Picture Books: a Visual Feast!
Reviews by Melissa Oxborrow

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[April 20, 2015]   One of the best things about being a librarian is jumping into a pile of new library books before they make it to the shelves. Which new books will I use for story time? What titles are going directly to the top of my “To Read” list? Which might be good choices for student book talks?

Picture books are especially fun to browse. The picture book titles below are all wonderful stories, but they initially caught my eye (literally!) because of their gorgeous artwork and photography. They are wonderful picks for children, pre-K through grade 2.


The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend
by Dan Santat, c2014


Let’s start out with the 2015 Caldecott Medal winner! The Caldecott Medal is given annually to the “most distinguished American picture book for children”. The story of Beekle, an imaginary friend, on a quest to find the perfect match is sweet and clever. After he is born, he waits on his island to be chosen by a real child, but is always overlooked. Taking matters into his own hands, he journeys to the real world, determined to find his “unimaginary friend”. Will he find the one he’s been waiting for? This charming tale is accompanied with rich color schemes and truly breathtaking art. Children will love this gorgeous book and adults will enjoy sharing it with them.
 


Have You Seen My Dragon?
by Steve Light, c2014


A small boy has lost his dragon in the city. Where could he be?

If your children enjoy seeking, they will love this engaging picture book by popular author Steve Light. They’ll laugh as they search and find the dragon in each spread, while the young hero of the book keeps overlooking his naughty friend. This is a perfect book for counting practice (up to 20) and color recognition. The items to count are highlighted in bold color against the backdrop of black and white. Adults will soak in the details of Steve Lights’ finely drawn pen and ink illustrations.

If you enjoy this title, keep an eye out for “Have You Seen My Monster?” which will be out in early April. We’ll have a copy at the library!

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Raindrops Roll
by April Pulley Sayre, c2015


Fans of “Rah, Rah, Radishes!” and “Go, Go, Grapes!” will love Sayre’s newest picture book. Gorgeous up-close photography will delight young readers when paired with simple language exploring rain and the water cycle. Rhyming words that mimic the sound of water add a lyrical feel to the book. Children will want to reach out and touch the life-like photos where water glistens on spider webs, insects and plants. This is a great non-fiction read-aloud for preschool age children. It also includes detailed information on the back inside cover about the water cycle for more advanced readers. It’s a perfect pick for Spring!

Spots in a Box
by Helen Ward, c2015


Maybe being just like everyone else isn’t all it’s cracked up to be...

This story begins with a young guinea fowl, who just wants look like everyone else. Missing spots, he decides to send away for some. When the mail arrives he realized that the spots aren’t quite right. He tries small spots and big ones, even spots that glow in the dark! Finally he finds the spots that are meant just for him. An enchanting look at an animal that children may not be familiar with, along with an important life lesson, this is a great pick for kids. They will love all the different types of spots----some patterned and textured, just begging to be touched---and they will cheer for the young guinea fowl’s choice to be himself.

To check out these books or get recommendations for other great reads, please come see us at the Lincoln Public Library, 725 Pekin Street.

 

[By MELISSA OXBORROW, Lincoln Public Library District]

 

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