Spring 2012 Picture Book Highlights: Charlesbridge Publishing

Previously in my capacity as Children's Department Manager for the Odyssey Book Shop, I had the opportunity to look over publisher's catalogues at the new books for each season. Thanks to Edelweiss, I can now look at publisher's catalogues as a blogger!

Here are my picks for Charlesbridge Publishing Spring 2012:

Ace Lacewing, Bug Detective: The Big Swat 
by David Biedrzycki
9781570917486, $8.95, Pub. Date: February 2012

Publisher's description: Scratch Murphy is missing a fleabag full of dough, and Ace lacewing is on the case. Did Scratch's brother Scitch take the money? Could Lady DeBug be guilty? Or might "family man" Bo Weevil be the culprit? Ace and his assistant Xerces take a rollercoaster ride through Six Legs Park as they search for the latest bad bug.

 What We Wear: Dressing Up Around the World 
by Maya Ajmera, Elise Hofer Derstine, & Cynthia Pon
9781580894166, $16.95, Pub. Date: February 2012

Publisher's description: From school uniforms to costumes, traditional ethnic clothing to sports team jerseys--this book highlights children from around the world and shows that no matter what kids wear, clothes are an important part of who they are. Vibrant photographs from around the world showcase the many different types of clothing that kids wear to play, study, pretend, and celebrate. From school uniforms to costumes, traditional ethnic clothing to sports team jerseys--no matter what kids wear, clothes are an important part of who they are.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book helps support The Global Fund for Children's grantmaking toward community-based projects benefiting children around the world. 

Emily and Carlo 
by Mary Rhodes Figley, illustrated by Catherine Stock
9781580892742, $15.95, Pub. Date: February 2012

Publisher's description: I started early, took my dog...

Marty Rhodes Figley's lyrical text and Catherine Stock's luminous art create a fresh look at the life of poet Emily Dickinson, focusing on her relationship with her dog, Carlo, a large, floppy, drooly, Newfoundland. Carlo was her constant companion, her "shaggy ally" in the world. Together they explored the woods and town around them, visiting friends and enjoying eachother's company. Includes quotations about Carlo from Emily's poems and letters.

A Path of Stars 
by Anne Sibley O'Brien
978157091735, $15.95, Pub. Date: February 2012

Publisher's description: Dara loves the stories her grandmother, Lok Yeay, tells of the Cambodian countryside where she grew up--stories of family, food, and the stars above, glowing in the warm, sweet air. There are darker stories, too--stories of war and loss that Lok Yeay cannot put into words. Lok Yeay yearns to return to Cambodia to be with her brother. But when that dream becomes impossible, it's up to Dara to bring Lok Yeay back to a place of happiness.

A Path of Stars was originally developed for New Mainers Book Project, part of the Maine Humanities Council's Born to Read program. The Project sponsors high-quality children's picture books created from the experiences of Maine's refugee communities, to preserve and present their cultural heritage and to promote their English language literacy.

Spring 2012 Picture Book Highlights: Chronicle Books

 Previously in my capacity as Children's Department Manager for the Odyssey Book Shop, I had the opportunity to look over publisher's catalogues at the new books for each season. Thanks to Edelweiss, I can now look at publisher's catalogues as a blogger! Here are my picks for Spring 2012:

Trains Go
by Steve Light
9780811879422, $8.99, Pub. Date: January 2012

For the very youngest reader, a new board book of sights and sounds guaranteed to capture their attention.

Publisher's description: All aboard! Take a trip on eight noisy trains as they huff, puff, and toot-toot their way through this lively book filled with onomatopoetic text and interactive illustrations.

Animal Spots and Stripes
by Britta Teckentrup
9781452109947, $12.99, Pub. Date: February 2012

Animal 123
by Britta Teckentrup
9781452109930, $12.99, Pub. Date: February 2012

For the toddler in your house, 2 new colorful lift-the-flap books.

Publisher's descriptions: With a bold palette, striking graphics, and a bouncing menagerie of animals, this pair of uniquely formatted lift-the-flap books introduces young readers to the basic concepts of counting and patterns. Each is a boisterous, vivid trek of discovery, providing irresistible clues which encourage lifting the flap - a hands-on, educator-approved strategy of uncovering and learning concepts. Whether it's finding out just who's next in Animal 123, or exploring differently patterned creatures hiding in the habitats of Animal Spots and Stripes, these ultra-sturdy books provide not just an intriguing way to communicate essential building blocks of learning, but also offer an energetic playground of sheer delight.


Water Sings Blue (poetry)
by Kate Coombs, illustrated by Meilo So
9780811872843, $16.99, Pub. Date: March 2012

While the poems in this book are well-written, it's really the illustrations that make this picture book worth the price. At turns a dreamy wash and a bold statement, Meilo So's watercolor illustrations are the perfect compliment to the lyrical text.


Publisher's description: Come down to the shore with this rich and vivid celebration of the ocean! With watercolors gorgeous enough to wade in by award-winning artist Meilo So and playful, moving poems by Kate Coombs, Water Sings Blue evokes the beauty and power, the depth and mystery, and the endless resonance of the sea.

Chloe, Instead
by Micah Player
9780811878654, $15.99, Pub. Date: April 2012

Bright illustrations with bold color and simple text, this is a to-the-point picture book about the trials and triumphs of a new sibling.

Publisher description: Molly always dreamed of having a sister who is just like her. But she got Chloe, instead. These two sisters are nothing alike: Molly loves to color with crayons. Chloe prefers the taste of wax. Molly loves to read. Chloe prefers to nibble a book's spine. Molly is frustrated! But then she realizes that maybe sisters aren't the ones next to you on the piano bench, they're the ones dancing to the music you play! This humorous, perceptive snapshot of sibling love is perfect for those who may need a bit of convincing what fun little siblings can be!

Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns: A Muslim Book of Colors
by Hena Khan
9780811879057, $17.99, Pub. Date: June 2012

More than a book to learn colors, this can also serve as an introduction for a child (or even an adult) to a world that might be unfamiliar to them. Even if I recognized the object, there were several words I did not know that named specific objects important in the Muslim religion and culture. This is a great cross-cultural way to learn both colors and cultural acceptance.

Publisher's description: Magnificently capturing the colorful world of Islam for the youngest readers, this breathtaking and informative picture book celebrates Islam's beauty and traditions. From a red prayer rug to a blue hijab, everyday colors are given special meaning as young readers learn about clothing, food, and other important elements of Islamic culture, with a young Muslim girl as a guide. Sure to inspire questions and observations about world religions and cultures, Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns is equally at home in a classroom reading circle as it is being read to a child on a parent's lap.

Tua and the Elephant
by Randal Harris, illustrated by Taeeun Yoo
9780811877817, $16.99, Pub. Date: April 2012

Cheating a bit as this one is not a picture book, but instead is an illustrated chapter book for the 8-12 Middle Grade Reader set.

Publisher's description: Ten-year-old Tua - Thai for peanut - has everything she needs at home in Chiang Mai, Thailand, except for one thing she's always wanted: a sister. In the market one day, Tua makes an accidental acquaintance - one with wise, loving eyes, remarkable strength, and a very curious trunk. And when Tua meets Pohn-Pohn, it's clear this elephant needs her help. Together, the unusual team sets off on a remarkable journey to escape from Pohn-Pohn's vile captors. From the bustling night market to the hallowed halls of a Buddhist temple and finally, to the sanctuary of an elephant refuge, this clever girl and her beloved companion find that right under their noses is exactly what each has been searching for: a friend.

Chanukah Picture Book Round-Up

A round-up of new Chanukah-themed books out this Fall 2011.

'Tis the season, after all - Happy first night of Chanukah!

Chanukah Lights
by Michael J. Rosen, illustrated by Robert Sabuda
9780763655334, $34.99

From a pop-up master and an acclaimed poet and author comes a glorious celebration of the true spirit of Chanukah.

Open this beautiful gift book and follow the Festival of Lights through place and time -- from Herod's temple to a shtetl in Russia; from a refugee ship bound for the New World to an Israeli kibbutz. Inspired by Michael J. Rosen's reverent poem, Robert Sabuda's striking pop-ups depict each night's menorah in a different scene, using imagery such as desert tents, pushcart lanterns, olive trees, and a final panorama of skyscrapers. Sure to be a treasured family heirloom, this stunning collaboration showcases the spirit and resilience of a people in search of home.

That book is honestly the only new Chanukah book published in 2011 that's worth mentioning. And by worth mentioning, I mean is up to my personal standard for both beauty of illustration and enticement of story.

Luckily, there are some classic children's Chanukah books that I can include in this round-up (most of them by Eric A. Kimmel:

Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins
by Eric A. Kimmel, illustrated by Trina Schart Hyman
9780823411313, Holiday House

A traveler rids a village synagogue of ghosts in this Caldecott Honor Book. The best part is doing the different voices for the different goblins that appear to Hershel each night. That Hershel - such a trickster. (A childhood favorite.)

The Chanukkah Guest
by Eric A. Kimmel, illustrated by Giora Carmi
9780823409785, Holiday House

Almost blind and deaf, a woman mistakes a visiting bear for a rabbi. Hilarity ensues. (A childhood favorite.)

Latkes and Applesauce: a Hanukkah story
by Fran Manushkin, illustrated by Robin Spowart
9780590422659, Scholastic

A Hanukkah miracle occurs as a poor family opens their doors to those less fortunate than even them. (A childhood favorite.)

The Latke Who Couldn't Stop Screaming: A Christmas Story
by Lemony Snicket, illustrated by Lisa Brown
9781932416879, McSweeney's Books 

Latkes are potato pancakes served at Hanukkah, and Lemony Snicket is an alleged children's author. For the first time in literary history, these two elements are combined in one book. A particularly irate latke is the star of "The Latke Who Couldn't Stop Screaming, " but many other holiday icons appear and even speak: flashing colored lights, cane-shaped candy, a pine tree. Santa Claus is briefly discussed as well. The ending is happy, at least for some. People who are interested in any or all of these things will find this book so enjoyable it will feel as though Hanukkah were being celebrated for several years, rather than eight nights. (An adulthood favorite.)

Fall 2011 Picture Book Highlights: Candlewick Press

Previously in my capacity as Children's Department Manager for the Odyssey Book Shop, I had the opportunity to look over publisher's catalogues at the new books for each season. I was lucky enough to get my hands on some Fall 2011 catalogues, so decided to revive my seasonal picture book highlights series.

Disclaimer: I have not seen these books with my own eyes. So, these books have been chosen based on my knowledge of the author and/or illustrator's previous work, the catalogue description, and my own personal taste.

King Hugo's Huge Ego
by Chris Van Dusen
9780763650049, $16.99

From a master of visual comedy comes the royally satisfying tale of a head swollen out of proportion and a blowhard brought down to earth.

Hugo is a tiny king with a very large ego. But when he mistreats a villager who also happens to be a sorceress, the spell she casts causes his head to literally swell. The more he boasts, the bigger it gets, until it finally topples the mini monarch right off his castle! Who will cut this royal pain down to size? And, more important, will anyone live happily ever after? Chris Van Dusen’s hilarious story is matched only by his outrageous illustrations. Together, they make for a picture book that is sometimes fairy tale, sometimes cautionary tale, and always laugh-out loud funny.

Naamah and the Ark at Night
by Susan Campbell Bartoletti, illustrated by Holly Meade
9780763642426, $16.99

As Noah’s wife sings the animals to sleep, an age-old tale is told afresh in a soothing poetic form brought to life with beautiful collage illustrations.

Naamah is the wife of Noah, and her name means "great singer." For forty days and forty nights, as the ark tosses on storm-wracked seas, Naamah sings. She sings to the animals, two by two. She sings to her husband, her sons, and their wives. She sings, and they all sleep, finally at peace. Acclaimed author Susan Campbell Bartoletti’s rhythmic, lyrical text pairs with Caldecott Honor winner Holly Meade’s luminous collage for a cozy, tender lullaby, and an ode to the power of song.

Chilly Milly Moo
by Fiona Ross
9780763656935, $15.99

As a quirky cow discovers, when life gives you a penchant for cold, make . . . something delicious! A comical ode to individuality from a new talent.

Milly Moo wants only one thing: to churn out the finest, tastiest, creamiest milk around. But there's just one problem. She's always too hot! While all the other cows snicker and bask in the sun, Milly Moo's milk bucket keeps coming up empty. Nada! Zilch! Just when she's sure that the farmer will banish her, Milly Moo wakes to a freezing cold morning. It's her last chance! Will the icy temperature help her make the special milk product she dreams of? With slyly humorous illustrations and a fun final twist, this treat from Fiona Ross will have children begging for second helpings.

The Sniffles for Bear
by Bonny Becker, illustrated by Kady MacDonald Denton
9780763647568, $16.99

The relentlessly cheery Mouse pushes a cold-suffering Bear to new heights of melodrama in a hilarious new adventure starring the unlikely pair.

Bear has a terrible cold. In fact, Bear is quite sure that no one has ever been as sick as he is. So when Mouse comes tap, tap, tapping on his front door eager to make Bear "as good as new" by reading a sunny story, singing a rousing chorus and plinking a twangy tune on her banjo, the pitifully coughing Bear - growing weaker by the minute - is convinced that his tiny friend does not appreciate the gravity of the situation. Can there be any saving Bear from his certain demise? Welcome the world's most lovable curmudgeon and his endearing, unstoppable sidekick in a wry new comedy sure to have even red-eyed, sniffly-nosed readers rolling with laughter.

Tales from India: Stories of Creation and the Cosmos
by Jamila Gavin, illustrated by Amanda Hall
9780763655648, $19.99

Discover a world of classic tales from India. Come on a journey with renowned storyteller Jamila Gavin as she writes of great floods, legendary romances, and epic battles between good and evil. This new collection of Hindu tales, including the birth of the gods, tales of creation, and the arrival of humans, is illuminated by Amanda Hall's exquisite artwork, which reflects the influence of both classical and contemporary Indian art.

Paul Thurlby's Alphabet
by Paul Thurlby
9780763655655, $16.99

You know I can't resist an alphabet book, so obviously I had to include this one on the list.

In his first picture book, graphic artist Paul Thurlby presents a stunning alphabet that helps to make the shape of each letter memorable. From an awesome A to a zippy Z, this is the perfect ABC book for the young and hip.

Around the World
by Matt Phelan
9780763636197, $24.99

Cheating just a bit here, with a historical graphic novel illustrated in the muted color palate with bursts of light that is so characteristic of Matt Phelan's work. A Scott O'Dell Award-winning graphic novelist follows three dauntless adventurers on a Jules Verne-inspired challenge: circling the world, solo!

As the nineteenth century wound down, a public inspired by the novel Around the World in Eighty Days clamored for intrepid adventure. The challenge of circumnavigating the globe as no one ever had before--a feat assuring fame if not fortune--attracted the fearless in droves. Three hardy spirits stayed the course: In 1884, former miner Thomas Stevens made the journey on a bicycle, the kind with a big front wheel. In 1889, pioneer reporter Nellie Bly embarked on a global race against time that assumed the heights of spectacle, ushering in the age of the American celebrity. And in 1895, retired sea captain Joshua Slocum quietly set sail on a thirty-six-foot sloop, braving pirates and treacherous seas to become the first person to sail around the world alone. With cinematic pacing and deft, expressive art, acclaimed graphic novelist Matt Phelan weaves a trio of epic journeys into a single bold tale of three visionaries who set their sights on nothing short of the world.

Christmas Picture Book Round-Up

A round-up of new Christmas-themed books out this Fall 2011.

'Tis the season, after all.

The Third Gift
by Linda Sue Park, illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline
9780547201955, Clarion Books (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt), $16.99


From two extraordinary talents, a beautifully crafted picture book for the Christmas season.

The three wise men, or the three kings, are familiar figures in the Christmas tradition. Newbery medalist Linda Sue Park has taken the brief biblical references to the three as the starting point for a new story. In it we meet a boy who is learning his father’s trade; a man who gathers resin from certain trees; a merchant in the marketplace; and three strangers in brightly colored robes who are shopping for a gift for a baby. Illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline with exquisite paintings, this simple, moving tale of ordinary people involved in an extraordinary event brings new resonance to the well-known gift list of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Auntie Claus and the Key to Christmas
by Elise Primavera
9780547576794, Sandpiper (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt), $7.99

It’s getting toward Christmas at the Bing Cherry Hotel, and Auntie Claus is preparing for her annual "business trip." Just before she is ready to leave, her favorite nephew, Christopher Kringle, begins to have doubts about the family business. Chris decides to take matters into his own hands: He plans to get on the Bad-Boys-and-Girls List on purpose! Even after his older sister, Sophie, reveals that their great-aunt, Auntie Claus, is really Santa’s sister, Chris needs to see for himself, in order to believe.

Follow the Star: A Pop-Up Christmas Journey
by Andy Mansfield
9781452103587, Chronicle Books, $19.99

Open this elegant pop-up book and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas! Lyrical words describe how the Star of Bethlehem lit the sky over the first Christmas, and how it shines still today: as families gather, as gifts are given, as we celebrate our love for one another, and as we wish for peace and joy for the world. The beautiful diorama-style format invites the reader to follow the star that shines every year during this special season, all over the world, in our homes and hearts.

The Story of Christmas 
Text based on the King James version, illustrated by Pamela Dalton
9781452104706, Chronicle, $17.99

Pamela Dalton s exquisite, intricate scissor-cut illustrations wonderfully illuminate The Story of Christmas. Deeply reverent, richly detailed, and teeming with life, Dalton s images follow the story of the Nativity from the appearance of the Angel, to the shepherds who came from the fields, and to the three wise men who followed the star to pay respect for their new king. Working in a Pennsylvania-German folk-art tradition, rich with lovingly rendered animals and figures, Pamela Dalton has created a book that takes a deserved place among the finest celebrations of Christmas.

Over the River and Through the Wood
by L. Maria Child, illustrated by Matt Tavares
9780763627904, Candlewick, $16.99

Matt Tavares's lavish illustrations illuminate this definitive edition of a beloved seasonal classic.

The horse is ready, the air is bracing, and everyone is bundled into the sleigh. So let the wind blow and the snow start to fall! This family is off to Grandfather's house for a delicious feast. Matt Tavares, with his keen eye for detail, fresh and surprising perspectives, and all the warmth and coziness of a big holiday dinner, illuminates the original text of Lydia Maria Child's verse about Thanksgiving Day, which has marked the start of the holiday season for generations of children.

Santa's On His Way: A Changing-Picture Book
by Ruth Martin, illustrated by Sophy Williams
9780763655556, Templar (Candlewick), $12.99

In the week before Christmas, Santa has so much to do!

Watch Santa and his elves as they make all the presents, groom the reindeer, and prepare for their most important night of the year -- Christmas Eve. With tabs to pull to change the pictures, readers can watch them get everything ready day-by-day, until finally Santa's sleigh takes off into the sky on Christmas Eve.

A Christmas Tree for Pyn
by Olivier Dunrea
9780399245060, Penguin, $16.99

Christmas is coming. In the craggy rocks on the snowy mountainside, tiny Pyn has her heart set on decorating her very first Christmas tree. But, "No Christmas tree," Papa says. Still, Pyn won't take no for an answer. She knows that a Christmas tree is just the thing their cottage needs to make the season festive and cheery. Pyn is determined to find the perfect Christmas tree - no matter what. With this story of the love between a father and daughter, Olivier Dunrea captures the true spirit of Christmas.

The Twelve Days of Christmas
by Laurel Long
9780803733572, Penguin, $16.99

The astounding talent of Laurel Long brings this beloved song to life with breathtaking style. Set against a lush countryside, each day brings a new gift elegantly rendered. And like in the verses of the song, the previous gifts are repeated in every illustration, giving this striking artwork a hidden aspect, culminating in a staggering spread featuring them all. Readers will pore over every page, searching for golden rings, turtledoves, and all the rest, secretly tucked into each stunning painting. Laurel Long's unparalleled style makes this exquisite volume a treasure that will be cherished for years to come.

The Scrawny Little Tree
by Ed Mehler, illustrated by Susie Pollard
9780843198607, Penguin, $6.99

Originally published in 1973, The Scrawny Little Tree tells of a destitute little boy who has always wanted a Christmas tree. He finally has saved enough to buy a little tree all his own, one with scrawny limbs and very few needles. But the boy's love for his first Christmas tree is not affected by its diminuitive stature. His love and the magic of Christmas combine to make a strange and wonderful thing happen to the town . . . Told in rhyme and with retro illustrations, The Scrawny Little Tree is sure to become a favorite holiday tale!

Fall 2011 Picture Book Highlights: Penguin

Previously in my capacity as Children's Department Manager for the Odyssey Book Shop, I had the opportunity to look over publisher's catalogues at the new books for each season. I was lucky enough to get my hands on some Fall 2011 catalogues, so decided to revive my seasonal picture book highlights series.

Disclaimer: I have not seen these books with my own eyes. So, these books have been chosen based on my knowledge of the author and/or illustrator's previous work, the catalogue description, and my own personal taste.

Love, Mouserella
by David Ezra Stein
9780399254109, $16.99

Mouserella misses her grandmouse, so she writes her a letter. At first she can't think of anything to say, but once she starts, the news begins to flow - she found a cat whisker at the zoo, she taught her ladybug to fetch, she made shadow puppets with Dadmouse during a blackout - and just like that, the events of the past few days come to vivid life in her letter, as does her love for Grandmouse. Children will enjoy reading the story from top to bottom, like a real letter, and Mouserella's funny drawings and lively adventures will spark their imaginations and just might inspire them to start a correspondence of their own.

Bun Bun Button
by Patricia Polacco
9780399254727, $17.99

Paige loves cuddling with Gramma and all of Gramma's pets in the Old Blue Chair. And when Gramma makes her Bun Bun Button, an adorable homemade stuffed bunny with a button nose, this special time becomes even more cozy. Then a balloon carries the little bunny away. Bun Bun braves honking geese and a wide night sky, until luck - or love - magically brings her back home to the little girl who loves her. This heartwarming story celebrates the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren, and is perfect for children who imagine their toys have secret adventures when no one's watching.

Otis and the Tornado
by Loren Long
9780399254772, $17.99

Otis and his farm friends are enjoying a summer's day playing their favorite game, follow-the-leader. The bull, however, has no interest in playing and stays in his pen, where he delights in intimidating the other animals. Suddenly the day turns frightening: the birds stop chirping, the wind picks up, and the sky turns dark and stormy. It's a tornado! Otis rouses a game of follow-the-leader to get all of the farm animals safe and sound in the dried-up riverbanks of Mud Creek. But Otis hears a cry in the distance - it's the bull, still locked in his pen! Quick as his tires will take him, Otis putt puff puttedy chuffs back to the farm to save the day. This brand-new adventure is a perfect accompaniment to any Otis lover's bookshelf and story time.

Shhh!
by Valerie Gorbachev
9780399254291, $16.99

When baby brother is sleeping, it's time to be ever so quiet. There's no singing or jumping or laughing at all. Even the toys need to be quiet! The pirates stop firing their cannons, the knights stop fighting, even the tiger stops growling. But when baby wakes up . . . it's time to jump and laugh and sing again! And the knights begin to fight, the pirates fire up the cannons, and the tiger growls so loudly! Until it's time to be quiet once again. In this beautifully and expressively illustrated picture book, we celebrate the love between siblings as a big brother uses his imagination to calm his urge to cause a ruckus so that his little brother can sleep.

Stuck
by Oliver Jeffers
9780399257377, $16.99

When Floyd's kite gets stuck in a tree, he's determined to get it out. But how? Well, by knocking it down with his shoe, of course. But strangely enough, it too gets stuck. And the only logical course of action . . . is to throw his other shoe. Only now it's stuck! Surely there must be something he can use to get his kite unstuck. An orangutan? A boat? His front door? Yes, yes, and yes. And that's only the beginning. Stuck is Oliver Jeffers' most absurdly funny story since The Incredible Book-Eating Boy. Childlike in concept and vibrantly illustrated as only Oliver Jeffers could, here is a picture book worth rescuing from any tree.

King Jack and the Dragon
by Peter Bently, illustrated by Helen Oxenbury
9780803736986, $17.99

An irresistible knights-and-dragons fantasy for the very young, in the tradition of Oxenbury's enduring classic We're Going on a Bear Hunt.

Jack, Zack, and baby Caspar spend all day fighting dragons in their homemade fort. But when Sir Zack and Caspar are taken inside for bed, King Jack - alone on his throne - finds himself feeling a bit less brave . . . especially when he hears a thing approaching, a thing with four legs. A rollicking read-aloud with a charming surprise ending and Helen Oxenbury's spare, expressive illustrations, this kid-pleaser is a classic in the making.

The Amazing Adventures of Bumblebee Boy
by David Soman and Jacky Davis
9780803734180, $16.99

When Sam turns into Bumblebee Boy to defeat pirates, fight dragons, and tame saber-tooth lions, he doesn't need his little brother, Owen, butting in and ruining his adventures. Bumblebee Boy flies alone! But what happens when Bumblebee Boy comes face-to-face with more scary aliens than even he can imagine? Owen is there, garbed in goggles and a towel cape, and he just might be the perfect alien-fighting sidekick. For all young superhero fans with big imaginations and curious siblings, here's a hilarious and sweet new adventure from the creative team who knows exactly how kids think.

Blue Chicken
by Deborah Freedman
9780670012930, $15.99

In this deceptively simple picture book, author-illustrator Deborah Freedman has created an irresistible character that springs to life and wreaks havoc in a farmyard with a pot of blue paint. The innocent chicken just wants to help, but things get worse and worse-and bluer and bluer--the more she tries. Playing with colors and perspective, and using minimal text, this richly layered story reveals new things to see and laugh about with each reading.

Little Owl's Night
by Divya Srinivasan
9780670012954, $16.99

It's evening in the forest and Little Owl wakes up from his day-long sleep to watch his friends enjoying the night. Hedgehog sniffs for mushrooms, Skunk nibbles at berries, Frog croaks, and Cricket sings. A full moon rises and Little Owl can't understand why anyone would want to miss it. Could the daytime be nearly as wonderful? Mama Owl begins to describe it to him, but as the sun comes up, Little Owl falls fast asleep. Putting a twist on the bedtime book, Little Owl's Night is sure to comfort any child with a curiosity about the night.

Fall 2011 Picture Book Highlights: Chronicle Books

Previously in my capacity as Children's Department Manager for the Odyssey Book Shop, I had the opportunity to look over publisher's catalogues at the new books for each season. I was lucky enough to get my hands on some Fall 2011 catalogues, so decided to revive my seasonal picture book highlights series.

Disclaimer: I have not seen these books with my own eyes. So, these books have been chosen based on my knowledge of the author and/or illustrator's previous work, the catalogue description, and my own personal taste.

Animal Fun from A to Z: Decorative Flash Cards
by Junzo Terada
9780811877794, $19.95

I've mentioned before my slight obsession with the alphabet, alphabet books, and alphabet cards. Here's just one more set to add to the ever-expanding list of alphabet-related paraphernalia I'd like to have some day.

A is for alligator and Z is for zebra! Showcasing the adorable vintage-inspired animal illustrations of Japanese artist Junzo Terada, these distinctive flash cards feature an animal for every letter of the alphabet. Printed on sturdy board, these cards are educational and absolutely delightful—perfect for both play and display.

One Love
Adapted by Cedelia Marley, based on the song by Bob Marley, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton
9781452102245, $16.99

Adapted from one of Bob Marley's most beloved songs, One Love brings the joyful spirit and unforgettable lyrics of his music to life for a new generation. Readers will delight in dancing to the beat and feeling the positive groove of change when one girl enlists her community to help transform her neighborhood for the better. Adapted by Cedelia Marley, Bob Marley's first child, and gorgeously illustrated by Vanessa Newton, this heartwarming picture book offers an upbeat testament to the amazing things that can happen when we all get together with one love in our hearts.

A Zeal of Zebras: An Alphabet of Collective Nouns
by Woop
9781452104928, $17.99

An embarrassment of pandas, a galaxy of starfish, a shiver of sharks...these are all collective nouns used to describe their groups. Woop Studios, acclaimed for their work on the Harry Potter movies, has illustrated these quirky phrases, creating a series of extraordinarily beautiful art that has been collected here for the first time. The colorful introduction to animals and the alphabet is accessible for young children, while the gorgeous, whimsical art and clever wordplay make it perfect for design-savvy parents and inspired gift givers. Longer than the standard picture book, with high design and production values, this is a volume readers will want on their coffee tables in addition to their child s bookshelf.

The Conductor
by Laetitia Devernay
9781452104911, $18.95

Pairing two seemingly disparate elements an orchestra conductor and a grove of trees award-winning artist Laetitia Devernay herself orchestrates a visual magnum opus. Her spare, yet intricate, illustrations truly appear to take flight before our eyes and her wordless narrative nearly roars with sound as the conductor prompts the leaves to rustle, then whirl, then swirl to unexpected life with each turn of the page. It is a celebration of creativity, imagination, storytelling, and the renewing power of nature that will entrance readers of every age.

Over and Under the Snow
by Kate Messner, illustrated by Christopher Silas Neil
9780811867849, $16.99

Over the snow, the world is hushed and white. But under the snow exists a secret kingdom of squirrels and snow hares, bears and bullfrogs, and many other animals that live through the winter safe and warm, awake and busy, under the snow. Discover the wonder and activity that lies beneath winter s snowy landscape in this magical book.

Best Shot in the West: The Adventures of Nat Love
by Patricia C. McKissack and Frederick L. McKissack Jr., illustrated by Randy DuBurke
9780811857499, $19.99

Cheating a bit with this one as it's actually a graphic novel for ages 12 an up, but the illustrations are just gorgeous, so had to include it.

From acclaimed authors Patricia C. McKissack and Fredrick L. McKissack Jr. comes a thrilling biography of an unforgettable man told in compelling graphic novel form. Born into slavery in 1854, Nat Love, also known as Deadwood Dick, grew up to become the most famous African-American cowboy in the Old West. A contemporary and acquaintance of Bat Masterson and Billy the Kid, Nat was widely known as an expert roper and driver, a crack shot, and a real Wild West character. Featuring lively full-color artwork by Randy DuBurke, Best Shot in the West is an exhilarating mix of high-interest historical fiction and nonstop adventure.

Fall 2011 Picture Book Highlights: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Previously in my capacity as Children's Department Manager for the Odyssey Book Shop, I had the opportunity to look over publisher's catalogues at the new books for each season. I was lucky enough to get my hands on some Fall 2011 catalogues, so decided to revive my seasonal picture book highlights series.

Disclaimer: I have not seen these books with my own eyes. So, these books have been chosen based on my knowledge of the author and/or illustrator's previous work, the catalogue description, and my own personal taste.

Dog Parade
by Barbara Joosse, illustrated by Eugene Yelchin
9780152066901, $16.99

Nine diggity dogs get ready to join a doggone jamboree!

Meet Tinkles, Gracie-pants, Lovie, Fritzie, Weenie, Walter, Comet, Ike, and Jack. It’s time for these pups to let their owners dress them up in costume! But one of them is shy. Another is too jumpy. Do any of them really want to join the fun? Once they see the silly and cute duds they’re wearing, they will! But they need to hurry—the dog parade won’t wait forever. And it’s not to be missed!

Book Speak!: Poems About Books
by Laura Purdie Salas, illustrated by Josee Bisaillon
9780547223001, $16.99


A collection of wacky, whimsical poems about books and all the treasures they contain.

Laura Purdie Salas, the acclaimed author of Stampede!, is back with another collection of wild and weird, wacky and winsome poems about all the magic to be found on a single bookshelf. In BookSpeak!, each poem gives voice to a group that seldom gets a voice . . . the books themselves! Characters plead for sequels, book jackets strut their stuff, and we get a sneak peek at the raucous parties in the aisles when all the lights go out at the bookstore!Illustrator Josée Bisaillon’s mixture of collage, drawings, and digital montage presents page after page of richly colored spreads filled with action and charm. Together, Salas and Bisaillon deliver a unique collection brimming with ideas as much about spines and dust jackets as they are about adventure and imagination.

Little Treasures: Endearments from Around the World 
by Jacqueline K. Ogburn, illustrated by Chris Raschka
9780547428628, $16.99

A tender collection of endearments for children the world over. All over the world, people express their love for their children through endearments, such as “sweetie pie” or “peanut.” A child might be called little angel, angelito, in Spanish or precious, bao bei, in Chinese or my sweet little moon, mera chanda, in Hindi.

Little Treasures offers a wealth of endearments in fourteen languages to share with your own beloved poppet and petit chou.

Everybody Gets the Blues
by Leslie Staub, illustrated by R.G. Roth
9780152063009, $16.99

Chase those dreary blues away!

Everybody gets the blues sometimes—dogs and cats, moms and dads, even tiny babies. Just take a look around. If you help someone else who’s feeling sad, you might find that your blues are gone. Or maybe the Blues Guy will come along, to listen or sing the blues with you and sit by your side. A native of New Orleans, Leslie Staub wrote this story after experiencing Hurricane Katrina. Yet this book’s rhythmic, bluesy text and hip, eye-catching illustrations are just right for anyone who’s ever felt those mysterious feelings of sadness—then found that hope and sunnier skies are close at hand.

Levi Strauss Gets a Bright Idea: A Fairly Fabricated Story of a Pair of Pants
by Tony Johnston, illustrated by Stacy Innerst
9780152061456, $16.99


Wild West chaos and creative problem solving are the force behind a well-loved American institution.

What’s a California miner to do when gold dust sifts right out of his holey pockets? With such a raggedy wardrobe, he may as well be mining in the vanilla (that is, his birthday suit)! Good thing Levi Strauss is out west, ready with his needle and a head full of bright ideas. With some quick thinking, quicker stitching, and handy arithmetic, Levi keeps all the gold rushers clothed—and becomes a modern American hero. A Wild West tall tale, Levi Strauss Gets a Bright Idea celebrates creativity, innovation, and the ubiquitous item that fills the closets of grateful jeans wearers worldwide.