From Supreme Court Justices to Academy Award winners, 2019 has been a great year for Children’s Picture Books. Below we’ve reviewed more than 50 of this year’s best picture books and have also included some under-dog favorites we know are fun and interactive with great messages that children would love.
INCREDIBLE JOBS YOU’VE PROBABLY NEVER HEARD OF
Natalie Labarre’s INCREDIBLE JOBS YOU’VE PROBABLY NEVER HEARD OF features over 60 unique jobs that most people don’t know about.
From Cow Massagers to a Christmas Lights detangler, this book explores them and provides information about what they entail.
It’s interactive and fun with hidden objects that encourage children to explore the pages.
It motivates children to be whatever they want to be, and inspires them to create their own jobs. The illustrations are magnificent with glossy vibrant colors that children will enjoy.
AGE 5-10, PUBLISHER: Nosy Crow Ltd.
JUST ASK
JUST ASK! by Sonia Sotomayor is by far the most INCLUSIVE book ever written. It’s a celebration of each child’s unique difference and how by simply asking questions one can make the world a better place.
In the book, Sonia and her friends are planting a garden and like in a garden, every flower and fruit are different, so is every child. It is extremely hard to read this book without crying because it features children from all walks of life.
The book celebrates the beauty of being different, and how being different can change how people view the world. This book is extremely important and should be in EVERY SINGLE HOME, whether you have children or not. Apart from the vibrant, exuberant and vivid illustrations by Rafael Lopez, there are so many things to love about this book. It encourages children, and people in general, to embrace diversity and individuality. I love that it portrayed and highlighted the strength of the children who some people might think are weak. I absolutely love that. THAT’S THE BEAUTY OF BEING DIFFERENT.
JUST ASK is the perfect book for teachers, educators and a great addition to our favorite book-list. Diversity makes the world interesting and fun. JUST ASK! AGE: 4-8
A BOY LIKE YOU
Frank Murphy’s A BOY LIKE YOU, is a must-have that is guaranteed to be a household favorite. The cover alone shows how diverse and inclusive it is, and it is clearly one of the best books we have read this entire year.
It celebrates boys and boyhood and the joys that being a boy has to offer. It’s about taking risks and being the best boy you can be, but also allowing yourself to be vulnerable because being a boy doesn’t mean you can’t be. Boys can be tough, but also kind and generous.
We love books that encourage children to explore their curiosity and allow them to be creative and open to new experiences without fear, and this book did not disappoint.
A BOY LIKE YOU is a powerful gem with charming and vibrant illustration by Kayla Harren that transcends the entire essence of the author’s message of diversity, inclusivity and the ultimate celebration of boys. It’s perfect for teachers and educators. AGE:4-10
THE COOL BEAN
Jory John and Pete Oswald are back with another gem that is guaranteed to be a fan favorite. THE COOL BEAN features four beans of the same pod. However, over time they grew apart from one beans. The other three beans were super popular and fun to be around, whereas the last bean was shy and timid and not very confident. He wanted to be cool like they were but no matter how much he tried he just wasn’t cool.
One day the three beans showed him that being cool wasn’t about how you look or how popular you are, it was about the things you do to help people. It was about having someone’s back and looking out for them when they need it the most.
THE COOL BEAN is a mixture of funny and witty, with a great message that’s relevant and necessary. The illustrations by Pete Oswald are beyond amazing and always captures the essence of the entire book. AGE:4-8
SLEEPOVER At The MUSEUM
Ever wish you could have a sleepover at The Museum of Natural History?
In SLEEPOVER AT THE MUSEUM by Karen LeFrak’s, Mason and his friends couldn’t be more excited to do so.
It’s Mason’s birthday, and he gets to decide which Hall at the museum to sleep in. He and his friends began with a scavenger hunt and solve clues before he decides.
Throughout the Museum, they learn so many things. They see all the different planets, dinosaurs, mammals, butterflies and ocean life. Which hall do you think Mason ultimately chose to sleep in? The illustrations by David Bucs are naturalistically vibrant, yet dramatic and so much fun. I love how the shadows of the subjects of each room tag along with the children and become a part of the birthday celebration. It’s extremely imaginative and creative and makes the PERFECT bedtime book. AGE:3-7
YOU ARE LIKE A SEED
YOU ARE LIKE A SEED by Michaun Madsen is a new release that is hands-down one of the sweetest books this year.
It portrays the beautiful comparison of a child to a tiny seed.
A seed has everything it needs to grow into what it’s meant to be and it’s the same for children. Like a seed, surrounding children with healthy food and a loving family can help them to grow and develop into someone that’s happy and positive. Like seeds, every child is different and unique and has something special to offer the world.
This book is super special to me because my mom also planted a seed when I was born and it bloomed into a beautiful tree that’s still growing. Omg, the illustrations by Alyssa de Asis are absolutely magnificent and vibrant and the little girl is soooo cuteeee. If you don’t have this book… GET IT NOW. Children will love this book and parents will adore it as well. AGE:4-8
HAIR LOVE
Matthew A. Cherry’s HAIR LOVE is one of my favorite books so far this year.
It features a little girl named Zuri, who has a lovely head of hair. It’s coiled and curled and changes every which way.
Her mommy is returning from a trip and Zuri wants the perfect hairstyle. With the help of her dad, she tried many styles. None were perfect, but they did not give up. By watching a hair tutorial online, her dad was able to pull off the perfect style for the perfect little superhero.
This book is absolutely beautiful and delightfully written. The father-daughter relationship is too cute. The representation of a black father taking care of his child and family and going the extra mile is absolutely necessary and I love that Matthew A. Cherry portrays a happy, healthy black family.
Every single thing illustrator Vashti Harrison touches turns to MAGIC. The illustrations are vibrant, comprehensive and absolutely breathtaking and assists in breaking down stereotypical barriers about black families and especially black fathers.
It’s like you can feel the textures of their hair through the pages.
For most black people, Hair has a whole community on its own lol and HAIR LOVE promotes self-acceptance and self-confidence while still being funny and fun to read.
Every child would love it, especially little black girls. AGE:4-8
BECAUSE
Do you believe everything happens for a reason? In Mo Willems, BECAUSE, a young girl is inspired to become a beautiful Composer, all due to a series of events.
The book begins with the famous composer Franz being inspired by Beethoven to create music. Later on, other musicians are inspired by Franz’s music to form an orchestra which the young girl attends because her uncle couldn’t. She believes that if it had not been for her uncle, she would not have heard such great music.
Upon hearing the symphonies of Franz, she’s inspired to compose music and ultimately grows up to lead her own orchestra.
ALL of Mo Willems’ books are great and this one is absolutely amazing as well.
It is perfect for little music lovers, especially children who love classical music and those who play musical instruments. I found this book very inspirational because I love classical music and have been to many symphonies.
The illustrations by Amber Ren are mind-blowing, vibrant and full of life. Clearly one of my favorite books of the year so far. AGE: 4-10
MERMAIDS FAST ASLEEP
Have you read MERMAIDS FAST ASLEEP by Robin Riding? It’s soooo beautiful.
It features a little girl, her mama and their dog camping by the ocean. As the sun sets, and she prepares to sleep, she looks at the water below and wonders if mermaids are fast asleep.
She imagines their bright colored scales and blue hair and wonders if they count fish instead of sheep.Do the dolphins sing them lullabies?
Her imagination runs through the serene oceanic floor as she wishes to see them laying their heads on sandy beds and breathing water like air. So poetic.
Reading this book is calming at bedtime as the soothing rhythm gently carries your little ones off to sleep. The illustrations by Zoe Persico are absolutely breathtaking and the floating bubbles create a calming and snug effect as you read. AGE: 2-6
THE PROUDEST BLUE
THE PROUDEST BLUE, A story of hijab and family by Olympic Medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad and S.K. Ali is a magnificent story of family, love, respect. It features two Muslim sisters Faizah and Asiya on their first day of school. Faizah is excited about her new backpack and her light-up shoes, but she’s even more excited for her sister Asiya’s first hijab day. Wearing a hijab for the first time was very special to
Asiya and though it was adorned with the brightest blue most children did not understand.
Some laughed and point, but her hijab wasn’t a laugh, it’s represented strength and it is about understanding who you are.
Asiya is proud despite the taunting and this encourages her sister to be strong as well.
THE PROUDEST BLUE is inspirational and uplifting and is great for teaching children about Muslim culture. AGE 4-9
NYA'S LONG WALK
NYA’S LONG WALK, a step at a time by Linda Sue Park, is a delicate story of two South Sudanese sisters and their journey to get water.
For Nya and her little sister Akeer, the journey is long and the sun is hot and on the way back, Akeer falls ill and can’t continue on. At this point, Nya has to protect her sister AND carry the water because her sister would ultimately need it. Her courage and perseverance allowed her to push on home to her mother who takes Akeer to the hospital. This lovely book with vivid and vibrant illustrations or arid plains and landscapes by Brian Pinkney bring awareness to the water crisis and conditions this country faces every day. I absolutely love this and it’s clearly a favorite. AGE: 4-8
COCO & OLIVE
We love mother-daughter authors, so Michelle Madrid-Branch’s COCO & OLIVE the Color of Love is a book we loved from the moment we started reading it.
It features mommy-adopted daughter dogs asking and answering one of the most important questions a child may ask… WHAT IS THE COLOR OF LOVE?
Answering brilliantly, the mommy dog recalls the memorable moments that led to them being a family and all the colors that inspired their special bond.
Coupled with wonderful illustrations like velvety violets and rose pinks by Erin Darling, this book is perfect for every family.
It is full of imagination and extremely interactive and it’s a great way to teach children about love, inclusivity and diversity within families.
Apart from the cute, little hearts on each page, there were so many little things we loved about this book. The transitions between the pages tell a story that every family can relate to, especially adopted parents.
Love and Family have no specific color or shape. Love is you and love is me and that is one of the most important lessons you can teach a child. AGE:4-8
FROM CHEWING TO POOING
Ever wonder what happens to food after you eat it? Lauren Gehringer teams with Dr. Natalie Gehringer to show children a pictorial journey of what happens to food when we eat. FROM CHEWING TO POOING portrays the journey of food through your body to the potty. This process is called Digestion.
The subject of Digestion can be complicated for some children but this book wonderfully illustrates this process with colorful rhymes and funny little creatures that make it fun and engaging.
Children and adults can learn about Digestion and The Digestive System.
Maile McCarthy’s bright and vibrant illustrations make all these important information easy to understand. A total must-have for educators and teachers and it’s perfect for little scientists who love exploring the human body and how it works. AGE:4-10
THE THANK YOU LETTER
THE THANK YOU LETTER by Jane Cabrera is such an adorable book with fun and vibrant illustrations that makes the perfect thanksgiving book.
Little Grace is super excited about her birthday party and even made a list of all the presents she would like to have. After the party, she began writing thank-you letters to everyone who brought her presents. She thanks her Nana and Grandpop for the puppy, Aunt Mary for the gloves and Poppy for the soft toy. Her thank you cards didn’t stop there, she started writing thank-you letters to everyone in the neighborhood and her simple act of gratitude and kindness inspired everyone to send heartfelt replies that warmed her little heart.
We love sending thank you cards to everyone as a token of appreciation, so when we received this book we were super excited to read it. It doesn’t matter how small you are, little acts of kindness can inspire a community and help to change the world. (AGE 4-10)
THE FATE OF FAUSTO
Oliver Jeffers is no stranger to creating some of the best children’s books EVER. Here and Now, Lost and Found, The heart and the bottle and Stuck are just to name a few.
His new release, THE FATE OF FAUSTO is another masterpiece that is sure to awaken hearts and open eyes to the harsh reality that is LIFE.
The book features a man named Fausto, who believed everything in the world belonged to him, so he set out to take it all. He conquered a flower, a sheep, the forest and the river until he came upon a mountain his pompous behavior could not moved. Fausto stamped and ranted to the mountain until it succumbed.
Feeling satisfied he conquered something as grand as a mountain, he set out on a boat to conquer the big blue sea. Fausto was no match for the sea because he did not know or understand it.
Fausto thought that stamping and ranting at the sea would relinquish its power to him like the others, but that would prove problematic because Fausto could neither swim nor walk on water. AGE: 6-12
WHAT IS GIVEN FROM THE HEART
What do you give when you think you have nothing to give? You give from your heart! This new and final release by the late Patricia C. McKissack features a Mother who has lost her husband, their farm and everything they owned.
In WHAT IS GIVEN FROM THE HEART, she teaches her young son the importance of STILL giving even though they don’t have a lot and that giving from the heart reaches the heart.
Valentine’s Day is approaching and young Otis is contemplating what to give his friend Sarah, whose family lost everything in a fire. He and his mother gave with their hearts and unexpectedly received a blessing in the end.
Though released around Valentine’s, it’s the perfect Thanksgiving book because it speaks to so many selfless people who give wholeheartedly around this time.
It is extremely inspirational and full of love and support and absolutely relatable to many families. It just melts your heart. Omg, the illustrations by April Harrison are just breathtakingly amazing and heartwarming. (AGE 5-12)
FRY BREAD
October is National Native American Heritage Month. It’s a time to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures, traditions and histories of Native people and to acknowledge the significant contributions the first Americans made to the establishment and growth of the U.S.
FRY BREAD by Kevin Noble Maillard celebrates the Native American Heritage by introducing readers to the food that help bring their people together. The book features a grandma preparing the historic meal with her grandchildren. They help with the recipe and ingredients and patiently wait as it savors their senses.
BE PATIENT, CIRCE'
With uplifting rhymes, Natalie McChlery promotes self-love and self-acceptance in her debut book, BE PATIENT, CIRCE’. In this new release, Circe’ is a young phoenix who is worried that she won’t be as good as the other students at her school. Her friend Kaliope the mermaid is an amazing singer and Lutfi the unicorn is thoughtful and sweet. They both receive praises from the teacher and Circé wants praises too.
Each day she discusses her dilemma with Mama Phoenix who gives her wonderful advice. Be patient, learn from others and be yourself are some gems her mother gives.
This book encourages children to be themselves while being patient and working hard to achieve their goals. The relatability of the story is current and relevant which makes it a perfect book for teachers and educators who wish to promote self-approval and acceptance within the school system.
Often times, children may feel pressured to be like their peers.
This informative book helps parents answer some of the tough questions children ask, while reassuring them that they will always be ENOUGH. AGE: 4-10
JUST READ
JUST READ by Lori Degman is the ultimate celebration of Reading.
Anyone can read. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you are…JUST READ.
Even if you are reading alone, the characters come alive and you can escape to a world of endless magic and possibility just by opening a book.
Reading takes you to places without even leaving your home. Whether you’re in the park on a plane or driving cross-country… JUST READ
Reading gives you a sense of joy and excitement and it is all celebrated in this book.
JUST READ is extremely inviting with vibrant and excitingly elaborate illustrations by Tentler-Krylov that is guaranteed to be a favorite for children. AGE: 2-6
LUBNA AND PEBBLE
LUBNA AND PEBBLE by Wendy Meddou is the story of a little girl who arrives at a refugee camp with her dad and finds a pebble. It becomes her best friend and is always there to comfort her, listens to her and makes her feel brave when she is scared.
However, Lubna is faced with a difficult but noble decision, when she decides to give her pebble to a little boy who needs it more than she does.
Lubna and Pebble is a story of friendship and best of all…Imagination. The illustrations by Daniel Egnéus are warm and comforting, which help to convey a powerful message of hope and love. AGE: 4-8
HOW TO READ A BOOK
Kwame Alexander’s HOW TO READ A BOOK celebrates the joy of reading and the sensory satisfaction books can bring.
TOMORROW MOST LIKELY
TOMORROW MOST LIKELY by Dave Eggers takes a twist on the traditional bedtime story and creates a more modern, innovative story that is hopeful and inspirational.
It features a little boy being tucked into bed, but instead of recapping what happened during the day, he imagines all the things that could happen the next day.
His cereal most likely will be brown and most likely there’ll be a door that could most likely lead to a world of endless possibilities. I love it when Illustrators make you think, examine and explore every page. Each tiny, yet important detail they draw, create discussions and interaction between readers and Lane Smith does exactly that.
The illustrations are vibrant and intricate. The buildings are colorful and the page transitions are absolutely phenomenal.
TOMORROW MOST LIKELY, gives readers hope to embrace a new day and make it their own. It’s full of imagination and wonder that children will absolutely love.
Blow a kazoo, jump rope with your friends in the park, listen to sounds through the window of a car that’s driving by, touch a snail or name a squirrel Stu. Whatever you do, make tomorrow amazing. This is definitely one that will be added to our fave bedtime book collection. AGE: 4-8
PIPETTE KIDS SCIENCE
Having a degree in Biology made me super excited to receive PIPETTE KIDS SCIENCE coloring and activity book by Charlotte Anthony. I lovedddd coloring books as a child and this would have been perfect for me growing up.
It features best friends Poly and Taq who attends the same school and love science. They are to write a report on their favorite scientist or inventor so their teacher Ms. Salinas helped. She introduced them to a virtual reality headset that allows them to meet scientists from the past and learn about different scientific inventions.
This book isn’t just a coloring and activity book, it’s filled with tons of information and history that your little scientist would love to learn about. It is extremely interactive and also provides an in-depth look at the human body, from DNA to vital organs.
ANIMAL DADS
ANIMAL DADS by Ami Dobelle is such a fun book to read and will definitely be a great addition to our Best Daddy Books on the blog.
It’s filled with information about some male animals who take the lead in reproducing and raising their young ones.
Did you know that Darwin Frog dads store their eggs in their mouth until they are ready to hatch? Super cool, right?
This book allows children to explore their curiosity and learn about these unique animals.
Dedicated to her dad and coupled with vibrant and colorful illustrations, Animal Dads is perfect for little animal lovers and amazing Fathers who go above and beyond for their children. Thank you for writing this wonderful dedication to your father and sharing it with us. AGE: 2-8
PLANTING STORIES
PLANTING STORIES The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré by Anita Aldamuy Denise is the ultimate celebration of such an iconic woman in Hispanic History.
Pura Belpré was a storyteller, puppeteer and the first Puerto Rican Librarian in New York Public Library. During her time as a bilingual assistant she campaigned for bilingual literature and today her legacy still lives on.
This book is absolutely amazing and the vivid and vibrant illustrations by Paola Escobar captures the true essence of this wonderful biography that children will absolutely love.
PLANTING STORIES is for everyone; storytellers, educators and especially librarians. Pura Belpré planted a seed as an immigrant in a new country and it blossomed and still inspires many today. This book is full of hope and life and makes a perfect addition to any home. AGE: 4-8
THE PIGEON HAS to go TO SCHOOL
In Mo Willems, THE PIGEON HAS TO GO TO SCHOOL, Pigeon is at it again, but this time our favorite pigeon HAS to go to school.
In true “pigeon fashion”, he completely freaks out because he does not know what to expect. Is he going to like school? What if he LEARNS too much? Reading can be hard with one eye. What if the teacher doesn’t like pigeons? WHAT WILL HAPPEN AT SCHOOL?
Like most children, Pigeon is scared because he just does not know what will happen. He soon finds hope in knowing how much fun he will have and how much he’ll learn. What makes it even better, he finally gets to have one of his dreams come through.
If you don’t have this book, GET IT NOW. AGE: 2-8
SULWE
In Academy Award Winner Lupita Nyongo’s debut children’s book called SULWE, she provides a memoir of her childhood and her experiences dealing with colorism.
In this powerful book, Sulwe has a darker complexion than everyone in her family and some kids at her school. Her sister has caramel skin and is called names like Sunshine and Beauty. Whereas, Sulwe is called names like Blackie, Darky and Night. This made Sulwe very sad because she felt secluded and alone.
Sulwe is one of those children’s books that every home should have, whether you’ve experienced colorism. What we love most about this book, is that it makes it easier to speak to children about issues such as these. Children learn from what they hear and see and having a relatable story when explaining self-love and acceptance is necessary, especially when dealing with colorism.
Apart from the breathtaking illustrations by renowned illustrator Vashti Harrison, Sulwe encourages children to love themselves and to be happy in their own skin. AGE: 4-12
MY HEART
I am OBSESSED with Corinna Luyken’s new book MY HEART.
Your heart should always be protected, but it can also be open and kind and free. Most importantly, your heart is YOURS, so you get to decide what you want of it.
Every single page of this book is full of marvelous charcoal-like illustrations of black, gray and yellow hearts. There are so many details in this book that children will just love it as they learn to trust and own their hearts. I’ll post more pages in my stories. I’m obsessed. AGE: 3-8
DEAR BOY
The Rosenthals have become some of my favorite children’s book authors. In DEAR BOY, Paris Rosenthal teams with her dad Jason Rosenthal to deliver a wonderful celebration of all boys. The book is a Letter to all boys reassuring them of how special they truly are. It is extremely empowering and inspirational and encourages boys to be strong and kind and creative.
It’s undeniably a book every parent should read to their children, especially boys. The words are very encouraging and promotes self-love and acceptance. Boys will be boys, but they can also be whatever they want to be.
Dear Boy, you are unique and handsome and you are you.
The illustrations by Holly Hatam are always creative, colorful and fun. Such a wonderful author-illustrator trio. AGE: 4-8
POETREE
POETREE by Shauna LaVoy Reynolds, celebrates a beautiful and unlikely friendship between a girl named Sylvia, a boy named Walt and a birch tree.
To celebrate winter’s end, Sylvia writes a poem and sticks it to a birch tree in hopes she’ll receive a reply. To her delight… she did. At school the next day, she daydreamed about her new poetree friend and couldn’t wait to get home to see what the tree had tucked in its bark for her. Meanwhile, Walt has developed the same friendship with the tree and thinks the poems he receives are also from the tree. Soon enough, they both realize they were replying to each other. “Any friend to the tree is a friend to me,” said Sylvia and so began the unlikely friendship brought together by a birch tree in the park.
POETREE is such a wonderful story that children can read over and over.
The beautiful watercolor illustrations by Shahrzad Maydani are truly breathtaking and whimsical.
We loved how the book builds to a wonderful and inspiring end, but also the beginning of something beautiful. It can also be a great activity for children to express themselves and explore their creativity and curiosity. After reading this book, leave a nice note in a tree. It’s not considered littering if it makes the world more splendid.
This book is perfect for little poets and storytellers. AGE: 4-8
HERE and NOW
Windows is one of my favorite books… ever. I’ve bought it for so many people, and they love it. When I heard that this magnificent duo was creating another book, I knew it would be another huge favorite.
HERE AND NOW by Julia Denos is absolutely beautiful. It teaches you to be “in the moment” and to accept the mindfulness of your surroundings. Life can sometimes get away from us so it is great to slow down and celebrate what NOW has to offer. Ideas bloom and you BECOME. The illustrations by E.B. Goodale is absolutely amazing and captures the essence of the entire book. AGE 4-8
OGILVY
OGILVY by Debra Underwood is such a sweet story of accepting change and self-acceptance. Ogilvy is a bunny who moved to a new town. He is super excited to meet new friends and play games, however, the bunnies with dresses, knit socks and play ball and the bunnies in sweaters make art and climb rocks.
Ogilvy wants to do all those things so on days he wants to play ball, he tells his friends he’s wearing a dress and on days he wants to make art and climb rocks; he tells his friends he’s wearing a sweater.
This went on for some time until Ogilvy had enough. He realized he didn’t have to pretend that his sweater was a dress or his dress was a sweater so he can play certain games because his clothes did not define who he wanted to be. This inspired the other bunnies to break their own rules and be original. This book sends a great message to children about acceptance and self-awareness. You don’t have to change who you are to fit in. BE YOU and the world will open up to you. The illustrations by T. L. McBeth are witty yet cute and vibrant. AGE 3-6
THE KING of KINDERGARTEN
THE KING OF KINDERGARTEN by Derrick Barnes is a book every parent should read to their little ones, whether they’re entering kindergarten or not.
It features a little boy who wakes up beaming because it’s the first day of kindergarten. His parents encourage him throughout the morning with love and positive affirmations that he carries with him through the day. He is eager to play, laugh and learn with his friends and that makes him happy. He sees and knows his self-worth and spreads the joy and happiness within him with his friends.
Beaming with bright, majestic illustrations by our favorite Vanessa Brantley-Newton, THE KING OF KINDERGARTEN is loaded with metaphors that help to convey this powerful message. We know children absorb EVERYTHING around them, so surrounding them with love and positivity will help to foster self-worth and self-love that all children need. This book is an awesome representation for black families yet is welcomed and loved in every home. AGE: 3-6
SILLY WILLY APPLE CAKE
SILLY WILLY APPLE CAKE by Amelia Griggs is a fun new release that is both heartwarming and delicious.
Summer is here and it’s apple picking season. This book features a cute little girl named Bella and her mom Mia who decided to make an apple cake after their visit to an apple farm. The mother-daughter bonding is so adorable as they prepare the apples for baking. Mama gets flour in her hair and Bella gets batter on her shoe, but it’s fun and silly, and they don’t mind one bit. As the apple cake bakes, they play silly, interactive rhyming games. “I love you… snicker dee do!” “Can’t wait to eat… sugarplum sweet!” Children get to explore their creativity in the kitchen as they learn to follow instructions and this gives them a sense of responsibility. These fun bonding activities can help to improve organizational skills, and they give children a sense of achievement when the task is actually finished.
As they sat together eating their finished apple cake, they enjoy the time spent together, creating wonderful, long-lasting memories. SILLY WILLY APPLE CAKE is the first of a series of yummy books to come, and features the recipe at the back. AGE: 2-6
GOODBYE, FRIEND! HELLO, FRIEND!
GOODBYE, FRIEND! HELLO, FRIEND by Cori Doerrfeld is so adorable. It features a little girl saying goodbye to her mom as she heads off to school and saying hello to a new friend.
As their friendship begins, they experience all of life’s transitions together. They encourage and uplift each other; from watching the game on the sideline to later joining in on the game and from trying again when they feel like giving up. Goodbyes can be hard, especially for children, but GOODBYE FRIEND, HELLO FRIEND is a perfect book to assist with those transitions. It celebrates friendship and love and hope.
Cori Doerrfeld is such a brilliant illustrator and they come alive vividly and vibrantly. Every goodbye leads to a hello, every Loss leads to a Gain so there’s always the reassurance of hope. AGE: 4-8
WE TOOT!
For International Day of the Girl Child, we celebrated with this beautiful gem called WE TOOT! by Ashley Wheelock and Arwen Evans. Have you ever let one rip, then feel bad about it? Since it’s a normal human action, why do we feel bad, especially as girls?
WE TOOT is a wonderful book that encourages confidence in girls, especially dealing with issues that may seem traditionally “unladylike.”
It features a group of girls are at a slumber party and one of them FARTS. She feels embarrassed and so does the other girls, but they are soon reassured by a friend it’s only natural to Fart because it’s how our body works.I love every single thing about this book. It’s all about accepting and promoting body positivity and allows girls to be their natural selves without feeling embarrassed of who they are and what their body does.
Every home should have this book, especially parents raising girls. It is fun to read and sends a powerful message.The illustrations by Sandie Sonke are so delightful, bright and vibrant that every child will love. Farting or burping and even spitting don’t make you improper or less of a girl. AGE: 4-8
PIRATES don't go to KINDERGARTEN
Ahoy Me Hearties, grownups aren’t the only ones who have a difficult time dealing with change. In Lisa Robinson, PIRATES DON’T GO TO KINDERGARTEN, Emma is NOT happy at all so it’s an all-out mutiny full of tantrums, peg leg thumping and sand throwing. She also isn’t too keen on meeting her new teacher Ms. Hayes, but she sure is curious to enter the rocket ships at Planet Kindergarten after seeing all the fun things they do, including caring for a guinea pig she renames Beastly Betty. After some coaxing and encouraging, a truce is made and Emma is finally ready to take the journey to her new class.
This book is great for helping children through those early educational transitions, especially first day jitters and dealing with the addition of someone new in their lives. They should know that it’s okay to be upset, but it is also okay to meet new people and make new friends. Change may not be easy, but embracing it and making it your own can be fun.
The captivating illustrations by Eda Kaban are witty and imaginative and are guaranteed to hold a child’s attention. What I love most is how it’s metaphorically motivating and encouraging. Cap’n Chu, who might be her mom (since Emma has a picture of her in her room) and Ms. Hayes are an absolute delight. AGE 4-6
TINY T.REX and the IMPOSSIBLE HUG
TINY T. REX and the IMPOSSIBLE HUG by Jonathan Stutzman is an adorable book about friendship and support. Tiny T-Rex meets his friend Pointy, who is feeling sad. He wanted to cheer him up by giving him a hug, but his tiny T-Rex arms were too small. He wants to comfort his friend, so what does he do? Maybe he can ask his family for help. When math, balance and even freshly squeezed cucumber juice fails, he is even more determined to cheer him up.
He learns that it’s ok to not be able to hug his entire body but use his tiny arms to hug his friend’s head and that was all his friend needed.
It’s such a sweet and funny story that also sends a message about friendship, persistence, and determination. The illustrations by Jay Fleck are always bright and fun.
AGE 2-6
YOU'RE MISSING IT!
If you own YOU’RE MISSING IT by Brady Smith and Tiffani Thiessen you would know that my pics are completely unfiltered.
The illustrations by Brady Smith are absolutely vibrant and breathtaking. I love how colorful this book is.
The book centers on a busy city park and features a little boy and his dad who’s supposed to be playing but is busy on his phone. This book has so many details and though there are a lot of funny moments, there are moments that make you realize that bad things can happen in a split second.
You’re Missing It, brings awareness to how work and everyday tasks can rob us of experiences with our children. We all have to work and provide for our children’s future, but it is also important to not just be around them, but be wholeheartedly present. AGE: 2-6
BIG BOYS CRY
BIG BOYS CRY by Jonty Howley is such a universal and reassuring book. It’s Levi’s first day of school, and it scared him. To encourage him, his father told him that “big boys don’t cry.” On the way to school, he noticed a fisherman crying. Though puzzled, he reassured himself that big boys don’t cry.
As he walked along, he then saw rich men, poor men, old, young and both big and small men crying everywhere. When he got to school, it wasn’t so scary but when he got back home, he realized his own father had been crying because he was scared. He reassured his father that big boys DO cry, and it was okay. We often think boys and men are not allowed to be vulnerable or express emotions. They are not supposed to cry, and that’s far from the truth. It’s okay to express emotions without feeling bad. The story is set along the ocean so the illustrations are oceanic and rustic and absolutely magnificent. AGE 3-6
NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE
NOT QUITE SNOW WHITE by Ashley Franklin is an inspirational book about self-confidence and self-acceptance.
It features a spirited young girl named Tameika who loves singing and dancing and performing.
Tameika was super excited to audition for her school play, Snow White, but after hearing from the other children that she didn’t “look” like Snow White, she felt very discouraged.
She was too tall, too chubby and too brown. How could a girl with brown skin play Snow White? This made her sad and full of doubt, but with reassurance from her parents, she knew she was just enough for the role. Especially if she believed in herself and is confident enough to make the role her own.
Each child’s differences make them unique and even if they may not be confident enough to do what they love, it’s good to have supportive parents, friends, and books like this one to encourage and motivate them to still strive to be themselves and have fun. Ebony Glenn is no stranger to breathtaking and vibrant illustrations and this book is another precious gem because of it. AGE 4-8
LINUS
There are so many great books this year and they keep getting better. We love books about art so LINUS, THE LITTLE YELLOW PENCIL by Scott Magoon instantly became a favorite of ours. Linus and his family have an art contest coming up and Ernie, Linus’s eraser, isn’t hopeful that they’ll win. Brush, Pen, and Crayon already had some amazing artwork, however, Ernie was unsatisfied with every single mark Linus made and decided to erase them all.
This made Linus doubtful, and he ultimately felt like quitting. This brought Linus to a very “dark place” and in the midst of his dark gloominess, he met a Smudge who encouraged him to keep going. Now inspired, Linus drew and drew. His newfound creativity inspired Ernie to help and together they created the most wonderful artwork that had the most heart throughout the whole show. This entire book is a canvas. From the textures on the front cover to the sharp details of the illustrations at the back. The illustrations feature every type of art; abstract watercolors and even crayons. It’s like an art studio burst into a book and we absolutely loved every page. Scott Magoon’s many puns and metaphors are absolutely creative and funny. I strongly believe that Art is an expression of yourself, so there is always hope when you remain focused on who you are.
In the midst of the darkness, you can also gain inspiration and find creativity. It is also extremely important to encourage children to be the best they can be without being influenced by negativity around them. LINUS, The Little Yellow Pencil, inspires everyone to keep going and to trust their creative process. Not just as artists, but as human beings. AGE: 4-8
SATURDAY
In SATURDAY by Oge Mora, Ava’s mom works all week, so Saturdays are the day she gets to spend the most time with her.
They plan to visit the library for storytime, then picnic at the park, salon time and later a puppet show at the theater. Ava couldn’t wait, but things don’t always go as planned. The library storytime was canceled, but they had a wonderful time at the salon, only to have their hairdo ruined by water from a passing car.
Determined to give Ava the best Saturday, they head to the park, but it was too loud, and she had forgotten the theater ticket, so there would be no puppet show either. Her mom was dismayed, thinking she ruined their Saturday. Finally, Ava reassured her that the day may have been ruined, but at least she got to spend it with her.
SATURDAY is a marvelous book about love and family and a special mother-daughter bond that can never be broken. The illustrations are extremely vibrant bright and guaranteed to be a favorite for working parents and single parents as well. AGE 4-8
THE LOVE LETTER
THE LOVE LETTER by Anika Aldamuy Denise is one of my favorite winter books and it’s perfect for Valentine’s Day.
The book features three friends, Hedgehog, Bunny, and Squirrel.
Hedgehog finds a love letter that changed his mood because he now believes he has a secret admirer. The letter falls out of his backpack while walking his friend Bunny home. Bunny finds the letter and thinks Hedgehog wrote it to her. Feeling loved, she is super happy and helpful at home and later brings some acorns to her friend Squirrel. She also drops the love letter and squirrels picks it up and is now sure that Bunny loves him. After reading his letter, he is more carefree and has more fun at home.
The next day they all met to talk about the letter and a brawl between them ensues since they all feel the letter belongs to them. However, it belonged to a lonely little mouse who wrote the letter to the moon. This book keeps you engaged and encourages children to express their feelings. It teaches that circumstances can create wonderful outcomes of love and friendship. AGE 4-8
HEY, WATER!
HEY, WATER by Antoinette Portis is our Earth Day pic. This new release allows children to understand the Water Cycle and how water is an essential part of this earth.
About 70% of the Earth is made of water and in this book the author portrays our relationship with water.
The book celebrates its many forms. Whether it’s as snow, or ice or even as an iceberg. It’s in garden hoses, oceans and beaches. Water might be tricky but we know it’s around us.
I absolutely love this book for parents and educators who want to teach children about water conservation, the water cycle and states of matter. The illustrations are absolutely amazing too. Perfect for little scientists. AGE: 4-8
THE NIGHT IS YOURS
THE NIGHT IS YOURS by Abdul-Razak Zachariah is another one of our favorites for the year. It features a little girl named Amani who sets out to play with her friends before bedtime. As they jump rope and play double dutch, the light and people from the building’s apartments breathe rhythm and life into the night. They play hide-and-seek and Amani is “it” and with the help of the moonlight, she finds her friends.
This wonderful story is told by her father who looks out the window as she plays and exalts his daughter.
THE NIGHT IS YOURS is about strength and family and a community that unites to protect their children.
With illustrations by Keturah A. Bobo this book is fun and playful with vibrant colors of the night. AGE 3-8
I AM LOVE
I AM LOVE by Susan Verde is as the title says. It’s all about Love and compassion. What can you do to let love in? Simple acts of tenderness and kindness such as being present without even saying a thing… love is comfort. Love is light and understanding. This book is positive and universal. The world needs love, and this book teaches children that Love is love. Love is connections, I am love… You are love… We are love. Marvelous illustrations by Peter H. Reynolds always make this powerful duo even more amazing. AGE 2-8
SOUL PRETTY
SOUL PRETTY by Linda Giacomino is such a beautiful book that every home should have. We love motivational books and this new release did not disappoint.
It features a cheerful girl leaving her home for a bike ride through her neighborhood.
She can follow a path that leads to DOUBT, SORROW or DISLIKE, but she takes the path full of LOVE, HAPPINESS and HOPE.
Each page in this book describes some life virtues that not only children can apply to their daily affirmations but also adults.
SOUL PRETTY is extremely empowering and informative and Paula Romani’s vibrant and splendid illustrations help to make this inspirational book a dream to read. AGE: 4-8
A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood
If you’re a fan of Mr. Rogers or even Daniel Tiger, then this book is definitely one to get.
A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD is such a sweet book that we will treasure forever. It contains the poems and songs of the legendary tv host, musician, and puppeteer Mr. Fred Rogers.
Every heartfelt poem and song takes you back to those magical and memorable moments on the show that helped millions of adults and children around the world.
He helped to transform lives through imagination and creativity while promoting inclusivity and self-acceptance. Coupled with warm and vibrant illustrations by Luke Flowers, this book is a total gem that everyone should cherish. AGE: 4-10
THE BOOK HOG
Greg Pizzoli’s, THE BOOK HOG, is one of the best picture books of the year so far. It features an adorable pig who loves books and collected them wherever he went. The pig had so many books, however he couldn’t read any of them.
One day he ventured into a library and met the Librarian, Ms. Olive and everything changed. She taught him how to read and his love for books grew stronger.
I’m obsessed with this book for so many reasons. Among them being the bright coral and green and black illustrations.
The Book Hog also showcases how awesome libraries and Librarians are and as we celebrate National Library Week, we thank all the Librarians and library workers who make libraries fun and engaging. AGE: 4-8
WHO DO I SEE IN THE MIRROR?
We love books about self-love and Vese Aghoghovbia Aladewolu’s, WHO DO I SEE IN THE MIRROR is perfect for all children, especially young, Black girls and boys.
It features a cute little girl, appreciating everything about herself.
From her thick curls to her soft brown skin, she loves herself and celebrates everything that makes her special. Children will love how relatable, empowering and inspirational this book truly is. The illustrations by Irene Omiunu are so vivid and vibrant, it looks like a photo album. AGE: 4-8
SUN
SUN by Alison Oliver is such an inspirational book children will just love.
It features a boy named Sun who is great at soccer but realizes how much he used to love art when he sees his little brother painting in his room. Determined to rediscover his artistic creativity, he encounters a fox while on a walk on the beach and his artistic spirit awakens when they create art from items they find.
As adults, we sometimes do things we are great at, but don’t necessarily make us happy and it’s the same with children. We should encourage them to discover what makes them happy. The fox enlightens Sun to create art again. The trash became a treasure he later uses to create art with his brother. We all have that inner “animal” hidden, and it sometimes takes a spark of inspiration to bring it out.
SUN is an absolutely amazing book. The bright and vibrant illustrations are sure to enlighten little readers and awaken creativity. I loved that the book begins with “Sun was a star,” because it sure is and so is this book. AGE: 4-8
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