Five Favorites: Picture Books You Can't Miss

August 10th was our 10th annual picture book celebration:  Picture Book 10 for 10.  Since that time, I've been reading posts and reserving books at the library.  Okay, okay.  I may have purchased a few titles as well.  The first stack from the library produced a few favorites that you won't want to miss.  I'm going to apologize now as I can't be sure which blog recommended which books.  So many posts...so little time....

Here are my favorites from the first #pb10for10 stack:

Stolen Words by Melanie Florence and illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard

Oh.  My.  Goodness.  This book!  I'm not sure I will get over this picture book for a long time.  Sometimes a picture book stops your heart, and this is one of those stories.  In this story, a young girl helps her grandfather find the language that was stolen from him as young boy.  This book is a must read for everyone.

tiny, perfect things by M.H. Clark and illustrated by Madeline Kloepper

This book is a reminder that the world is full of tiny, perfect things if we just slow ourselves down enough to notice.  The author and illustrator take us on a walk of a discovery.  The simple text alongside the illustrations open the door to all we might discover.  This book has so many possibilities.  It seems it would be the perfect title to share to help writers slow down to notice the world around them as they grow ideas in a writer's notebook.  It would also be the perfect title to start conversations about noticing in science.  This is one for the classroom library, for sure!

We've Got the Whole World in Our Hands by Rafael López

What's not to love about this one?  First of all, Rafael López is certainly an illustrator to keep an eye on in children's literature.  His work adds layers of meaning to any text.  How exciting to see him author and illustrate a picture book!  Secondly, the primary teacher in me loves a good song book.  It's hard to find newer picture books that pair with a song so I was happy to find this one to add to the collection.   Finally, there's the message that it is our job to take care of this world.  Yep, loved this one as well.

Under My Hijab by Hena Khan and illustrated by Aailya Jaleel

I had the pleasure of listening to Hena Khan speak when she came to Ohio at the beginning of this year.  Since then I've been discovering her books and enjoying every one.  Under My Hijab is no exception.  This story helps readers to see the strength and complexity of the women who choose to wear their hijab.  It's a must for any classroom library.  

How to Walk an Ant by Cindy Derby

This book has so many possibilities.  Not only would it make a delightful read aloud, but it also would work as a mentor text.  In this story, the character tells us about something she is quite good at:  walking ants.  Yes, walking ants.  The author makes so many interesting craft moves that young writers could try in their own writing.  Her nine step guide to ant walking with steps, tips, and rules is sure to inspire some interesting writing.


These are a few of my favorites from my first collection I picked up at the library after August's picture book event.  Thank you to everyone who shared such thoughtful recommendations.  I picked up the second stack yesterday.  I'll share some favorites from that stack soon.