~Post by Children’s Book Buyer Meghan G.
Here is another round-up of some great kids books (new and old) that we’re excited about right now.
I personally can’t say enough about On a Beam of Light: A Story of Albert Einstein by Jennifer Berne (and illustrated to perfection by Vladimir Radunsky). This astonishingly accessible picture book introduction to one of history’s greatest minds manages to both capture the essence of the man and the wondrous nature of his lifelong endeavor: to understand more about the world around him. Celebrating curiosity and passionate perseverance, this remarkably inspiring book is perfect for bright young thinkers who just can’t stop asking “Why?”
Here’s what some of our other booksellers had to say:
Kathleen recommends Jemmy Button for thoughtful, historically minded readers, describing it as “the beautifully illustrated true story of a young man taken from his home and family in Tierra del Fuego in 1814 and put on display in England. He was called Jemmy Button because his family was paid a mother-of-pearl button for him. (He was returned a year later.)”
Helen says “CHOOK CHOOK CHOOK!” out of love for Ol’ Mama Squirrel, Caldecott winner David Ezra Stein’s touching story of maternal devotion, asking: “What could possible say “I love you” better than pelting grizzly bears with last year’s nuts?”
Merrilee wants to tie up her pinafore and hit the trail after reading Wagons Ho!, the dual story of two girls from different eras and their experiences on the Oregon Trail. She notes that “some things about moving never change–having to leave best friends and asking “are we there yet,” for instance. But Katie’s trip only takes five days while Jenny’s lasts five months (and she has to cook with buffalo poop!)”
Wil thinks all fans of hilarious fiction should come check out Michael Fry’s The Odd Squad because it has it all “with high and low humor, super amusing illustrations, and a huge surprise ending that will keep you chuckling AND make you think!”
BookPeople 