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Picture Books December 2020
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| Cozy by Jan BrettFeaturing: Cozy, a huge and furry musk ox who's separated from his herd during an Alaskan winter storm; and an ever-increasing crowd of Arctic creatures who must find ways to get along as they shelter under Cozy's warm coat.
Why kids might like it: the satisfying cumulative storytelling style, and the quarantine-relevant reminder to be kind and mindful when living in close quarters.
Art alert: Veteran picture book creator Jan Brett renders each animal in glorious, meticulous detail. |
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| Eric by Shaun TanWhat it's about: Tiny, spindly, leaf-headed Eric isn't what this book's narrator and his family expected in a foreign exchange student. Nonetheless, they try to answer Eric's curious questions and respect his choices (such as his preference for a cozy teacup over a typical bedroom).
Don't miss: the enchanting, rainbow-hued conclusion in which Eric leaves a long-lasting thank-you gift.
Did you know? This thought-provoking book expands on a story from author/artist Shaun Tan's Tales from Outer Suburbia. |
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| Julián at the Wedding by Jessica LoveThe big day: As colorfully clad Julián and his abuela arrive at an outdoor wedding, Julián prepares to walk the brides' dog down the aisle alongside flower girl Marisol, who'd rather wear a ball cap than a dainty flower crown.
Something borrowed: After Marisol's dress is ruined during post-ceremony playtime, an inventive sartorial swap makes both kids ready to party at the reception.
Series alert: Kids who love Julián Is a Mermaid will be thrilled to revisit this imaginative, gender-nonconforming character. |
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| Starcrossed by Julia DenosWhat it's about: Earthbound astronomer Eridani, a human girl made of "blood and bones," is best friends with celestial Acamar, a boy made of "space and stars," and each longs to know what it's like to be the other. Will wishing upon a star -- or each other -- allow them to swap places?
Who it's for: Young stargazers can engage their sense of wonder with this lavishly illustrated tale featuring rich colors, eye-catching textures, and constellations of careful paint splatter. |
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| Leave Me Alone! by Vera Brosgoltarring: a harried grandmother who just wants to knit, and who will go to great -- even cosmic -- lengths for some peace and quiet.
Art alert: Combining a traditional Eastern European setting with a crisp, expressive cartoon style, this award-winning picture book will charm readers of all ages.
Reviewers say: it's a "fizzy collision of old-fashioned fairy tale elements with space-age physics" (Publishers Weekly). |
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| One Day in the Eucalyptus, Eucalyptus Tree by Daniel Bernstrom; illustrated by Brendan WenzelWhat it's about: In the leafy shadows of a eucalyptus tree, a little boy is gobbled up whole by a giant yellow snake. Yikes! But it's not the end for the resourceful boy, who encourages the greedy snake to eat more...and more...
Read it for: rhythmic wordplay, big, busy illustrations, and a pleasing conclusion. For fans of: There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly -- either the traditional song or Simms Taback's modern classic picture book. |
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| Puppy Truck by Brian PinkneyWhat it’s about: When Carter is given a toy truck instead of the puppy he wanted, he literally takes it in stride, leashing up the truck (which comes to life with a “vroom beep bark!”) and heading off for a walk in the park.
Why kids might like it: Swirling, swooping lines and a bright, bold color palette add irresistible verve to this tale of a boy and his unusual pet.
Kids might also like: Chris Raschka’s A Ball for Daisy. |
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| Snappsy the Alligator Did Not Ask to Be in This Book! by Julie Falatko; illustrated by Tim MillerStarring: mild-mannered Snappsy the alligator, who's simply going about his day when a "rude narrator" begins intruding, misinterpreting Snappsy's feelings (he doesn't need a nap, he's just hungry!) and accusing him of sinister intent (he's not hunting for bunnies, he's just buying groceries!).
Why kids might like it: Readers will snicker as the interplay between the narration and Snappsy's speech-bubble protests becomes more and more heated.
Art alert: Deadpan cartoon illustrations balance the off-the-wall humor of this metafictional tale.
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Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 0-8!
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