Books
We're excited to offer an expanded collection of the best kid books: smart, funny, excellently written, wonderfully illustrated, and honoring the diversity of life. Among the multicultural monsters, global goddesses, two-Mom families, and late bloomers in this collection of award-winning kids' books and poetry books for children, you're sure to find something for each young story fan in your life.
Eco-Books
These planet-friendly books support the development of young environmentalists.
A Hot Planet Needs Cool Kids: Understanding Climate Change and What You Can Do About It
Author: Julie Hall
Illustrator: Sarah Lane
In this important new book, kids, parents, and teachers will find the very latest information about the causes and effects of climate change, how people are working to reduce it, and ways kids and their families and schools can join the fight. Endorsed by clean-energy leader U.S. Congressman Jay Inslee, climate change activist and author Bill McKibben, and the Pew Center on Global Climate Change, A Hot Planet Needs Cool Kids teaches and inspires through clear and accessible writing, engaging illustrations, hands-on activities, cool and hot facts, eco-hero features, and a hopeful and empowering message to get kids involved in confronting global warming and developing their best selves through such work. Parents who read the book with their kids are likely to find themselves learning a lot along the way.
Adventures of Riley: South Pole Penguins
Authors: Amanda Lumry & Laura Hurwitz
The latest in the award-winning Riley eco-adventure series takes Riley, cousin Alice, Uncle Max, and Aunt Martha to the South Pole to learn how climate change is affecting the Antarctic food web. Riley sees whales, seals, and penguins as he explores the coldest place on Earth and searches for answers to help this important ecosystem. The Adventures of Riley series is produced in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, Wildlife Conservation Society, and World Wildlife Fund. For ages 4–8.
Adventures of Riley: Polar Bear Puzzle
Authors: Amanda Lumry & Laura Hurwitz
On his newest adventure, Riley goes to the polar bear capital of the world to find out how climate change is affecting this amazing species. Along the way, Riley and family see arctic hares, snowy owls, caribou, the North Lights, and much more. The Adventures of Riley series is produced in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, Wildlife Conservation Society, and World Wildlife Fund. For ages 4–8.
Adventures of Riley: Survival of the Salmon
Authors: Amanda Lumry & Laura Hurwitz
In this installment of the award-winning eco-adventure series, Riley and Alice visit the Alaskan wildness to solve a puzzling salmon migration mystery: Why are Pacific Salmon thriving while North Atlantic Salmon are more endangered than ever? Riley's daring quest for answers features moose, bald eagles, grizzly bears, and a special guest appearance by world-renowned animal expert Jack Hanna (Director Emeritus, Columbus Zoo and Host of the Animal Adventures TV series)! The Adventures of Riley series is produced in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, Wildlife Conservation Society, and World Wildlife Fund. For ages 4–8.
Adventures of Riley: Dolphins in Danger
Authors: Amanda Lumry & Laura Hurwitz
This installment of the award-winning eco-adcventure series finds Riley traveling to the South Pacific island of Moorea with his Uncle Max, Aunt Martha, and Cousin Alice to study the local spinner dolphin population while basking in the warmth and charm of Polynesian culture. Their mission takes a troubled turn when a pod of dolphins become dangerously trapped in a local lagoon! Riley holds the key to their survival, but between surfing lessons and close encounters with humpback whales, will he realize it in time? Based on actual events, Dolphins in Danger also features Dr. Michael Poole, the world’s leading authority on spinner dolphins. The Adventures of Riley series is produced in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, Wildlife Conservation Society, and World Wildlife Fund. For ages 4–8.
The Biodiversity Coloring Book
Author and Illustrator: Barbara Eaton
This illustrated book of black and white drawings is an interactive way for kids to learn about Earth's amazing biodiversity. It includes a conversation between Henry the Owl and Quincy the Hummingbird about the reasons for biodiversity and species loss, 23 extra-large pages of illustrations for coloring and animal and plant identification, and 5 pages of great activities for creating backyard wildlife habitats. For ages 5 and up.
My Insect Friends Coloring Book
Author and Illustrator: Barbara Eaton
This earth-friendly read, learn, and color book includes black and white drawings accompanied by rhyming text. It has 28 pages of drawings to color, a section identifying insects safe to touch, and information for adults about the dangers of chemical pesticides. This is a great way to nurture your child's natural interest in living things and teach an insect-positive attitude to last a lifetime. For ages 3 and up.
Story Collections
Kids love these collections of theme-related stories.
The Story Tree: Book & CD
Author (Reteller): Hugh Lupton
Illustrator: Sophie Fatus
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People 2002; Notable Books for Children 2001 Smithsonian Magazine. This delightful book and cd collection of stories from around the world includes favorites like "The Three Billy Goats Gruff" (Norwegian) as well as less familiar stories such as "The Blue Coat" (Jewish) and "The Sweetest Song" (African-American). Hugh Lupton's confident, well-paced narrative quickly draws young readers into each story, while Sophie Fatus's wonderful illustrations will have children laughing in their seats. For ages 3–7.
A Forest of Stories
Author (Reteller): Rina Singh
Illustrator: Helen Cann
Featuring dancing palms, healing fig trees, magical cherry blossoms, and much more, this radiant collection of folktales about trees will appeal to anyone, young and old, who has ever admired, protected, planted, or otherwise loved a tree. For ages 3-8.
The Barefoot Book of Monsters
Author: Fran Parnell
Illustrator: Sophie Fatus
Nobody, it seems, can get enough of monsters. We love them, fear them, befriend them, laugh at them, cry at them, and tell endless stories about them. Here is a monstrously fun collection based on folktales from around the world for the young monster enthusiast in your life. Meet an abominable snowman from Nepal, a feathered ogre from Italy, and a hungry water monster from South Africa. Expertly told by Fran Parnell and illustrated in Sophie Fatus’ fantastically quirky style, The Barefoot Book of Monsters! is a great choice for bookish types and reluctant readers alike, and it's a favorite around our house. For ages 4-8.
Grandmothers' Stories: Wise Woman Tales from Many Cultures Book & CD
Author (Reteller): Burleigh Muten
Illustrator: Sian Bailey
Read by Olympia Dukakis
In this fresh and witty retelling of world stories, you'll find a welcome alternative to familiar regressive representations of older women as either dottering or evil. This vibrant collection of wisdom and adventure will forever shape you and your child's view of the older women in our lives. The accompanying double cd set is read with characteristic verve by Olympia Dukakis. For ages 4–9.
The Lady of Ten Thousand Names: Goddess Stories from Many Cultures
Author (Reteller): Burleigh Mutén
Illustrator: Helen Cann
NAPRA Nautilus Award Winner 2002; Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People 2002. Drawing from traditional tales and sacred texts worldwide, Burleigh Mutén tells eight fascinating goddess stories of divine wisdom, strength, power, and beauty. White Buffalo Woman, Cerridwen, Isis, and Kuan Yin are among the strong female figures included in this lovely book. For ages 4–9.
Animal Tales from Around the World: Book & CD
Author (Reteller): Naomi Adler
Illustrator: Amanda Hall
For your little animal, here is an enchanting collection of animal stories from around the world. Read about a brave rabbit, a resourceful spider, a greedy frog, a clever monkey, and many more fascinating characters in this entertaining book and cd set. For ages 3–8.
Book & CD Sets
Read these books with your children, or have them listen on their own at quiet time.
The Animal Boogie: Book & CD
Author: Stella Blackstone
Illustrator: Debbie Harter
Best Toy of the Year 2003 Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award. Shake, shimmy, and boggie-woogie-oogie along with the creatures of the Indian jungle in this award-winning, popular book and cd set! For ages 2–7.
The Gigantic Turnip: Book & CD
Author (Reteller): Aleksei Tolstoy
Illustrator: Niamh Sharkey
Blue Ribbon Book 1999, The Bulletin for the Center of Children's Books. Humorously retold and illustrated, this classic Russian folktale about a farmer who can't get a giant turnip out of the ground has been a favorite for generations. This book and cd set is for reading and/or listening to together or alone. For ages 1–5.
The Story Tree: Book & CD
Author (Reteller): Hugh Lupton
Illustrator: Sophie Fatus
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People 2002; Notable Books for Children 2001 Smithsonian Magazine. This delightful book and cd collection of stories from around the world includes favorites like "The Three Billy Goats Gruff" (Norwegian) as well as less familiar stories such as "The Blue Coat" (Jewish) and "The Sweetest Song" (African-American). Hugh Lupton's confident, well-paced narrative quickly draws young readers into each story, while Sophie Fatus's wonderful illustrations will have children laughing in their seats. For ages 3–7.
Grandmothers' Stories: Wise Woman Tales from Many Cultures Book & CD
Author (Reteller): Burleigh Muten
Illustrator: Sian Bailey
Read by Olympia Dukakis
In this fresh and witty retelling of world stories, you'll find a welcome alternative to familiar regressive representations of older women as either dottering or evil. This vibrant collection of wisdom and adventure will forever shape you and your child's view of the older women in our lives. The accompanying double cd set is read with characteristic verve by Olympia Dukakis. For ages 4–9.
Animal Tales from Around the World: Book & CD
Author (Reteller): Naomi Adler
Illustrator: Amanda Hall
For your little animal, here is an enchanting collection of animal stories from around the world. Read about a brave rabbit, a resourceful spider, a greedy frog, a clever monkey, and many more fascinating characters in this entertaining book and cd set. For ages 3–8.
Picture Books
There is something for everyone among these engaging stories about different points of view.
Farfallina and Marcel
Author/Illustrator: Holly Keller
Charlotte Zolotow Award winner. A PK favorite, this sweet (but not sentimental) story about an unlikely friendship between a caterpillar and a gosling shows the changing seasons and the changes that come with growing up. Lovely, vibrant illustrations complement this unusually gentle, well-crafted story. For ages 3-7.
Tenzin's Deer
Author (Reteller): Barbara Soros
Illustrator: Danuta Mayer
"This beautifully illustrated story of a young Tibetan boy's efforts to care for a wounded deer aptly reflect the compassionate and caring values pervading Tibetan culture. —The Dalai Lama
Barbara Soros draws on the ancient wisdom of the Tibetan people to narrate the touching story of a young boy named Tenzin and the wounded musk deer he encounters in the woods. By paying heed to his dreams and to the needs of the animal he has rescued, Tenzin is able to cure the deer. But soon he discovers that he must learn one of the most important lessons of all: how to love deeply enough to let go. The lush, intricate illustrations evoke the emotional depth of this tale that encourages the Buddhist virtues of nonviolence, compassion, and the rejection of materialism. For ages 4–10.
The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac
Author (Reteller): Dawn Casey
Illustrator: Anne Wilson
This ancient Chinese legend springs to life with Dawn Casey's playful retelling and Anne Wilson's colorful collage designs on painted backgrounds. Learn how crafty rat outwits lazy cat, steady ox, and the rest of the lively animals competing to win the race to be first on the Chinese calendar. Kids will also enjoy back matter information about the Chinese calendar, Dragon Boat Festival, and Moon Festival. Ages 4–10.
The Boy Who Grew Flowers
Author: Jen Wojtowicz
Illustrator: Steve Adams
Book of the Year Award Finalist 2005, Foreword Magazine. The Bowagons are a strange bunch—wonderfully strange that is—and Rink, who grows flowers in the moonlight, might be the wonderfully strangest of all. A funny, poignant appreciation of difference, this memorable story has something to say to all of us. For ages 3–8.
Herb, The Vegetarian Dragon
Author: Jules Bass
Illustrator: Debbie Harter
Parents' Choice Award Winner 2000; Children's Choice Award 2000. All the dragons in the forest of Nogard like nothing better than raiding Castle Dark and carrying off people to eat—all the dragons, that is, except one. Herb, a vegetarian, is at his happiest tending his vegetable patch. As luck would have it, innocent Herb is the unfortunate dragon who is captured by the castle’s knights. The treacherous dragon Meathook and his dragon cronies will only help Herb if he agrees to eat meat. Will he give in to their blackmail? Jules Bass’s lighthearted story and Debbie Harter’s irresistable illustrations make this a fun and funny picture book that also offers young readers plenty of food for thought. For ages 4–8.
The Gigantic Turnip: Book & CD
Author (Reteller): Aleksei Tolstoy
Illustrator: Niamh Sharkey
Blue Ribbon Book 1999, The Bulletin for the Center of Children's Books. Humorously retold and illustrated, this classic Russian folktale about a farmer who can't get a giant turnip out of the ground has been a favorite for generations. This book and cd set is for reading and/or listening to together or alone. For ages 1–5.
The Animal Boogie: Book & CD
Author: Stella Blackstone
Illustrator: Debbie Harter
Best Toy of the Year 2003 Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award. Shake, shimmy, and boggie-woogie-oogie along with the creatures of the Indian jungle in this award-winning, popular book and cd set! For ages 2–7.
The Big Orange Splot
Author and illustrator: Daniel M. Pinkwater
This classic story of conformity and individual expression features Mr. Plumbean, who lives in a tidy, monotonous neighborhood where all the houses are the same. One day a seagull drops a can of orange paint on his house, giving him the opportunity to break free from the conformist constraints of his neighborhood and create a home for himself that reflects his own individuality. Ages 4-8.
Leo the Late Bloomer
Author: Robert Kraus
Illustrator: Jose Aruego
The appealing illustrations and straightforward text tell the story of Leo, a late-blooming tiger who can't quite keep up with his animal peers. His father wonders if he'll ever learn to read and write and eat neatly, but his mother is sure he'll bloom in his own good time. This is a charmingly reassuring story for the late bloomers among us. Ages 3-7.
Everywhere Babies
Author: Susan Meyers
Illustrator: Marla Frazee
Everywhere Babies shows a wonderful assortment of babies and the people who love them. Fat babies, thin babies, small babies, tall babies? are depicted with their diverse families (black, Asian, white, old, young, single-parent, gay, straight, etc.) doing the things babies do: eat, crawl, sleep, laugh, fall down, walk, play, climb, slide, sing, run, and so on. This is a uniquely inclusive book that is not about inclusivity but about babies themselves, with genuine appreciation for how fabulous they all are. For ages 0-3.
Hairs / Pelitos
Author: Sandra Cisneros
Illustrator: Terry Ybanez
With English and Spanish text taken from Sandra Cisneros' best-selling and award-winning The House on Mango Street, Hairs/Pelitos depicts the many colors and types of hair among members of a diverse family. Told from the point of view of a young girl, the book especially honors the loving bond between the girl and her mother, whose hair "is the warm smell of bread before you bake it." Terry Ybanez's warm, engaging illustrations enhance Cisneros' poetic text. For ages 2-7.
Emma and Meesha My Boy: A Two Mom Story
Author: Kaitlyn Considine
Illustrator: Binny Hobbs
In this amusing story, Emma's moms help her learn to be nice to her cat. Some readers have described this as a "sort of primer on proper cat treatment." The author wrote it after becoming dismayed by the lack of two-mom stories available in bookstores. This is great for any family looking to teach their young child to be gentle with animals. Our toddler loves seeing the little girl with two moms, and our cats appreciate the message too. For ages 2-7.
Susan Laughs
Author: Jeanne Willis
Illustrator: Tony Ross
Susan uses a wheelchair, but it doesn't stop her from being a funny, adventurous, active, and occasionally naughty kid. In this appealingly unsentimental book, readers see Susan doing the typical things kids do: swimming at the beach, spilling paint, scaring the cat, doing schoolwork, playing pirates with Mom, riding on Dad's shoulders, and so on. When we learn that Susan uses a wheelchair, it seems like just another part of her life. For ages 2–6.
Happy Adoption Day
Author: John McCutcheon
Illustrator: Julie Paschkis
Originally written as a song by award-winning songwriter John McCutcheon, Happy Adoption Day is an upbeat celebration of adoption. Inclusive in spirit, the book depicts interracial families as well as straight, gay, and single parents. The lyrics appear with music at the back so families can sing and play along. This is a positive and validating book for adoptive families everywhere. Ages 2-7.
Black, White, Just Right!
Author: Marguerite W. Davol
Illustrator: Irene Trivas
In Black, White, Just Right!, a mixed-race girl aims a discerning eye at her own family: What color is everyone's skin and how does each person differ from the other in interests and hobbies? A review in Publishers Weekly said, ". . . the book's upbeat tone is welcoming and refreshing. By moving beyond physical differences, Davol successfully shows how families are composed of distinct individuals whose love is the key to securing a child's sense of self." Ages 3-7.
Looking After Louis
Author: Lesley Ely
Illustrator: Polly Dunbar
Louis is autistic. In this engagingly written and illustrated book, the kids in Louis's class find a way to join him in his world. A review in The Bulletin said, "Dunbar's lively mixed-media pictures deliver a heady dose of wry humor, demonstrating that the 'normal' kids in the class have some behavior and control issues themselves. There's a lot of dead-on sulking, raspberry-blowing, pigtail-sucking, and talking out among this spidery-limbed, bubble-eyed crew, and if viewers examine the illustrations with open minds, they may realize that Louis is probably not the teacher's biggest challenge." Ages 4-7.
Poetry
Our first-rate poetry collections hook readers of all ages.
Classic Poems
Editor/Illustrator: Jackie Morris
Children are linguists by trade and naturally love the music and playfulness of words. Nurture the poet in your child (and wake up your own inner poet) with this accessible, gorgeous anthology of 74 English-language poems, from William Blake's "The Tyger" to Lewis Carroll's "The Jabberwocky" to Elizabeth Barrett Browning's "How Do I Love Thee?" For ages 5-12.
Interactive Journals
Kids love to interact with these fun books for varied interests.
Reading Is Cool Journal
Dr. Toy Best Vacation Children's Product. For young book lovers, this interactive journal includes reading lists suggested by the New York Public Library, a fun quiz, places to rate and react to books, writing activities, pages for notes, and more. Avid readers will love it, and kids needing motivation will be inspired to get reading. It's great for holiday and summer reading. A percentage of journal sales benefit the youth literacy program Reading Is Fundamental. For ages 7 and up.
Lots of Fun on the Go Activity Journal
Lots of Fun on the Go Activity Journal offers loads of busy fun for road trips, waiting rooms, visits to relatives' houses, and other times when you need a little extra help to keep occupied. With 128 interactive pages, this engaging journal provides hours of entertainment, including crosswords, mazes, word jumbles, bingo games, and more. For ages 7 and up, or younger with adult help. 5-3/4" x 8".
Kids' Travel Journal
Oppenheim Best Toy Gold Award. This interactive travel journal helps kids get the most out of their travel experiences. They locate their destination points on a map, record important sites and experiences, write about new friends, learn words in other languages, and much more. This great little travel companion will keep kids busy before, during, and after summer and holiday trips. For kids 7 and up.
School Days Journal
This unique hardbound interactive journal is structured grade by grade, from kindergarten through fifth grade. With help from parents, kids record important details about themselves and their school experiences, from friends to field trips to favorite teachers. This is a wonderfully rewarding ongoing project to work on with your child that will become a cherished keepsake for the future. For kindergarteners up to fifth graders.