This week, I’m sharing two recent favorite board books and a wonderful short book for emerging readers.
ODD BIRDS: Meet Nature’s Weirdest Flock by Laura Gehl, illustrated by Gareth Lucas (Abrams Appleseed | 978-1419742231), is a clever introduction to eight unusual birds from around the world. From the Hoatzin of the Amazon to the Blue-Footed Booby of Central and South America, this friendly, short introduction to “odd birds” can be paired with ODD BEASTS for young budding animal-lovers.
CLICK TO ENLARGE © by Heidi E.Y. S temple and Gareth Lucas
WHOSE NEST IS BEST? by Heidi E.Y. Stemple, illustrated by Gareth Lucas (Little Simon | 978-1665917087) is a clever text that begins with the question: “Whose nest is best?” Each page features an image of the nest, along with a description. Lift-the flap to reveal which bird lives there.
For the hummingbird:
Tiny parents hover nearby
their coin-sized nest
spun with spiderweb threads
Is this nest best?
The last double page spread shows the nests and eggs of all nine animals. Kids can life the flap to check to see if they remember who belongs with each nest. Fun and clever!
CLICK TO ENLARGE © by David La Rochelle and Mike Wohnoutka
SEE the CAT: Three Stories About a Dog by David LaRochelle, illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka (Candlewick | 978-1536204278)
When I read a book like SEE the CAT, I wish I was still teaching and could share this book with emerging readers. The smaller trim size, the short chapters, and the engaging and humorous story is sure to please any child who’s just beginning to tackle books with a few more words, but with lots of repetition (good for building confidence) and a nice match between the pictures and the text. This fun early reader won the Geisel Award in 2021.
What are some of your favorite new board books and early readers for kids?
