Halloween has passed and Christmas is still more than a month away, so now is the time to celebrate the things we’re thankful for. The following are some seasonal books sure to delight young readers.
FIVE LITTLE THANK-YOUS, by Cindy Jin and Dawn M. Cardona, Little Simon, Sept. 3, 2019, Board book, $7.99 (ages 0-5)
This short book of five important thank yous — family, food, friends, love and self — is a great introduction to the Thanksgiving holiday. Inspired by the construction paper Thanksgiving turkeys kids learn to draw with their hands, this novelty book has a collage art style that are bright and appealing.
The suggested age range is 0-5, and at first glance, it skews a bit younger. However, my 5-year-old was immediately drawn to it and was even inspired to create her own Thanksgiving art.
THE GOLDEN RULE, by Ilene Cooper and Gabi Swiatkowska, Harry N. Abrams, March 1, 2007, Hardcover, $17.95 (ages 1-8)
A young boy learns the meaning of the golden rule — So unto others as you would have them do unto you — from his grandfather. The golden rule, his grandfather explains, is a simple statement that can be practiced by everyone.
In a time when it seems like everyone is taking sides, this book is a simple reminder that kindness is is most often the best choice. Impressionist paintings are warm and inviting.
SWEEP, by Louise Greig and Julia Sarda, S&S Books for Young Readers, Sept. 3, 2019, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 4-8)
Ed’s bad mood begins as something really small, hardly a thing at all. But before long it grows, gathers pace, and spreads through the whole town. Can Ed sweep his troubles away?
Sweep is bold and charming and a perfect way to help children visualize feelings. The vibrant colors and striking illustrations are delightful.
GULP, GOBBLE (READY-TO-READS), by Marilyn Singer and Kathryn Durst, Simon Spotlight, Sept. 24, 2019, Softcover, $4.99 (ages 3-5)
Gulp, Gobble brings a whole host of animals to a picnic. This is a perfect feast for beginning readers that features 24 rhyming words and pronunciation guide. See how a frog “gulps,” a shark “gobbles,” a chicken “pecks,” and more.
The bold colors and charming illustrations are a great compliments to the text.
