Staff Suggestions — Picture Books
This is the beautiful story of an unlikely friendship that bestows an important message: the choices you make and actions you take make you who you are, not your looks, beliefs, or stereotypes. The soft, natural illustrations from the Fan Brothers bring this tender story to life. It is a perfect book to celebrate the fulfillment of friendship while demonstrating the cyclical rhythm to nature and life.
— Tonya
I love the illustrations for this quirky counting tea party! Charming rhymes, with scones and truffles, make this my new favorite Halloween book.
— Jamie
Jessica Sima’s Spencer’s New Pet is exceptional! I love the irony it introduces to the reader, likely to be a bit magical and mind blowing, like any great book should be! The simplicity of this story, in mostly black and white illustrations without words, is crafted masterfully to assume the most from its little and big readers - and pushes them to think outside the box about story and perhaps even life! My favorite picture book of the year!
— Tonya
A clever combo of magic and science! Can Esther use her love of facts and data to solve a problem and make her fellow fairies believe in science, too?
— Becky
The future is uncertain and it can be a scary and unpredictable concept for many children. Hau and Volk have created a space and characters that emulate bravery and courage. I cannot recommend this book enough. This is for everyone who has ever felt anxious about the unknown and had the strength to venture into it.
— Lindsay A.
A sophisticated story with sparse text and deep meaning. A strong girl character, the Ranger, and gorgeous illustrations give this story the feel of an ancient legend. A very different and special picture book!
— Jamie
Told with beautiful simplicity and effortless rhyme, a flock comes together, one starling at a time, making a new whole. This is a counting book that reads like a classic bedtime story.
— Laura
A sentence you'll never hear again: I want to be a turtle named Truman! Bravery can come in all shapes, sizes, ... or species! An important tool for any parent or classroom teaching courage.
— Lindsay A.
Meet Amani, brought to beautiful life by Zachariah's text - imbued with fatherly love - and Bobo's gorgeous illustrations! Watch Amani in full bloom under the night moon as she plays hide and seek with her friends in the warm glow of community. The night thanks Amani for her brightness. We thank Zachariah for this sparkling debut and serious source of self-love and local pride! It belongs in every house and hand.
— Lauren
Everyone has a passion, and this little one happens to have a passion for math. She'll help you see its magic and inspire you to find and follow your own interests, even if - especially if - they're different than your friends' and family's! A sweet story with lovely line drawings, a unique and warm palette, and great, informative, math-y fun back matter...
— Lauren
Claris is back, and as exceptionally charming and stylish as ever!! Launched into a Fashion Week adventure in Paris, she shows us what it means to appreciate the important things: fun journeys, good friends, and the beauty of an incredible city (and its top fashion!). An absolute delight from start to finish!
— Kelly
Renowned author Ann Patchett teams up with the illustrator of the Fancy Nancy books for this charming story about three lambs. When they mistakenly overhear “lambslide” they are determined to create one at their farm. A gentle story on how to accomplish a big dream while considering the impact on those around them.
— Jamie
Abner and Ian need you help getting right side up! Eggers and Park have created a clever and hysterical duo to read about. My new favorite book to shake, turn, and move!
— Lindsay A.
Follow a well-loved stroller as it moves from family to family, sharing their adventures, in a story that reminds us that giving to is often easier that giving up the things we outgrow.
— Laura
This is a book I NEEDED as a child. I have never identified so much with a character as I have with Edie. She shows you that being yourself can sometimes lead to uncomfortable or overwhelming feelings and that's okay!
— Lindsay A.
Wait a minute... am I really a marshmallow or are marshmallows just like you and me?! Well, either way, if you didn’t already LOVE fluffy, sweet marshmallows you will after reading this fun, sweet, delightfully illustrated story!
— Tonya
Ever wonder what the next day will bring? Well, Dave Eggers does, too, and he shares his optimistic imaginings in this sweet selection. Follow a little adventurer who travels through the watercolor world around him, interacting with the magical, musical, and mundane. Perfect for teaching prediction, calming anxiety about what's to come, setting intentions for a good tomorrow,, and remembering that the most important ingredient to a great day is... YOU!
— Lauren
Kwame Alexander's lyrical poem about the grace, strength, and excellence of Black Americans is matched in beauty by Kadir Nelson's illustrations. An inspirational text for any reader, and a lovely, educational pick for poetry month, too!
— Lauren
Making friends can be scary and hard; this book helps. Rasmus and Rosie's friendship is one of encouragement and loyalty. This does a beautiful job of showing that sometimes taking a risk can produce magical things.
— Lindsay
What a sweet, lively story that encourages using your imagination, creative play, and going on an adventure right in your room! I love it!
— Susan
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