Picture books are a fun way to get your children, grandchildren or students into reading by reading to them. Once they get older, these books can become a “first read” portal for them. I still remember the books my family read to me, and what I read to my sister and nephews (and I hope they remember as fondly as I do Moo, Baa, Laa Laa La and my edits of a not-for-their-age-group read I was reading aloud to them….) Three books coming out in 2018 have caught my eye as books that will hopefully become books in this category for you.
Hedgehog Needs a Hug by Jen Betton (June 2018) is a nice, fun, sweet and bright book about giving and receiving: give a hug and guess what? You get one…even if you’re not so “traditional” and have prickles or scent.
A Round of Robins by Katie Hesterman and illustrated by Sergio Ruzzier (March 2018) is my favorite of this group. Introducing poetry to the younger reader without it screaming “I AM POETRY” (which can be a turn off for many: child or adult) and introduction of the habits of robins makes this a delightful choice for a bookshelf. The colors are muted, yet still pop. The only drawback for me is the illustrations are a tad too cartoonish. I would prefer a more realistic look (even if they were not real drawings or photographs). Yet, these illustrations fit perfectly with the tone of the text.
And One of a Kind by Chris Gorman has unique illustrious that are as quirky as the people he talks about. Have a different drumbeat you dance too? Then this is the book for you. While for children, adults might appreciate it more.