Staff Suggestions — Picture Books
A beautifully illustrated book featuring the story of Mary Edwards Walker- one of the first women known to wear pants, who was repeatedly arrested for that choice! A well-told tale of progress and choice.
— Kelly
Lola Dutch is back, and her ideas have gotten no smaller since the last time we saw her! Thinking about what she might want to be when she grows up, Lola and her friends spare no effort in exploring the many varied options that strike her fancy. As Lola works and grows, she decides what she really wants is to be a kid, and learn about everything- and there's always tomorrow, when she may decide to try something else entirely. Filled with as much curiosity and charm as the first book!
— Kelly
Like The Little Red Hen and Stone Soup, this story about sharing a big pot of delicious stew reads like a classic. Warm mixed-media illustrations match the tone of the story beautifully.
— Laura
A lovely story that acknowledges mortality but focuses of the love between a child and a great grandmother, and the beauty of simple gifts.
— Laura
Everyone has their place in the sea, but Pearl just can't seem to find hers, until her mother gives her a single piece of sand to watch over. Find out how Pearl handles her situation in this beautifull illustrated story.
— Bella
Mia loves having a room all to herself. When her baby brother is born, sharing a room is fun . . . until he starts making a MESS. After moving out, Mia discovers all kinds of places to live. But there's one thing missing . . . Read to discover Mia's PERFECT place to live!
— Nicole
Gabby Wild and Grandma(?) aren’t ready for bed, so they go to Never Sleep City, but someone lets out the
yaaaaaaAAAAAAAWWWWWWWWWWwwnnnn!
Now the town, the reader, and I cannot stay awake. So do your best to seal your lips, grit your teeth and…
Stop…
that…
— Matt
This charming and beautifully illustrated book features two very close but very different sisters who are facing a fierce adversary. On the day they are born, a fierce dragon takes up residence in their village, and it becomes clear over the years that their greatest hope in vanquishing him will be to rely on the combination of their unique strengths. A wonderful story about embracing differences, working together, and supporting your siblings.
— Kelly
Everyone told Ibb to stay away from the castle! There might be: Giants,Snakes, Monsters! But I love that Ibb is brave and curious and that leads her to many beautiful discoveries at the castle including friendship and understanding. Now, don't you want to know what else she finds? There are many universal themes in this story that make it the perfect read aloud in the classroom and at home.
— Susan
I love books that take me on a trip around the world, and this one does just that, while also sharing great information on international ports AND gorgeous illustrations. Anyone with a budding interest in transportation or culture will love this charming and enlightening book!
— Kelly
As someone who believes strongly in the magical power of a fantastic pair of shoes, this book could not have delighted me more! Juno Valentine finds herself in the shoes- literally- of some remarkable women from history, and gets to experience the adventure of each of their lives. A charming book with a great message about adding a little magic to you own life.
— Kelly
Why settle for a simple snow day when you could recreate Shavkleton’s epic adventure? Creative illustrations and informative author notes invite the reader to join the expedition!
— Laura
Told with dream-like illogic, here is one more story drawn by the incomparable Maurice Sendak, written with his friend, Arthur Yorinks. This is a must for any complete Sendak Collection.
— Laura
A girl after my own heart! And with so many delicious foods to choose from how can one decide? Follow Hannah and McDougal as they create a masterpiece alphabet sandwich missing only the piece de resistance. You’ll have to read it to the end to see what happens!
— Terri
This book made me feel. I am happy I picked it up, as it helped remind me I have a lot to be grateful for. "Thank You" isn't just for being polite. It's for waking up in the morning and for the people around you. Marvelous.
— Lindsay
A thinker and a doer! Maxine is incredibly inventive. She is preparing to take her goldfish Milton to the pet parade by creating a portable fish tank. Perfect for sparking creativity in young ones! Match it with Crafty Llama by Mike Kerr for an artsy storytime!
— Lindsay
Imagine my delight when one of my favorite illustrators took on my favorite setting- a city! As you turn the gorgeous, oversized pages you'll feel as though you're immersed in the charming city depicted, filled with many of the people, places, and things you'd encounter in the many great cities of the world!
— Kelly
Brilliant, Illuminating, Inspiring! The story of the first woman filmmaker, Alice Guy-Blaché, is extraordinary. During a time where moving pictures were a new spectacle, this woman had the courage and determination to insert herself into the male dominated business and tell the stories she wanted to. The book even incorporates a silent film style of introducing new chapters of her life! A role model for all young women.
— Lindsay
WOWEE! Something is emitting a stinky odor in Elliot's house! You can almost smell it through the book! Funny and goofy, join Elliot on his quest to conquer the foul smell.
— Lindsay
Sometimes, what we worry about isn’t as big a problem as what is going on right around us! Words and pictures work together, adding up to a story with depth(s).
— Laura
Sleepy Mr. Snore wants a room that is just right (and also empty). Colorful, detailed pictures and perfect page turns give the reader plenty of opportunities to join in!
— Laura
Making friends can be a difficult thing to do. A girl makes up a story about her new neighbor, Zola, and why she doesn't need a new friend... Zola has an elephant! Or, so she thinks. A book that celebrates friendship and imagination. Fabulous, fabulous book!
— Lindsay
When friends work together, not even a raging snow storm can keep them apart. Beautiful illustrations perfectly match the warm humor of this charming story about friendship, trust and perseverance.
— Laura
Simple, clever, funny words and pictures will have you cheering for this escape artist of an invertebrate who just won’t stay put at night.
— Laura
The story of a new life for a mother and her child as they settle in a world so different from home. The imaginative, textured illustrations are the perfect backdrop for this special story of belonging and finding your voice in a land of a different language and culture.
— Tonya
Featured Merch
RJ Julia "Peace Love Books" Apron
Get cooking in our RJ Julia Apron! Peace Love Books logo and RJ Julia logo on front
Elephant & Piggie Plush Toys
This popular pair has the softest light blue-gray and pink chenille bean-filled bodies and is embroidered with expressive details. Elephant wears...
R.J. Julia Illustrated Tote Bag
High quality canvas tote bag ideal for school, work, grocery shopping, or going to the beach with your favorite book.
2019 R.J. JULIA BOOKSELLERS
DESIGN BY JULIA BALFOUR, LLC