OlatheLibrary - Kids - Staff Picks 2011: Picture Books

Lucky Beans By Birtha, Becky (Book - 2010)

Annotation:Marshall’s mother tries to guess how many beans are in a jar to win a sewing machine during the Great Depression. It’s a touching story about keeping hope in hard times, facing discrimination, and using math in everyday life.

A Pig Parade Is A Terrible Idea By Black, Michael Ian (Book - 2010)

Annotation:A pig parade is a GREAT idea, right? No, a pig parade is a TERRIBLE idea! Here’s why: pigs hate to march, they won’t wear uniforms, they only like sad, slow music, and they can’t hold the giant balloons. But how about pandas? Would a panda parade be a good idea? The large-scale illustrations and the clever story make this an entertaining read for anyone who loves parades.

Hurry down to Derry Fair By Chaconas, Dori (Book - 2011)

Annotation:This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of young Dinny Brown and his family as they prepare to spend a day at the famous county fair. Dinny’s anticipation and excitement build page-by-page, and his story culminates in a satisfying ending. The rhyming text and humor make this a great read-aloud.

Chicken Big By Graves, Keith (Book - 2010)

Annotation:Remember Chicken Little? Well, now it’s time for a story about Chicken Big. Born on a teeny little farm, in an itty-bitty coop, Big is a mystery to his fellow chickens. He must be an elephant because he’s so big. No, he must be a squirrel because he eats acorns. Maybe he’s an umbrella because he protects them from the rain. They finally realize that there’s only one thing that could be so smart, so kind, so warm, and so brave. Can you guess what it is? A fun twist to a familiar tale.

The Rabbit Problem By Gravett, Emily (Book - 2010)

Annotation:What happens in the course of a year when two lonely rabbits become friends? With a nod to the mathematician Fibonacci, this lift-the-flap book watches the rabbits’ family grow to hilarious proportions.

The Giant Hug By Horning, Sandra (Book - 2005)

Annotation:Owen wants to send his granny a hug for her birthday – a giant hug. How do you give your granny a hug when she lives far away? Send it through the mail, of course! Owen’s hug travels across the country by truck, plane, and mail carrier in a series of hilarious, sometimes awkward, always heartfelt embraces between animals of different shapes and sizes. For huggers of all ages.

Little Pink Pup By Kerby, Johanna (Book - 2010)

Annotation:When little piglet Pink was born, he was the runt of the litter. Because he was so small and weak he was unable to compete for food with his siblings. Pink was taken indoors and introduced to Tink, a new dachshund mom. When Tink saw Pink, she welcomed him into her family of puppies. What follows is a sweet (and true!) story of love and acceptance.

Pete the Cat I Love My White Shoes By Litwin, Eric (Book - 2010)

Annotation:Pete the cat loves, loves, loves his new white shoes so much that he even sings about them as he strolls down the street. But then…strawberries and blueberries and mud…OH MY! Follow Pete as he shows us how to “keep on walking and keep on singing a song” no matter what. Bright, colorful illustrations make Pete one cool cat!

Making the Moose Out of Life By Oldland, Nicholas (Book - 2010)

Annotation:There once was a moose who lived in the wild but didn’t act wild at all. His friends seemed to have fun whatever the occasion. Not this mild-mannered moose. But every now and then he would wonder if he was missing out on something. One fine day, the moose took a chance and set out on a spur-of-the-moment sailing trip that ended in a raging storm at sea. Stranded far from home, the moose had a decision to make. Was he going to curl up in a ball and cry, or was he going to make the most of it?

Blackout By Rocco, John (Book - 2011)

Annotation:When a power outage plunges their city into darkness, a young girl and her family learn that there are adventures to be had and delightful ways to pass the time. Intriguing and beautifully detailed illustrations compliment the story.

Interrupting Chicken By Stein, David Ezra (Book - 2010)

Annotation:When Papa’s bedtime story of Hansel and Gretel gets a little too intense for Little Red Chicken, she can’t help herself from interrupting to make sure there’s a happy ending. “DON’T GO IN! SHE’S A WITCH!...THE END!” Two more stories are interrupted the same way when Little Red saves Chicken Little and Little Red Riding Hood. Finally, Little Red starts a story of her own, but this time Papa is the one who is interrupting. A fun father-daughter anytime read.

Because By Torrey, Rich (Book - 2011)

Annotation:Jack’s mom tells him that “because” is not an answer, but he thinks it’s the perfect answer to many questions. This humorous picture book should be a hit with fans of No, David!

Press Here By Tullet, Hervé (Book - 2011)

Annotation:What could be more delightful than a plaything that requires no batteries? Better yet, a book that is a creative plaything that will repeatedly bring joy to a child? Look no further. Open the book and get ready for delight! Follow the directions and see what happens. Be prepared to hear, “AGAIN!”

The Cow Loves Cookies By Wilson, Karma (Book - 2010)

Annotation:“Whenever Farmer feeds the horse, he feeds the horsey hay, of course… But the cow loves cookies.” With fun rhymes and repetition, this cumulative farmyard story is sure to be a hit with your preschooler.