Toddler:
My First Library (Penguin Books, November 2014)
What toddler doesn’t need his or her own library? This adorable slip case holds three classic children’s books in the size and sturdiness that little hands need. Good Night Gorilla is a modern classic, The Little Engine That Could is a true classic, and, for the first time in sturdy board edition, is Corduroy, the story of a lost bear who finds a new home.
Naked by Michael Ian Black (Simon & Schuster, April 2014)
Any toddler who has ever jumped out of a tub and gone streaking down the hallway will appreciate the humor and vigor of our young boy. He can do anything naked! Both moms and dads will have a howling good time reading this one over and over.
Star Bright by Alison McGhee and Peter Reynolds (Atheneum Books, September 2014)
Combining the wonder of McGhee’s beautiful words and Reynolds’ engaging illustrations, the Nativity story is told from a young angel’s perspective. Everyone is bringing gifts to the newborn baby, and our narrator has nothing to give. But, like the angel, we realize that at this special time of year, we all have gifts to give and share.
Emerging:
Letter For Leo by Sergio Ruzzio (Houghton Mifflin, October 2014)
This is a delightful friendship story to which all children can relate. Leo, the ever faithful mailman, takes in a bird that has missed the southern migration. They become fast friends, but when spring comes, the friends must part. Leo waits, oh, so patiently for news from his friend, and when that letter comes, we all rejoice. If you know of any kids who must move away from friends, this would be a great book to share.
Coming Home by Greg Ruth (Feiwel & Friends, November, $16.99)
This nearly wordless picture book salutes those returning home from military service and the families who wait for them, as seen through the eyes of a young boy who wanders among the reunions: a soldier joyfully reuniting with her dog and a couple seeing each other again after a long separation. The child finally spots his mother through the crowd and races into her embrace. For ages 5 and up.
Full Speed Ahead by Cruschiform (Abrams Books, October 2014)
A very sleek beginner science book for the new reader, this smartly illustrated book shows us who (or what) is slowest and what is fastest. Who knew that a tornado is faster than a race car? Children and adults alike will enjoy this conversation starter, and we hope it will lead them to more scientific discoveries.
Tweens:
The Angel Tree by Daphne Benedis-Grab (Scholastic, September 2014)
For twenty-five years, a mysterious benefactor has provided an angel tree for the town square in Pine River. People write down their wishes and tie them on the tree. And then they come true! These are wishes for family help, compassion and hope. This year, four unlikely young friends are determined to find out who the benefactor is and thank them. It’s a very sweet story to read aloud for the family.
Rain Reign by Ann M. Martin (Feiwel & Friends, September 2014)
Fifth-grader Rose Howard’s diagnosis of high-functioning autism makes it difficult for others, including her father, to understand her. Although her father is ill-equipped financially and emotionally to care for her, Rose has her understanding Uncle Weldon; her beloved dog, Rain; and her passion for homonyms, rules and numbers to ground her in a confusing world. When Rain goes missing in Hurricane Susan, Rose is relentlessly determined to find her, only to learn disturbing news, and it’s Rose’s obsessive adherence to rules that proves she’s much more than her diagnosis. A must-read for middle grade and above!
Mark Of The Dragonfly by Jaleigh Johnson (Delacorte Books, March 2014)
When Piper rescues Anna from a caravan that was wrecked during one of the nightly meteor showers, she’s not sure that the young girl will live. After all, Piper is good with machines, not people. As Anna recovers, she discovers that she has memories only of pain and running from “the Wolf.” Piper realizes that “the Wolf” is very real, and that she and Anna must flee to the Dragonfly Kingdom, for Anna bears the tattoo of someone special, someone who may offer protection. But that’s also where Piper’s father died, slaving away in the factories. The Wolf is getting more desperate, however. The girls’ only choice is to stow away on the next train out of town, the old steam train with an oddball crew. What they discover on their journey completely alters Piper’s understanding of herself and her ability with machines.
Teens:
Atlantia by Ally Condie (Dutton Books, November 2014)
Although Rio and her twin sister Bay live in the beautiful underwater city of Atlantia, Rio has always dreamed of going Above, where few people live and struggle for survival. But she’s promised her sister they will stay together in Altantia, and that promise means more after their mother’s sudden, mysterious death. When they turn fifteen, however, Bay chooses Above, leaving Rio in Atlantia struggling to figure out what happened and how she can join her sister on the surface. This stand-alone novel is perfect for fans of Condie’s Matched series.
My True Love Gave To Me edited by Stephanie Perkins (St. Martin’s Press, October 2014)
Multiple teen authors have penned stories with themes of the season. With its deft editing by star author Stephanie Perkins, any teen would love to have this one to read during the winter break. Read stories by Matt de La Pena, Laini Taylor, David Levithan and more.
