Picture Books
October 2023
Recent Releases
If I Was A Horse
by Sophie Blackall

To an imaginative child, being a horse represents independence: doing whatever they want, without even wearing clothes! (Unless they're in a parade). Bold, whimsical illustrations provoke giggles by placing the equine protagonist in familiar human settings. Recommended for horse fans and free spirits.
Something, Someday
by Amanda Gorman; illustrated by Christian Robinson

One child tackles one problem -- cleaning up trash. It seems small, but small steps can become big change over time. Through uplifting poetry and charming collage art, this community-centric read by two beloved creators will leave kids feeling hopeful.
The Voice in the Hollow
by Will Hillenbrand

While struggling through a blizzard in the creepy woodland Hollow, little mouse Hubert finds a mysterious helper. Shivery thrills abound in the snowy artwork, with an interactive fold-out spread offering a jolt of excitement before the cozy conclusion.
There Was A Party for Langston
by Jason Reynolds; illustrated by Jerome Pumphrey and Jarrett Pumphrey

In 1991, literary luminaries boogey at a "fancy-foot, get-down, all-out bash" honoring Langston Hughes, "the word-making man." Inspired by a real photo, this debut picture book from author Jason Reynolds combines jazzy poetry with dazzling, dynamic art from the Pumphrey brothers.
Every Dreaming Creature
by Brendan Wenzel

This fascinating and fanciful read delves into the sensory experiences of sleeping animals. Salamander, octopus, tiger, elephant, and falcon are rendered in expressive mixed-media artwork that hints at each animal's nature as well as its appearance. Read-alike: Isabelle Simler's Sweet Dreamers.
Retro Reads
Check out these awesome books from the not-so-distant past.
 
Blue: A History of the Color As Deep As the Sea and As Wide As the Sky
by Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond; illustrated by Daniel Minter

In this illustrated cultural history of the color blue, indigo hues are used sparingly, making them pop on the page. Unusual and sure to intrigue older kids who've never thought twice about using a blue crayon or wearing blue jeans.
I'll Go and Come Back
by Rajani LaRocca; illustrated by Sara Palacios

Whether Jyoti visits her grandmother, Sita Pati, in India or Sita Pati visits Jyoti in America, they like to play, draw, cook, and lovingly pledge in Tamil that they'll always return to one another. Read-alike: Michelle Sterling's When Lola Visits.
A Day for Sandcastles
by JonArno Lawson; illustrated by Qin Leng

No words are needed to tell this story! Delicate lines and summery watercolors depict a determined trio of siblings at the seaside. They're building a sandcastle, and despite setbacks -- water, wind, other beachgoers -- they're determined to make it a masterpiece.
The Blur
by Minh Lê; illustrated by Dan Santat

Childhood goes so fast, doesn't it? Especially for a superpowered kid like the one who grows up in the pages of this sweet, silly picture book. Exaggerated illustrations will tickle young funny-bones, while nostalgic moments will tug adult heartstrings.
I Am A Baby
by Bob Shea

With a short refrain -- "because I am a baby" -- the tiny narrator of this cheerfully illustrated story explains why Mommy is sleepy, Daddy is clumsy, Kitty is hiding…you get the idea. For another hilariously egotistical infant, try Kate Beaton's King Baby.
Contact your librarian for more great books for ages 0-8!
Norton Public Library
68 E. Main St.
Norton, Massachusetts 02766
(508) 285-0265

www.nortonlibrary.org