Tag: picture books

Winter Picture Books

- Stephanie Leave a comment

When the weather turns chilly, I turn to winter picture books. Curling up with these titles transports me to a world transformed by snow while also saving me from bundling up to actually be in the snow! These cozy books talk about different traditions and stories from all over the world, while also discussing the wider theme of winter. Below you will find a list of comforting winter picture books that will hopefully give you some warm fuzzies as the cold weather approaches!

As of this writing, all of these titles are owned by the Davenport Public Library. Descriptions are provided by the publishers.

Alice in a Winter Wonderland written and illustrated by Jan Brett

A striking rendition of Alice in Wonderland transported to a shimmering Alaskan tundra, in Jan Brett’s rich signature style.

When Alice spies a white rabbit checking his pocket watch before hippity-hopping down a crevasse in an Alaskan glacier, she knows she must follow him. And so she pops down the rabbit hole, into a world of absurd personalities, topsy-turvy action, and laugh-out-loud silliness. Favorite characters like Cheshire Cat and the Duchess and King and Queen come to life as vibrant animals native to Alaska making this classic tale shine through a fresh lens, certain to appeal to readers of all ages. – G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers

Counting Winter written by Nancy White Carlstrom, illustrated by Claudia McGehee

Inspired by the author’s years in Alaska, this lyrical, beautifully illustrated counting book celebrates the rhythms of the tundra and its inhabitants.

​One red fox walks across the white snow—quietly stalking winter. Two ravens croak and gurgle—raucously talking winter. Three snowshoe hares hop on big paws—silently tracking winter. Wherever you look, another creature is making its mark on the snow-covered season.

Author Nancy White Carlstrom used her years living in Alaska to inspire lyrical text celebrating the rhythms of the tundra and its inhabitants. Claudia McGehee’s stunning scratchboard art brings the winter season alive. For reading on chilly days—whether winter is just beginning or just starting to melt into spring. – Eardmans Books for Young Readers

A Cozy Winter Day written and illustrated by Eliza Wheeler

New York Times bestselling author-illustrator Eliza Wheeler welcomes readers to Acorn Village, where a community of adorable forest animals celebrates all the wonder that winter offers.

The busy animals of Acorn Village love to spend winter days doing all sorts of cozy activities together, whether they’re indoors reading, baking, and doing art projects or outside playing in the snow. And at the end of the day, the coziest activities await—sharing songs, hot drinks, and stories in front of a crackling fireplace, and then snuggling into bed and drifting off into dreamy sleep. Eliza Wheeler’s charming illustrations give her story the feel of a beloved classic and are full of rich, cozy details sure to ignite imaginations and make readers want to visit Acorn Village again and again. – Nancy Paulsen Books

Duck, Duck, Goose! written and illustrated by John Hare

Duck, duck, goose! Moose? From acclaimed author-illustrator John Hare, this funny picture book follows two ducks, a goose, and their unexpected friend, Moose, on a surprising journey. For fans of Suzanne Lang’s Grumpy Monkey and Kelly Bingham and Paul O. Zelinsky’s Z Is for Moose.

Join Duck, Duck, and Goose as they soar through the skies, leaving the cold weather behind on their annual migration south. Will Goose and friends catch a ride on a caboose? Will Duck’s truck get stuck in the muck? And why is there a moose in this book? Wait, where did Moose go?

John Hare, the acclaimed author-artist of A Mouthful of Minnows, has crafted a hilarious picture book full of rhyming wordplay, exuberant illustrations, and friendship—and featuring a sly nod to seasonal migration. Duck, Duck, Goose! is an innovative, playful, and unpredictable picture book that begs to be read again and again, making it a wonderful choice for emergent readers as well as family and storytime sharing. – Greenwillow Books

Hiro, winter and marshmallows written and illustrated by Marine Schneider, translated by Vineet Lal

A dreamlike tale about a bear, a boy, and the conversation they share one snowy evening.

​Hiro is a bear too curious to sleep all winter long. So she packs her things, heads out of her cave, and follows some odd tracks in the snow…. straight into a bonfire party! Everyone runs away—except for Émile. He is a boy too curious to give up his chance to talk to a bear. “What it’s like, being a bear?” Émile asks Hiro. As bear and boy sit, talk, and roast marshmallows, a friendship sparks between them…

With wonderfully quirky narration and richly colored art, this enchanting book begs to be read aloud on cozy nights by the fire. Young readers will be delighted by Hiro and Émile’s winter world of crackling bonfires, bear songs, and ooey-gooey toasted marshmallows. – Eerdmans Books for Young Readers

In the Winter written and illustrated by Lauren Kukla

From the author of Being Me from A to Z comes the charming illustrated tale In the Winter. Travel through snowy woods, over frozen lakes, and beneath dark winter skies aglow with sparkling stars and northern lights. Animals make silent tracks in the snow, while others snooze in their burrows. Communities prepare for events and festivities. This delightful story celebrates the gentle beauty of winter, showing how it brings us together with a quiet sense of coziness and the warmth that comes from human connection.

In the Winter invites readers to embrace the season’s beauty while awaiting warmer days. With soft, cozy illustrations capturing the essence of winter, this book is the perfect companion for bedtime and cherished family moments. – North Star Editions

It’s Winter! written and illustrated by Renée Kurilla

There’s so much to love about winter! From snowball fights with friends to holidays spent with loved ones, cozy up with this celebration of a festive, favorite season from #1 New York Times bestselling artist Renée Kurilla.

Flurries flutter, soft and light. It’s winter, and our world is bright!

Pull out your warmest coat, mittens, and scarf! It’s time for sledding, skating, and snowmen! And don’t forget the hot chocolate, decorations, and special time with family and friends—it’s winter! From Hanukkah and Kwanzaa to Christmas and Valentine’s Day, get in the spirit of the season with this joyful rhyming follow-up to It’s Fall! from a New York Times bestselling creator. – Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

A Little Like Magic written and illustrated by Sarah Kurpiel

Winner of the Schneider Book Award and glistening with winter charm, this is an exhilarating, tender story of pushing past your comfort zone and finding inspiration in art and natural beauty.

Our young narrator doesn’t like itchy hats or cold wind, and she especially doesn’t like going places she’s never been before. But she reluctantly agrees to join her mom at an ice festival, where they watch sculptors chisel and drill until it’s too cold to watch anymore. That night the girl discovers that she has lost the horse figurine she’d brought with her, and she wishes she’d never gone . . . until the next night, when they return to the festival and see what the artists have created: sparkling, glorious sculptures that feel a little like magic. One surprise in particular seems even more magical to the girl. The ice art will stay with her long, long after it has melted away. – Rocky Pond Books

Ready for Winter written by Federico van Lunter, illustrated by Katya Longhi

Felix Fox is ready for winter.
He’s looking forward to a fun snow day!
But . . . not a single snowflake is falling.
That’s okay! Felix Fox’s friends remind him that
winter is beautiful, with or without snow. Just watch!

A cheerful and familiar book about the first snow.
For winter kids ages 3 years and up. – Clavis Publishing

Sally’s Snow Day written by Andrew Larsen, illustrated by Dawn Lo

Sally is going out in the snow!

It’s a winter’s day and Sally the dog is headed to the park! But first she has to put on some warm clothes: coat and boots. It’s not easy to zip up a pup, but finally she’s ready to sniff and snout her way through the snow. At the park she finds other pups to play with and sees people rolling snowballs to make snowdogs of all shapes and sizes! Sally sniffs them all before saying goodbye to her new friends and heading back home for a well-earned snooze. – Orca Book Publishers

Snow is… written by Laura Gehl, illustrated by Sonia Sánchez

From award-winning author Laura Gehl, a sparkling, lyrical picture book about the magic of an early snow.

It’s dawn and there is snow all around. The wonder of winter’s first snowfall brings the magic of changing seasons and sees a family sharing the perfect snow day with coziness and togetherness from dawn to dusk. – Simon & Schuster / Paula Wiseman Books

The Snow Thief written by Alice Hemming, illustrated by Nicola Slater

From New York Times bestselling author of The Leaf Thief comes the funny snowy companion picture book that teaches kids about winter, adapting to change, and the seasons.

Squirrel and Bird are back, and this time it’s winter! But squirrel has never seen snow before. Will he like it? You bet he will! Except, just as Squirrel starts to get used to the snow, it disappears. Is there a snow thief on the loose?

With vibrant art and captivating characters, the magic of winter is captured beautifully on each page as readers tag along Squirrel’s forest adventure. Is there truly a snow thief on the loose, or is something else going on in Squirrel’s forest? A perfect exploration of change—both seasonal, and the anxiety that change sometimes causes. Bonus material explaining about the changing of the seasons. Poised to be a new fall classic. – Sourcebooks Jabberwocky

So Cold! story by John Coy, illustrations by Chris Park

Embrace the cold with this engaging children’s book about a father and son who practice science experiments using household objects outside on a snowy day!

When the temperature drops far below freezing, many people plan to stay warm and cozy inside. But when it’s “so cold” that everyday things behave in unusual ways, it is worth the effort to get outside and play! In this vibrantly illustrated children’s story, a boy and his father dress in layer after layer before braving the cold, and the youngster declares: “Call me Freezeman!” Together the two experiment: What happens when boiling water is flung into the air? Or when maple syrup is poured on clean snow? The night before they left a banana outside: now it’s frozen solid. Can they can use it like a hammer? A helium balloon that floats inside the house changes dramatically in the freezing air. These and other discoveries await explorers bold enough to venture out on a bright and chilly day. Back inside at the end of the day, no wonder Freezeman declares: “so cold is so fun!” This playful narrative by John Coy celebrates curiosity and exploration, while Chris Park’s brilliant artwork illuminates a winter landscape that is anything but bleak. An author’s note explains the science behind the various experiments, leaving just one question: with all these amazing activities to undertake with your favorite adult when it’s “so cold,” why would anyone prefer to stay inside? – Minnesota Historical Society Press

Winter magic written by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Wendell Minor

A heartwarming, rhyming picture book that rejoices in the seasonal beauty of winter by the award-winning creative team behind The Great Zombie Pumpkin Parade.

Discover the magic of winter in this heartwarming read-aloud full of cozy charm and beautiful artwork. Best enjoyed with a mug of hot cocoa in hand, this seasonal celebration captures a beloved time of year—from making snow angels and gingerbread houses to sledding and ice-skating, to lighting the menorah and decorating with holiday wreaths and trees. It’s all inside this timeless gift book that brims with both seasonal and holiday cheer. Winter is special for all to experience and enjoy! – Christy Ottaviano Books

Winter Solstice Wish written by Kate Allen Fox, illustrated by Elisa Paganelli

On the shortest day of the year, people reach out for light–and one another–in this luminous, lyrical winter solstice story.

Today we stretch the daylight as much as we can, trying to make it last.

On the shortest day of the year, when daylight slips by like sand through one’s fingers, people savor the light. As night falls, a community gathers on a beach and builds a bonfire of hope. Winter Solstice Wish is an ode to the winter solstice, human connectedness, and the hope of renewal.

Inspired by winter solstice bonfires built on a San Diego beach near the author’s home, Winter Solstice Wish combines scientific concepts with the intangible longing for connection and togetherness that people all over the world reach for on the shortest day. Backmatter includes information about global winter solstice celebrations and a brief scientific explanation of what’s happening on a solstice. – Beaming Books

Help for Grieving Children

- Stephanie Leave a comment

If you are looking for ways to help explain death and grief to children, try these picture books published in 2024 and 2025. These are gentle approaches covering various living things in ways that people of all ages can understand.

As of this writing, all of these titles are available at the Davenport Public Library. The descriptions are provided by the publishers.

Bird is Dead by Tiny Fisscher, translated by Laura Watkinson, illustrated by Herma Starreveld

An honest and simple exploration of death and grief for kids 4 to 8. With playful illustrations by a therapist-turned-artist, Bird is Dead uses humor to make death a more approachable topic.

Bird is dead. Yesterday he was alive. How do the other birds know? On your back + feet up = dead. Some of the birds cry a little. And that’s alright. Crying together can be nice. When it’s time to give Bird a funeral, they reminisce about him, and then have tea with worms (or cake, if you don’t like worms).

In a straightforward but warm way, this picture book of collaged birds can facilitate discussions with kids about:

  • What happens when someone dies
  • How to understand their feelings of loss and grief
  • How everyone can experience grief differently, and have a variety of emotions when something tragic happens

Sensitive and humorous, Bird is Dead provides kids and adults with a space to talk about death on their own terms. – Greystone Kids

The Fire Fox by Alexandra Page, illustrations by Stef Murphy

An uplifting, magical book perfect for sharing at bedtime that will leave children feeling warm, cosy and loved.

Freya and her mum have gone to a little cabin to get away for a while. The light has gone out of their lives since Freya’s dad passed away. Freya isn’t sure about going sledging, but when she meets a magical fox in the snow, she can’t help but follow him into the forest – and on to a thrilling adventure.

A heartwarming bedtime story inspired by the Finnish Saami myth of the revontulet, or fox fires – the sparks that fly from the fur of a mystical fox to become the Northern Lights.

The Fire Fox is a gloriously illustrated, beautifully written story about the nurturing light of love that can’t be dimmed, written by debut author Alexandra Page and illustrated by the exciting talent Stef Murphy. This enchanting picture book with its touching story of sadness, hope, love and joy begs to be read again and again. – Pan Macmillan

The Hole by Lindsay Bonilla

A powerful story perfect for opening up conversations about loss

What does it feel like to lose someone you love? For one little boy, it’s like he has a hole in his life. It’s in the bottom bunk, where his little brother, Matty, used to sleep, and it’s on his brother’s chair at dinner. It follows him everywhere until the day he decides to really explore it. Inside the hole he confronts his grief—the sadness, the anger, and the truth of how much he misses Matty. His friend is waiting when he climbs out, and when she asks, “Do you want to tell me about your brother?” he’s surprised to find that talking about Matty is a comfort—and helps fill his hole with good memories. – Nancy Paulsen Books

Loose Threads: A Story about Me, Mom, and Dad written and illustrated by Airien Ludin

Mom, Dad, and I have the happiest days together, full of delicious meals, arts and crafts, and goodnight hugs. One day, though, Mom gets sick. She will never get better. Like a ball of yarn, I unravel and get tangled up in my emotions. But when Dad and I talk about the sadness, the knots slowly loosen a bit. And in time, sharing our grief frees up some room for beautiful memories, old and new.

A comforting book about loss, love, and strength. For children ages 5 years and up. – Clavis

Popi’s All Souls Song by C.K. Malone, illustrated by Shelly Swann

A gorgeously illustrated story about loss, community, and bringing comfort to others.

Every year on All Souls Day, Mara and her grandparents visit homes in their neighborhood to bring comfort and a song to those mourning the death of a loved one. But this year, Mara and Nene have lost Popi. As Nene leads Mara through their yearly ritual, Mara compares her own grief to that of each neighbor they visit. Then she catches sight of the frozen tears on Nene’s face.

Setting aside the bitterness icing her heart to help her beloved grandmother, Mara rekindles Popi’s song and brings her community together to honor him.

Popi’s All Souls Song is a poignant, timeless story with luminous art, drawing readers into the realization that no person’s loss or grief is bigger or more important than anyone else’s. And when we bring comfort to others, we experience comfort ourselves.

Backmatter includes an author’s note with a brief history of the All Souls Day holiday and traditions associated with the day. – Beaming Books

Under Anna’s Umbrella by Amanda Driscoll, illustrated by Luisa Uribe

When a loved one dies, grief can isolate us as if we’re hiding under an umbrella of sadness. This touching and wise story will comfort the readers who need it most.

Anna never goes anywhere without her umbrella. Not since the stormy day of her father’s funeral. Under her umbrella, she feels safe—safe to be angry and sad. She refuses to put away her umbrella no matter the weather, both outside and in. And then one rainy day she notices a boy getting drenched, and when she invites him under the umbrella with her, things begin to change.

This heartfelt story explores how grief, like an umbrella, protects us, but also blocks light from our lives. However, with time and healing and help from a friend, we can lower our umbrella to see the sun. And maybe even a rainbow. – Rocky Pond Books

Where are you, Brontë? by Tomie DePaola, illustrated by Barbara McClintock

This touching story about love, loss, and remembrance in the wake of losing a beloved pet is the final completed book written by beloved creator Tomie dePaola, with art by award-winning illustrator Barbara McClintock.

Where are you, Brontë?
The day you left me, I knew I would miss you.
And I did. Every day, every night.
But then, I knew you were right here, still with me, in my heart forever.

Children’s book legend Tomie dePaola tells the emotional and deeply personal story about overcoming his grief after the loss of his beloved dog, Brönte. – Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

Local authors added so far in 2025

- Beth Leave a comment

Dozens of titles were added to our Local Authors collection during the first half of 2025. These are books written by authors born or living in Scott County, Iowa, or Rock Island County, Illinois. In most cases, the items were donated to the Davenport Public Library by the authors themselves. All Local Author items are available for checkout from our Fairmount branch.

Kids

My Dog Sam, Recipe for a Little Monster, Willow the Minnow, and Boy Meets Squirrels by Marva Lewis

The Adventures of Kids United: The Glass Bridge by Rene Gellerman

Empowering Eloise by Kevin Turner

 

 

Daddy Dinosaur Gets Deployed by Amari Harris

Fiction and genre fiction

In the Toe of a Shoe: Secrets Revealed by David E. Coe

Aphrodite Rising by Kathy Criswell

The captain’s game and other tales of the strange and supernatural and The black tea box and more tales of the strange and supernatural by Benjamin Headlee

 

Poetry

Plain clothes hamburglar by Sean Moeller

 

 

 

 

 

Nonfiction

Yet will I trust him: A Sedonia Roland memoir by Kassaundra Hester

Bessie’s prayer : “I am Walter, Bessie’s Son”: That made all the difference! by Walter D. Braud

That’s all there is to it! A collection of easy, delicious meals by Carman Wilken

If you are a Quad Cities-based author, whether traditionally published or self-published, please consider donating a copy of your book to our Local Authors collection so that it can be checked out and enjoyed by our patrons. Email Beth Paul at bpaul@davenportlibrary.com for details about making the donation.

February 2025 Picture Book Spotlight: Friendship Reads

- Brittany Leave a comment

Happy February! In February, I usually read books about love or hugging and kissing. This year, I wanted to focus on the people that get us through this crazy and beautiful life, our friends. February is centered around love but it is also centered around friendship and who doesn’t love a good story about friends?! Below are the titles that I am sharing in my storytime outreach stops!

You Will Be My Friend
by Peter Brown

Lucy wakes up excited, today is the day that she will make a new friend! After sharing her big news with her mom, Lucy sets out on her journey through the forest to find a new friend who will do cartwheels, have a picnic, climb trees, go swimming, and have a dance party with her! After many unsuccessful attempts at making friends, Lucy is about to give up when she is greeted with an unexpected friend!

Peter Brown is so popular right now with his hit The Wild Robot becoming a box office smash! This story not only highlights Brown’s artistic talent but also how he can make a reader feel all emotions in one sitting! I highly recommend this title and really, honestly, anything written by Peter Brown is going to be absolute gold!

My Best Friend
by Rob Hodgson

Mouse introduces readers to his very best friend, Owl. Owl is so attentive, making sure that Mouse is always fed and is always there when Mouse needs him. In fact, sometimes, Owl is there even when Mouse doesn’t need him. Sometimes Mouse just wants some space and alone time. Oh well, I guess that is what happens when you have a very best friend, they are just always there for you.

This tongue in cheek book has grownups snickering while explaining to children the circle of life. Don’t worry, no mice were harmed in the creation of this book.

 

Fiona’s Friends
by Dr. John Hutton, photographs by Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Fiona, the adorable hippo calf introduces readers to all of her little friends living in the Cincinnati Zoo in this short board book. Young readers will have the opportunity to identify animals that they know (tigers, cheetahs) and meet some less known animals as well!

The photographs in this short story are adorable! My favorite part is at the end, there is a wrap up of all of the baby animals the readers met in the story to help associate names and animals.

Flora and Friends ABC
by Molly Idle

Join the adorable Flora as she introduces readers to the ABC’s through birds! This beautifully illustrated lift and flap book engages readers young and less young!

As I share this story with my partners, it is fun to see the teachers also get excited. We have also learned about some new birds together! Did you know that there is an umbrella bird? So cute!

 

 

Let’s Be Friends
by Leah Osakwe, illustrated by Becky Paige

Friends make everything better. In this beautiful board book, follow children as they share all of the amazing ways friends make the world brighter.

With colorful illustrations, my storytime kiddos have really enjoyed this title!

 

My Best Friend is a Giraffe
by Siân Roberts

In this touch and feel book, young readers are able to engage with the book while learning about Giraffe’s characteristics.

While reading this title, we discussed opposites while touching the different textures on the pages. This is a quick read and very cute!

 

Making a Friend 
by Tammi Sauer, illustrated by Alison Friend

Beaver is great at making things. Exhibit A: he made his own lodge! Exhibit B: he constructed a slide outside of the lodge leading directly into the lake. Exhibit C: he knitted his own stripy socks! What Beaver struggles with is making a friend. For some reason, he has a hard time connecting with others. One day, Beaver decides that he is going to make a friend out of snow and enlists Raccoon for help.

This is a wonderful story of friendship and a great life lesson. Sometimes it just takes connecting with one person to create a bond that lasts a lifetime.

My New Friend is so Fun!
by Mo Willems

Gerald and Snake become really concerned that their best friends are hanging out without them. At first it is totally fine, Brian the Bat is super great and so is Piggie, then all of a sudden, Gerald and Snake begin to worry that their best friends will decide that they have more fun with each other than they do with Gerald and Snake. Intent to put a stop to this new friendship, Gerald and Snake are met with a surprise!

I love Elephant and Piggie books. I love narrating them and I love the joy that they spark in young people!

 

 

Have you read any of these titles? I would love to hear about what you thought of them in the comments!

January 2025 Picture Book Spotlight: Winter and Cozy

- Brittany Leave a comment

Happy January! Each January, I really enjoy focusing on titles that are both cozy but also celebrate the climate that they get to enjoy here in the Midwest! Below are some of my favorite cozy or wintry reads that I have been sharing with my outreach storytime patrons!

The Lumberjack’s Beard
by Duncan Beedie

Big Jim, the lumberjack lives in a small cabin in the middle of the woods and always starts off his day with limbering stretches and a huge plate of pancakes and maple syrup. After a long day of chopping down trees, Big Jim has a disgruntled guest show up at his door. It turns out, if you cut down all of the trees in the forest, there are going to be some displaced animals. Where are they to live?

This title is a great title for teaching young people about cause and effect, animal habitats, and the importance of nature. It is also a rather delightful read!

Dinosaur’s Binkit
by Sandra Boynton

Little Dinosaur cannot get ready for bed without a very important lovey! Binkit is missing, no teeth can be brushed or jammies can be donned without the love of binkit. Follow this short journey into the life of a young one fretting over their beloved blankey through lift and flap interactives! You can never go wrong with a Sandra Boynton but this title is extra special. As a mom with two kiddos especially attached to lovies, I can relate!

This work teaches parents (me) to slow down and focus on what is important and taking a moment to breathe.

 

Snow Falls
by Kate Gardner, illustrated by Brandon James Scott

Winter is officially here and the snow has begun to fall! Will you go outside and sled or will you stay inside for hot cocoa?

I really enjoy reading this title each year because it allows for great conversation with young readers. Before I share this title with my young audience, I always ask them what they like to do in the snow and then we see if what they enjoy doing pops up in the story! With concise dialog and gorgeous illustrations by Scott, this work is truly a joy to share with young people!

Pop-up Peekaboo! Winter
by Amy Grimes

What are Arctic animals up to in the winter? Find out in this highly interactive and enjoyable pop-up board book!

My daughter loves this series of books. They are highly educational and the pop-ups are next level cool!

 

Wilfred
by Ryan T. Higgins

Wilfred is a giant, hairy, and very lonely monster, who wants a friend more than anything. When Wilfred discovers a little town of peculiar children, he runs onto a playground terrifying all but one brave little boy. The pair become fast friends but the other peculiar townspeople have a rather mean plan for Wilfred.

Wilfred is a great redemption story that helps strengthen emotional intelligence and cause and effect skills!

A Little Book About Winter
by Leo Lionni

Winter is a time for celebration, eating, gathering, playing outside, and warming up by the fire. Follow a mouse family as they navigate it all!

This simple and adorably (even if it is covered in mice) illustrated board book will share many wonderful activities and celebrations that only happen in the winter!


Ned the Knitting Pirate
by Diana Murray, illustrated by Leslie Lammle

“The Pirates were a rugged lot, as fierce as they were strong, and as they swabbed the deck one day, they sang a pirate song…” A pirate crew is brought to stitches when one of their fellow mates shares his love for knitting. The captain “won’t be hearing knitting talk,” and tries to end Ned’s knitting adventures. Just when you think that poor Ned has to give up his craft and life calling, a hero is needed. Can Ned save the day and make the Captain eat his words? I sure hope so!

This is a wonderful story told in rhyme that I love to share each year around this time. Ned the Knitting Pirate has such a great message that it is okay to be your own person and a hero lies in all of us! I also get the opportunity to sing and talk like a pirate, what isn’t to love about this title! Seriously, please check this one out and then I want to talk to you about it!

Have you read any of these titles? I would love to hear about what you thought of them in the comments!

December 2024 Children’s Books Spotlight: Cookies!

- Brittany Leave a comment

Happy December! This month, I have been making young readers crave cookie books! Below are the titles that I have been reading during my outreach storytimes!

Who Ate all the Cookie Dough?
by Karen Beaumont, illustrated by Eugene Yelchin

Kangaroo is whipping up a batch of cookies to discover that the cookie dough has been eaten? Who did it? On a mission to find the culprit, Kanga visits her animal friends.

I had so much fun with this book! Many children claimed that they were the ones to have eaten the cookie dough. So cute!

 

The Cookie Book of Colors
by Holly Fox

Dive into a world of color with this gorgeously, delicious board book. Each spread in this book showcases a different color with corresponding cookies decorated in that color!

This was fun to share with my younger groups. The content was engaging and allowed the children to shout colors as they saw them. It was fun to ask them what shapes they saw on each page.

Cookies! : An Interactive Recipe Book
by Lotta Nieminen

Learn how to bake cookies from scratch in this interactive and engaging board book. Children will have the ability to sift in flour, crack eggs, mix together ingredients, and so much more while learning about how to make a beloved chocolate chip cookie.

Be prepared to make cookies after reading this. Your little and you may have a sudden craving!

The Best Mouse Cookie
by Laura Joffe Numeroff, illustrated by Felicia Bond

Mouse is having a craving for cookies and has gathered all of the ingredients! Baking seems pretty easy, if you don’t drop your eggs on the floor and accidentally take a mouse nap while they bake!

This adorable classic tale still measures up with young audiences and adds an element of suspense to your storytime!

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
by Laura Joffe Numeroff, illustrated by Felicia Bond

Mouse is given a chocolate chip cookie by a young boy leading into a series of requests leaving the young boy exhausted. Who would have thought that giving a mouse a cookie could lead to so many consequences and such a large mess?

If You Give A Mouse a Cookie is a classic tale that has stood up to the test of time. Definitely an oldie but a cookie – I mean goodie. Who wants a cookie?

The Duckling Gets a Cookie
by Mo Willems

Oh no, the adorable duckling has politely asked for a cookie and was rewarded for the use of excellent manners. In comes pigeon who is not at all pleased that the duckling received a cookie just by asking. The pigeon asks for things all of the time and never gets what he wants! WHY?!

Our cantankerous protagonist is at it again and is sure to make young readers giggle with glee.

The Cow Loves Cookies
by Karma Wilson, illustrated by Marcellus Hall

The farmer feeds the horse his hay, he feeds the chickens chicken feed each day. He gives the pigs their slop each morn, the geese enjoy sweet cracked corn. The cow, however, won’t eat that stuff, she prefers cookies!

This story, written in rhyme, is engaging and adorable for all young readers!

Cookie Truck: a Sugar Cookie Shapes Book
by Caroline Wright, illustrated by Alison Oliver

Gather your ingredients for the perfect sugar cookie. Roll out your dough and then cut out the shapes necessary for the perfect truck!

This adorable book introduces shapes and how they can be placed together to create objects!

Have you read any of these titles? I would love to hear about what you thought of them in the comments!

October Picture Book Spotlight: Fall/Spooky

- Brittany Leave a comment

Welcome to spooky season everyone! This month, I will be sharing a variety of titles sure to delight all of our fall lovers!

Crankenstein by Samantha Berger illustrated by Dan Santat
A boy who looks ordinary transforms into grumbling Crankenstein when faced with a rainy day, a melting popsicle, or bedtime but everything changes when he meets a fellow Crankenstein. – provided by our catalog

 

 

 

Truck Full of Ducks by Ross Burach
Did you call for a truck full of ducks? Join the flock on this wacky call-and-response ride to find out just WHO did–and why. – provided by our catalog

 

 

Apple vs. Pumpkin by Jeffrey Burton illustrated by Lydia Jean
In the ultimate seasonal showdown, Apple and Pumpkin take turns making the case for which of them is the the favorite fall treat. -provided by our catalog

 

 

You’re My Little Cutie Pie by Nicola Edwards illustrated by Natalie Marshall
Cuddle up with your little cutie pie and share this festive Thanksgiving board book that’s part of the best-selling You’re My Little series. With cut-outs and raised elements, this hands-on book features rhyming text paired with adorable pumpkin pies, cranberries, turkeys, and more! – provided by our catalog

 

Autumn Babies by Kathryn O. Galbraith illustrated by Adela Pons
Young readers are invited to lift flaps to reveal such insects as ladybugs, caterpillars, ants, and bees. – provided by our catalog

 

 

Creepy Carrots! by Aaron Reynolds illustrated by Peter Brown
The carrots that grow in Crackenhopper Field are the fattest and crispiest around and Jasper Rabbit cannot resist pulling some to eat each time he passes by, until he begins hearing and seeing creepy carrots wherever he goes. – provided by our catalog

 

 

Animals in Fall by Martha E.H. Rustad
In fall, animals are busy getting ready for winter. See how hard they work to make sure they have enough food and shelter for the cold winter ahead. – provided by Goodreads

 

Hedgehugs: Autumn Hide-and-Squeak by Steve Wilson illustrated by Lucy Tapper
Hattie is unhappy that trees are losing their leaves, but Horace and a squeaky new friend show her how much fun autumn can be. – provided by our catalog

 

 

Have you read any of these titles? I would love to hear about what you thought of them in the comments!

September Picture Book Spotlight: Bugs

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September is one of my favorite months because this is when our monarch butterfly friends pop out of their chrysalis and head south towards warmer weather. To celebrate the monarchs, below are some of my favorite butterfly and bug books to share with young people!

The Amicus Book of Bugs by Isobel Lundie
Learn about common Midwestern bug through beautiful mixed-media illustrations sure to pique the interests of young and less young readers!

 

The Very Impatient Caterpillar by Ross Burach
A modern take on a beloved tale, “The Very Impatient Caterpillar” is a witty and educational story sure to delight all readers and listeners. This book is a favorite of mine and I try to share it every year! Our impatient friend teaches young readers about butterflies and that patience is key!

 

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
One Sunday morning, a little caterpillar hatches from his egg, he then proceeds to eat his way through a week’s worth of food, resulting in a tummy ache. Young readers will learn the process from caterpillar to butterfly. I love sharing this classic and beloved story with young people each year.

Señorita Mariposa by Ben Gundersheimer illustrated by Marcos Almada Rivero
This bi-lingual book shows the flight pattern of the Monarchs from North America to Mexico. The illustrations by Rivero make me yearn for a trip to Mexico in the fall just to see trees covered in Monarchs!

 

Buzz, Buzz, Baby! by Karen Katz
Young readers are invited to lift flaps to reveal such insects as ladybugs, caterpillars, ants, and bees. – provided by our catalog

 

 

Slow Snail by Mary Murray
Follow Snail’s shiny trail as she slowly makes her way home for dinner. – provided by our catalog

 

 

I Don’t Want To Be a Frog by Dev Petty illustrated by Mike Boldt
A frog who yearns to be any animal that is cute and warm discovers that being wet, slimy, and full of bugs has its advantages. – provided by our catalog

 

 

Have you read any of these titles? I would love to hear about what you thought of them in the comments!

August Picture Books Spotlight: Unicorns!

- Brittany Leave a comment

From time to time, I take special requests for themes from the young people that I visit for storytimes. Last month, I had a request for unicorn books and this month, I am so excited to deliver some really delightful titles to our storytime sites! Below are some of my favorites this year!

Thelma the Unicorn by Aaron Blabey
Author of the beloved Pig the Pug series, Blabey delivers another delightful story in rhyme! Thelma is a pony who dreams of a life in the spotlight. After a chance encounter with a paint and glitter truck, Thelma embarks on a lifestyle of the rich and famous. The illustrations are a delight as is the story itself, definitely fun for the whole family.

 

Twinkle, Twinkle Unicorn by Jeffrey Burton and illustrated by Zoe Waring
A magical take on a beloved nursery rhyme, this story gives the ability to change the words and not the vibe! This board book is so great to share with young ones as it is not only a story in rhyme, but it can be sung. Singing is a great way to begin those super important early literacy skills.

 

You Don’t Want a Unicorn by Ame Dyckman and illustrated by Liz Climo
You might be thinking that having a pet unicorn would be awesome. I mean, yes, but, unicorns do not make very good pets. Unicorns are so messy and what nobody talks about is that when they get lonely, chaos ensues! This story is so much fun to share and I will forever keep it in my lineup when unicorns are a part of the theme!

 

There’s a Unicorn in Your Book by Tom Fletcher and illustrated by Greg Abbott
Unicorns love to sing and spread joy but our friend unicorn is having a hard time in this story. Through interactive prompts, young readers help unicorn overcome what is bothering him! My kiddos at home and those that I get to read to all enjoy having the ability to help read the book! The illustrations are adorable and the content teaches about anxiety, consent, and the importance of friendships!

Unicorns are Real! by Holly Hatam
Unicorns are made of magic, glitter, hugs and kisses and so much more! Learn more about unicorns in this adorably illustrated board book sure to delight young readers.

 

Not Quite Narwhal by Jessie Sima
Kelp was born in the ocean among the narwhals but never quite fit in. Kelp’s tusk wasn’t long enough, he was a poor swimmer, and did not like the same food that his narwhal family loved. One day after being swept into a current, Kelp discovers a mysterious being in the distance that looks like him! This story also have gorgeous illustrations and shows the kiddos that you really can have it all sometimes!

 

Today I’ll Be a Unicorn by Dana Simpson
One day a young girl wakes up and decides that she wants to be a unicorn like her best friend! Throughout the story, the child shares just what she would do once a unicorn. The story takes a turn when a unicorn’s diet is introduced! Do you want to be a unicorn or give up your favorite food?! This story was short and adorable!

 

That’s Not my Unicorn by Fiona Watt
Meet five beautiful unicorns, one is the author’s unicorn but the other’s are not! This touch and feel book was well-received by my storytime kiddos and my daughter has loved everything that Watt has ever written!

 

Have you read any of these titles? I would love to hear about what you thought of them in the comments!

May Picture Book Spotlight: SHARKS!

- Brittany Leave a comment

Monthly, I curate a collection of books to share with area early childcare centers for storytime. Usually, the books fit a theme happening in each month but I also love taking requests from my young listeners. In April, one storytime attendee requested that I read shark books! Below are some of my favorites! Have you read any of them? If you have not, place a hold on them today by clicking on the titles!

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Shark by Jeffrey Burton and illustrated by Zoe Waring
Enjoy a classic bedtime story with your young one while exploring sea life and most importantly, SHARKS! This title is perfect for building important early literacy skills – singing and reading!

 

Baby Shark: Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo illustrations by John John Bajet
Take beloved children’s song and add adorable illustrations by Bajet and share it with your young one. You will not regret it!

 

Oona and the Shark by Kelly DiPucchio and illustrated by Raissa Figueroa
Oona the mermaid has never had a hard time making friends, this is until she meets Stanley the hammerhead shark. Stanley does not seem impressed with Oona’s inventions, toys, or parties. Determined to find common ground, Oona finds the perfect way to create a new friendship. Oona and the Shark teaches young people about compassion and listening to our friends.

A Unicorn, a Dinosaur, and a Shark Walk into a  Book by Johnathan Fenske
Everyone loves a book that has unicorns, dinosaurs, and sharks! Our main characters in this story however, are less than pleased. They are hungry, bored, and unimpressed. What can be done to make the book better for the reader and the characters? You will have to read to find out! This story is very silly and ends on a cliffhanger.

 

Smiley Shark by Ruth Galloway
Smiley shark has the best, brightest, and toothiest grin in the ocean. Hoping to make friends, Smiley sets out to meet a series of ocean animals who are too afraid of Smiley to stick around. When disaster strikes, there is only one fish to save them all, will Smiley be able to save the day?

 

The Three Little Fish and the Big Bad Shark by Ken Geist and illustrated by Julia Gorton
A new take on a classic tale, follow three brave little fishies as they take on a big mean shark set to destroy their homes. I read this to my child’s classroom and she now proclaims “not by the skin on my finny fin fin!” when ask to do something. Thanks Ken Geist…

 

Big Shark, Little Shark by Anna Membrino and illustrated by Tim Budgen
In this book of opposites, you follow a little shark and big shark both with large appetites. Don’t read this before lunch, it just might make you hungry too! This is a great quick read to share with babies and toddlers.

 

 

 

Deep Sea Dive by Salina Yoon
Explore marine life galore with this lift and flap book. Make friends with sea turtles, sharks, jellyfishes, and more while learning a little bit more about each animal hidden behind the flaps. The artwork is so beautiful and eye-catching!