Only One You – Linda Kranz

This little gem of a book would make a lovely graduation gift.  Only One You highlights the parental advice given to Adri the fish who is about to venture out on his own.  Beautiful illustrations and deceptively simply text provide the reader with a profound message of self acceptance, encouragement, and the charge to make the world a better place.  This is a new favorite!

The Invisible Boy – Patrice Barton

The Invisible Boy is an amazingly powerful picture book.  Brian who is shown in black and white as the book begins is simply invisible to his classmates as well as his teacher.  He always behaves well in class and doesn’t demand his teacher’s attention for re-direction, but sadly, he doesn’t have any friends.  The arrival of a new student in class provides the opportunity for friendship for Brian.  As he starts to connect with his new friend, Brian’s image becomes full color to match the rest of the illustrations in the book.

This book would make a terrific read-aloud for little kids or big kids.  It would be a great starting point for discussion about showing compassion and kindness to others.

Way Back Wednesday ~ The Clever Stick – John Lechner

I came across this favorite at the library earlier this week and thought it was worth sharing again.  It really is that good!

The Clever Stick is an enchanting tale.  Who would ever imagine using a stick as the main character of a children’s picture book?!  I found this one on the new picture book shelf at our local library and quickly realized I had found a winner.  The expressive pictures couple perfectly with the smart text.

The stick is clever in countless ways from solving problems to enjoying poetry, but since he cannot speak his cleverness is not fully known.  The stick’s journey of self-discovery takes the reader to unexpected places that ultimately delight.

This book is a perfect to share as a read aloud!

Mrs. Spitzer’s Garden – Edith Pattou

In honor of Teacher Appreciation Week, I am featuring a few of my favorite books about the impact and influence of teachers.

Beautiful pictures coupled with simple text provide a powerful message. Mrs. Spitzer’s Garden highlights the impact and influence teachers have in helping children to grow.  Mrs. Spitzer is a teacher and is given a packet of seeds at the beginning of the year by the principal.  The reader is then able to follow the journey the seeds take with Mrs. Spitzer.  Just like real children in the classroom each seed is different and requires specialized care and attention to blossom.  This book shares an important message in a lovely manner.