The new year brings tales of new beginnings and adventure. The Littlest Family’s Big Day By Emily Winifield Martin Best For: Ages 3-7
The world is full of wonder–all you have to do is wander to discover it. When a family of tiny bears moves into their new tree in a big woods, they decide to take a “wander” through their new neighborhood. It turns into a magical adventure filled with new friends, fairies, gnomes and benevolent creatures galore. The text is alliterative and lyrical, using creative word choices to bolster the pastoral illustrations. Wander instead of adventure is a prime example that connotes a meandering adventure of wonder. This is a wonderful choice for classroom story time or family reading before bedtime.
What’s good: Detailed illustrations that peacefully encourage wonder. What’s bad: Cynics will wonder why the giant owl doesn’t eat the littlest family. Who Wants a Tortoise? By Dave Keane Illustrated by K.G. Campbell Best for: Ages 4-8
After begging for a puppy for her birthday, a young girl is disappointed to receive a tortoise instead. Dogs do so much–pant, howl, bark–and tortoises don’t. All they do is “hiss as they pull their heads in.” A tortoise is not what she wanted, but bit by bit, the little girl comes to learn about her new pet. The more she learns the more she becomes emotionally attached. She even takes her tortoise to “sharing day” at school. When her tortoise gets lost, you can tell she loves her missing pet. Don’t worry. It all ends well.
Campbell’s watercolor and colored pencil illustrations capture the little girl’s many moods with a delicate and deft touch. The illustrations are lively and engaging yet offer a calming influence that makes this a good book for group story time or bedtime reading.
What’s good: Great message about finding the good in your situation. What’s bad: Not much. It’s a charming story. Marvin and the Moths By Matthew Holm and Jonathan Follet Best for: Ages 8-12
Middle school is tough. When you split your pants on the first day of class, it doesn’t get any easier. Marvin, the titular character, also has to deal with an impending baby brother. His life is in turmoil when Marvin’s parents move him upstairs to the unfinished attic to make room for his little brother. Then Marvin wakes up to find three very large and talkative moths in the attic. As the story progresses, so to do the humorous situations, as a giant Shakespeare-quoting spider begins harassing his town. It’s up to Marvin to save the day.
What’s good: Loaded with humor and excitement. What’s bad: Marvin isn’t all that likable.