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Earth Day Book Recommendations for Kids

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Happy Earth Day! by Deborah Hopkinson

This fact-filled Little Golden Book is about Earth Day—what it is and why it’s important—and offers suggestions for actions kids can take to help protect and heal our planet. Includes directions for family-friendly projects, such as composting, growing baby carrots on a windowsill, making a bug hotel, and more. (Ages 2-5)

I Am Earth: An Earth Day Book for Kids by James McDonald

I Am Earth introduces kids to the basic concepts of Earth science while also encouraging the importance of taking care of our special planet through environmental awareness and sustainability. In this book for beginners, kids learn what makes our planet so uniquely special and how people can work together to keep it a healthy home. (Ages 3-5)

My First Book of Earth: All About Our Planet for Kids by Stephanie Manka Schuttler PhD

From the clouds way up above us to the liquid core miles beneath our feet, there are so many amazing things about Earth. See what makes our home planet so special with this introduction to land, sea, and sky for kids. They’ll explore the continents, how the weather works, the important jobs of trees and plants, and so much more!  (Ages 4-7)

My Friend Earth by Patricia MacLachlan

Written by a Newbery Award–winning author, this spectacular picture book is a valentine to our wonderful planet.  Readers of all ages will pore over the pages of this children’s book that is bursting with color and texture. Its enticing pages feature clever cut-outs, flaps, and curved contours that encourage exploration as its poetic text celebrates everything Earth does for us, all the while reminding us to be a good friend in return. (Ages 3-5)

Recycling Is Fun: My Little Planet by Charles Ghigna

Children learn that sorting, recycling, and giving new life to old things is not only good for the environment.  (Ages 2-5)

What a Waste: Trash, Recycling, and Protecting our Planet by Jess French

In this informative book on recycling for children, you will find everything you need to know about our environment. The good, the bad and the incredibly innovative. From pollution and litter to renewable energy and plastic recycling This educational book will teach young budding ecologists about how our actions affect planet Earth and the big impact we can make by the little things we do. (Ages 4-8)

Why Should I Recycle?: Helping Kids Take Care of Planet Earth by Jen Green

A great book to explain to children in simple terms and concepts why recycling is so important and what they can do every day to help protect the planet. (Ages 4-6)

Books for Kids about Spring

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Celebrate the new season and the color it brings with one of these spring-themed books.

And Then It’s Spring by Julie Fogliano

Following a snow-filled winter, a young boy and his dog decide that they’ve had enough of all that brown and resolve to plant a garden. They dig, they plant, they play, they wait . . . and wait . . . until at last, the brown becomes a more hopeful shade of brown, a sign that spring may finally be on its way. Julie Fogliano’s story of anticipation is brought to life by the distinctive illustrations Erin E. Stead, recipient of the 2011 Caldecott Medal.

(Ages 2-4)

Baby Loves Spring! by Karen Katz

It’s springtime and Baby is taking a walk. What does Baby see? Little ones will love lifting the large, sturdy flaps in this book to reveal baby robins, beautiful butterflies, and everything else that Baby loves about spring. The sturdy format and easy-to-lift flaps are perfect for parents and children to share.

(Ages Infant-3)

Lola Plants a Garden by Anna McQuinn

Book-loving Lola is inspired by a collection of garden poems that she reads with her mommy. She wants to plant her own garden of beautiful flowers. They choose their flowers and buy their seeds. They dig and plant. Lola finds it hard to wait for her flowers to grow, but she spends the time creating her own flower book.

(Ages 2-4)

Spring is Here: A Bear and Mole Story by Will Hillenbrand

Mole can smell that spring is in the air, but Bear is still asleep after his long winter nap. Excitedly he taps on the window and knocks on the door– he even tries playing a trumpet to wake his friend so they can celebrate together.  But Bear keeps snoozing.  But Mole is determined, so he bakes a special springtime surprise for his friend– the perfect way to wake up.

(Ages 2-4)

We Walk Through the Forest by Lisa Ferland

The magic of the forest comes alive in this book about a young girl and her playful pup exploring the outdoors. Follow along as they create wondrous adventures, meeting all sorts of woodland creatures along the way.With beautiful illustrations and a fun rhyme that can be sung aloud (the link to the song is in the book), this book is perfect for young adventurers.

(Ages 3-6)

When Spring Comes by Kevin Henkes

In this beautiful book for young children, Caldecott Medalist and Newbery Honor author Kevin Henkes uses striking imagery, repetition, and alliteration to introduce basic concepts of language and the changing of the seasons. Before spring comes, the trees are dark sticks, the grass is brown, and the ground is covered in snow. But

if you wait, leaves unfurl and flowers blossom

(Ages 2-4)

Books to Prepare Your Child for the Start of Preschool

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FOR CHILDREN

Benny the Brave in The First Day Jitters by Julie Anne Penn

First day? New School? New experience? Feeling scared? Benny the Brave is here to help! Meet Sarah. She’s about to start a new school that’s on a distant planet. She doesn’t have any friends yet. Her teacher may or may not be a swamp creature. And worse, lunch looks like it’s wriggling, slimy and alive! But just before the school bus arrives, Team Supercrew’s Benny the Brave comes to the rescue. (Ages 2-4)

Daniel Goes to School by Becky Friedman

Daniel Tiger is excited to go to school, but he’s not happy that his dad can’t stay at school with him. Daniel learns that “grown-ups come back” and has lots of fun with his teacher and classmates in this sweet 8×8 storybook that will ring true for children just starting school. (Ages 2-4)

I Like To Be Kind: Children’s Book About Kindness for Preschool by Aleks Harrison

An inspiring story about how good deeds bring joy and make us happy. Max does not understand why you need to help others. But an inspiring example changes the boy’s idea of kindness. This is a fun and cheerful story that inspires children to do good deeds. After reading this charming story, the child will learn what kindness is and how any kind act, big or small, can make us happier. (Ages 2-4)

Maisy Goes to Preschool by Karen Katz

Preschool for Maisy means a day filled with friends and things to do, from the time she hangs her coat on a special peg to the time she says good-bye. There’s painting and snack time, stories and nap time (and a bathroom break in between). Soon everyone’s ready to haul out the instruments and make some noise, then head outside for a turn at the sandbox or slide. In a bright, full-size storybook full of familiar scenes, this child-friendly look at a day in the life of a preschooler is one that newcomers and seasoned pros alike will be happy to share. (Ages 2-4)

Rosie Goes to Preschool by Karen Katz

It’s the first day of preschool and the narrator, Rosie, knows everything a new preschooler needs to know. Rosie introduces the reader to her cubby, her teacher, her reading circle, her music class, her snack table, and so on. With gentle reassuring language and using her signature bright artwork, Rosie Goes to Preschool will surely be a hit. (Ages 2-4)

FOR PARENTS

My Preschool Workbook: 101 Games & Activities that Prepare Your Child for School by Brittany Lynch

Bursting with interactive lessons, this standout among preschool workbooks makes learning fun. From connecting dots and matching pictures to following paths and tracing shapes, this preschool activity book helps kids build the skill they’ll need as they begin school. Includes exercises that teach children colors, letters, shapes, numbers, and words.

The Starting School Book: How to choose, prepare for and settle your child at school by Sarah Ockwell-Smith

The Starting School Book is a reassuring and practical guide for parents of school-age children. Sarah Ockwell-Smith provides clear and helpful advice for each stage of the process, whether your are just beginning to think about your child’s education, applying for a school place, preparing your child for starting at the school you have chosen, or your child has already started school and you would like to help smooth the transition.

Books For and About Christmas, Hanukkah, & Kwanzaa

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Here are some excellent choices for read-aloud time or gift-giving during the December holidays.

Christmas in the Manger by Nola Buck

The gentle beauty of the story of the first Christmas is available as a board book. With a simple, lyrical text and radiant artwork, this book is perfect for the youngest child to be a part of the story of the Nativity. (Ages 1-3)

How to Catch an Elf by Adam Wallace

You’ve been waiting all year long, and now it’s finally Christmas Eve! Is this the year you’ll finally catch an elf? Start a new Christmas tradition with this hilarious children’s book from the creators of the New York Times best-seller How to Catch a Leprechaun. (All ages)

Hanukkah Bear by Eric A. Kimmel

Bubba Brayna makes the best latkes in the village, and on the first night of Hanukkah, the scent of her cooking wakes a hungry, adorable bear from his hibernation.  He lumbers into town to investigate, and Bubba Brayna—who does not see or hear very well—mistakes him for her rabbi. She welcomes the bear inside to play the dreidel game, light the menorah, and enjoy a scrumptious meal. A 2013 National Jewish Book Award Winner, this book is perfect for a holiday story time with children— either in the classroom or at home, as an introduction for young readers to the traditions and customs of Hanukkah, and as a classic to return to year after year. (Ages 2-6)

Little Red Sleigh by Erin Guendelsberger

The Little Red Sleigh has one big dream to one day become Santa’s big red sleigh! But all her life, she’s been told she’s too small, she’s too young, she can’t fly, and she certainly can’t meet Santa. Well, this Christmas, with the help of some friends, she’s determined to do the impossible. Little Red Sleigh is a heartwarming children’s Christmas book you’ll want to read again and again. Full of winter joy and holiday magic, this charming Christmas story will remind readers of all ages that no dream is out of reach if you believe. (Ages 4-8)

Kwanzaa Rookie Read-About Holidays by Lisa M. Herrington

An introduction to the traditions, festivities, and history of Kwanzaa for the youngest readers. This fact-filled book introduces the youngest readers to the traditions, festivities, and history of Kwanzaa. Colorful photos and very simple text encourage children to read on their own as they take an in-depth look at this joyous African-American holiday. (Ages 4-6)

My ABC Picture Book for Kwanzaa: A Kwanzaa Children’s Book To Learn All About Kwanzaa by Callie Reeds

This colorful book is specially designed for babies and toddlers to discover Kwanzaa and its tradition while learning new words and alphabets. A fun and interactive gift, your little one will enjoy looking at the colorful pictures while learning new vocabulary and exploring Kwanzaa themes and traditions (Ages Birth-3)

The Snowman’s Song: A Christmas Story by Marilee Joy Mayfield

All the little snowman dreamed to do is go caroling like a happy child with a silvery voice would do around Christmas time. But the little snowman was made of snow and could make no sound. What will happen when he meets a red cardinal that fills him with the hope that he too could receive a voice? The Snowman’s Song will inspire kids to believe in Christmas miracles. (Ages 3-7)

Books For and About Gratitude

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123s of Thankfulness (Books of Kindness) by Patricia Hegarty

Whether we’re together or apart, there’s plenty to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. Learning the importance of thankfulness is as easy as 1-2-3 with this sweet board book that fosters social emotional development. Babies and toddlers learn to count while discovering the value of celebrating gratitude with this beautifully illustrated board book that’s perfect for Thanksgiving and all year round. (Ages baby-3)

Dr. Seuss’s Thankful Things by Dr. Seuss

Written in super-simple rhyme, this sweet, sturdy board book features Thing One and Thing Two as they celebrate all there is to be thankful for–from things to learn and games to play, to pies and each other! A perfect gift for Thanksgiving, birthdays, baby showers, or any time of year, this sixth book in the Things seasonal board book series is an ideal way to introduce the very youngest children to the concept of gratitude and to the magical world of Dr. Seuss! (Ages baby-3)

Gratitude is My Superpower: A Children’s Book About Giving Thanks and Practicing Positivity by Alicia Ortego

Little Betsy will learn that happiness is made up of simple things in life, both small and big. With the help of the magic stone, she will begin to feel gratitude for her parents, friends, and toys. But what happens when little Betsy forgets to use the magic of her stone? She will realize that the power of gratitude is hidden in her heart. “Gratitude is my superpower” will teach your little ones to appreciate the warmth of home, time spent playing with friends, and family relationships. (Ages 4-9)

Junie B. Jones #28: Turkeys We Have Loved and Eaten (and Other Thankful Stuff) by Barbara Park

Room One is getting ready for their very own Thanksgiving feast. There’s even a contest to see which room can write the best thankful list. The winners will get a pumpkin pie. Only it turns out being thankful is harder than it looks. Because Junie B. is not actually thankful for Tattletale May. Or squash. Or scratchy pilgrim costumes. And pumpkin pie makes her vomit, anyway. Will Room One win the disgusting pie? Can May and Junie B. find common ground? Or will this Thanksgiving feast turn into a Turkey Day Disaster? (Ages 4-8)

Mary Engelbreit’s Little Book of Thanks  by Mary Engelbreit

No matter the season or the reason, a simple expression of thanks is always welcome. In this joyful collection of quotes about gratitude and blessings, readers will delight in the special moments in life that bring a smile to our faces. Each quote, from distinguished writers like Walt Whitman and Maya Angelou, is paired with autumnal art from New York Times bestselling author-illustrator Mary Engelbreit, making this little book of thanks a big book of happy. (All ages)

Thankful Thanksgiving Small Children’s Picture Board Book Exploring Gratitude and Thankfulness by Deb Adamson

Yummy food and football games and family that’s come to play – What are you thankful for on this Thanksgiving Day? A little mouse is thankful for their friends and family, good food to share, and fun games to play. This warm and inviting fall picture book is a wonderful way to start a family conversation about being grateful and kind, not just at Thanksgiving but all year long! A perfect gift to bring to begin fall family celebrations or celebrate baby’s First Thanksgiving. (Ages 2-4)

Books For and About the Arts

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Dancing in the Wings by Debbie Allen

Sassy is a long-legged girl who always has something to say. She wants to be a ballerina more than anything, but she worries that her too-large feet, too-long legs, and even her big mouth will keep her from her dream. When a famous director comes to visit her class, Sassy does her best to get his attention with her high jumps and bright leotard. Dancing in the Wings is loosely based on actress/choreographer Debbie Allen’s own experiences as a young dancer.

Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson

One evening Harold decides to go for a walk in the moonlight. Armed only with an oversize purple crayon, young Harold draws himself a landscape full of wonder and excitement. Harold and his trusty crayon travel through woods and across seas and past dragons before returning to bed, safe and sound. Full of funny twists and surprises, this charming story shows your child just how far an imagination can take you.

How to Be an Explorer of the World: Portable Art Life Museum by Keri Smith

Perfect for older kids, How to Be an Explorer in the World encourages readers to observe, collect, document, analyze, and compare the world around them as artists and scientists. Through this series of beautifully hand-illustrated interactive prompts, readers will enjoy exploring and discovering the world in ways they never even imagined.

Matisse’s Garden by Samantha Friedman

One day, the French artist Henri Matisse cut a small bird out of a piece of paper. It looked lonely all by itself, so he cut out more shapes to join it. Before he knew it, Matisse had transformed his walls into larger-than-life gardens, filled with brightly colored plants, animals, and shapes of all sizes. Featuring cut-paper illustrations and interactive foldout pages, Matisse’s Garden is the inspiring story of how the artist’s never-ending curiosity helped turn a small experiment into a radical new form of art.

Sonia Delaunay: A Life of Color by Cara Manes

Sonia Delaunay, painter and textile, theater, and fashion designer, made enormous contributions to the development of abstraction in the early 1910s. In this book, Delaunay and her six-year-old son Charles have a fantastical adventure in their car, modeled after her 1925 design for a Citroën convertible. They glide into a landscape of colors and shapes, as if they’ve driven into one of her paintings. Delaunay helps Charles understand her artistic process by asking him what shapes and colors he recognizes along the way, and Charles realizes that his mother’s thoughts about art permeate every aspect of their life.

Sophie’s Masterpiece: A Spider’s Tale by Eileen Spinelli and Jane Dyer’s

Sophie is an artist who wants to spin beautiful creations all day long and, someday, a masterpiece. As a spider, though, Sophie has a hard time finding a welcoming place in which she can be free to live and spin. She’s shooed and shuffled all over Beekman’s Boardinghouse until one day she finally finds the warm, comfortable, safe home for which she always yearned — and the inspiration for the masterpiece of her lifetime.

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