by Julie Danneberg, illustrated by Judy Love; Charlesbridge, 2023.
The latest in the Jitters series of picture books featuring Mrs. Hartwell and her students finds the beloved teacher out sick for the day. What happens next is sure to tickle as well as inspire young students to develop a spirit of community in their classroom.
by Deborah Kerbel, illustrated Isaac Liang; Kids Can Press, 2023.
Wordless picture book Next Door highlights the joy in appreciating simple pleasures and the value in finding positive ways to overcome differences and connect with others.
by Sue Heavenrich, illustrated by Chamisa Kellogg; Sleeping Bear Press, 2023.
Molly plants a seed, nurtures the growing vine, observes the bees that carry pollen from flower to flower, harvests a (huge!) pumpkin, and bakes a pie she shares at an outdoor gathering in this jaunty STEM/STEAM picture book that uses “The House That Jack Built” rhyme scheme.
by Norene Paulson, illustrated by Maria Mola; Beaming Books, 2023.
On a trip to the thrift store, Nila finds the perfect puffy coat. She wants it, and she buys it—even though her coat from last year still fits. What happens next is the crux of Nila’s Perfect Coat, an accessible story that provides entry into a discussion of needs and wants, and helping others through difficult times.
by Kate McMullan, illustrated by Alison Friend; Knopf, 2022.
From the title page onward, the children in this informational story plant, learn, and grow as they enjoy the gifts their tree offers as it matures and flourishes. Young listeners will collect facts and gain appreciation as they happily follow along in this cumulative rhyming tale.
Told entirely in letters, this warm and whimsical picture book celebrates the joy and treasure of new friendships that challenge us to grow and flourish. Owl relishes solitude and turns to books to help him solve problems–such as coping with the noisy young ones with whom he shares the forest. When he corresponds with the local bookshop owner seeking assistance with helpful titles, he gets more than he bargained for, much to his eventual delight.