Book Finder

In a happy but chaotic home, the bunnies had had a big day and a hard night — and Mama loved them throughout. As a tired Mama sits down at last, her dad comes in to reassure her that no matter how old children get, a parent’s love continues. Small, detailed, line and wash illustrations complement this warm, comforting story.

The special place in fathers’ hearts for their children is celebrated in this warmly illustrated, wise book. Rich language describes each animal dad’s prediction of their child’s growing up until a human father is pictured embracing an infant. This is as appealing as the author/illustrator’s I Love You as Much.

Rich, alliterative language is used in intriguing similes to create a rhythmic text illustrated with bright colors and bold forms — animals created by one or many heart shapes. From the opening to the final page where a resting child cuddles with a teddy bear made from heart shapes, this book is sure to fascinate readers.

A baby Max thoroughly enjoys his daily routine. He loves everyone and each activity — from waking up in his crib to driving in a car but he especially loves the one who makes his jelly toast! Repetition in a catchy cadence combines with Wells’ signature illustrations in a sturdy, uncluttered format to share with the youngest.

A child’s teddy bear wonders about kisses, and so the child describes many familiar types of kisses from parents, grandparents, and even a dog. Gentle illustrations combine with a narration of child-like questions and answers. It ends, of course, with a “soft and warm and… delicious” kiss and the assurance of love.

On the day that Henry’s mom includes a special blueberry muffin in his lunch, Henry’s teacher moves his desk next to Chloe. A smitten Henry — a young cat — gives his tasty treat to the attractive bunny. Soft illustrations and an understated text combine to create a winning portrait of infatuation and friendship.

Meet the Hatchers through the voice of Peter, the oldest of son, tormented (as all siblings are) by his younger and perennially “cute” brother, Farley (better known as Fudge). Their life in an apartment in New York City sparkles with humor and plausible family scenes in this first of the stories of Peter, his family, and ultimately his neighbors.

Peter is now 12 and still tormented by younger brother, Fudge. And then he learns that his parents want to leave New York City for some time in the country — and a new baby in the family. One Fudge is bad enough, but how will Peter cope with yet another? Humor abounds in this recognizable tale.

In a shorter form, Jake and Abigail (better known as the Pain and the Great One) are introduced. As with other stories, each views the other as best loved in the family but share an abiding loyalty for the other. Anyone with a sibling will appreciate this gently humorous tale.

It’s tough being the middle child, between an older brother and younger sister. Second grade Freddy says he sometimes feels squeezed like the peanut butter part of a sandwich but happily, he establishes himself as special nonetheless. Memorable characters and recognizable situations make this book both satisfying and appealing.

Andrew really wants to have freckles like his friend Nicky so badly that he buys a fake formula from his class enemy, Sharon. The results are unexpected and funny — presented with a keen eye for real children and their desires.

A boy named Jeremy defines himself in the context of his world. The animated narrator begins by looking in the mirror and seeing a boy, and then adds brother, son, artist, writer, and more as he interacts with his family and community. The lively poem concludes with a look at a very young author and illustrator and a short list of how they self-define.

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.

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.

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.

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 loud “plop!” sounds while a bunch of bunnies are eating. Off they run, frightening other animals into running away as well, including a big brave bear. Only the smallest and brightest young rabbit (who notices the apples dropping into water) enjoys a repast alone. Rhythmic language and retro illustrations make this cumulative tale fresh.

A boy and his dog foil the ravenous intentions of a super hungry T-Rex that shows up unexpectedly in the backyard. After taming the creature, mom provides a huge plate of pasta to make a “super full dinosaur” who happily leaves, but only after after a very large, satisfying burp. Child-like illustrations add appeal in this very silly, engaging tale.

Otis, a small tractor, becomes despondent when he is replaced by a larger, more modern tractor. Even his friend, a once lonely calf, can’t stir Otis — that is, until the calf becomes stuck in a pond of mud and only small, brave Otis can save her. A limited palette and onomatopoeic language create an old-fashioned feeling and completely satisfying book.

Beauty is a small kitten who becomes a large gorilla’s best friend as they happily share their lives together (reminiscent of Koko’s Kitten). When “King Kong” is mistreated, the gorilla smashes the television. The keepers come to remove Beauty, but Beauty signs that she broke the TV, not her friend. Realism and fantasy combine in this smart, expressive book.

In spite of a grumpy dad who literally turns into a grizzly bear — as seen in the very amusing illustrations — the grizzly dad and his son enjoy an outing together. By the time the mom and other child return home at the end of the day, dad has returned to himself. The literal transformation is not only child-like, but the notion will be broadly appreciated!

Bespectacled Sunday Chutney has an unusual name — and she’s always the new girl as her family moves frequently for her dad’s work. Her voice is real as is her take on herself and her life (which she admits is sometimes lonely) and utterly charming. The illustrations are as quirky as the character herself.

In a companion to A Chair for My Mother, young Rosa awaits the birth of her baby cousin in the now slightly frayed chair so lovingly purchased long ago. When the baby is born, Rosa introduces him to the much-loved chair and its history in this sincere and warmly told and illustrated family story.

A boy’s grandfather is always grumpy, fussy, and yelling. But when grandfather and grandson go fishing together, they wind up having a laugh and finding a way to communicate. Stylized illustrations are used effectively in this story of learning to appreciate relatives who may have forgotten what it’s like to be young.