Books as Gifts
Holiday Buying Guide 2004
Reading Rockets' first annual holiday buying guide makes it easy to find good books kids will enjoy. Click below to browse through the buying guide online.
Browse through the 2004 holiday buying guide below.
- See books for 0-4 year olds
- See books for 4-5 year olds
- See books for 6-7 year olds
- See books for 8-9 year olds
For 4-5 year olds: To read on their own
A Kiss for Little Bear
When Little Bear draws a picture for Grandma, she likes it so much that she sends him a kiss in gratitude and asks him to pass it on. Astute readers will recognize Little Bear's "Wild Thing" drawing by illustrator Maurice Sendak.
Can You See What I See? Cool Collections
Easy rhymes hint at what can be found in jam-packed, full color photographs of the things that kids collect. Look closely and you too can solve the hidden mysteries on each double page spread.
Chicka Chicka 1, 2, 3
From one to one hundred, the numbers (differentiated by their vibrant colors) go up – and ultimately down – the apple tree in this lively and worthy counting companion to Chicka Chicka ABC. The role of zero (0) creates tension ("Will there be a place for me?") and finally a celebration!
Frog and Toad All Year
For fans of these famous amphibians, this story continues Frog and Toad's saga and gives a glimpse of what the two friends are up to all year long. They frolic together over four seasons, with a story for each, plus one for Christmas. Glide down the snow-covered hill with Toad, hunt for spring with Frog, and discover just who is hiding under all that melted chocolate ice cream.
Have You Seen My Cat?
A little boy travels around the world to find his missing cat. As he encounters other felines, he exclaims, "This is not my cat!" That is, until his very own is located.
Henry and Mudge and the Happy Cat
When Henry, his big dog Mudge, and their family take in a scraggly stray cat, Mudge and the cat develop a fond and unusual friendship. This story is as engaging as the other titles in the Henry and Mudge series.
In the Land of Words
Where do words come from? For this poet, they come from dreams or a memory. This book of poems and textured illustrations of fabric and yarn complete this exploration of feelings and language.
My Five Senses
Children are encouraged to explore their world and their five senses in this informative and engaging introduction to sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound.
My Kindergarten
Introduce young readers to a kindergarten filled with activities and great fun, from making a museum of treasured objects to celebrating holidays. Current kindergarteners will draw connections to their own experience in school, and younger children will look forward to their turn.
Round Is a Mooncake: A Book of Shapes
A girl discovers things that are round, square, and rectangular in her urban neighborhood. A gently rhyming text and crisply lined illustrations reveal many things that are universally recognizable as well as others that come from the child's Chinese background.
For 6-7 year olds: To read with you
Actual Size
The real and truly amazing size of animals from the sea and land are shown in a way that children can understand and appreciate. Textured collage illustrations are used to show the actual size of a gorilla’s hand, a giant squid’s eye and much more. Additional information on each animal is included in an afterward to allow reading on several levels.
Circle Unbroken
A grandmother tells her granddaughter the history of baskets, going all the way back to Africa. The circular history of a people and of families is suggested in gentle text and evocative watercolors.
Doodler Doodling
As a child doodles and draws, she plays with lively language and creates all that she's illustrated. Which comes first, the doodles or the words? Well, it's a tantalizing tangle to untwist tongues and identify illustrations.
If Not for the Cat
The essence of animals is evoked in rich language and the short form of haiku poems in this engaging book. Coupled with breathtaking and well composed illustrations, the poems are dramatically placed on double page spreads.
Sarah, Plain and Tall
Set in the 1800s, a widowed farmer advertises for a wife and mother for his two children. A tall, plain woman answers the ad; Sarah leaves her Maine home and the sea for the Plains as she grows to love Caleb and Anna. An elegantly simple telling.
Sidewalk Circus
As advertisements go up announcing the arrival of the circus, children imagine the different acts on the sidewalks of their town. It's a nearly wordless but richly imagined adventure.
Snowflake Bentley
The story of one boy’s passion for snowflakes led to a lifetime’s study. Wilson Bentley, better known as Snowflake Bentley, is presented in a fascinating picture book biography. Read just the story portion or include the factual narration which is included on each page. Illustrations evoke Snowflake’s Vermont, just the thing for a warm day.
The Three Pigs
Once upon a time three pigs built three houses, out of straw, sticks, and bricks. Along came a wolf, who huffed and puffed... So, you think you know the rest? Think again. With David Wiesner at the helm, it's never safe to assume too much. When the wolf approaches the first house, for example, and blows it in, he somehow manages to blow the pig right out of the story frame, and the perplexed expression on the wolf's face as he looks in vain for his ham dinner is priceless. One by one, the pigs exit the fairy tale's border and set off on an adventure of their own. (2002 Caldecott Medal Winner)
When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson
Marian Anderson was an extraordinary contralto whose talent was celebrated in Europe long before she was recognized in her native United States. Anderson's focus, musical talent, and the difficult times in which she lived are captured in a dramatic picture book biography.
For 0-4 year olds: To read with you
Arrorró, Mi Niño: Latino Lullabies and Gentle Games
A selection of nursery rhymes and games from different countries are presented in this book in both Spanish and English. The rhymes are accompanied by gentle illustrations. Music appears with lyrics (again in both languages) at the end of this pleasing book.
Baby Danced the Polka
Rather than sleep, Baby wants to dance the polka, the cha cha – any and everything – exhausting the poor parents! After lots of activity, Ma and Pa finally tuck in the tuckered out baby. Rhyming text and flaps that lift on sturdy pages make a memorable book to share at bedtime and beyond.
Goodnight Moon
The youngster prepares for sleep, bidding goodnight to the room and all objects in it, including the moon and the old lady who whispers "hush." Sleep comes softly in this cozy classic.
Kitten's First Full Moon
Children will delight in Kitten’s mistake. They know that what she thinks is a bowl of milk is really the moon’s reflection. Mostly black and white (and shades of gray) illustration expressively depict Kitten. Children enjoy the visual and verbal patterns throughout. (2005 Caldecott Medal Winner)
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale
Trixie enjoys errands with her dad until her beloved stuffed toy, Knuffle Bunny, is left at the Laundromat. It takes her mom's insight to figure out what made Trixie go "boneless." Only then is the beloved toy recovered and Trixie utters her first real words! Cartoon characters are imposed on a background of monochromatic photographs portraying a New York neighborhood. The book was awarded a Caldecott Honor.
Make Way For Ducklings
It's not easy for duck parents to find a safe place to bring up their ducklings, but during a rest stop in Boston's Public Garden, Mr. and Mrs. Mallard think they just might have found the perfect spot.
My Car
Bold color and broad shapes show the details of Sam's car and how he takes care of it before he drives to his job and goes off, driving a bus!
My Very First Mother Goose
This spritely collection of both familiar and less well known rhymes is presented in an oversized format just right for sharing. Young children will likely examine lighthearted, detailed illustrations as they extend the rhymes' action with verve and humor.
The Snowy Day
The simple tale of a boy waking up to discover that snow has fallen during the night. The little boy celebrates the snow-draped city with a day of humble adventures.
For 6-7 year olds: To read on their own
Babe the Gallant Pig
Rich language and lots of farm detail are used in the saga of Babe, a unique and truly heroic pig, who works successfully as a sheep dog.
Emma's Strange Pet
Even though she has allergies, Emma wants a pet for her birthday. Not only does Emma find an acceptable and intriguing pet, she convinces her parents that her younger brother Max needs one, too.
Oh No, It's Robert
Robert survives all of the minor disasters that befall him in school, including a class bully and making mistakes in front of everyone. Readers will cheer Robert's successes and laugh along with him in this celebration of everyday life.
The Cat in the Hat
When a tall cat in a striped top hat comes to call on two children one rainy afternoon while their mother is out, well, the silly fun is bound to become legendary. With its limited vocabulary, this is just right for newly independent readers. Be sure to see and sing along with the 1971 animated film version.
The Hundred Dresses
Though Wanda says she has a hundred dresses at home, her classmates tease her because she wears the same worn dress everyday. Only one girl feels badly when Wanda no longer attends school, and she tries to make amends. This girl learns what Wanda already knows — that words really hurt.
Three By the Sea
While they wait to go back into the water, Lolly, Sam, and Spider pass the time by telling stories to each other. One story is so vividly told, the monster seems to come alive! The deadpan language is very humorous, and is complemented by simple line-and-wash illustrations.
Three Stories You Can Read to Your Dog
Children may feel more confident as readers if they read stories aloud to their pets – though with or without a pair of floppy ears listening, these short tales celebrate what makes dogs unique: barking, loving a good bone, and digging holes. Comic illustrations enhance the humor and link the three readable tales.
You Read to Me, I'll Read to You: Very Short Stories to Read Together
Rhyming tales written for two voices makes an ideal — and humorous — introduction to readers' theater. Well known fairy tales have been adapted, reorganized and reinvigorated with lively language and sprightly illustrations, worthy of many dramatizations.
For 4-5 year olds: To read with you
Bunny Mail
When Ruby sends out invitations to a party, Max sends out his own which are delivered to Grandma. Children are encouraged to participate by lifting the flaps in this sturdy, colorful book. They'll try to figure out the meaning of Max’s messages and may even be inspired to write their own letters in this latest Max and Ruby jaunt.
Duck, Duck, Goose! A Coyote's on the Loose!
The ducks and goose start the animals' frenzied flight when they see a mostly hidden animal and exclaim, "A coyote's on the loose!" Colorful, comic illustrations culminate in a house in a rain storm where the "coyote" turns out to be a small white rabbit.
Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse
Lily just can’t contain her excitement and simply MUST share her jingly quarters and new purse causing her favorite teacher to put her in the thinking corner. How Lily rethinks her anger with Mr. Slinger is told with gentle humor, lively language, and very expressive illustrations.
My Father's Dragon
A boy sets off to rescue a baby dragon and has a series of adventures before the happy conclusion. Though written long ago, the slightly eccentric tale continues to engage young readers.
Ramona the Pest
Ramona loves kindergarten and her wonderful teacher, Miss Binney. But even the best teacher and the most enthusiastic kindergartner can have a rough day or so. This leads to laughs for readers as they empathize with Ramona, who can be rather a pest and perhaps the first-ever kindergarten dropout.
We're Going on a Bear Hunt
A father and his children go over, under, and through while on an exciting bear hunt in this retelling of a traditional chant. Illustrations alternate between black and white and color, enhancing the engaging repetition and the exciting chase — all the way home!
Where The Wild Things Are
Max's imaginative adventure begins the night he wears his wolf suit and makes some mischief. When he is sent to his room to cool off, he travels to the land of the Wild Things, where he is crowned king. This beloved Caldecott-winning classic is also available in Spanish. Go on a reading adventure with our Where the Wild Things Are reading adventure pack, available in English and Spanish!
For 8-9 year olds: To read on their own
Chasing Vermeer
As mysterious things happen in and around their Chicago school, Petra and Calder use their knowledge of the painter Vermeer, their intuition, and their problem solving skills to retrieve a stolen painting. The book's Illustrations contain clues that are revealed only upon close (and multiple) examinations. This quirky mystery is sure to please fans of E.L. Konigsburg's From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler.
Gooney Bird Greene
Gooney Bird is a memorable character whose outrageous tales are all true! Children may see their world differently through Gooney Bird’s storytelling and consider writing themselves just like the kids in Ms. Pidgeon’s class at Watertower Elementary School. This is first of Lowry’s Gooney Bird books, all of which are relatable.
Hachiko: The True Story of a Loyal Dog
This story of a true and faithful dog so touched the people of Japan that a statue of Hachiko was erected in the train station where the dog went daily for almost ten years after his master’s death. Told from the point of view of a young boy, the book includes an afterword that provides additional details about this true story.
Mighty Jackie: The Strike-Out Queen
Jackie loved to pitch baseball. Her long practices paid off when at 17-years old she pitched for the Chattanooga Lookouts in a demonstration game against the New York Yankees. Jackie struck out both Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig — and forever changed baseball's rules. The excitement of Jackie Mitchell's story is well-paced, illustrated with slightly exaggerated and altogether winning illustrations.
The Boy on Fairfield Street: How Ted Geisel Grew Up to Become Dr. Seuss
How Theodore Geisel, a dreamer and doodler from Springfield, Massachusetts, came to be Dr. Seuss, is reveled through a concise text and selected early work by the artist. This book provides a rare glimpse into the personal life of the innovative children's book author and illustrator.
The Giant and the Beanstalk
Otto, a gentle giant, is understandably upset when a fellow named Jack steals his pet hen. When Otto descends the beanstalk to retrieve it, he encounters several boys named Jack (who readers may recognize from other tales!) – until he finds the right Jack and makes an equitable deal. Humor abounds in the text and illustration of this fractured fairytale.
The Little Gentleman
While sitting on the log in the meadow, Mr. Franklin asks young Bet to read aloud. Little does she realize that she’ll soon befriend a small mole. This rollicking story includes a bit of magic, a hint of history, and an atmospheric setting that together reveal the essence of friendship.
For 8-9 year olds: To read with you
Dragon Rider
When an orphaned boy fulfills an ancient prophesy and becomes a dragon rider to help Firedrake find the Rim of Heaven, he finds more than just adventure. The fantastic journey is filled with characters from folklore, and the classic struggle between good and evil makes a spirited good read aloud.
National Geographic World Atlas for Young Explorers, 3rd edition
The latest edition of the Young Explorers atlas uses satellite images to help focus on various parts of the world and to build an understanding of continents, countries, and natural resources. This edition also suggests links to a dedicated website to extend the learning.
Science Verse
This boy's curse begins when his teacher suggests that the "poetry of science" can be heard everywhere. From Moore to Frost, familiar poems are parodied and turned into science verse. Again art and illustration are inseparable as are the laughs in this offbeat look at science.
Secrets of the Sphinx
The Great Sphinx has amazed and intrigued since it was first created some 4,500 years ago. Those secrets that have been revealed, and others that remain cloaked in mystery, are the subject of this well written, handsomely illustrated, and thoroughly engaging book.
Skyscraper: From the Ground Up
From the architects' plans to the tower's completion, a New York skyscraper is created step by step. Clear text is presented on several layers of detail and is coupled with crisp, informative, full color photographs to document this fascinating process.
The Barefoot Book of Ballet Stories
A brief history of classical ballet opens this handsome, richly told collection of seven stories from ballets. Each story is introduced with information on the production and time period in which the ballet was first performed.
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