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Picture Books December 2020
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| Cozy by Jan BrettFeaturing: Cozy, a huge and furry musk ox who's separated from his herd during an Alaskan winter storm; and an ever-increasing crowd of Arctic creatures who must find ways to get along as they shelter under Cozy's warm coat.
Why kids might like it: the satisfying cumulative storytelling style, and the quarantine-relevant reminder to be kind and mindful when living in close quarters.
Art alert: Veteran picture book creator Jan Brett renders each animal in glorious, meticulous detail. |
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| Starcrossed by Julia DenosWhat it's about: Earthbound astronomer Eridani, a human girl made of "blood and bones," is best friends with celestial Acamar, a boy made of "space and stars," and each longs to know what it's like to be the other. Will wishing upon a star -- or each other -- allow them to swap places?
Who it's for: Young stargazers can engage their sense of wonder with this lavishly illustrated tale featuring rich colors, eye-catching textures, and constellations of careful paint splatter. |
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| Ginger and Chrysanthemum by Kristen Mai Giang; illustrated by Shirley ChanWhat it's about: While fiery Ginger likes to act first and think later, level-headed Chrysanthemum is more methodical, and yet these two cousins are close as can be. Or they were, before they were put in charge of planning Grandma's birthday party together.
For fans of: Grace Lin's Ling & Ting series and other sweet, feel-good stories starring duos who get along despite being complete opposites.
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| Julián at the Wedding by Jessica LoveThe big day: As colorfully clad Julián and his abuela arrive at an outdoor wedding, Julián prepares to walk the brides' dog down the aisle alongside flower girl Marisol, who'd rather wear a ball cap than a dainty flower crown.
Something borrowed: After Marisol's dress is ruined during post-ceremony playtime, an inventive sartorial swap makes both kids ready to party at the reception.
Series alert: Kids who love Julián Is a Mermaid will be thrilled to revisit this imaginative, gender-nonconforming character. |
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| Eric by Shaun TanWhat it's about: Tiny, spindly, leaf-headed Eric isn't what this book's narrator and his family expected in a foreign exchange student. Nonetheless, they try to answer Eric's curious questions and respect his choices (such as his preference for a cozy teacup over a typical bedroom).
Don't miss: the enchanting, rainbow-hued conclusion in which Eric leaves a long-lasting thank-you gift.
Did you know? This thought-provoking book expands on a story from author/artist Shaun Tan's Tales from Outer Suburbia. |
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Oh, No!
by Candace Fleming
What happens: A series of animals repeat a refrain of dismay as they fall, one by one, into a deep hole.
Read it for: the delightful illustrations and rhythmic rhyming phrases that come alive when read out loud.
Who made it: the author of Imogene's Last Stand and the Caldecott Medalist illustrator of My Friend Rabbit.
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| Leave Me Alone! by Vera BrosgolStarring: a harried grandmother who just wants to knit, and who will go to great -- even cosmic -- lengths for some peace and quiet.
Art alert: Combining a traditional Eastern European setting with a crisp, expressive cartoon style, this award-winning picture book will charm readers of all ages.
Reviewers say: it's a "fizzy collision of old-fashioned fairy tale elements with space-age physics" (Publishers Weekly). |
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I Ain't Gonna Paint No More!
by Karen Beaumont
What it is: Excited with the art he has created on the walls, a young artist decides to continue on with his vibrant creations--soon painting the floors, ceiling, and himself in the process!
Kids will love it for: infectious rhyming, laugh out loud humor, a simple but engaging story and expressive, bright and cheerful art, all set to the tune of "It Ain't Gonna Rain No More."
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| Snappsy the Alligator Did Not Ask to Be in This Book! by Julie Falatko; illustrated by Tim MillerStarring: mild-mannered Snappsy the alligator, who's simply going about his day when a "rude narrator" begins intruding, misinterpreting Snappsy's feelings (he doesn't need a nap, he's just hungry!) and accusing him of sinister intent (he's not hunting for bunnies, he's just buying groceries!).
Why kids might like it: Readers will snicker as the interplay between the narration and Snappsy's speech-bubble protests becomes more and more heated.
Art alert: Deadpan cartoon illustrations balance the off-the-wall humor of this metafictional tale.
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Nanette's Baguette
by Mo Willems
What happens: Nannette the frog embarks on her first big solo trip to the bakery, wondering which choices she should make through a series of whimsical rhymes.
Why it's great for storytime: Nannette can't seem to get the baguette home without resisting the temptation to eat it on the way. And her compulsive chomping and munching noises are fun to imitate.
About the author: Mo Willems is the Caldecott Honor-winning creator of Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!, the Elephant and Piggie series and many other beloved books.
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Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 0-8!
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