-
Hugo Bear’s Non-Hibernation
Hugo Bear’s Non-Hibernation is a picture book that chronicles the journey of Hugo, a bear cub who doesn’t hibernate like his parents. Waking up on the first morning of hibernation is frightening for Hugo, but he gradually learns to take care of himself. As he becomes more independent and skilled, he leans into taking care of his Mama and Papa, building a “hibernation home” for all of them and even protecting them from Gus the Mountain Lion. This heartwarming story embodies survival themes and hints of the sweetness found in Bear Snores On.
-
Little Yellow Lighthouse
Little Yellow Lighthouse is a picture book with lyrical elements of a lullaby that tells the tale of dedication to a job and determination to find love and family. Little Yellow protected his ships from the jagged rocks near his island. But when his beacon beamed and the fog rolled in, he learned to use the foghorn to call for the help he needed and the family he was to love while protecting the ships he guarded. This story combined the heartwarming elements of The Lonely Toadstool and the dedication displayed in Hello Lighthouse.
-
Skipper Chip and Captain Jax
Skipper Chip and Captain Jax is a picture book that shares the journey these two best friends take when one of their ships sinks. They try several unique and hilarious approaches to solve their “one-ship” problem until they discover an unexpected answer. I see it as a combination of the setting of Swashby and the Sea and the spirit of After the Fall. This message highlights creative problem-solving and perseverance based on a strong friendship and stands out in the current picture book market.
-
Every Kid’s Guide to Using a Magic Wand
Every Kid’s Guide to Using a Magic Wand is a rhyming picture book that poses the question, “What would YOU do if you found a magic wand?” This guide offers five humorous and useful tips, such as not pointing the wand at a frog but at food (to lead to a special treat). There are similarities between this story and the “How to Catch a __” series, both in style and in target market. Creative questions and directions on how to make a magic wand (art project) could be included, making it a great addition to classrooms, children’s reading groups,…
-
Oscar, Jack, and Bernice – and Sam
Oscar, Jack, and Bernice…and Sam is a picture book about creating a community around someone in need. Oscar and Jack chose “help Bernice” as their Summer Service Project, but she wasn’t who they expected! The rusty, dusty tractor needed more help than they and Farmer Sam could handle. The story embodies the warmth and unity found in We’re Better Together and the practicality and mechanics of The Little Blue Truck. It goes beyond the concept of nurturing strong families to introduce building resilient communities.
-
Luka, the Reluctant Llama Leader
Luka, the Reluctant Llama Leader is a humorous picture book that illustrates how an ordinary llama’s interest in protecting his herd invokes “the challenge,” – resulting in his new role as leader and the ensuing trouble. It combines the sweet naivete of Winnie the Pooh with the crazy group dynamics of Disney’s Ice Age. The message of listening and building out an idea as a leadership style is unique in today’s picture book market. The social and emotional learning (SEL) concepts would likely be new to young listeners and appeal to parents, teachers, and librarians.
-
Mateo’s Typhoon Challenge
In Mateo’s Typhoon Challenge, Mateo, King of the Sea Turtles, must choose between the unique strengths of others to pick his successor. This picture book has some lyrical components and includes a page of backmatter on Sea Turtles and Typhoons. The story has similarities to Willy Wonka’s succession challenges on his journey… As the next typhoon builds, King Mateo realizes that after his leadership failure during the last storm, he must find a new leader for the sea turtles – someone who can better protect them! When three quirky candidates step forward, he’s worried that the wrong choice will further…
-
Dragon Wagon
Dragon Wagon is a clever, humorous picture book that follows the journey of the lovable, tenacious Megan and her anxiety about flying. Working to live an everyday life, she is thrust into overcoming her fear and discovers flying isn’t as scary as imagined. The relatable story is a unique blend of the themes of If You Met a Dragon and the character journey of Jabari Jumps. Megan’s story is a valuable tool for understanding and discussing anxiety, showing that it is a common experience that doesn’t have to hinder our drive, tenacity, and identity. The SEL concepts presented make it…
-
Tree House-Stone House
Tree House—Stone House is a lyrical picture book that explores courage, unity, and acceptance. Neither friends nor foes, the Tree-Dwellers and the River People maintained a wary separation due to the ominous nature of the forest and the untamed river. However, they had to unite to survive when a thunderous monsoon threatened their existence. This warm-hearted fable shows how we can overcome fear, embrace differences, and move forward as a community. It combines the courage of A Little Bit Brave and Dr. Seuss’s classic The Sneetches. This tale helps children empathize with the characters and contemplate identity, bravery, and inclusion…
-
Subscribe
Subscribed
Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
Venita Garrison 