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    The Children's Book Review

    Best New Picture Books | September 2017

    Bianca SchulzeBy Bianca Schulze24 Mins Read Ages 0-3 Ages 4-8 Ages 9-12 Best Kids Stories Book Lists Picture Books
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    The Children’s Book Review | September 1, 2017

    32 New Release Picture Books

    Yes, you read that correctly. We have 32 excellent picture books to share with you this month. And there were so many more that we could have included, too! It is such a great list (if you ask us) that it feels like Christmas. And, since we mentioned Christmas, there are even some beautiful new holiday titles that have made the list. We can’t go without mentioning the genius names of new characters Baabwaa and Wooliam (yes, they are sheep), or the wonderful message of Hillary Rodham Clinton’s It Takes a Village (gorgeously illustrated by the very talented Marla Frazee).

    Of the 32 best new picture books we have selected for you to read your way through, we wonder which one you are going to want to read first?


    Our Last Trip to the MarketOur Last Trip to the Market

    Written by Lorin Clarke

    Illustrated by Mitch Vane

    Publisher’s Synopsis: What a fabulous morning to go to the market. That busker is dressed as a clown! And there’s fruit and a baker. There are people on bikes. Annabelle, please put that down . . . This boisterous family excursion is full of warmth, humor and delicious mischief.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 2-5 | Publisher: Allen & Unwin | September 1, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1925266962


    The Little Red Cat Who Ran Away and Learned His ABC's (the Hard Way)The Little Red Cat Who Ran Away and Learned His ABC’s (the Hard Way)

    Written and Illustrated by Patrick McDonnell

    Publisher’s Synopsis: Bestselling and award-winning artist Patrick McDonnell uses the ABC’s to tell a hilarious, high-energy alphabetical adventure.

    It starts with an ALLIGATOR and a BEAR chasing a CAT. When a DRAGON (and a chicken and an egg!) join in pursuit, things start to get REALLY interesting. A wild and wacky chase through snow and ice, and to jungles and over mountaintops, leads the whole crew to a wonderful realization: They’re better off as friends.

    From New York Times bestselling author and Caldecott Honor recipient Patrick McDonnell comes an exciting new take on the alphabet book for everyone who has ever wondered what’s just beyond the front door.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 3-6 | Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers | September 5, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-0316502467


    Goodbye Autumn, Hello WinterGoodbye Autumn, Hello Winter

    Written and Illustrated by Kenard Pak

    Publisher’s Synopsis: As leaves fall from their trees, animals huddle against the cold, and frost creeps across windows, everyone knows―winter is on its way!

    Join a brother and sister as they explore nature and take a stroll through their twinkling town, greeting all the signs of the coming season. In a series of conversations with everything from the setting sun to curious deer, they say goodbye to autumn and welcome the glorious first snow of winter.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 3-6 | Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. | September 5, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1627794169


    When's My BirthdayWhen’s My Birthday?

    Written by Julie Fogliano

    Illustrated by Christian Robinson

    Publisher’s Synopsis: In this enthusiastic celebration of all things BIRTHDAY, acclaimed author Julie Fogliano and award-winning illustrator Christian Robinson bring you the perfect birthday book! Join our excited narrator as she lists all the things that will make her birthday the BEST birthday.

    when’s my birthday?
    where’s my birthday?
    how many days until my birthday?

    i’d like a pony for my birthday
    and a necklace for my birthday.
    i’d like a chicken for my birthday.
    i’d like a ball to bounce and bounce.

    i’d like a big cake on my birthday
    with lots of chocolate on my birthday
    and lots of candles on my birthday
    1,2,3,4,5, and 6!

    Order a Copy Now: | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 3-6 | Publisher: Roaring Brook Press | September 5, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1626722934


    Baby Goes to MarketBaby Goes to Market

    Written by Atinuke

    Illustrated by Angela Brooksbank

    Publisher’s Synopsis: Join Baby and his doting mama at a bustling southwest Nigerian marketplace for a bright, bouncy read-aloud offering a gentle introduction to numbers.

    Market is very crowded.
    Mama is very busy.
    Baby is very curious.

    When Baby and Mama go to the market, Baby is so adorable that the banana seller gives him six bananas. Baby eats one and puts five in the basket, but Mama doesn’t notice. As Mama and Baby wend their way through the stalls, cheeky Baby collects five oranges, four biscuits, three ears of sweet corn, two pieces of coconut . . . until Mama notices that her basket is getting very heavy! Poor Baby, she thinks, he must be very hungry by now! Rhythmic language, visual humor, and a bounty of delectable food make this a tale that is sure to whet little appetites for story time.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 3-7 | Publisher: Candlewick | September 5, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-0763695705


    Pick a Pine TreePick a Pine Tree

    Written by Patricia Toht

    Illustrated by Jarvis

    Publisher’s Synopsis: A festive read-aloud brimming with all the joy and excitement of Christmastime — beginning, of course, with picking out a tree!

    Part of the magic of the Christmas season stems from the traditions that families and friends take part in every year: hanging up stockings; putting lights in the windows; and, one of the most important of all, picking out and taking home the Christmas tree. With style and warmth, debut author Patricia Toht and Jarvis, the author-illustrator of Alan’s Big, Scary Teeth, evoke all the rituals of decorating the tree — digging out boxes jam-packed with ornaments and tree trimmings, stringing tinsel, and, at long last, turning on those twinkling lights. Joyously drawn and rhythmically written, this celebration of family, friends, and the holiday season is as merry as the tradition it depicts.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 3-7 | Publisher: Candlewick | September 19, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-0763695712


    Imagine That!- How Dr. Seuss Wrote The Cat in the HatImagine That!: How Dr. Seuss Wrote The Cat in the Hat

    Written by Judy Sierra

    Illustrated by Kevin Hawkes

    Publisher’s Synopsis: A lively new picture-book biography of the most beloved children’s book author of all time: Dr. Seuss!

    Have you ever wondered how the great Dr. Seuss wrote his most famous book? Did you know that for The Cat in the Hat, he wasn’t allowed to make up the fun words he was known for—like OOBLECK and IT-KUTCH and HIPPO-NO-HUNGUS? He was only allowed to use words from a very strict list!

    This bouncy account of the early career of Dr. Seuss (a.k.a. Ted Geisel) proves that sometimes limitations can be the best inspiration of all.

    Kid-friendly prose (with Seussian rhyme for Ted’s dialogue) and whimsical illustrations by award winner Kevin Hawkes recall the work of Dr. Seuss himself. Writing tips from Dr. Seuss and exclusive letters from the author and illustrator, detailing how they created this book, are included!

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 3-7 | Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers | September 12, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-0553510973


    Stolen Words by Melanie FlorenceStolen Words

    Written by Melanie Florence

    Illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard

    Publisher’s Synopsis: The story of the beautiful relationship between a little girl and her grandfather. When she asks her grandfather how to say something in his language, Cree, he admits that his language was stolen from him when he was a boy. The little girl then sets out to help her grandfather find his language again. This sensitive, beautifully illustrated picture book explores the intergenerational impact of Canada’s residential school system, which separated young Indigenous children from their families.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-7 | Publisher: Second Story Press | September 5, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1772600377


    In Your Hands by Carole Boston WeatherfordIn Your Hands

    Written by Carole Boston Weatherford

    Illustrated by Brian Pinkey

    Publisher’s Synopsis: A black mother expresses the many hopes and dreams she has for her child in this powerful picture book masterpiece that’s perfect for gift-giving.

    When you are a newborn,
    I hold your hand and study your face.
    I cradle you as you drift to sleep.
    But I know that I will not always
    hold your hand;
    not the older you get.
    Then, I will hold you in my heart
    And hope that God holds you in his hands.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers | September 12, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1481462938


    Muddy- The Story of Blues Legend Muddy WaterMuddy: The Story of Blues Legend Muddy Waters

    Written by Michael Mahin

    Illustrated by Evan Turk

    Publisher’s Synopsis: A picture book celebration of the indomitable Muddy Waters, a blues musician whose fierce and electric sound laid the groundwork for what would become rock and roll.

    Muddy Waters was never good at doing what he was told. When Grandma Della said the blues wouldn’t put food on the table, Muddy didn’t listen. And when record producers told him no one wanted to listen to a country boy playing country blues, Muddy ignored them as well. This tenacious streak carried Muddy from the hardscrabble fields of Mississippi to the smoky juke joints of Chicago and finally to a recording studio where a landmark record was made.

    Soon the world fell in love with the tough spirit of Muddy Waters. In blues-infused prose and soulful illustrations, Michael Mahin and award-winning artist Evan Turk tell Muddy’s fascinating and inspiring story of struggle, determination, and hope.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers | September 5, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1481443494


    The Antlered ShipThe Antlered Ship

    Written by Dashka Slater

    Illustrated by Terry Fan and Eric Fan

    Publisher’s Synopsis: An inquisitive fox sets off on a seafaring voyage with a crew of deer and pigeons in this enchanting tale of friendship and adventure.

    Marco the fox has a lot of questions, like: how deep does the sun go when it sinks into the sea? And why do birds have such lizardy feet? But none of the other foxes share his curiosity. So when a magnificent ship adorned with antlers and with a deer for a captain arrives at the dock looking for a crew, Marco volunteers, hoping to find foxes who are as inquisitive as he is that can answer his questions. The crew finds adventure and intrigue on their journey. And, at last, Marco finds the answer to his most important question of all: What’s the best way to find a friend you can talk to?

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Beach Lane Books | September 12, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1481451604


    I Have a BalloonI Have a Balloon

    Written by Ariel Bernstein

    Illustrated by Scott Magoon

    Publisher’s Synopsis: Owl has a balloon. Monkey does not. What will happen next? Hint: this is not a book about sharing.

    Owl has a red balloon. Monkey does not. “That red balloon matches my shiny red tie,” says Monkey. “I’d look fancy walking to school with a shiny red balloon. The only thing I’ve ever wanted, since right now, is a shiny, big red balloon. It would make me SO HAPPY!” But Owl does not want to give it to him. So Monkey tries to find something that Owl wants: a teddy bear, a robot, a picture of TEN balloons. Owl does not want any of these things. But then, Monkey offers him…a sock!

    Hmmmmm…Owl is intrigued. Will he trade his shiny red balloon with Monkey?

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books | September 26, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1481472500


    It Takes a Village- Picture BookIt Takes a Village

    Written by Hillary Rodham Clinton

    Illustrated by Marla Frazee

    Publisher’s Synopsis: “What does it take to change the world?”

    Former Secretary of State and Democratic Presidential nominee Hillary Rodham Clinton’s first book for young readers, inspired by the themes of her classic New York Times bestselling book It Takes a Village, and illustrated by two-time Caldecott Honor recipient Marla Frazee, asks readers what can they do to make the world a better place?

    It Takes a Village tells the heartwarming and universal story of a diverse community coming together to make a difference. All kinds of people working together, playing together, and living together in harmony makes a better village and many villages coming together can make a better world. Together we can build a better life for one another. Together we can change our world.

    The book will resonate with children and families and through the generations as it encourages readers to look for a way they can make a difference. It is a book that you will surely want to read again and again, a book you will want to share and a book that will inspire.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books | September 12, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1481430876


    The Little ReindeerThe Little Reindeer

    Written and Illustrated by Nicola Killen

    Publisher’s Synopsis: An enchanting Christmas story about a magical yet unlikely friendship between a little girl and a lost reindeer, lovingly told and illustrated with red foil highlights and interactive die cuts.

    When a jingling sound wakes her from her sleep, a little girl’s dreams come true when she meets a lost reindeer in the forest. They set off on a magical adventure and it becomes a Christmas never to forget. Nicola Killen’s evocative illustrations are sure to enchant in this beautiful book with die cut pages, foil, and flashes of festive red.

    Order a Copy Now: | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books | September 19, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1481486866


    Wee Sister StrangeWee Sister Strange

    Written by Holly Grant and K.G. Campbell

    Publisher’s Synopsis: With a lyrical text and gorgeous, ethereal illustrations, here is a mesmerizing and magical original bedtime fairy tale reminiscent of Emily Winfield Martin’s Dream Animals, and perfect for reading aloud.

    They say there’s a girl
    Who lives by the woods
    In a crooked old house
    With no garden but gloom.
     
    She doesn’t have parents.
    No one knows her name.
     
    But the people in town
    Call her Wee Sister Strange. 
     
    Like Emily Winfield Martin’s bestselling Dream Animals, here is a bedtime read-aloud sure to entrance young listeners. Each evening, as the shadows grow long, Wee Sister Strange climbs from her window and runs into the woods. She talks to the owls and rides on a bear. She clambers up trees and dives into the bog. She is searching for something…. She looks far and wide, over forest and marsh. What is it she seeks? Why, it’s a wee bedtime story to help her fall asleep!

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Schwartz & Wade | September 19, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-0553508796


    Robinson by Peter SisRobinson

    Written and Illustrated by Peter Sís

    Publisher’s Synopsis: A boy who loves adventure.

    A mysterious solo journey.

    A remote island wilderness.

    Cast away in this beautiful dreamlike story
    and discover what surprises await.

    Peter Sís blends a true story from his childhood
    with the fictional adventure of Robinson Crusoe to create
    a magical picture book filled with heart and imagination
    that readers will want to return to again and again.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Scholastic Press | September 26, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-0545731669


    Why Am I Me by Paige BrittWhy Am I Me?

    Written by Paige Britt

    Illustrated by Selina Alko and Sean Qualls

    Publisher’s Synopsis: Presented as a thoughtful, poetic exchange between two characters — who don’t realize they are thinking and asking the very same questions — this beautiful celebration of our humanity and diversity invites readers of all ages to imagine a world where there is no you or me, only we.

    If the first step toward healing the world is to build bridges of empathy and celebrate rather than discriminate, Why Am I Me? helps foster a much-needed sense of connection, compassion, and love.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Scholastic Press | September 12, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1338053142


    Big Machines- The Story of Virginia Lee BurtonBig Machines: The Story of Virginia Lee Burton

    Written by Sherri Duskey Rinker

    Illustrated by John Rocco

    Publisher’s Synopsis: In this loving tribute to Virginia Lee Burton, the New York Times best-selling creators Sherri Duskey Rinker and John Rocco pay homage to the storied life of one of the most beloved creators in children’s literature.

    Everyone in Folly Cove knows Virginia Lee as “Jinnee.” With her magical wands she can draw whatever she imagines, but for her sons Aris and Michael, she draws the most wonderful characters of all: BIG MACHINES with friendly names like Mary Anne, Maybelle, and Katy. Her marvelous magical wands can make anything move—even a cheerful Little House.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-7 | Publisher: HMH Books for Young Readers | September 5, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-0544715578


    Chicken in the KitchenChicken in the Kitchen

    Written by Nnedi Okorafor

    Illustrated by Mehrdokht Amini

    Publisher’s Synopsis: What would you do if you woke up to find the shadow of a giant chicken passing your bedroom door? Go and investigate, of course!

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Lantana Publishing | September 1, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1911373155


    I Am Peace- A Book of MindfulnessI Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness

    Written by Susan Verde

    Illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds

    Publisher’s Synopsis: When the world feels chaotic, find peace within through an accessible mindfulness practice from the bestselling picture-book dream team that brought us I Am Yoga. Express emotions through direct speech. Find empathy through imagination. Connect with the earth. Wonder at the beauty of the natural world. Breathe, taste, smell, touch, and be present.

    Perfect for the classroom or for bedtime, Susan Verde’s gentle, concrete narration and Peter H. Reynolds’s expressive watercolor illustrations bring the tenets of mindfulness to a kid-friendly level. Featuring an author’s note about the importance of mindfulness and a guided meditation for children, I Am Peace will help readers of all ages feel grounded and restored.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Abrams Books for Young Readers | September 26, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1419727016


    It's Not Jack and the BeanstalkIt’s Not Jack and the Beanstalk

    Written by Josh Funk

    Illustrated by Edwardian Taylor

    Publisher’s Synopsis: Jack is not fond of the bossy narrator of his fairy tale! When Jack is told to trade his beloved cow Bessie for some magic beans, throw the beans out the window, climb the ENORMOUS beanstalk that sprouts overnight, and steal from a GIANT, he decides this fairy tale is getting out of control. In fact, he doesn’t want to follow the story line at all. Who says Jack needs to enter a life of daring, thievery, and giant trickery? He takes his story into his own hands—and you’ll never guess what happens next!

    With laugh-out-loud dialogue and bold, playful art (including hidden fairy tale creatures for kids to find), this Jack and the Beanstalk retelling will have children rolling with laughter till Bessie the cow comes home.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Two Lions | September 19, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1542045650


    Flashlight NightFlashlight Night

    Written by Matt Forrest Esenwine

    Illustrated by Fred Koehler

    Publisher’s Synopsis: Flashlight Night is an ode to the power of imagination and the wonder of books. Three children use a flashlight to light a path around their backyard at night; in the flashlight’s beam another world looms. Our heroes encounter spooky woods, a fearsome tiger, a time-forgotten tomb, an Egyptian god, a sword-fighting pirate, and a giant squid. With ingenuity, they vanquish all, then return to their tree house―braver, closer, and wiser than before―to read the books that inspired their adventure.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Boyds Mills Press | September 19, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1629794938


    Baabwaa and Wooliam- A Tale of Literacy, Dental Hygiene, and FriendshipBaabwaa and Wooliam: A Tale of Literacy, Dental Hygiene, and Friendship

    Written by David Elliott

    Illustrated by Melissa Sweet

    Publisher’s Synopsis: A hilarious and satisfying tale of literacy, dental hygiene, and friendship from David Elliott and Melissa Sweet that is sure to have readers in stitches from start to finish.

    Baabwaa is a sheep who loves to knit. Wooliam is a sheep who loves to read. It sounds a bit boring, but they like it. Then, quite unexpectedly, a third sheep shows up. A funny-looking sheep who wears a tattered wool coat and has long, dreadfully decaying teeth. Wooliam, being well-read, recognizes their new acquaintance: the Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing! The wolf is so flattered to discover his literary reputation precedes him that he stops trying to eat Baabwaa and Wooliam. And a discovery by the sheep turns the encounter into an unexpected friendship.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Candlewick | September 12, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-0763660741


    Jingle Bells by Susan JeffersJingle Bells

    Illustrated by Susan Jeffers

    Publisher’s Synopsis: Susan Jeffers, the Caldecott Honor and New York Times bestselling artist of The Nutcracker and The Twelve Days of Christmas, takes readers on an enchanted journey set to lyrics from the beloved holiday song.

    Dashing through the snow, in a one-horse open sleigh
    O’er the fields we go, laughing all the way…

    Ride along with a girl, a boy, their pony, and a mischievous dog as they travel to Grandma’s house. With playful animals in their path, their journey gets a bit sidetracked. But soon enough they arrive at Grandma’s—where an unexpected visitor fills them with holiday cheer!

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: HarperCollins | September 19, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-0062360205


    The Nutcracker in HarlemThe Nutcracker in Harlem

    Written by T.E. McMorrow

    Illustrated by James Ransome

    Publisher’s Synopsis: This jazz-inspired reinvention of The Nutcracker is a worthy tribute to the dreamlike wonder and magic of the Christmas season.

    In this original retelling, set in New York City during the height of the Harlem Renaissance, one little girl finds her voice as a musician thanks to her enchanting adventures with a magical toy.

    This quintessential holiday tale is brought to vivid life by debut picture book author T. E. McMorrow and Coretta Scott King Award-winning illustrator James Ransome. An author’s note at the end provides additional information about the history of the Harlem Renaissance, and about the author’s inspiration for this musical retelling.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: HarperCollins | September 19, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-0061175985


    On a Magical Do-Nothing DayOn a Magical Do-Nothing Day

    Written and Illustrated by Beatrice Alemagna

    Publisher’s Synopsis: All I want to do on a rainy day like today is play my game. My mom says it’s a waste of time, but without my game, nothing is fun! On the other hand, maybe I’m wrong about that…

    While reading On a Magical Do-Nothing Day, one gets the sense that the illustrator became lost in her drawings, and as a reader, you will want to do the same. Perfect for fans of picture books by Julie Morstad, Carson Ellis, Jon Klassen, and Tomi Ungerer.

    From the creator of The Wonderful Fluffy Little Squishy and A Lion in Paris! “Hands down, Beatrice Alemagna is my favorite contemporary illustrator,” said the Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator of Last Stop on Market Street, Christian Robinson.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: HarperCollins | September 12, 2017 | ISBN-13: 9780062657602


    In the Middle of FallIn the Middle of Fall

    Written by Kevin Henkes

    Illustrated by Laura Dronzek

    Publisher’s Synopsis: Everything is yellow, red, orange.

    Everything is chilly, frisky, gusty.

    Everything is changing, turning.

    It’s the middle of Fall.

    Can you see it?

    Can you taste it?

    Can you smell it?

    Can you imagine it?

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: Greenwillow Books | September 5, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-0062573117


    La Princesa and the PeaLa Princesa and the Pea

    Written by Susan Middleton Elya

    Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal

    Publisher’s Synopsis: The Princess and the Pea gets a fresh twist in this charming bilingual retelling.

    El príncipe knows this girl is the one for him, but, as usual, his mother doesn’t agree.

    The queen has a secret test in mind to see if this girl is really a princesa.

    But the prince might just have a sneaky plan, too . . .

    Readers will be enchanted by this Latino twist on the classic story, and captivated by the vibrant art inspired by the culture of Peru.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 4-8 | Publisher: G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers | September 15, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-0399251566


    Dragons- Father and SonDragons: Father and Son

    Written by Alexandre Lacroix

    Illustrated by Ronan Badel

    Publisher’s Synopsis: Young Drake the dragon is sent to the local village to cause some mischief and start a fire. But Drake has only ever breathed fire to roast a tasty caterpillar. How will be burn down a whole house? Or a school? Or even an old wooden shack? Has Drake got what it takes to make his father proud?

    Dragons: Father and Son is a funny and moving story about the bonds between fathers and children, with a positive, peaceful message – and all the magic and mayhem you’d hope for in a tale about dragons.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 5-8 | Publisher: words & pictures | September 5, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1910277256


    Letters to a PrisonerLetters to a Prisoner

    Written and Illustrated by Jacques Goldstyn

    Translated by Karen Li

    Publisher’s Synopsis: Told entirely through illustrations, Letters to a Prisoner is a wordless story about the power of hope and the written word. Inspired by Amnesty International’s letter-writing campaigns to help free people who have been jailed for expressing their opinion, the book tells the story of a man who is arrested during a peaceful protest. In solitary confinement, he begins to despair―until a bird delivers a letter of support written by somebody outside the prison. Every day more missives arrive until the prisoner escapes his fate on wings made of letters.

    Simple illustrations convey plenty of rich symbolism to provoke thought and discussion. A letter from the author provides more information about Amnesty International’s Write for Rights campaign.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 5-8 | Publisher: Owlkids | September 15, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1771472517


    A Christmas for Bear (Bear and Mouse)A Christmas for Bear

    Written by Bonny Becker

    Illustrated by Kady MacDonald

    Publisher’s Synopsis: Bear’s minimalist holiday celebration has an eager Mouse feeling a bit anxious in this humorous and heartwarming story about the unlikely, lovable pair.

    One frosty night, Bear hears a tap, tap, tapping on his front door. “Merry Christmas!” cries Mouse. Mouse is there for a Christmas party, and Bear has never had one before, but he’s certain that pickles (preferably from France) must be an essential component, along with the reading of a long and difficult poem. The problem is, whenever Bear comes back from the kitchen with more treats, Mouse has vanished — only to be found, small and gray and guilty-eyed, scurrying under the bed or rifling through the closet. Will there be even a tiny present involved? “Hogwash!” scolds Bear. Get ready for holiday anticipation and the best kind of surprises as the curmudgeonly Bear and a hopeful Mouse return in a warm, funny tale full of holiday cheer and true friendship.

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 5-9 | Publisher: Candlewick | September 19, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-0763649234


    CRAZY ABOUT CATS by Owen DaveyCrazy About Cats

    Written and Illustrated by Owen Davey

    Publisher’s Synopsis: Did you know that the fishing cat has partially webbed paws for catching fish? Or that pumas can leap over 15 feet into trees? There are roughly 38 species of cats today, each one superbly adapted to their environment – whether that be in the rainforest or the desert!

    Order a Copy Now: Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes and Noble

    Ages 5-10 | Publisher: Flying Eye Books | September 5, 2017 | ISBN-13: 978-1911171164


    *Header image illustration from It Takes a Village written by Hillary Rodham Clinton and llustrated by Marla Frazee (Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books 2017)

    For more of the best new picture books for kids, follow along with our articles tagged with New Books for Kids, Picture Books, Books for Ages 0-3, and Books for Ages 4-8.

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    Abrams Books for Young Readers Alexandre Lacroix Allen & Unwin Angela Brooksbank Atheneum Books for Young Readers Atinuke Beach Lane Books Beatrice Alemagna Best Kids Books of 2017 Best New Kids Books Bonny Becker Boyds Mills Press Brian Pinkey Candlewick Carole Boston Weatherford Christian Robinson Dashka Slater David Elliott Eric Fan Evan Turk Flying Eye Books Fred Koehler G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers Greenwillow Books HarperCollins Henry Holt and Co. Hillary Rodham Clinton HMH Books for Young Readers Holly Grant Jacques Goldstyn James Ransome Jarvis John Rocco Juana Martinez-Neal Judy Sierra Julie Fogliano K. G. Campbell Kady MacDonald Karen Li Kevin Hawkes Lantana Publishing Little Brown Books for Young Readers Lorin Clarke Marla Frazee Matt Forrest Esenwine Melissa Sweet Michael Mahin Mitch Vane Nicola Killen Owlkids Paige Britt Patricia Toht Patrick McDonnell Peter H. Reynolds Peter Sis Random House Books for Young Readers Roaring Brook Press Ronan Badel Scholastic Press Schwartz & Wade Sean Qualls Second Story Press Selina Alko Sherri Duskey Rinker Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books Susan Middleton Elya Susan Verde T.E. McMorrow Terry Fan Two Lions words & pictures
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    Bianca Schulze
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    Bianca Schulze is the founder of The Children’s Book Review. She is a reader, reviewer, mother and children’s book lover. She also has a decade’s worth of experience working with children in the great outdoors. Combined with her love of books and experience as a children’s specialist bookseller, the goal is to share her passion for children’s literature to grow readers. Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, she now lives with her husband and three children near Boulder, Colorado.

    3 Comments

    1. Matt Forrest Esenwine on September 6, 2017 8:23 pm

      Bianca,
      I just wanted to thank you for including “Flashlight” among such wonderful books! I’m so honored to be in a list with fellow writers, illustrators, and friends. I’m so glad you liked it!

      Reply
      • Bianca Schulze on September 6, 2017 9:07 pm

        You’re very welcome, Matt!

        Reply
    2. Pingback: Poetry Friday: Flashlights and Dinosaurs and Roundups – oh, my! – Radio, Rhythm & Rhyme

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