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A dapper brown bear named Henry and his friend decide to visit another town. As Henry hikes, he leisurely soaks in the flora and fauna as he meets a number of his contemporaries (and a sly way to introduce historical figures such as Mrs. Alcott, Mr. Emerson, and Mr. Hawthorne). His friend, however, misses these as he takes the train. Other books about Henry are also inspired by Thoreau and provide a brief introduction to his life and beliefs.

Louisa May Alcott briefly worked as a nurse during the Civil War before becoming ill herself. In this Magic Tree House fantasy, Jack and Annie travel back to the Civil War, meeting Clara Barton and help nurse the soldiers wounded in battle.

This handsomely illustrated picture book biography glimpses some of the events that shaped the 19th girl who grew into a beloved writer still read today. Several poems written by Louisa as a child are included as are facts about her family and other useful or simply intriguing information.

In this festive holiday book, Pat Mora blends traditions by setting her own Spanish lyrics to the popular Christmas carol, “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” Each verse describes a Latino custom, often related to the celebration of Three Kings Day: “On the second day of Christmas my amiga gave to me / dos pastelitos / and a piñata in a pine tree.” Vibrant acrylic illustrations of guitarritas, luminarias, and piñatas dance with joy on the colorful pages.

A young owl decides to stay awake during the day and discovers a range of colors, from pink dawn to yellow sun to blue sky. But the small owl decides that the nighttime stars are the most beautiful of all. A color wheel is included and displays the same vibrant colors used throughout the story.

Move over Mother Goose! These cheerfully illustrated ditties not only take off from the earlier rhymes, but add a decidedly contemporary feel with likely appeal especially for truck and grit lovers. The rhymes can be shared aloud or even read aloud with more traditional offerings.

A baby kangaroo jumps out of its mother pouch, each time going a little farther, but each time returning after meeting an unexpected animal. Like children, however, Joey, finally recognizes itself in another and leaves his mother’s safety for a bit longer. Repetition and lively illustrations make this an engaging story.

Each sturdy page begins with “peek-a-boo” in words and a die-cut page that folds over to reveal the hidden object. Clues are included before the flap opens and provide lots to point to and talk about with young children in this rhyming, playful, and colorful board book.

The familiar rhyme continues all the way to 20 as a rabbit helps the farm animals get ready for a party. A small chick on each page encourages young readers to look closely as chicks are hidden on each spread. Bright, boldly lined illustrations are appealing and child-like.

The arctic environment contrasts with the warmth of a mother polar bear and her cub who emerge from their den for the first time. The mother’s encouragement allows her child to build confidence as he grows and explores his wintry but safe surroundings. This gentle, handsomely illustrated story makes a comforting bedtime book.

Maisy’s favorite animals are introduced in both English and Spanish accompanied by Cousin’s signature illustrations on sturdy pages. Maisy is a familiar character with a simplicity of illustration and text that captivates young children.

Highly textured, realistic collages on uncluttered backgrounds combine with rhythmic, rhyming, and repetitive text to introduce a range of animals. Ranging from very familiar to lesser known, young listeners will meet creatures and language in this compelling and participatory book.

Hard hat Pete and his dump truck dutifully execute their work, from hauling rocks to traveling to another worksite. Other trucks they meet along the way have personalities as well, shown in crisply lined illustrations on sturdy pages and described in spritely, repetitive text.

While parents may be miffed when young dinosaurs test limits, they are always reassured of their parents’ cunfailing love. Told in rhyme, this latest addition to the series by this talented writer/artist team is sure to please young children as they cuddle with their parents.

Short rhymes introduce out-of-the ordinary animals and invite readers to touch a part of the illustration to feel such things as an octopus’ textured tentacles. This could be a colorful companion to the much-loved classic, Pat the Bunny.

The round little dog has a colorful ball but no one to play with; all of the farm animals have excuses. Dog is forlorn until a pair of human hands picks up the ball — and fun can start. Simple language in an easy rhyme combines with colorful, gentle illustrations for a satisfying story.

A teddy bear and a small dog share a great friendship in these three satisfying short tales. Young listeners and new readers will appreciate the gentle humor and vivid, boldly outlined illustrations in this latest Dog and Bear installment.

A hungry owl sits on a branch to listen for something he might catch for dinner, like a plump little mouse. The predictable pattern, onomatopoeic words, and realistic, highly detailed illustrations combine to make a satisfying story for all except for the still-hungry owl.

A group of firefighters respond to an apartment building and save its residents — including a small cat. The rhythm and rhyme along with brightly hued illustrations in a larger format make this ever-appealing subject satisfying and accessible.