Way Back Wednesday ~ Love Monster and the Last Chocolate – Rachel Bright

Although not specifically a Valentine’s book, this story is a sweet one!

Love Monster is such a cute character.  I was excited to see that he is now featured in a number of books.  Love Monster and the Last Chocolate is a very sweet story that focuses on the importance of being a good friend and the rewards of showing kindness to others.  We loved this one!

This post was originally published on February 10, 2016.

Love Monster and the Last Chocolate Book Cover Love Monster and the Last Chocolate
Rachel Bright
Children's stories
2014
32

Love from Giraffes Can’t Dance – Giles Andreae

Gerald the Giraffe is back!  This time Gerald and his friends joyfully celebrate love, music, and dance.  Love from Giraffes Can’t Dance would make a wonderful read-aloud to share the fun of Valentine’s Day with young learners.

Love from Giraffes Can't Dance Book Cover Love from Giraffes Can't Dance
Giles Andreae
Juvenile Fiction
Orchard Books
2020-12
32

If Jesus Came to My House – Joan G. Thomas

 

If Jesus Came to My House is a touching story about how we should treat others.  Written in rhyming verse, this children’s classic has been a favorite for many since the 1950’s.  It still inspires and provides comfort to readers today.

 

 

 

If Jesus Came to My House Book Cover If Jesus Came to My House
Joan G. Thomas
Allegro Editions
July 17, 2015
24

The Very Cranky Bear – Nick Bland

The Very Cranky Bear is a silly story about four animal friends who attempt to take shelter in a cave during a storm.  They quickly discover a bear who wants a quiet place to sleep is already in the cave.  The antics of the friends to help the bear are loving as well as funny.  Between giggles there is a wonderful lesson shared in this beautifully illustrated story.

The Very Cranky Bear Book Cover The Very Cranky Bear
Nick Bland
Juvenile Fiction
Orchard Books
2014
32

My Mouth is Volcano! – Julia Cook

My Mouth is a Volcano is an entertaining tale that helps teach an important lesson.  Louis is the protagonist of the story, and any time an idea pops into his head, he can’t wait to share it.  He erupts with his insights and interrupts just about everyone.  Ultimately, Louis learns how it feels to be the one interrupted and how he can control the volcano that is his mouth.

My Mouth Is a Volcano! Book Cover My Mouth Is a Volcano!
Julia Cook
Juvenile Fiction
August 25, 2008
32

Way Back Wednesday ~ A Magical Christmas – Claire Freedman

This review was originally posted on December 19, 2011.

A Magical Christmas is a lovely story written in rhyme.  Little Mouse wants to know what exactly is the magic of Christmas.  In order to find the answer he goes and asks each member of his family, but each family member has a different answer.  Finally on Christmas Day Mommy Mouse shares with Little Mouse that all the answers were correct because…”The magic is love, Little Mouse.”

The illustrations in this book are particularly noteworthy.  They are simply beautiful.  Each page includes sections that are gently enhanced with glitter which truly bring the illustration to life.

A Magical Christmas Book Cover A Magical Christmas
Claire Freedman
Juvenile Fiction
2008
18

Jesus Came for Me – Jared Kennedy

Jesus Came for Me is a wonderful board book that shares the true reason for Christmas.  Colorful illustrations enhance the text.  This is a perfect early Christmas gift for a pre-school aged child.

While this complimentary book was provided for review by New Growth Press, no other compensation was given.  All remarks are my personal and honest opinion.

Jesus Came for Me Book Cover Jesus Came for Me
Jared Kennedy
October 5, 2020
20

Room on the Broom – Julia Donaldson

Room on the Broom shares the evening adventure of a friendly witch who is more than happy to share her broom with her cat as well as a number of other animals she encounters during her outing.  An unexpected encounter with a dragon appears to potentially put the witch in harm’s way, but her animal friends save the day.  Filled with engaging, colorful illustrations, this is a book sure to capture the attention and interest of young readers.  A great Halloween selection that focuses on the whimsy rather than on the scary of Halloween.

 

Room on the Broom Book Cover Room on the Broom
Julia Donaldson
Juvenile Fiction
Dial
2001
32

Way Back Wednesday ~ The Clever Stick – John Lechner

This review was originally posted on February 15, 2010.

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!

 

Straw – Amy Krouse Rosenthal

Straw is the final book in a series by Rosenthal which also includes Spoon and Chopsticks.  Delightful illustrations coupled with a heartfelt story about the importance of taking time to enjoy the moment make this book a winner.  It is a great option for a fun read aloud!

Straw Book Cover Straw
Amy Krouse Rosenthal
Juvenile Fiction
Disney-Hyperion
February 4, 2020
48