a fire rushed through the forest. Everyone ran to the lake-the only safe place in town-and stood knee-deep in water as they watched the fire. Then, slowly, animals emerged from their forest home and joined the people in the water. Miraculously, the hotel did not burn down, and the animals rebuilt their homes in the forest-but Antonio never forgot the time when he watched the distance between people and animals disappear. 
Madame Martine*
Brannen, Sarah S. Ages 4 to 7 Madame Martine lives in Paris and follows the same routine every day. She takes for granted the beautiful things that exist all around her. She refuses to go to the Eiffel Tower because it's "just for tourists." One day Madame Martine finds a stray dog and decides to take him home. When she tries keeping her dog on the same schedule, he breaks free, leading Madame Martine on a wild chase up the Eiffel Tower! Upon reaching the top, she discovers how much beauty she has been missing all these years. From then on, the two friends try something different every week. 
The Airport Book*
Brown, Lisa Ages 2 to 6 Follow a family and the youngest member's favorite sock monkey through all the inner and outer workings of an airport. In a book that is as intriguing as it is useful and entertaining, we follow a family on its way through the complexities of a modern-day airport. From checking bags and watching them disappear on the mysterious conveyer belt, to security clearance and a seemingly endless wait at the gate to finally being airborne. But wait! There's more! The youngest family member's sock monkey has gone missing. Follow it at the bottom of the page as it makes a journey as memorable as that of the humans above. 
Monkey Not Ready for Kindergarten*
Brown, Marc Ages 3 to 7 Marc Brown, creator of the beloved Arthur books and TV show, offers a charming new character--and a fun and reassuring story about preparing for the first day of school. Kindergarten is only a week away . . . but Monkey is NOT ready. What if he gets on the wrong bus? What if they don't have any red crayons? What if he doesn't like the snacks? What if he doesn't make new friends? There are so many thoughts running through Monkey's head! But step by step, his family eases his worries: they get him a new backpack, help him read books about school, prepare his lunch, and make sure Monkey is excited--and ready--for the Big Day. 
The Dead Bird*
Brown, Margaret Wise Robinson, Christian Ages 4 to 8 This heartwarming classic picture book by beloved children's book author Margaret Wise Brown is beautifully reillustrated for a contemporary audience by the critically acclaimed, award-winning illustrator Christian Robinson. One day, the children find a bird lying on its side with its eyes closed and no heartbeat. They are very sorry, so they decide to say good-bye. In the park, they dig a hole for the bird and cover it with warm sweet-ferns and flowers. Finally, they sing sweet songs to send the little bird on its way. 
Goodnight Songs: Illustrated by Twelve Award-Winning Picture Book Artists
Brown, Margaret Wise Ages 3 to 5 "Baby sail the seven seas Safely in my arms When the waves go up and down You are safe from harm." From Margaret Wise Brown, author of the beloved Goodnight Moon, comes a previously unpublished collection of charming lullabies, gorgeously illustrated by 12 award-winning artists. An accompanying CD, with lilting songs beautifully composed and sung by Emily Gary and Tom Proutt, makes this the perfect gift to wish children a sweet goodnight. The illustrators are:Jonathan Bean * Carin Berger * Sophie Blackall * Linda Bleck * Renata Liwska * Christopher Silas Neal * Zachariah OHora * Eric Puybaret * Sean Qualls * Isabel Roxas * Melissa Sweet * Dan Yaccarino 
A Celebration of the Seasons: Goodnight Songs: Illustrated by Twelve Award-Winning Picture Book Artists*
Brown, Margaret Wise Ages 3 to 7 Some fine day, just run away To a long unscheduled day To where great clouds go sailing by Above the birds and butterfly. Fluffy clouds, butterflies, furry bunnies, and life from a bug's-eye view: This stunning sequel to the New York Times bestseller Goodnight Songs celebrates the beauty and wonder of nature all year long. Once again, a treasure trove of Margaret Wise Brown's newly uncovered verses receives loving treatment from 12 award-winning artists, including Floyd Cooper, Peter Brown, David Small, Molly Idle, and Bob Staake. From a little bear singing one morning in May to a soft snowfall, mysterious, deep, and glowing, each song is magical. An accompanying CD, with lilting songs beautifully composed and sung by Emily Gary and Tom Proutt, makes this the perfect gift for children. 
You Will Be My Friend
Brown, Peter Ages 3 to 6 Today is the day the exuberant Lucy is going to make a new friend! But she finds it's harder than she had thought--she accidentally ruins the giraffe's breakfast and is much too big for the frogs' pond. Just when she's about to give up, an unexpected friend finds her, and loves her just the way she is. This heartwarming story offers a unique and humor-filled spin on the all-important themes of persistence and friendship. 
Mr. Tiger Goes Wild*
Brown, Peter Ages 4 to 8 Are you bored with being so proper? Do you want to have more fun? Mr. Tiger knows exactly how you feel. So he decides to go wild. But does he go too far? From Caldecott Honor artist Peter Brown comes a story that shows there's a time and place for everything...even going wild. 
My Teacher Is a Monster (No, I Am Not.)*
Brown, Peter Ages 4 to 8 A young boy named Bobby has the worst teacher. She's loud, she yells, and if you throw paper airplanes, she won't allow you to enjoy recess. She is a monster! Luckily, Bobby can go to his favorite spot in the park on weekends to play. Until one day... he finds his teacher there! Over the course of one day, Bobby learns that monsters are not always what they seem. Each page is filled with "monstrous" details that will have kids reading the story again and again. Peter Brown takes a universal and timeless theme, and adds his own humorous spin to create another winner of a picture book. 
One Gorilla*
Browne, Anthony Ages 3 to 7 Primo primate artist Anthony Browne is at the top of his form with a simple - and simply fascinating - array of creatures for kids to count. What better attention-getter for small children than primates in all their variety? And who better to render them than Anthony Browne? In this elegant counting book, the author-illustrator outdoes himself with a vivid presentation of primates from gorillas to gibbons, macaques to mandrills, ring-tailed lemurs to spider monkeys. With his striking palette, exquisite attention to detail, and quirky flair for facial expressions, Anthony Browne slyly extends the basic number concept into a look at similarities and differences - portraying an extended family we can count ourselves part of. 
What If...?*
Browne, Anthony Ages 4 to 8 Young worriers will relate to - and be comforted by -this tale of a boy's anxiety as he heads to his first big party. What if Joe doesn't like the party he's going to? What if he doesn't like the food or the games or the people? As Joe and his mom walk down the darkening street, Joe's imagination starts to run wild. And as they search for the right place, he wonders "what if . . ." at each house, peeking in to see some surprising sights. From the award-winning former British Children's Laureate Anthony Browne comes a picture book whose slyly bewitching setup unfolds to a reassuring ending. 
A Wonderful Year*
Bruel, Nick Ages 2 to 6 A really cold winter. A demented fairy. A hippo named Louise. A talkative tree. Find out what other wonderful things a year can bring in these four interrelated stories-one for each season-by Nick Bruel, creator of the bestselling Bad Kitty books. 
Picnic*
Burningham, John Ages 2 to 5 The renowned John Burningham is in classic form with a simple story of a boy, a girl, and some animal friends that invites the child listener to join in. One day, Boy and Girl head down the hill with a picnic basket and meet a fancily dressed Sheep, Pig, and Duck. They all set off to find the perfect place to sit outside - until they see Bull coming! A short-lived chase segues into a gentle interactive text as the friends wend their way from an idyllic outdoor world to a welcoming house on a hill. (Can you find Pig's ball? Shall we find your bed?) In a charmingly understated tale with child-friendly illustrations and a hint of sly humor, John Burningham evokes a perfect summer day with a fresh new picture book. 
The Way to the Zoo*
Burningham, John Ages 2 to 5 The celebrated John Burningham opens the door to a child's secret adventure in this new picture-book classic. What if you noticed a door in your bedroom that wasn't there before? And what if it led to a passage to . . . the zoo? You might want to take just one little bear back to your room with you, or maybe just all the smaller animals. But how could you resist the penguins and the tigers and the birds? In this classic child's fantasy featuring John Burningham's delightfully expressive artwork, an unlocked door leads to pandemonium - and one little girl's formidable voice reins in an entire menagerie. 
Brave Chicken Little*
Byrd, Robert Ages 4 to 8 Whack! What's that? Could it be? A piece of the sky! Oh my! Chicken Little and his friends run, run, run to tell the king. Nothing stands in the way except...the sly Foxy Loxy. Surely they have time to stop for lunch with Foxy and his kits. But what happens when Chicken Little and company find themselves on the menu? What this classic story needs is a new ending and a brave hero. And maybe this time, it's Chicken Little! Cleverly retold and exquisitely illustrated by Robert Byrd, Brave Chicken Little transforms a cautionary fable into a tale of triumph. |
Picture Books A - B
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Rabbit Readers Children's Book Club
P. O. Box 539, La Jolla, CA 92038 (858) 775-1358 bookclub@rabbitreaders.com |
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