The General Plotline

A kitten named Jules with a heart as big as the world he loves heads off on a journey around the globe to hug everyone and everything imaginable. With his hug “to do” list in paw he travels over oceans, through Africa, Jungles, and even Australia. From whales to elephants to flowers, Jules spreads his kindness and love to everyone he possibly can and making the world a better place just by hugging.

Who’s In Hug Time?

There is only one main character in the story, Jules, but that is just what is needed to demonstrate the power of one, how a single being can affect many many more. The other characters we meet briefly include his closest friends Mooch, Noodles, and Earl, and then a whole cast of animals on his hug “to do” list. Chimpanzees and giraffes, birds and little grey squirrels, even a brand new species. The list goes on, surprising and delighting us with each new critter Jules meets.

What Are The Illustrations Like?

They are truly great. They balance the simplicity of the words with a beautiful simplicity of their own, creating the perfect combination for a wonderful children’s book. Patrick McDonnell is the creator of the comic strip “Mutts”, so it is in this style that the illustrations are drawn. Simple, but with plenty of color and shading, they are original and express and enhance the story exactly as it should be.

Who Should Read It?

This book is best suited for children ages six and up to grasp the true meaning of the story, but would work for any age if not for anything else but the great drawings.

Our Final Review of “Hug Time”

Hug Time is the kind of story that I want to share with everybody, especially children. It opens a path for them to follow that they may not have seen before, one that leads them step by step to a better world, all through simple acts of kindness that they are more than capable of. When you’re little, it’s especially easy to believe that you are powerless, even as adults it is easy to feel that way as well, but Hug Time teaches the power that one person has, and the huge impact they make on the world.

There comes a moment in the endings of really great books that is difficult to describe. It is that moment when a story that was already really good all comes together in its final moments and you understand the true meaning of it, a powerful meaning that moves you deeply and leaves a mark on you that you will not easily forget. You may not be expecting it, but “Hug Time” is exactly one of those stories.

What do you think? Did you love Hug Time by Patrick McDonnell as much as we did?

The General Plot

Readers follow the daily routine of elderly zoo keeper Amos McGee as he goes to work and, although busy, always makes time to spend and enjoy with his numerous animals friends there, doing things like playing chess with the thoughtful elephant, or sitting with the shy penguin. Then one day Amos McGee wakes with the sniffles and his routine is broken when he cannot make it

Who/What’s in A Sick Day for Amos McGee?

The characters in this story are great. Each one brings their own dimension to it that captivates us as readers. Simple and kind, they are ones that most anyone will love, especially children. All animals except for Amos McGee himself, it’s a colorful cast that includes a rhinoceros with allergies, an owl who is afraid of the dark, and tortoise who enjoys racing, to name a few. There is very minimal dialogue between the animals and even Amos, but the book works perfectly this way. The characters add depth and are clearly conveyed, in part by great illustration, with not too over the top wording.

How It’s Written

Philip C. Stead wrote this book in such a way that kids and adults alike will undoubtedly enjoy. Whether you are reading it out loud to children, or they are reading it themselves (or even reading it to you), it has a wonderful rhythm that reads steadily and in a way that even very young children will have good time following. The ways that the characters present themselves also leaves room for creativity, for example if you were reading this book in a read aloud it would be very easy to make up imaginative voices or actions for all of them.

Illustrations

Honestly, the illustrations bring easily just as much to this book as the words themselves. The detailed, beautiful pencil drawings and woodblock printings by the authors wife can only be understated as there are few words to describe how truly lovely they are.

The pages are mostly black and white, punctuated with hints of color, so your attention is drawn to the objects that are the main focus in the story. For example, Amos Mcgee’s house is blue while all the others lack any color at all. At the same time all the white space moves the reading along at a leisurely pace that you can easily enjoy.

The illustrations bring depth to the story, so good they could almost be a separate story themselves.

There are subtly placed objects throughout the book that layer it warmly, the penguin carrying his red balloon around, a mouse that shows up often but is never mentioned, where Amos McGee’s teddy bear winds up, the kind of drawings that make up a book you can easily fall in love with.

The characters are extremely expressive and everything is shaded with details that bring to life a wonderful take on the world in which Amos and his friends live in.

Who Should Read It?

Truly a book a person of any age could enjoy, it strikes as a particularly good book for children between the ages of five to eight.

Our Final Amos McGee Review

A Sick Day for Amos Mcgee is one that is now permanently in my collection of favorite children’s books. It stands on its own as a wonderful story, but add to that the fantastic illustrations and you have the recipe for a great and timeless book, and by timeless I truly mean timeless. When you pick it up it feels like you’ve known the book your whole life. It doesn’t matter much when it was written, it could have been a hundred years ago, fifty, or today.

Everything in the book means something that touches us. The way Amos and the penguin both sit with their feet turned in, how the tea kettle and the stove look comfortably old fashioned, even the little mouse that keeps the teddy bear company at the end.

It is woven through lessons and themes for readers to draw on that have been prevalent in children’s books before, how much friendships are to be cherished, how the dedication that goes into being a good friend is well worth the time it takes, but they are made into something special in A Sick Day for Amos McGee.

Who can say exactly what makes up every component of a great children’s book. There’s the story of course, and the illustrations, but there’s that something else too that makes us love them, and whatever that thing is, Amos McGee has.

What Did You Think of a Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead?

The General Plotline

It follows the original storyline closely, but with touching variation and an emphasis on family. A lion, disturbed from his slumber by a mouse, has a sudden a change of heart after catching his prey and decides to let it go. We then learn that the mouse is not just any mouse-but a mama who then gets to return home to her nest of babies (a change from the original fable). With no words there is no begging or pleading on the mouse’s part-or bargaining on the lions- just great facial expression drawn to clearly show the emotions of each character. The lion’s feelings in particular are shown quite beautifully here as he makes the decision to free the mouse. The Lion later ends up in trouble and his kindness is rewarded when an unlikely rescuer comes to his aid.

The Characters of the Lion and the Mouse

Despite the size difference between the lion and the mouse, both of these main characters are shown as equally important, both with large and commanding presences. The fact that there is no words to tap into personality is irrelevant, the drawings skillfully done in a manner that brings both characters to us clearly, and in some ways brings them to life on an even deeper level then words could.

Both the lion and the mouse are great characters, classic but at the same time different, with a lot for us to learn from each of them.

What Are The Illustrations Like?

Obviously incredibly important in a book without words, Jerry Pinkney more then delivers with his illustrations-he completely breathes life into the tale. His style is unique but at the same time comfortable, not to mention well suited to the retelling of a classic fable. The pictures are complex and detailed, but the expressions clear, and I don’t find the moral is lost in translation, rather the drawings bring a sort new awareness to it by having us process the story in a different manner.

What Are The Catches?

If you were to read this book to a very young child some explaining with words might need to be done-as simple as pointing out what is happening in the pictures-but that doesn’t matter much in my opinion. It is hard to place too much emphasis or explanation on kindness, and most of us point things out to our children if we are reading picture books to them anyways.

A Note On The Author

Jerry Pinkney has received many awards and honors, among them four New York Times Best Illustrated Awards and a nomination for the Hans Christian Andersan Award. He is also the five-time recipient of the Caldecott Honor and the Coretta Scott King Award. He lives with his wife, author Gloria jean Pinkney, in Crotonon-Hudon, New York. To learn more about Jerry Pinkey, visit his website at www.jerrypinkneysstudio.com

Lion and the Mouse: Final Review

I greatly enjoyed this book. I found a new love for stories told with little to no words after reading this and discovering just how clear a book can be with mostly illustration. I thought that the presentation and the authors style of drawing really brought home the moral of the story which, after all, is the core of all Aesop fables. Read this to children of any age really, explain the drawings or let them draw a meaning of their own from the unique experience that this book brings. In my opinion some of the best children’s books are the ones that both adults and children can learn and draw things from. Stories like this can spark reminders in anyone’s imagination about lessons or morals that remain important throughout life; and a grown up can need just as much reminding as a child needs learning about things like kindness.

Tales such as The Lion and the Mouse are retold again and again for a reason, and Jerry Pickneys version is a great way to bring back a timeless fable with an always important moral.

A note on what the awards mentioned mean:

The Caldecott Medal/Award: Randolph Caldecott was a nineteenth-century English Illustrator who transformed children’s books in the Victorian era. The Caldecott Medal is awarded annually by the Association for Library Service to Children to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children.

The Coretta Scott King Award: Given to African American authors and illustrators who make an outstanding contribution to education. It also promotes the understanding and appreciation of different cultures and societies.

The New York Times Best Illustrated Award: Awarded annually, The New York Times Book Review selects a panel of judges to choose the best illustrated books of that year.

The Hans-Christian Anderson Award: The International Board on Books for Young People presents this award every other year to a living author and illustrator whose complete works has made a lasting contribution to children’s literature. It is the highest international recognition given to an author and illustrator of children’s books.

Top 5 Picture Books for January 2012

Little Treasures: Endearments from Around the World: This is a great book to teach kids how even though cultures may differ from one another, they also have plenty in common. People from all corners of the world shower their kids with endearments, from the English, “Sweetie Pie,” or “Peanut,” to the Spanish “Angelito” (which means little angel) or the Hindi, “Mera Chanda,” (which translates to mean sweet little moon). The story incorporates 14 different languages and teaches parents and kids alike how parents across the world show their love for their own wonderful children. A heart-warming, unique and important book, this is a great choice for lessons in multiculturalism.

Pezzettino: One of the best new children’s picture books, this tells the tale of Pezzettino, who lives in a world where everyone else is big, daring, and doing wonderful things. He feels small, and as though he’s just a ‘little piece’ (which is the English translation of Pezettino). Certain that he’s just a part of someone else, and isn’t worth much on his own, this book follows his trials and tribulations as he learns that he is indeed worth quite a bit on his own! Told with beautiful, mosaic pictures, and ending in a positive, satisfying conclusion, this is an uplifting tale.

Extra Yarn: A dark, uninspiring monochrome town gets quite a change in attitude and color when a girl named Annabelle shows up with a box full of yarn. She quickly gets to work knitting clothes for all those around her, turning the ill-tempered into smiling, happy folks. She creates beautiful patterns of warmth not just for people, but for the animals and objects in the town as well. When a greedy archduke tries to steal her never-ending box of yarn, he quickly learns a lesson that will have kids laughing. This is a book that focuses on the importance of kindness and doing for others.

Smile, Principessa!: Papa has been taking pictures of his adorable daughter since she was just a baby, and Principessa has always felt like his special princess. That is, until the day her new baby brother comes along. Now no one calls her princess, and Papa spends his picture-taking time on her little brother. When a picture-taking contest comes up, and the prize is set to go to the child with the best smile, Principessa needs quite the coaxing to even try! Eventually, her parents show her that just because they love her little brother too, it doesn’t mean they love her any less.

Everybody Gets the Blues: Whether dog, cat, mom, dad, or even the littlest baby – we all get the blues! This book shows kids that if you help others when they’re feeling down, then you might just find yourself cheered up as well. It also offers other solutions to deal with the blues, like listening to the blues with the Blue Guys, or simply having a friend sit by your side. Written by a native New Orleans artist and writer, the author was inspired after seeing the healing that went on after Hurricane Katrina. Written in rhythmic, bluesy words and with eye-popping illustrations, this is the perfect book for anyone who’s ever had the blues.

Other Great New Picture Books for January 2012

Time for a Hug: What’s the best time for a hug? Any time of the day or night! One of the best new children’s books of 2012, this story is chock full of adorable animals, and wonderful illustrations. Little Bunny, the bouncing main character, loves to give hugs from the moment she wakes up until the stars start to shine. Big Bunny is always happy to shower the little one with hugs, even when they’re baking, building, biking, or hiking! This is a plain ole feel-good book that will get kids to giggle – and reach their arms out for a hug from their favorite family and friends.

Duck & Goose, Here Comes the Easter Bunny!: Here come Duck & Goose again, that silly twosome from the New York Times best-selling writer and illustrator, Tad Hills. Our most beloved feathered pals are here to get ready for spring, and they have lots of ideas about how they can find the illusive Easter Bunny! Will they succeed? You’ll have to read it to find out, but you can bet there will be plenty of hilarious hijinks along the way! Kids will love this beautifully illustrated book, full of stories of their favorite characters, tons of bright Easter eggs – and of course the Easter Bunny himself!

When My Baby Dreams: Little baby Mila has lots of dreams. In some, she’s a beautiful, majestic butterfly. In others, she’s a studious bookworm. In some dreams she’s a sunny surfer girl, riding the waves of the ocean! She even dreams that she’s orbiting space as an astronaut. Because you see, when Mila dreams – she can be anything she wants! Written by the imaginative and adorable mind of Adele Enersen, this takes you through a very unique journey into the dreams of a newborn. This book is like a love letter to babies everywhere, and to everyone else who dares to dream the impossible.

Sora the Cloud: A little boy who’s growing older by the day dreams one daydream more often than all the others – to soar with the clouds! Little boy Sora was once just a baby, crawling around, but now he can climb high into the trees, where a friendly cloud waits for him. This book has a host of exciting characters, from birds, kites, to fireworks. With his cloud’s eye view, Sora enjoys everything in the world around him as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery. One of the most unique aspects of this expressive book is the bilingual Japanese translations that accompany the text.

Maudie and Bear: Bear, best friend of Maudie, revolves his entire world around Maudie. In turn, Maudie’s world revolves around… herself! This is an example of children’s picture books that teach a great lesson while also engaging the reader in a fun-filled adventure. From bike riding, fixing a lunch-time snack, or dancing to funky music with one another, this unlikely duo has a wonderful time together. The prose is beautiful, the illustrations are masterful, and the story is that of a pair of friends who are as different as can be, yet love one another – each in their own special way.

Suppose You Meet a Dinosaur: A First Book of Manners: When a funny little girl goes grocery shopping, she has no idea what’s in store for her. Indeed, she meets a dinosaur! But not just any dinosaur – this is a friendly, polite dinosaur who has much to teach her new little friend. This book is funny, melodic and full of rhymes that roll off the tongue. Kids can learn how to help their friends and neighbors, and when it’s appropriate to say things like, “Thank You,” “Excuse Me,” and “I’m Sorry.” The illustrations are done by Tim Bower, who adds an extra layer of fun to this picture book.

Izzy the Whiz and Passover Mcclean: This book stars an amateur inventor who goes by the whimsical name Izzy the Whiz and creates a super duper machine right before the holiday of Passover. The machine whirs, and it purrs – it munches and it crunches! But the real impressive thing is that it cleans the entire house just in time for the family get together – and there’s no havoc along the way! The rhymes in this funny, crazy, laugh-out-loud book will remind parents of Dr. Seuss, while kids will love it for the original illustrations that depict the hilarious characters in all their glory.

Things I Love About Bedtime: A wonderful example of children’s picture books that celebrate all the good things about bedtime, this book includes examples of all the ways that getting ready for bed is fun! From playing, to reading, to talking and dreaming, this is a book that kids will cherish before they go to bed. It shows fun, colorful examples of taking a splashing bath, brushing the pearly whites, putting on adorable pajamas and reading a favorite book in bed. The story follows a happy bunny baby as it goes through its own nighttime ritual. This is a book that puts “sweet” in “sweet dreams.”

The Koala Bounces Back: Finally, Karri feels comfortable and among friends in the bush. But then a gang of pesky cats shows up, and starts scaring all the animals in sight! What is Karri to do? These fearsome cats won’t stop chasing the bush creatures – but they won’t leave either! After all, even fearsome cats need a place to live. Finally the cats come to a compromise with Karri. They’ll all play a game, and whoever wins gets to stay in the bush. Will Karri and his friends win? Where will they go if they don’t? This hilarious book is full of twists and turns.

Barnyard Purim: Purim is always a time of topsy-turvy – even when you live on a farm! The barnyard animals decide they want to stage a Purim shpiel, and the adapt Chicken decides he’s going to assign the parts. The Blushing Duck is cast as Queen Esther, Silly Horse gets the role of Ahashuerus, and Bearded Goat will play the epic Mordechai. The trouble begins when the animals try to transform Shy Little Sheep into the mean spirited Haman… and something quite unexpected happens! This is another of the children’s books that has plenty of surprises and twists that will keep young readers guessing.

Peepsqueak!: Peepsqueak the little chick bursts out of his shell, and right away he gets on the move! He is determined that he’s not just going to fly, he’s going to fly high…higher…the highest! He quickly realizes though – he’s quite too small to reach all the way to the sky! This is a debut book from Leslie Ann Clark, but it’s clear from the lyrical prose and beautiful illustrations that this is a children’s author you can expect to see a lot more of. This charming tale shows kids how important it is to never give up – especially when you’re reaching for the stars!

Petunia Goes Wild: Petunia has had enough in the newest installment of a favorite author of children’s books. She doesn’t want to be human anymore. So many baths to take, so many good manners to learn and follow. Clean clothes, combed hair – when does it ever end?! Young Petunia is quite clever in her attempts to get away from all the ‘have-tos’ and to finally live the care-free, wild life she dreams off. Of course, once she gets what she thinks she wants, she realizes that being a human child is not so bad after all. In fact, all those good manners and good hygiene are more important an useful than she realized.

My Heart Will Not Sit Down: Kedi learns about the Great Depression in America, and it completely breaks her heart. She discovers that there are many men and women who cannot find work, that there are children going hungry. Kedi lives in Africa, but her teacher is from the village of New York City, where people starve because they can’t afford food. Is there anything Kedi can do from her far away home of Cameroon? What can be done across the great salt river in America? This book, inspired by true events, brings to life the amazing story of the vision, passion and dedication of child.

Carl at the Dog Show: While Madeleine’s mom gets ready to help Carl’s Cousin get his own dog ready for an event in a dog show, she tells Carl and Madeleine to meet her near the dog show ring – but do they listen? Of course they don’t! Instead, they head off on their own adventure, during which they groom dogs, eat a snack, try out dog beds, come up with an agility test of their own making – all with hilarious results, of course – and mom none the wiser. This book has minimal text but truly inspiring artwork, and is sure to be a favorite of those who love children’s picture books.

Pinkalicious and the Pink Hat Parade: Both the adorable Pinkalicious and Peter enter into the Spring Hat Parade contest, and create their own custom hats. They use many kinds of paper, glittering glitter – and of course a healthy dose of imagination – to make their unique creations. Pinkalicious is very successful in making a sparkly masterpiece, but Peter ends up in quite the sticky situation. Fortunately for everyone, Pinkalicious know just what to do to save the day. This is a great book for creative kids who love to make crafts of their own, and is especially beloved by those who love all thinks pink.

The books on this list may be fresh on the shelves, but they’re destined to become favorites in their own right. With so many topics covered, a wide range of artistic methods used, and a variety of literary styles, children’s literature is becoming more varied and accessible than ever before.

Top 5 Children’s Books for October

The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse: All children have an inner artist, and this expressive new book helps them to discover it. The book centers around an artist who paints the world just as he sees it – just as a child would. His unique paintings include a bright red crocodile, an orange elephant, a violet fox and donkey dotted with polka-dots. Chock full of creative, bright and bold illustrations, this book will help children to see that art can come in many forms. The text is simple and short, but has quite an impact and will help to bring out the inner artist in every child.

M.O.M. (Mom Operating Manual): A celebration of moms everywhere, this clever and unique book is a manual that teaches kids that moms are people too. It explores the many things moms do everyday that their kids may not take the time to recognize, and shows kids little things they could do that would help their moms to better do their job. This lighthearted book gives warning signs of “mom-pattern-crankiness” to help children identify when their moms might be on their way to being overwhelmed, and what they can do to keep that from happening. This is a book that appeals to moms as much as it does to kids.

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star:Most parents are familiar with the children’s lullaby this lavishly illustrated book is based on, but they’ll be impressed by the new heights this book achieves. The bright, dreamlike watercolor drawings are as much a part of this book as the story line is, which focuses on a chipmunk with childlike curiosity, who leaves the comfort of home to stare in wonder at the night sky. After becoming mesmerized by the twinkling stars and the glistening dewdrops fallen on a spider’s web, he begins a fantasy filled adventure to literally reach for the stars and discover more about the world around him.

E-mergency!: Oh, no – the letter “E” has taken a tumble down the stairs, and now she’s stuck in the hospital. In order for her to get her rest and come back, everyone must stop using this important letter. The other letters in the alphabet hold a meeting to discuss who could possibly replace her. “Z”? No, “Z” is too tired. “P”? No, “P” spends too much time in the restroom. “Y”? No, “Y” is just too inquisitive! But here comes “O”, to take “E”’s place and give her the rest she needs. This book is smack dab full of both visual and verbal puns.

Swirl by Swirl: Spirals in Nature: Like several other children’s picture books on this list, this book celebrates the inner artist in everyone. Written by an accomplished poet who’s both a Caldecott medalist and a winner of the Newbery, Swirl by Swirl teaches children about the importance and beauty of spirals. Through a close analysis of spirals that appear in nature, such as those found in rushing rivers, budding flowers, and the inner ear, the author helps children to see these shapes in every day objects. This is a book that’s both simple and complex, as it examines the usefulness of the spiral.

Other Great New Children’s Picture Books

Lots of Bots!: A Counting Pop-Up Book : This is the first book in a just launched series of pop-up books. Parents who are familiar with the author’s previous children’s picture books, like Horton Hears a Who Pop-Up!, and Oh, the Places You’ll Go Pop-Up!, will certainly find some recognizable methods being used here. This book helps beginners learn to count from 1 to 10, and more advanced kids to count all the way to 55. These pop-ups aren’t just visual – they are interactive as well. Children will have plenty to look at, and plenty of things to turn, bounce, pull and spin.

Miss Lina’s Ballerinas and the Prince: This sequel to the beloved Miss Lina’s Ballerinas continues on the theme of teaching children the love of dance, but this time the girls have a new challenge- a boy! The girls are initially overjoyed at the idea of having a boy join their class and perform with them in the end of the year show. In fact, they are so overjoyed that they overwhelm him with their pink pirouettes and their constant attention, and the blushing boy becomes shy and dances right out the door. This is a simple read that’s designed as nothing more than a fun and fanciful book about dancing.

The Snow Angel: In contrast to other books on this list, The Snow Angel is a story that’s full of very deep and sometimes even depressing situations. Rachel Price has only one happy memory from her childhood, and that is of playing outside with her father on a cold, winter day – which was very different than the abusive father she typically saw. Now Rachel is an adult with a daughter of her own, and she has unfortunately fallen into many of the same patterns she learned from her parents. Then a phone call comes from an friend, and it seems that everything is about to change.

Happy Pig Day!: Gerald the elephant and Piggie have been the best of friends for many years, but when Pig Day comes along, Gerald feels left out. He watches all his pig friends have the grandest of times, and he wishes he could be a pig – or at least be welcomed to the pig party. When Piggie eventually realizes that her beloved friend is gone, he sets out to find him. Hijinks ensue as these friends seek to find common ground. Told with the same hilarious, slightly absurd voice as the rest of the Gerald and Piggie books, this book is sure to be a classic.

The Amazing Adventures of Bumblebee Boy: Kids who love superheros will love this hilarious and unique tale of Sam and Bumblebee Boy. When Sam realizes that he needs help, he turns into Bumblebee Boy to fight off the pirates, defeat dragons, and settle down the saber-tooth lions. His younger brother Owen shows up, and initially Sam is quite perturbed – who needs a little kid ruining his adventure? But when Bumblebee Boy is faced with his scariest situation yet, a slew of aliens, he’s thankful for the goggled, towel-cape-wearing Owen. This is a book that’s big with imagination, and that explores the relationships between siblings.

How the Dinosaur Got to the Museum: Dinosaur loving kids will adore this fascinating journey that begins 145 million years ago, and follows the Diplodocus longus through to its present day home in the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. Through the course of transporting the dinosaur’s fossil from its discovery in Utah to the Smithsonian, children will learn about the many jobs that go into something as simple as moving a pile of dinosaur bones. This book covers the entire process, from the paleontologists and museum curators who get the most attention, to the excavators and movers who got the bones to their current spot, and down to the welders and cleaners who helped create the display.

Jumanji 30th Anniversary Edition: It’s hard to believe that Jumanji came out 30 years ago, but this classic book is as enjoyable now as it was at its release. The special anniversary edition comes with a nice addition – a CD with celebrated actor Robin Williams reading this timeless treasure. Fans will remember that Mr. Williams starred in the movie adaption of this famous book, which follows Peter and Judy as they discover the game of their lives: Jumanji. The instructions that accompany that game clearly state that when the game is started it must be finished, or it will continue indefinitely. This is an exciting, fast paced book about adventure.

Mustache: The handsome King Duncan should spend more time ruling his people, and less time admiring his gorgeous face. Even as his kingdom crumbles around him, and his people come to him begging help, his only reaction is to build even more statues and tributes to his handsome face. Finally, his subjects are fed up – and ready to take a stand! And they come up with the perfect idea to get out of their hairy predicament. This energetically illustrated book is full of whimsy, good humor, and a clueless king. Children will giggle from beginning to end as they follow this troublesome tale.

Never Forgotten: Some of the best children’s picture books are lighthearted and whimsical, but some of them take another route, which is to teach children about their history through easy to understand words, and illustrations that cut to the heart of the matter. This book is the latter. Written by a 3 person team who’ve collectively won numerous awards for their children’s book, this story is set in West Africa, and tells the tale of a young African boy who is stolen from his family and sold into slavery. This is an important book that helps children to understand their own history, and to learn the importance of strong family bonds.

Bear in Long Underwear: This silly, funny book is the story of a bear who’s lost everything but his underwear. In the same vein as the authors previous books Bear in Underwear and Bear in Pink Underwear, Bear and his pals are excited to romp outside and play in the freshly fallen snow. Bear wants his snowman to look his best, and so he sheds his own clothes to dress it – which leaves him not in his usual tighty-whities but in long underwear. His friends like what they see, and want a pair of their own. Kids will love the delightful whimsy of this very simple book.

Recently released children’s books range from the reissue of classic tales, to historical books that are important for every child, and silly romps that will bring a smile to every child’s face. No matter the subject matter, the books on this list are sure to bring delight to children and parents alike.

Grandpa Green: “Grandpa Green” is an artistic masterpiece and a captivating storybook for young children. Author Lane Smith explores the beautiful relationship between family members as he passes down his memories and shares his experiences with his great-grandson. In this children’s picture book, you will take a journey through the enchanting garden that Grandpa Green has built. In it, you will find a collection of manicured shrubs that represent his memories as a farm boy, a soldier, a husband, and a father. This is one of the best children’s books of the year, and your children and grandchildren will enjoy this enthralling tale with its wonderful illustrations for many years to come.

Llama Llama Home with Mama: Author Anna Dewdney has added another installment to her beloved Llama Llama series. In this short picture book, Llama Llama wakes up with the sniffles, and he has to stay home with his mama. Llama Mama tends to little Llama as best she can, and after a nap, he starts to feel better. Then, Mama starts to come down with the sniffles and sneezes herself. Who decides to take care of Mama? Little Llama Llama. The illustrations provide the perfect background for the unfolding of this sweet story.

Bear’s Loose Tooth: Author Karma Wilson and illustrator Jane Chapman have put together a wonderful book for children with “Bear’s Loose Tooth.” Of the many new children’s books on the market, this one is perfect for children that are ready to lose their first tooth or have already lost a tooth. This winning storyline brings the characters to life in a whole new way and gives parents and children a fun way to learn about what to do when a tooth becomes wiggly and wobbly. This book teaches children that losing teeth is natural and exciting, and it gives an interesting twist with the animated imagery and the melodic rhythm of the story.

Fancy Nancy: Our Thanksgiving Banquet: Jane O’Conner has released another addition to the New York Times Bestselling Series “Fancy Nancy.” Our Thanksgiving Banquet is a happy tale of all things to be expected at Thanksgiving?a grand turkey and all the fixings included. In this series of children’s picture books, Fancy Nancy has a fun-filled Thanksgiving that she shares with the whole family. Complete with an activity sheet and stickers, this book is a great addition to any child’s book collection. If you are a fan of the Fancy Nancy series, this is a must have for the holiday season.

The Happy Book: Written by Diane Muldrow and illustrated by Patti Ann Harris, this delightful little book will leave your kids feeling happy and joyful. Filled with simple pleasures and cute rhymes, “The Happy Book” will be sure to leave your children feeling carefree. This book is great for cheering up your kids when they are feeling out of sorts, and it can help them appreciate the little things in life. Children’s picture books like “The Happy Book” will help you and your children dance through life with a smile on your face. The colorful illustrations help bring life to the happiness in the text. This is the perfect book for a toddler or a young child.

Red Plane to the Rescue: In the exciting “Red Plane to the Rescue” written by Melissa Firth and illustrated by Cheryl Orsini, your kids will be able to get a feel for what it’s like to fly high through the sky. This adventurous children’s book will take your imagination through an array of twists, turns, and dips as you fly through the pages. In this book, children are able to understand what it’s like to soar through the sky. All of the actions that the plane takes are described in great detail so kids can really get the sense that they are taking off themselves. The brightly colored illustrations are a wonderful addition to an adventurous book.

Mad About Minibeasts: Giles Andraeae has created a wonderfully explosive book that is sure to excite young children. The illustrations are a joy to behold, and the rhymes make this book a delight for all. In “Mad about Minibeasts,” your children will be taken into a world of beetles, butterflies, and other crawling creatures. The flowing rhymes make this a great book to read aloud to your children, and this is especially good for young children that like creepy crawly creatures.

The Tiger-Skin Rug: “The Tiger-Skin Rug” is another brilliant creation by Gerald Rose. It is sure to inspire and delight your children. Another addition to the new children’s books, this is a wonderful story of a lovable tiger enjoying a luxurious life while he pretends to be a rug. At one point, burglars break into the mansion and the tiger has to decide whether to keep his secret or save the family. This is a joyful tale of a tiger’s courage, and it is one of the best children’s books on the shelves today. This is a classic and a must-have for all parents who enjoy the heartfelt story of the tiger.

Let’s Go Baby-o: Energetic children and parents alike will love this adventurous tale of a little boy and her cousin planning their day of adventure. In “Let’s Go Baby-o,” Janet McLean has taken a little boy for an adventure that is sure to be memorable. Romping through the garden, dancing, singing, and a jumble of animals working outside the window make this delightful story a great book to be read aloud. The bouncing rhymes make this story unforgettable, and the illustrations add to the enchantment. This book encourages children to find fun things to do and learn about the world all the while having a great time.

The Road to Goonong: In David Cox’s “Road to Goonong,” the illustrations are prolific and inspiring. “The Road to Goonong” is a story about a road that has been traveled by many people but lays forgotten. At the end of this road is Goonong, a farm that beautifully reveals the freedom of farm life and the joy that accompanies it with blue skies blanketing the sprawling grasslands filled with horses and cattle. This is an epic tale for children that will help them learn the wonders of farm life. As a twist, this book also tells of the trials that people faced in the Great Depression. This is a wonderful book with captivating illustrations and an interesting storyline.

The Bernstein Bears Show Some Respect: Mike and Jan Bernstein have created another masterpiece in the Bernstein Bears series. In this book, the bears learn that even the best cubs can pick up some very unbecoming habits. In this book, the Sister and Brother are found not showing their parents the respect that they deserve, and Mama and Papa are just as guilty with the way they treat their parents. Gran and Gramps call the family to order and explain how important it is to treat your parents with respect, love, and gratitude.

Ten Little Caterpillars: In “Ten Little Caterpillars,” Bill Martin Jr. and Lois Ehlert created a book that will be sure to excite and inspire parents and children alike. In this book, ten little caterpillars set off for an adventure in the great big world, and you never really know what will turn up. To make this story even better, the illustrations have been enhanced with watercolors and gorgeous collages, making it a beautiful book to share with the whole family. In this book, you are not only able to absorb the story as it unfolds, but there are also helpful labels on each page to point out certain fruits, plants, and other insects to help children learn.

These new children’s books are all great choices for your collection, and some of these are destined to be classics. You can uncover some of the best children’s books by exploring some of these children’s picture books at home with your children.

Creepy Monsters, Sleepy Monsters: This cute story, with its colorful illustrations, maps out a day in the life of little monsters. These fun loving creatures start their day at Cree. P Elementary for a busy day of monster learning and end it tucked away in their snug beds.Don’t let the title fool you as there is nothing scary about these colorful monsters. Some are striped, some are furry, and some have wings. But just like human kids, they go to school, play at the park, and even eat after-school snacks. They are rambunctious too and don?t like to go to bed. Families will identify with these sweet little monsters as they follow them from sun up to sun down.

Too Many Frogs: A perfect bedtime story, Too Many Frogs spins a tale about Rabbit, who contently reads a book every night by the fire. One night, his reading is interrupted by Froggie who wants to hear the story. Froggie comes every night to Rabbit’s house to hear him read a story. This begins a nightly visit where Froggie makes himself at home by fixing snacks and lying around on a pile of pillows.Froggie takes advantage of Rabbit one night and brings his whole family to story time but Rabbits says, Too many frogs! Too much fuss!? Rabbit begins to read by himself again only to realize he likes Froggie’s company and invites all of them back into his house for story time. This Preschool-grade 2 reading is a perfect addition to any family’s bedtime reading collection of children’s books.

Too Purpley: On her quest to find an outfit for school, this little fashionista finds a problem with everything she tries on. She builds a pile of discarded clothes that are too purpley, too baggy, or too bright. In the end, she isn’t being too choosey on purpose; she only wants to be comfy. Her pet turtle goes through all of the wardrobe changes with similar attire.The rhyming text is as fun as the illustrations in these picture books. As each of her garments change, her watercolor surrounding transforms to emphasize the silliness of her latest choice. Too matchy makes her dress the same color of a chair, and ?too plaid? changes the room to plaid. Ages 2 and up will enjoy the chaotic world of Too Purpley!

Skippy Jones, Class Action: Written for children ages 5-8, Skippyjon Jones is a Siamese kitten with a huge imagination. The hyperactive little kitty, whose head and ears are too big for his body, wants to go to dog school but his mama won?t let him. His clever mind takes him on a doggie adventure where he turns into a superhero, saving his imaginary dog friends from a neighborhood bully.The Skippyjon Jones stories are fun and silly with rhyming phrases and little songs. The books have Spanish throughout to introduce the readers to the concept of other languages. Read this book and learn how Skippy earns the biggest gold star.

The Babies on the Bus: The Babies on the Bus takes a classic song and changes the words around to entertain the babies on the bus. Sing and clap along in this book as the babies on the bus go bumpty bump bump? and honk honk honk to the horn. Like many real school kids, by the end of this fun filled ride the babies are fast asleep.Just like The Wheels on the Bus, young children will enjoy this sing along as well as the cute and colorful babies on each page of these picture books.

C is for City: An Alphabet Book: Mister Doodles is a fun and creative way to introduce kids to the alphabet. Children ages 2-5 will love the humorous rhyming as the stick-figure makes his way from A-Z in a mix of black lines and photography. This reading offers an extra bonus as children look through the pictures in I spy fashion in search of other words that start with the same letter of the alphabet.Children will be amused as they learn their ABS’s with Mister Doodles with his rhyming text and colorful pages. A is for Art. B is for bone. C is for City, like New York or Rome?

Happy Halloween, Stinky Face: Halloween can be a scary time for many young children, but Stinky Face addresses some of those fears in these fall holiday children?s books. The little boy with the awkward nickname is back again with more of his what if questions for his mama. Unsure of which costume to wear, Stinky goes back and forth between a superhero and a firefighter and finally decides to wear his familiar ghost costume.Kids will enjoy all of the funny trick-or-treat questions Stinky Face has for Mama as well as Mama?s sweet and calm approach to the answers.

Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes: Pete the Cat rocks in his shoes through the halls of his school. Teachers and parents alike can use this book to kick off the new school year and introduce their young students to all the cool places at school; the playground, lunchroom, and library. And kids will love this interactive book as they hone their listening skills to shout-out, Goodness, no!? every time the book asks, Does Pete worry?Pete and his rocking school shoes will take the kids on an adventure of discovery and in the end realize that all is good, no matter what the situation.

Dino Pets Go to School: Kids love dinosaurs and these picture books are a parade of them as a little boy, again and again, tries to bring his dinos to school for pet day. Each dino successfully wreaks havoc and chaos at school. The tall one wrecks the bus before it even gets them to school. The lunchroom is never the same after the widest one breaks a table. And at recess, the kids discovered that the spikiest dinosaur shouldn’t play with soccer balls.The rhyming words, realistic pictures, and funny antics are a crowd pleaser for kids 3-8. In addition, the book features dino facts about these prehistoric creatures!

A Place to Call Home: Little critters grow up too and sometimes they outgrow their home. In these hysterically funny children?s books, seven brothers outgrow their dark junkyard home and set out to claim a new one. The critters are creative in constructing a home as they traverse the complex junkyard.As the critters grow braver, they venture out and explore a muddy sea, as well as ascend a colossal mountain. Kids will giggle and cheer as the critters march their way through a puzzling maze of junkyard debris. Read the book and find out if the seven brothers will ever find a place they can call home.

Maisy’s Amazing Big Book of Learning: Just like the name implies, Maisy’s Amazing Big Book of Learning is a book parents and preschool teachers can use as a resource to teach colors, sizes, shapes, and animals. With 40 interactive flaps to investigate, Maisy the mouse takes the reader on an animal counting lesson and gives them an opportunity to make loud noises, and jump around like a kangaroo. This is an excellent, colorful book that will hold any rambunctious toddlers attention. There are lots of fun things to do and learn with Maisy taking the lead!

The Elephant Scientist: After lengthy observations in the African desert the mother of all elephants?, American scientist Caitlin O’Connell discovers groundbreaking information about the way elephants communicate. Young animal lovers will appreciate the specialized knowledge of elephants taken directly from an elephant expert in another book within the Scientist in the Field series.The author Donna M. Jackson is an experienced children?s books author and science writer who has contributed to her professional works with this nonfiction documentation of OConnell’s recent discovery that elephants listen with their limbs. Investigate her findings in this newly released book The Elephant Scientist.

Apples and Pumpkins: Fall and Halloween are fast approaching and Apples and Pumpkins can help kick off the season with a multicolored trip to Comstock Farm. On her adventure, a little girl and her family visit a farm and she gets to pick the best produce from the apple trees and the biggest pumpkin from the patch.This book is family focused with activities that involve the whole family. From the trip to the farm to carving the pumpkin into a jack-o-lantern, and making pie, the book is a good example of getting the whole family involved.

My Fold Out Books Numbers: Produced as a board book, the bright yellow cover opens up to one long concertina-style page. Babies and toddlers will love the bright cover and vibrant photographs of well-known items. The durable board book construction will take a toddler?s abuse as they stretch it out on the floor to learn their numbers.The twelve pages cover numbers 1-12 with familiar objects to assist young children in building their vocabulary and developing picture recognition. With pictures on both sides and a unique folding system, little one will automatically be working on developing their motor skills. Simple and descriptive text makes this a must have for a baby’s first book.

Double Play: Monkeying around with Addition: The mathematic concept of doubling is explored through two little chimps named Jill and Jake. Using playground games like four square and jump rope, students can memorize and duplicate the math themed rhymes on their own to aid in the learning process.Jill, Jake, and the other animal classmates spend so much time playing at recess they don’t even realize all the math they are learning through play. Each page has a rhymed verse as well as a math equation displayed with large watercolor illustrations. Double Play is a fun addition to any classroom library.

Dream Away: The things your mind will let you do as you drift into dream land are endless! This special tale takes a father and son on a magical trip as they float to the sky in a paper boat. On their floating trip through the clouds, they stumble upon familiar faces as well as a wandering knight and winged horse. With a yellow balloon for a moon, Robert Goldstrom’s paintings are a whimsical addition to this sweet bedtime fantasy as the pair discovers the secret hiding places of the cosmos. This perfect night time read is especially targeted for a father to read to his children.

Introduced in July, these children’s books offer a variety of reading entertainment. Whether for learning or just plain fun, this collection has something for all to enjoy.

Abby Levine has written a story that has all of that, with the heroine being a little ground hog named Gretchen. Gretchen Groundhog, It’s Your Day!; tells the story of a little groundhog who struggles with something many kids can relate to, being extremely shy. As a matter of fact, she is so shy that when it’s her turn to look for her shadow on groundhog day, she doesn’t want to come out of her hole. She worries, she’s afraid, and she just wants to be left alone.

The people in town know how shy Gretchen is, and they try to convince her to go out, but she is more than simply shy, she is also stubborn. She begins to gain some courage when she is presented with some notes that were written by some of her heroic ancestors. It turns out that Gretchen has had many relatives who also had the same problem she has, being too shy to go out in front of all those people. Each relative who had made note of being so shy, had ended up making great contributions to society and becoming famous. When Gretchen read all those notes, she finally decides that she will indeed go out, and try to see her shadow.

Gretchen Groundhog, It’s Your Day!, is illustrated in pencil and watercolors, making them colorful and stunning to look at. The story and the pictures capture the heart of the reader, no matter what their age. Children’s books that offer kids something they can relate to offer them hope and encouragement to overcome their own struggles. Gretchen Groundhog, It’s Your Day!, is more than a story of groundhog’s day, it’s a story that will give you and your children laughter and a chance to enjoy learning while reading together. This book is a true winner among books for children.