Travel + Imagination = Adventure

The United States is a big place which holds many children and their families. Maps and what they show are introduced by a girl who begins with a drawing of her room in her home. The house is then placed on a street, in a town, etc. until we see the U.S. as part of the world. This accessible book may help children understand their place on the map — and in the census.

Gentle rhymes and realistic watercolor illustrations invite readers to imagine what a range of animals are doing as readers go through their day. Naturally, activities wind down as animals “…who at this very moment/will fall asleep with you.”

Does no electricity mean that there’s nothing to do or are there new adventures just waiting to happen? A family and their neighbors find out one hot summer night in the city. Luminous illustrations and limited text reveal the unexpected, joy-filled pleasures of a blackout.

Feared by the townsfolk, only young Sam understands outlaw Dirk Yeller’s “itchin’ and twitchin.’” And Sam has the cure: a visit to the local library where Dirk finds adventure — and love. Animated, twangy language and caricature-like illustrations make a memorable tall tale.

Two friends make decisions about their summertime activities and adventures. Do they want to do cannonballs or float in the pool? Is this a firefly or fireworks night? Soft illustrations and limited text accessibly present compatible girls engaged in recognizable activities.

Dinny Brown hurries and helps his family finish getting ready so they can walk to the fair. Grandma and Dinny start out but are soon joined by the others for a lovely fair day! Softly hued, detailed illustrations and playful, rhyming text build excitement for this family outing.

Summer camp adventures — from arts and crafts to games to hiking — are presented in rhymes that can be sung to familiar tunes. Slightly irreverent humor in text and illustrations are sure to make this a memorable experience for campers and non-campers alike.

Dramatic photographs, attention-grabbing facts, and clear maps introduce a world of animals and their habitats. A glossary, where to go for more information, and an index make this an ideal book for both browsing and research.

Unlikely friends, Cork (a short muskrat who enjoys the water) and Fuzz (a tall possum who doesn’t) find that practice can turn fear into an unexpected adventure. Expressive illustrations and understated humor present a memorable, exciting everyday escapade.