Fish Go Woof By Miranda Maxwell-Hyslop Published by Hodder Children’s Books. Distributed in Canada by McArthur & Company Lots of giggles are in store with this fun book.  Here we have fifteen animals split into three parts – front, middle and back.  Young children will have great fun creating donkeys that blub and mice that roar.

 

City Signs Photographs by Zoran Milich Published by Kids Can Press Ltd. A striking picture book for preschoolers and emergent readers. Bold photographs deliver the exciting message that familiar, readable words are all around us. Great for classroom use, bedtime and quiet moments alone.

 

	I Can Make That! Written by Mary Wallace Published by Maple Tree Press If you and your children enjoy crafting, look for this delightful compilation of five books from the I Can Make… series. Inside you will find inspiration for making costumes, puppets, nature crafts, toys & games.
	My Very First Canadian Oxford Dictionary Compiled by Clare Kirtley, Edited by Elizabeth Bisset Published by Oxford University Press. This new reference book includes simple definitions and illustrations for more than 300 first words.  Several of the entries have a definite Canadian flavour.  A great choice for a beginning writer.

 

38 Ways to Entertain Your Grandparents Written by Dette Hunter  Illustrated by Deirdre Betteridge Published by Annick Press Sarah, Violet and Joe spend a busy weekend with Grandma and Grandpa.  Together they enjoy many fun activities – everything from playing traditional card games to cooking Belly Button Soup.  Written as a storybook, 38 Ways to Entertain Your Grandparents includes child-friendly recipes as well as step-by step instructions for crafts and games

 

What’s the Difference? Written by Judy Diehl & David Plumb  Illustrated by Vlasta Van Kampen Published by Annick Press Do you know the difference between a frog and a toad, a wasp and a bee, rabbits and hares? What’s the Difference? Compares 10 animal lookalikes and explains the similarities and the differences using clear, informative text and beautiful watercolour illustrations. A great resource for families curious about the animal world.

Where’s Mom’s Hair? A Family’s Journey through Cancer Written by Debbie Watters, with Haydn and Emmett Watters, photographs by Sophie Hogan Published by Second Story Press This is a sensitive and helpful book that provides insight into the physical and emotional effects of fighting cancer with chemotherapy. Central to the story is a bittersweet hair-cutting party where family and friends come together.   Following the party, the black and white photographs show mom with doctors and at clinics.  Her treatment is explained simply and compassionately.   Where’s Mom’s Hair is definitely worth seeking out if your family is touched by cancer.

 

	A Pod of Orcas: A Seaside Counting Book Written by Sheryl McFarlane  Illustrated by Kirsti Anne Wakelin Published by Fitzhenry & Whiteside. What a beautiful counting book! Preschoolers will love the sailboats, harbour seals, sandcastles and orcas.    Written and illustrated by residents of British Columbia, the gentle rhymes and striking illustrations encourage closer examination of a day at the seaside.
	1 2 3 By Tom Slaughter Published by Tundra Books Boldly illustrated with bright colors and attractive shapes, this counting book is great fun.  Young children will enjoy exploring the illustrations and will find many opportunities to count.  For somewhat older children, the book could be used as stimulus for creating exciting artwork.
	Ten Little Fish Written by Audrey Wood, illustrated by Bruce Wood Published by Blue Sky Press / Scholastic Canada Ltd. If you are not familiar with Audrey and Bruce Wood’s delightful picture books, I urge you to seek them out.  Both Alphabet Adventure and Alphabet Mystery are terrific. In this third book we encounter a cheery undersea world.  Together with the splendid bubbly illustrations, preschoolers will thoroughly enjoy the predictable rhyming text.  This is great fun.

 

For the Love of Reading – Books to Build Lifelong Readers Written by David Bouchard with Sally Bender, Anne Letain and Lucie Poulin-Mackey Published by Orca Book Publishers This is a wonderful resource for both parents and teachers. 500 books are annotated and grouped according to age - from birth to fifteen years plus.  In addition there are special lists of seasonal books, resources for adults and strategies for getting families hooked on books.  Terrific!  Note: For the Love of Reading includes many Canadian books and Lucie Poulin-Mackey’s recommendations are for French language books.

 

Einstein Never Used Flash Cards – How Our Children Really Learn and Why They Need to Play More and Memorize Less Written by Kathy Hirsh-Pasek, Ph.D. and Roberta Michnick Golinkoff, Ph.D. with Diane Eyer, Ph.D. Published by Rodale Books Here the authors urge us to become advocates for play – both at home and at preschool.  They recommend children be free to make messes, to pretend, to have fun.  The value of play in learning language, developing mathematical abilities, becoming literate and in developing a self of self is explored.

The Best Things Parents Do – Ideas and Insights from Real-World Parents Written by Susan Isaacs Kohl Published by Conari Press For a parent experiencing self-doubt or confusion, Susan Kohl provides empathy and encouragement.  Her approach promotes personal reflection and revelation.  Each chapter includes brief, readable essays on a wide variety of topics.  Chapter headings include Progress Not Perfection and Take Good Care of Yourself.

 

Let’s Get Going!  The step by step guide to successful outings with children Written by Candace Weisner  Illustrated by Terry Leonard Published by Red Deer Press. Let’s Get Going features twelve broad categories of outings you can enjoy with children.  In addition, the book includes dozens of complementary games, songs, crafts, snacks and books to share with young children.  The chapter titled Let’s Go on a Bus Ride includes Before You Go and While You Are Riding the Bus as well as Follow Up activities for 2 to 5 year olds and 6 to 10 year olds.  Let’s Get Going is well worth a look as a resource for your preschool.

 

All About Me    Written and illustrated by Selina Young Published by Orion Children’s Books Distributed in Canada by McArthur & Company Publishing Ltd. You and your child will thoroughly enjoy watching Alfred grow from an infant to a capable, independent preschooler.  Presented from the child’s viewpoint and with great humor, you are sure to recognize and then reminisce about the special moments in a your own child’s life.

 

	An Alien in My House By Shenaaz G. Nanji, illustrated by Chum McLeod Published by Second Story Press When his grandfather moves into Ben’s house, it is as though an alien has invaded.  Grandfather’s body comes apart like Lego; he wears a hearing aid and dentures.  Conversely, Grandfather is appalled that Ben has hidden springs in his feet and his room is filled with stinky socks.  Fortunately, the two gain admiration for each other and become best buddies. Humorous and lively while conveying a message of acceptance and respect.
	And Tango Makes Three Written by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell, Illustrated  by Henry Cole Published by Simon and Schuster Roy and Silo are male chinstrap penguins at New York’s Central Park Zoo.  They love each other very much and make a nest together.  Sadly, Roy and Silo do not have an egg to keep warm.  One day their keeper decides to give them an egg that needs protection.  Many days pass, Roy and Silo attend conscientiously to the precious egg.  At long last the shell cracks and baby Tango arrives.  Together, Roy and Silo become fathers.  Based on true events, And Tango Makes Three  is charming and thoughtful.  Highly recommended.
	Arizona Charlie and the Klondike Kid Written by Julie Lawson  Illustrated by Kasia Charko Published by Orca Book Publishers. Dawson City, 1899; our spunky, young hero aspires to be a star in a Wild West show.  He hopes to match the antics of performer Arizona Charlie and earn the title ‘Klondike Kid’.  Once on stage, a surprising chain of events leads to an exciting end.  This delightful tale is beautifully complemented by playful, energetic illustrations.
	Bagels from Benny Written by Aubrey Davis  Illustrated by Dusan Petricic Published by Kids Can Press. Benny delights in helping at grandfather’s busy bakery.  When grandfather encourages Benny to thank God for the mouth-watering treats, Benny decides to leave a big bag of warm, delicious bagels in the synagogue each Friday.  Much to Benny’s dismay, it is not God who is eating the bagels, but a poor unemployed man.  Benny is heartbroken until he understands that his gift to the poor man is also a ‘thank you’ to God. Bagels from Benny is both gentle and heartwarming.
	The Balloon Tree 20th Anniversary Edition Written and illustrated by Phoebe Gilman Published by Scholastic Canada Ltd.. Phoebe Gilman  wrote and illustrated many great books for young children including Jillian Jiggs, Pirate Pearl and Something From Nothing.  The Balloon Tree was her first book.  It tells the story of a young princess who is left in the care of a grumpy uncle.  When her uncle threatens to take over the kingdom and imprison her, the princess must send a signal to her father. An amazing balloon tree produces millions of balloons and alerts the king to the danger.  A beautifully illustrated, magical story.  Don’t miss it!
	Bearcub and Mama Written by Sharon Jennings, illustrated by Mélanie Watt Published by Kids Can Press ‘Bearcub always knows where his mama is.  She is with Bearcub, forever and ever.’  What an important message to share with young (and not-so-young) children.   This picture book is a standout and very well suited to Mother’s Day festivities.  The illustrations are lovely and warm.  The comforting story follows a young bear cub as he learns from and subsequently gains independence from Mama.
	Because of You Written by B.G. Hennessy, illustrated by Hiroe Nakata Published by Candlewick Press Each of us has the potential to love, to share, to listen and to help others.  Lively illustrations and a timely message encourage us to consider how we can make a difference to the world around us. Because of You would make a cherished gift for new parents or your favourite preschooler.
	Blue Rabbit Written by Angela McAllister  Illustrated by Jason Cockcroft Published by Bloomsbury Publishing and distributed by Raincoast Books This beautifully illustrated book is an absolute gem.  Blue Rabbit loves Boy and cuddles with him each night in a very big bed.  When Boy disappears, Blue Rabbit searches the entire house for his special friend.  After spending days alone, Blue Rabbit feels heartbroken and lonely.  His whiskers droop and his eyes loose their sparkle.  When Boy finally returns from a holiday and hugs his special friend, Blue Rabbit is transformed.
	The Boy Who Loved Bananas Written by George Elliott, Illustrated by Andrej Krystoforski Published by Kids Can Press This is pure fun for storytime.  When Matthew visits the Metro Zoo, he loves to watch the monkeys.  He wonders why they eat so many bananas.  For fun, Matthew decides that he will eat only bananas – morning, noon and night.  He persists for days and days until, ‘Kablooey!’ Matthew changes into a playful monkey.  Wanting their little boy back, Matthew’s parents try everything.  Alas, Matthew likes things the way they are and soon has his classmates and principal chomping bananas. At last, after admiring an African elephant at the zoo, Matthew decides he would like to change his menu – to peanuts!
	Camping Written by Nancy Hundal  Illustrated by Brian Deines Published by Fitzhenry & Whiteside If summertime means camping to your family, this lovely picture book will evoke special memories of delicious camp food, lazy days spent outdoors and the millions of stars in the night sky.
	The Deep Cold River Story Written by Tabatha Southey  Illustrated by Sue Savor Published by Key Porter Books Limited Imagine a deep, cold river running through a small community. One day, for no apparent reason, the river overflows its banks and floods the entire town. Many possible solutions to the unrelenting flooding are proposed but it takes a little girl to solve the problem and save the town. A charming story featuring a young heroine and appealing illustrations.
	The Dot Written and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds Published by Candlewick Press and distributed in Canada by Pearson Penguin Canada Inc. This enticing picture book is perfect for anyone who feels they ‘just can’t draw.’ At the conclusion of art class, Vashti’s page is still blank.  She sits, arms crossed, with her back to the page.  Vashti is convinced she is not artistic.  Fortunately, with gentle persuasion and humor, a teacher helps Vashti to discover and express her creative spirit. Most enjoyable and inspiring!
	The Fairytale Cake Made by Mark Sperring, Decorated by Jonathan Langley Published by Scholastic Children’s Books, The Chicken House What a delight! Here we find dozens of familiar nursery rhyme characters making, baking, decorating and delivering a sumptuous birthday cake.  Preschool children will feast on the illustrations as they search for favourite characters.  The Fairy Tale Cake would be a sweet addition to your next classroom or family birthday celebration.
	Good Morning Sam Written and illustrated by Marie-Louise Gay Published by Groundwood Books / Douglas & McIntyre I sincerely hope you are familiar with Sam and Stella.  The (younger) brother and sister are featured in three wonderful books that make up Marie-Louise Gay’s Stella series.  In this new picture book, Sam is front and centre as he begins his day.  As always, Ms. Gay’s depiction of the siblings’ relationship is tender and sweet - Sam strives for independence until he needs his big sister’s help.  Simply illustrated and told, this story will captivate young children and their families.
	Good Night Harry Written and illustrated by Kim Lewis Published by Candlewick Press. Harry, Lulu and Ted are off to their warm bed, ready for a good night’s sleep.  Ted and Lulu are soon quietly snoring while Harry the elephant lies awake.  Perhaps looking at a book or changing position will help.  Alas, no matter what Harry tries, sleep remains elusive and he soon begins to worry; wiggling and rolling about. Finally it is Ted and Lulu who help their friend to find sleep and happy dreams.  A warmly illustrated, lovely bedtime story.
	A Good Night Walk Written and illustrated by Elisha Cooper Published by Orchard Books an imprint of Scholastic Inc. Just before bedtime, a parent and child take a walk through their neighbourhood.  As the sky darkens, and they return home, they see how the neighbourhood has changed in the few moments between daytime and night.  Mr. Cooper’s evocative illustrations and gentle words make for a enjoyable book to explore with a young child.  Perhaps you, too, will decide to go for a Good Night Walk.
	Good to Be Small Written and illustrated by Sean Cassidy Published by Fitzhenry & Whiteside. This delightfully illustrated picture book reminds us that small creatures can help to solve big problems.    Lamb is missing from the barnyard.  Mouse offers to help find Lamb and uses her smallness to reunite Mama Sheep with her lamb.

 

	Goodness Gracious, Gulliver Mulligan Written by Susan Chalker Brown  Illustrated by Cynthia Nugent Published by Raincoast Books Gulliver Mulligan is much, much taller than his classmates are. Outcast at school and in his neighbourhood, his loneliness is worrisome. When Mortimer Goss, a shy new classmate, goes missing while on a school fieldtrip, Gulliver’s life takes a heroic turn – and he finds a new friend. Ms. Nugent’s rich watercolour artwork is a lovely accompaniment to this heartwarming story.
	Gummytoes Written and illustrated by Sean Cassidy Published by Fitzhenry and Whiteside Gummytoes is a tree frog who can change the colour of his skin and leap great distances. He longs to be admired so he steps into the limelight and amazes the neighbourhood children with his antics. They respond by grabbing him and putting him into their terrarium.  Before long Gummytoes discovers that being the centre of attention is not all he had hoped.  He uses his special qualities to escape and make his way unnoticed to his home.
	Hands - growing up to be an artist By Lois Ehlert Published by Harcourt, Inc. Distributed in Canada by Raincoast Books You are likely familiar with Ms. Ehlert’s many wonderful books for children.  In this we see the tools mom and dad use in the workshop, the sewing room and the garden.  With these tools a birdhouse, cat toys and a vegetable garden are created.  The child in this story is inspired and encouraged to create particularly when presented a special place to work – a folding table next to the sewing machine. Beautiful.
	The Hockey Card Written by Jack Siemiatycki & Avi Slodovnick  Illustrated by Doris Barrette Published by Lobster Press When Uncle Jack shares the story of the best hockey card he ever had, we take pleasure in a glimpse of the great Maurice Richard and a schoolyard duel against a tough hockey card shark. Great fun!
	I am a Ballerina Written  by Valerie Coulman, illustrated by Sandra Lamb Published by Lobster Press This picture book will be a special treat for aspiring ballerinas.  Here we encounter a young girl, inspired by a trip to the ballet, who begins ballet lessons.  She practices tirelessly for her recital and the fulfillment of her dream.  Engaging illustrations add to this magical experience.
	I’d Know You Anywhere Written by Hazel Hutchins  Illustrated by Ruth Ohi Published by Annick Press This story is especially suitable for a Dad’s Day at preschool.  Jeremy attempts to hide amongst the toys in his bedroom.  Daddy finds Jeremy and reassures him that he would know him anywhere and in any form.  The father-son game continues as Jeremy imagines wonderful hiding places and disguises.
	It Couldn’t Be Worse Written and Illustrated by Vlasta van Kampen Published by Annick Press The farmer’s wife is at her wit’s end.  Her one-room house is far too small for her large, quarrelsome family.  When a wise fishmonger suggests adding farm animals to the household, the family discovers that life in the tiny house could be much, much worse!  Bold illustrations and predicable text make this adaptation of the familiar folktale a great choice for storytime.
	Kate Can’t Wait Written by Marilyn Eisenstein Illustrated by Miranda Jones Published by Tundra Books Do you live with an impatient preschooler? Kate hates long car rides, waiting for her hair to grow and for her juice to be poured.  Her mother reminds her that some things are worth waiting for.  This message is brought home when a friend gives Kate strawberry plants to cultivate.  Miranda Jones’ paintings depict Kate’s strong emotions beautifully.
	Leaf Man Written and Illustrated by Lois Ehlert Published by Harcourt, Inc. Distributed in Canada by Raincoast Books Lois Ehlert is a Caldecott Honor winning author and illustrator. In Leaf Man she has used real fall leaves to create fascinating and evocative illustrations.  Leaf Man goes wherever the wind blows and we are treated to views of marshlands, orchards and mountaintops.  Leaf Man is sure to inspire many young (and not-so-young) artists.
	Leon’s Song Written by Stephanie Simpson McClellan, illustrated by Dianna Bonder Published by Fitzhenry and Whiteside Leon is an old frog who dreams of doing something important. Although he lacks beauty, power and physical strength, Leon wishes most for a beautiful singing voice.  When a dark, threatening shadow appears in the pond, Leon’s world is about to change. Fortunately his special talent is unveiled and the pond is profoundly transformed.  A beautifully illustrated, thoughtful tale.
	Long Night Moon Written  by Cynthia Rylant, illustrated by Mark Siegel Published by Simon and Schuster Simply told and beautifully illustrated, Long Night Moon encourages us to carefully consider the moon when it is full and how the world around it changes during a year.  Did you know, ‘In June the Strawberry Moon shimmers on succulent buds, on crisp new shoots, on quiet, grateful rabbits?’  Both evocative and magical, once read, the full moon will never seem quite the same.
	Lucy’s Secret Written and illustrated by Mireille Levert Published by Groundwood Books, Douglas and McIntyre. When Lucy visits Anna Zinnia’s garden, she is enchanted by all she sees; beautiful flowers and busy insects. When Anna Zinnia reveals a box of seeds, she tells Lucy, ‘In each seed lies a hidden, baby flower.’  Lucy plants the seeds and then waits and waits for the young plants to appear.  Richly illustrated and simply told, this picture book would be a lovely accompaniment for your springtime seed planting and gardening activities.
	My Animal Friends Written by R. David Stephens  Illustrated by Kathryn Shoemaker Published by Trade Wind Books Gentle and lyrical, this picture book will be enjoyed by young children.  Through rhyming text and sweet illustrations, we experience the special relationship between a child and her animals.
	My Sister Gracie Written and Illustrated by Gillian Johnson Published by Tundra Books Fabio, an “only” dog, longs for a brother.  He dreams of exploring a park, sharing a bone and playing together with his new buddy.  Imagine Fabio’s surprise when his new brother is a sister – and not at all like the playful puppy he envisioned.  Thankfully, teasing neighbourhood dogs help Fabio appreciate and love his new sister, Gracie.
	Old Bird Written by Irene Morck Illustrated by Muriel Wood Published by Fitzhenry & Whiteside. When Papa buys Bird, a gentle mare who will transport Archie and Arnfeld to and from school, he has no idea the impact the horse will have on his farm.  Bird follows the children as they do their chores and insists on being allowed into the barn.  Bird opens latches and asserts herself until Papa decides she must be sold. Just before the auction, Bird again has her way.  This time she shows the family just how she can contribute to the farm.  A truly lovely story, beautifully illustrated, that reminds us old does not mean incompetent or worthless.
	Oma’s Quilt Written by Paulette Bourgeois Illustrated by Stéphane Jorisch Published by Kids Can Press It is time for Emily’s grandmother to move into a retirement home.  This will be a difficult transition for Oma, Emily and Emily’s mom.  Many happy memories are left behind as Oma’s possessions are boxed up and she moves away.  As Emily and her mom sort through Oma’s belongings, Emily comes up with a wonderful idea.  She and her mom will create a quilt stitched from the fabrics of Oma’s life.  Highly recommended for children and their parents.  This gentle picture book deals with a difficult life transition beautifully.
	Out on the Ice in the Middle of the Bay Written by Peter Cumming  Illustrated by Alice Priestly Published by Annick Press Despite warnings that she must not to go outside alone, Leah leaves the safety of her home and sets out to explore an enormous iceberg.   Just as Leah begins her adventure, a small polar bear cub is drawn to the same intriguing iceberg.   As the moon rises, girl and cub meet in middle of the frozen bay. Meanwhile, Leah’s father and the bear cub’s mother race desperately to locate their offspring.  Originally published in 1993, this is a 10th anniversary edition of a wonderful picture book.
	The Paint Box Written by Maxine Trottier  Illustrated by Stella East Published by Fitzhenry & Whiteside Set in Venice, The Paint Box is the story of Marietta and her friend Piero.  Both children are fascinated with creating art.  Because she is a girl, Marietta must disguise herself when she works with her father and studies to be a painter.  Piero is a slave, who longs to return to his family and freedom.  He shares Marietta’s love of art.  Beautifully illustrated and written, this picture book provides insight into Renaissance life and will surely inspire young artists.
	The Penguin and the Pea Written and Illustrated by Janet Perlman Published by Kids Can Press Here is a delightful twist on a familiar tale.  Poor Prince Penguin is lonely and filled with despair – will he ever find a penguin princess suitable for marriage?  It seems unlikely until a stormy evening when a drenched young penguin arrives at the castle.  She claims to be a princess seeking shelter.  Prince Penguin is enchanted – the Queen is unconvinced.  Will the ‘princess’ pass the test and ensure a happy ending?
	Roller Coaster Written and illustrated by Marla Frazee Published by Harcourt, Inc.  Distributed in Canada by Raincoast Books Here we share a child’s very first roller coaster ride.  Excitement builds as we wait in line, stare at the twisting structure, buckle our seat belts and prepare for the exhilarating ride.  Ms. Frazee’s illustrations capture the riders’ emotions with great humor.  We can’t help but reminisce about our last trip on a roller coaster – and look forward to our next!   Wheeeeeee!
	Shi-shi-etko Written by Nicola I. Campbell, pictures by Kim LaFave Published by Groundwood Books Shi-shi-etko is a very young girl who will soon leave home to attend a residential school.  She spends her last few days with her family, learning precious lessons and committing the beauty that surrounds her to memory.  For young readers, the poignancy of Shi-shi-etko’s story will not be evident without explanation.  For adult readers, Shi-shi-etko’s innocence is heartbreaking.
	Sir Cassie to the Rescue Written by Linda Smith  Illustrated by Karen Patkau Published by Orca Book Publishers When Cassie reads a story about knights, it prompts her to build a castle and enlist her brother to be a damsel.  Her brother resists this role but does agree to be a dragon.  The entire family becomes involved in the fun until the queen announces it is time for a feast and time to clean up the castle.  A cheerfully illustrated picture book that celebrates make believe.
	Stella, Fairy of the Forest Written & Illustrated by Marie-Louise Gay Published by Groundwood Books / Douglas & McIntyre Ltd. Marie-Louise Gay’s books about Sam and Stella are marvelous. This, their third adventure, begins when Sam asks Stella about fairies. Stella knows just where to find some. She leads Sam through meadows, across a stream and into a magical forest.  This story is truly lovely especially in its treatment of the siblings’ relationship. Ms. Gay’s illustrations have a special quality particularly her depictions of the delightful red-head, Stella. Don’t miss it!
	The Subway Mouse Written and illustrated by Barbara Reid Published by Scholastic Canada Ltd. Barbara Reid is an award winning author/illustrator who is well known for her amazing Plasticine illustrations. In 2004 she received the Ruth and Sylvia Schwartz award for The Subway Mouse.  Now available in paperback, you will want to watch for this endearing tale of love and adventure.  Nib is a young mouse who lives in a busy subway station.  At nighttime, when the station is quiet, Nib loves to listen to stories about Tunnel’s End.  One day, tired of living in the noise and dust of the station, Nib sets off on the adventure of a lifetime.
	Tina and the Penguin Written by Heather Dyer Illustrated by Mireille Levert Published by Kids Can Press Ltd. Thoroughly delightful!  After visiting a zoo, Tina finds herself helping a very special penguin to escape.  Once home, caring for her new friend is no simple matter; Mom wonders about the fishy smell in her bedroom and ice water baths are tough to take.