Book Finder

Chubby, rounded children in bright colors whish and swish, shake and bang in this sturdy board book with its built-in rattle. The rattle adds to the playfulness, though the language alone will get the young children moving.

When their mother tells them their day of play is about to end, two ducklings run away — “pit-a-pat” — until it starts to rain. Gentle illustrations depict the appealing toy duck family.

A young raccoon seeks attention from her ever-patient mother. She wants to be held then put down throughout their day together, until the youngster whispers “good night.” Soft illustrations in warm hues show their cozy world and affectionate relationship.

All children know a lot of things like when “I look in a mirror/what I see is me” and that they will continue to grow and learn. Poetic, child-like realizations combine with strong, uncluttered graphics to affirm and maybe even instruct.

Sophisticated readers will appreciate the sly humor and wordplay in the “kissin’ cousin of haiku.” Senyru focuses on everyday activities (e.g., “Freedom vanishes, as the babysitter arrives… kids are tied in nots”) complemented here by comic illustrations.

From mailbox to homes, the process of handling mail is introduced in Gibbons’ signature style illustrations and crisp text in this brief but informative book.

Chubby cheeked babies of many hues are shown in crisp illustrations doing things that babies do. The simple words are playful and energetic, just like the children in this and others by Oxenbury such as Clap Hands and All Fall Down.

Young children will appreciate the game played by children (also in Tickle Tickle) in this sturdy book. Rhyming text and uncluttered illustrations are just right to share with the youngest child.

A cheerful child gets ready for bed, playing and saying “Peekaboo! I see…” until at last, ready for bed, the child sees “you!” This companion to Peekaboo Morning (opens in a new window) features the same child but stands alone.

Mama has three kittens. Fluffy and Skinny do things when their mama does, but not Boris who marches to his beat. Readers will recognize themselves in this satisfying and brilliantly colored picture book.

Sophisticated young scientists will enjoy dipping in and out of this funny but edifying compendium of science. Topics range from paleontology to astronomy with lots of ways to get involved (some requiring adult help). The comic format and brief information are appealing and sure to amaze and engage.

Clearly organized instructions provide not only the know-how but ideas on how to make prints from easily found materials. As children craft their own artwork, they may just want to reread other books which use comparable techniques (such as Eric Carle). Also in the 1 2 3 series are the equally doable I Can Sculpt! and I Can Paint!

Full-color illustrations combine with clear instructions organized into four sections drawn from nature to present possible activities with generally easy-to-locate materials. Some activities are sophisticated, but children (with an adult) will find something to create in the great outdoors.

Dozens of how-to topics can be found in this browsable “instruction manual.” Easy-to-follow directions and helpful illustrations show you how to do things as varied as make your own lip gloss, eat with chop sticks, and juggle one-handed. The book opens with a disclaimer and reminds readers to use common sense at all times!

This book opens with a disclaimer and reminds readers to use common sense at all times — especially as boys consider doing things like skateboard “ollies,” fighting off a crocodile, or escaping quicksand. The book is fun and full of suggestions for real and absolutely outrageously undoable activities. Not just for boys!

Make a special card or gift that really stands out — or pops up, literally! Easy to follow instructions and ideas are generously illustrated to allow even the neophyte to make eye-catching pop-ups with easily found materials.

Lilly is an effervescent child who enjoys each season and the special things that can be done during them. Comic book-like format and conversation balloons clearly depict her delight and make this book easy to follow and to read.

Scaredy Squirrel comes by his name honestly; he’s a bit frightened of just about everything! Can his preparation for a day at the beach protect him adequately? Readers will laugh at Scaredy Squirrel’s ultimate realization that there is a lot to enjoy at the beach!

What is summer without a rainstorm? Alliterative language and richly textured collages create a day’s play interrupted by rain — until the sun returns.

A young pig is warned to be careful with a pointy stick — but it’s not really a stick. It’s a paint brush, it’s a fishing pole, it’s “not-a-stick”! Children and adults will recognize a child’s imaginary play and an adult’s concern for safety in the brief text, simple line, and flat color in this good-natured book.

Max and his brothers play outdoors on a summer day, but Max is the first to see his dragon. When chased by a dark cloud that looks surprising like a fierce dinosaur, only a rhyme — and the breeze from the dragon’s sneeze defeats it. Textured, rounded figures and playful language combine to present this imaginative summer adventure.

A young otter named Otto does many things well, but swimming isn’t one of them. With the help of his sister, Otto does learn to swim well, little by little. Idealized illustrations and a gentle text help the satisfying story to unfold.

Instead of taking a nap, Carl, the loveable large dog, and his human charge, Madeline, use the time to go boating, explore the playground, and even play a bit of baseball. Tired out, dog and toddler sleep through dinner and fireworks. Their adventures are related through realistic watercolor illustration.

Colorful, cartoon-like illustrations clearly depict signs with mealtime meaning. From “eat” to “all done” (with more in between), the simple signs can easily be shared with young children to aid communication or just for a different way of sharing.