World more beautiful

By Angela Burke Kunkel

Suitable for ages 5 and up, this lovely picture book is both a biography and an ode to following your own path and passions to enhance the world around you. The story revolves around the life of children's book illustrator Barbara Cooney (Miss Rumphius and other titles) who loved color and light from an early age. Summers in Maine helped fuel her passion for the outdoor world and the kaleidoscope of colors to be found at the sea's edge. As a young person, she knew she wanted to illustrate books, yet she came of age when most book illustration was executed in black and white...so she was forced to give up her colorful way of working and follow the crowd. But then something unexpected occurred and she was led back to what she loved and was meant to do, and in doing so, was able to bring joy to others --and leave a lasting legacy of beauty for children who also have that same love of a more colorful world. Near the end of the book it is hinted at that, after a very full life, Barbara is no longer living, but this is done in a very gentle manner and the emphasis is on the good she did and how we never know what wonderful things are just around the corner. So many themes and ideas can be discussed with children after reading this book that it merits space on our Staff Pick wall. The charming (and very colorful) illustrations are like icing on the cake. Perhaps there is a child in your own family who is as enchanted with color and light as Barbara was?

- Nancy

Luigi the spider who wanted to be a kitten

By Michelle Knudsen

Ok, I'll admit that this is an unusual premise for a story. And some people don't like spiders. However, this book, with its heartwarming story-line and fabulous illustrations, will give you a new perspective on little Luigi as he discovers the joy of being cared for and about....something he has never experienced. It all starts with a case of mistaken identity, but ends up better than Luigi or his new friend could have ever imagined. A very fun and entertaining read! You'll love Luigi!

- Nancy

The Woolly bear caterpillar

By Julia Donaldson

Woolly Bear is a small caterpillar who is happily chomping on some dandelion leaves when she is quite rudely interrupted by a gardener who rips the leaves out. On her journey to find another set of leaves, she encounters several other caterpillars who remark upon her plain and dull appearance, while boasting of their own beauty. Each time she is taken down a peg, she becomes more unsure what she will look like when she finally becomes a butterfly. But patience, as the story implies, is a virtue. This tale has a classic 'ugly duckling'-type story-line that can be used as a springboard for discussion, as well as having a basic moral (maybe a few!) that can be easily understood by children. The illustrations are colorful and humorous and so much fun. The book even comes with a smaller nature fact book about caterpillars and moths, so it's a double win! Julia Donaldson is also the author of The Gruffalo.

- Nancy

I Am a Tornado

By Drew Beckmeyer

Tornado is dealing with some BIG feelings. With the guidance of a helpful cow he learns to calm his angry winds. This book is so funny! And the graphic text and colorful illustrations are very appealing. A perfect book for little ones who are learning how to handle their own outsized emotions. 

-Valerie

The Skull

By Jon Klassen

Brave Otilla has escaped from an unnamed danger, In a lonely house in the woods she meets a very polite skull. He has a secret fear. Can Otilla save him?

Classic Klassen illustrations. A wonderfully creepy atmosphere, but not too scary.

-Carole

Mushroom Lullaby

By Kenneth Kraegel

This enchanting picture book, if read at a slow pace, will be sure to put your child in a calm mindset as you prepare him/her for bed. The illustrations are delightful, showing the goings-on of a community of
critters who live in a small village of mushroom houses. And the reader has a mushroom house as well, where there resides a comfy mushroom chair and an even comfier mushroom bed just built for sweet dreams. The illustrations are very textural and your child will have fun discovering the tiny details on each page. A very pleasant way to settle in for the night!
Ages 3-5
-Nancy

When Sea Becomes Sky

by Gillian McDunn
A touching story that examines the bonds between siblings and the way we cope when those bonds are torn apart. This is a tale of two children who live on an island off the coast of South Carolina, an area
filled with beautiful and mysterious salt marshes and an abundance of unspoiled natural wonders. When progress threatens to end their way of life, they hatch a plan to impede said progress. Beautifully written,
this book contains a big surprise. Three quarters of the way through the book, the storyline takes an abrupt 360-degree turn and the reader is left reeling from the actual truth of the situation. Holding onto our loved
ones, in whatever way we can, becomes the overarching theme that ties everything together in this gem of a book.
Reading Level: 8-11years

-Nancy

I’ll Love You Till The Cows Come Home

By Kathryn Cristaldi
So funny! Such great pictures! There are yaks in Cadillacs, sheep setting sail, ants in hats, and more in this great read-aloud. I’ll Love You Till the Cows Come Home is filled with warm, funny art and rhythmic, romping text—perfect for curling up with your little one for a super entertaining read.

-Susann

Stillwater and Koo Save The World

By John J. Muth
An uplifting book about a giant panda, Stillwater and his nephew Koo who decides he would like to fix the world.
Stillwater points out that it’s a very big problem but maybe they can tackle it one small thing at a time. By the end
of the day, they have successfully made the world a better place.

-Carole

Farmhouse

By Sophie Blackall

A sweet and simple story of a family whose lives play out in an old farmhouse. When they grow up and move away, nature and her creatures move in. Farmhouse has the cadence of a nursery rhyme and its illustrations are gorgeous to look at. This is a dollhouse of a book.

-Valerie

Wild River

By Roman Philbrick


A gripping adventure about five Middle-Schoolers on a white-water rafting trip. A fast-paced story; disaster strikes in the first few pages when the dam fails. The river will flood the camp in minutes!
The kids escape but the counselors do not.
Now they are alone in the wilds of Montana with few supplies. Is their friendship strong enough to endure the dangers they must face? A thrilling story of survival.

-Carole

Moon: A Peek-Through Board Book

by Britta Teckentrup

I don't usually choose a board book for a Staff Pick, but this one is too visually pleasing and cleverly done not to highlight it. Perfect for a bedtime read or when you are camping out under the stars, this little book will delight with its enchanting illustrations and the way it leads the reader through the various phases of the moon via cut-outs in each scene. Children will learn a little bit about animals at night and how the moon watches over all.

-Nancy

Knight Owl

By Christopher Denise

Owl wants to be a knight more than anything. What he lacks in size and strength, he makes up for in clever thinking (and the fact that he can stay awake all night). One night an intruder appears and plans to have Owl as a snack. However, clever Owl comes up with a plan and gains a new friend. Full of wordplay and optimism, this surprising display of bravery proves that cleverness and friendship can rule over brawn.

-Ann

I Am Quiet

By Andie Powers

Great little story for any child who is naturally quiet on the outside, but lively and inquisitive on the inside. Emile explains that even though others see him as shy and timid, they don't realize that on the inside he is full of imagination, adventures and possibility—all beautifully illustrated and brought to life by the colorful and whimsical artwork on every page. This touching book helps quiet children understand that not everyone needs to be extroverted and boisterous. There is also a place for children who enjoy solitude and their own company as well.

-Nancy

the animal rescue agency #1: Case File: Little Claws

Eliot Schrefer

The first of a new series for 8–12-year-
olds. A terrific book about a fox and a rooster
who start a business rescuing
animals in danger. The victim here is
a polar bear cub being pursued by an
evil human. I found it very
entertaining and amusing, as well as
exciting. If you like animal
adventures this is for you.

-Carole

mister dog

Margaret Wise Brown

Simply my favorite children’s book of all time, Mister Dog is a unique experience. Its protagonist is a dog named Crispin’s Crispian, a dog who belongs to himself. That’s just the first of many mysterious and wondrous things about this vintage Golden Book. If you can forgive the pipe smoking on the cover, you are in for a peculiar and very fun treat.

Ages 3-7

-Valerie

Stretchy and Beanie

Judy Schachner

With the continuing story of Stretchy McHandsome (another Staff Pick) , his new owner, Beanie, decides that she will try to turn Stretchy (a former stray cat) into the perfect pet. Beanie finds out the hard way that being too bossy with a cat will not exactly produce the desired effects. Told in a humorous way with rhyming text, the message in the story is that animals respond to patience and kindness better than bossiness. And sometimes a cat just has to be....well,...a cat!

Ages 3- 6 (but adults will like it too!)

-Nancy

Strange Planet: The Sneaking, Hiding, Vibrating Creature

Nathan W. Pyle

For anyone who has a child who is fascinated with space, friendly aliens, thinking up new names for familiar objects and generally playing around with creative language, this is the book to jump-start a fun new conversation! For any adult with a sense of humor, who enjoys helping a child think outside the box a little, this is a great book as well! The premise of the story revolves around an alien child and parent, who discover something in their home that they have never encountered before. Children will immediately recognize the strange creature as a cat, but the aliens of course, do not, and immediately set about trying to document and identify it through its unusual (at least they perceive it as unusual)
behaviors and what they can observe about it. Of course these aliens have a much more interesting language than we mere humans do, which makes it all the more enjoyable....for instance, they sleep on “rest slabs” (a bed), a window is called a “starlight access panel”, they eat “criss-cross floppers”
(waffles) for breakfast and write their scientific observations with an “ink cylinder”. Children and adults alike will laugh as the aliens try to imitate the actions of this mysterious sneaking, hiding, vibrating creature!

Ages 4+

-Nancy

bear came along

Richard T. Morris

A curious bear falls into a river and begins a “log flume” ride picking up lots of animals along the way and finally ending at a giant waterfall. A fun adventure story about the importance of friendship.

Ages 4-8

-Carole

in a jar

Deborah Marcero

Llewellyn the rabbit is a collector. He likes to find ordinary things and put them in jars. He meets a new friend, Evelyn and they collect things together. One day Evelyn and her family move away. Will they still be friends? A charming book.

Ages 3-7

-Carole

skunk and badger

Amy Timberlake

Badger is horrified at the idea of having Skunk as his new roommate!

This is a lively and fun-filled story about an unlikely pair becoming the best of friends. Kids and adults will love this one.

Ages 8-12

-Carole

Stormy

Guojing

A heartfelt story, told without words, lovingly illustrated. Not just for animal lovers, it's a beautiful book to share and discuss.

-Susann

Stretchy McHandsome  

Judy Schachner  

Great for any child who loves cats or animals. Stretchy McHandsome is part of a large family of stray cats. He's known for his ability to stretch (of course!) into all kinds of positions. One fateful day he decides to venture out into town by himself. What happens after that will make you laugh, smile, and warm your heart. Written by the author of the Skippyjon Jones series, this story is told in rhyme, which makes it a pleasure to read. The illustrations are fun and can be returned to time and again to see something new.

Ages 3-5

-Nancy

this way, charlie

Caron Levis

Geared toward ages 4-7 because of the quantity of text, this is a story that older preschoolers will love. Charlie, a horse who is blind in one eye, is the newbie at the Open Bud Ranch. Jack is a goat who always keeps to himself, never mixing with any of the other animals. When Charlie accidentally bumps into Jack (Because he can't see him), a wary friendship begins. Gradually Jack learns to trust, as does Charlie. This story deals with themes of kindness, patience, overcoming one's challenges, and of course, friendship. Great illustrations that fit the mood and the theme of the book.

-Nancy

when the storm comes

Linda Ashman/Taeeun Yoo

When news of a big storm comes to a little village, everyone battens down the hatches, including the animals. This charming book is timely in ways other than the obvious. A parent could use it to reinforce the idea that sometimes scary things come our way, but when theydo, we can all work together to prepare and get through tough times...and then work as a team to clean up the aftermath. No one is alone. There are also white people and people of color depicted in the story, which is a plus. Brightly colored illustrations add to the allure. A simple story with a good message!

Ages 3-5

-Nancy

firefly home

Jane Clarke

A nice little bedtime story with a slightly interactive aspect—the child is asked to point to things on the page or do small movements to help Florence the Firefly find her way home one evening. The illustrations are enchanting. Florence is one cute firefly, who after flying through many different places, finally meets up with her family and settles down for a rest on a quiet summer's evening. Ages: 3 to 5 (but adults will like it too!)

-Nancy

Edison

Torben Kuhlmann

A fascinating story about two mice who build a submarine to take them to the bottom of the ocean in the search for long lost treasure. Great for reading aloud and fabulously illustrated. Recommended for young animal adventure lovers and budding inventors.

-Carole

escargot

Dashka Slater

A little snail is trying to convince us that he could be our favorite animal. Such a delightful interactive book; you'll not be able to read it without smiling a the adorable character. I doubt that you will be able to read it without a French accent. You may want to nibble a few carrots as well. Mwaw! Ages 4-6.

-Ann

Invisible Boy

Patrice Barton

A beautifully written and gorgeously illustrated book about longing to belong. Brian feels invisible to his classmates until a new student arrives. Brian welcomes Justin with a note and Justin asks him to work on a group project. Don't miss the changes from black and white to color. A wonderful lesson on the act of kindness. Grades K-2.

-Ann

Baabwaa & Wooliam

David Elliott

A hilarious tale about two sheep: one an avid reader, the other an enthusiastic knitter. They embark on an adventure and strike up an unlikely friendship with a wolf. Cleverly written with humorous dialog. Parents and kids will love this one. 

-Carole

THE BEAR AND THE PiaNO

David Litchfield

Beautifully illustrated, this book tells a simple story. There is also deeper meaning here of endeavors, success, friendship, and belonging. All expressed through a bear, music, and a piano. Perfect for multiple readings. Highly recommended.

-Carole

THE POUT-POUT FISH FAR, FAR FROM HOME

Deborah Diesen

Mr. Fish is back again and planning his first vacation! A novice traveler, he encounters a few bumps along the way, but eventually makes it to his destination and learns some lessons at the same time. Like the original, this story of the endearing Mr. Fish does not disappoint. Children will love the story; adults will love the humorous illustrations.

-Nancy

THE NIGHT GARDNER

The Fan Brothers

The Night Gardener comes only at night to turn trees into beautiful animal topiaries. No one sees him, no one knows how he does it, but he leaves behind a trail of delight. One night he visits Grimloch Lane, a particularly gray and sullen area of town. Each night thereafter beautiful sculptural animals appear and the residents of Grimloch Lane begin to experience happiness. But a little boy named William has caught sight of the Night Gardner...and follows him! What will happen? I’m not sure which will delight you more: the engaging story or the beautiful illustrations. This book is a treasure.

-Nancy

lady pancake and sir french toast

Josh Funk

Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast are very good friends and refrigerator mates until they learn one day that there is only one drop of maple syrup left. Thus begins quite an adventure to be the one that gets the last drop! As they race past various foods many hilarious mishaps occur. The rhyming text and colorful pictures of the foods they pass are delightful, and of course they realize that sharing and caring are much better for their friendship. This book teaches so much beyond friendship and victory. It is a sure bet for any child and his/her parents!

-Ann

alan's Big scary teeth

Jarvis

Alan comes from a long line of scary alligators. His pride and joy are his pointy, sharp teeth, which work well to strike fear into all the jungle creatures. But Alan has a secret: his teeth are false! One night as Alan is dozing his secret is discovered. What will happen now? If you read this with all the sound effects you’ll have your children laughing out loud in no time! And the illustrations are just as funny!

-Nancy & Ann

the secret life of squirrels

Nancy Rose

Actual squirrels from the author’s backyard are used to tell the tale of Mr. Peanut, a very unusual squirrel. Mr. Peanut has a busy life: keeping house, grilling out, reading, and playing the piano, but it is not until his cousin comes to visit that he realizes how nice it is to have someone as a companion. Children and adults alike will marvel at the tiny settings and the personalities of Mr. Peanut and Cousin Squirrel. A truly charming book.

-Nancy

THE MOUSE MANSION

Karina Schaapman

This book is a complete delight! From its highly detailed photographs to the small chapter-like stories, this is a book that can be read to children a little at a time – perhaps a small story each night at bedtime. Sam and Julia are mice that live in the Mouse Mansion, which in reality is a hundred-room dollhouse, and their scrapes and adventures range all the way from discovering secret hiding places to coming down with Chicken Pox! Author and photographer Karina Schaapman has created a wonderful world inside the walls of the Mouse Mansion – a world that will charm both children and adults alike.

-Nancy

OTIS

Loren Long

Otis is an unforgettable classic about a special tractor who loves his farm and his farmer. He is always willing to help his friends. He has such personality that you forget he is a tractor and not a person. This series teaches wonderful lessons celebrating the power of friendship, perseverance, and loyalty. Each story shows that Otis is a true friend that you can always count on.

-Ann

BAD APPLE

Edward Hemingway

Apples are generally not supposed to make friends with worms, so this pairing is quite unusual! However, Mac is an unusual apple and Will is an unusual worm…a bookworm to be exact. Will introduces Mac to the joys of kite-flying and reading, Mac introduces Will to the fun of swimming (or bobbing, if you are an apple). All is well until Mac brings Will to meet the other apples in the orchard. Not a great idea, they later realize!  It appears that in order to escape the taunting, Mac must choose between his apple friends and Will. This tale of the true meaning of friendship will resonate with young and old. What better time to talk to your child about the value of a good friend, than when you are reading this simply written and charmingly illustrated story.

-Nancy

TOO TALL HOUSES

Gina Marino

Rabbit and Owl are neighbors who happen to live side by side in two small abodes, each unique to the owner. Of course Rabbit has a garden. All is tranquil until the garden begins to grow tall enough to block Owl’s view of the countryside. In a classic tale of one-upmanship, enhanced with rollicking illustrations of the ensuing bigger and taller structures, this book will keep young children enthralled right up until the final scenes. How tall can a house get? Just wait and see!

-Nancy

OUTSIDE YOUR WINDOW

Nicola Davies

Captivating illustrations perfectly complement the simple but thoughtful text in this beautiful introduction to a child’s discovery of the natural world. A book to be cherished, read, and re-read, and perhaps handed down from your children to a future generation. 

-Nancy

THE POUT-POUT FISH IN THE BIG-BIG DARK

Deborah Diesen

 “A doozy of a drowsy made Mrs. Clam yawn. Then a big current whooshed and her pearl was GONE!” Mr. Fish, who has lost his pouty face, embarks on a deep-sea adventure to find and return Mrs. Clam’s beloved pearl. The only problem is. . .it appears that the pearl may be further away than he originally thought. To add to that, he is afraid of the dark! He begins to feel his pouty lip coming back. . . until. . . ! Same wonderful format and hilarious illustrations make this a “read again” favorite. 

-Nancy

THE POUT-POUT FISH

Deborah Diesen

“Deep in the water where fish hang out lives a glum gloomy swimmer with an ever-present pout.” So begins the rollicking tale of a certain Mr. Fish who thinks he is destined to spread gloom in the ocean deep because of his naturally pouty face. Children will love this story for its colorful characters and its rhyming format. Adults will love it because of the nuances in the illustrations and the endearing message. A winner in all respects! 

-Nancy

THE SNAIL AND THE WHALE

Julia Donaldson

This snail may be small but she certainly has big dreams! Hitching a ride on the tail of a humpback whale, her adventures take her all around the world to see fantastic sights…until her ride gets beached! She must think quickly to save her friend! But how will someone so small be able to help someone so large? Children will delight in finding the tiny snail on each page as the adventure progresses, and the conclusion will bring a smile to everyone’s face. 

-Nancy

CITY DOG, COUNTRY FROG

Mo Willems

This beautiful picture book is simple and heartfelt, but also bitter-sweet. A dog from the city befriends a frog in the country where they meet and play against the backdrop of the changing seasons.

-Sandy

MISS LINA'S BALLERINAS

Grace Maccerone

Eight ballerinas in four lines of two dance joyfully all day long. But when their teacher, Miss Lina, admits a ninth student, confusion leads to pandemonium! In lively verse with wonderful illustrations, this book presents to all ages the themes of friendship and adjustment. It will especially appeal to budding ballerinas.

-Judi