I get asked this question all the time! To me, the most important quality is the relatability of the book. If a child can see a connection between the story and real feelings, that is the gold. No one has ever been a lion, but the characteristics of that lion in a children’s book; the trials, triumphs of that lion, are the things children have the capacity to understand. Their natural empathy and sense of wonder serve them in this stretch of imagination. As I select books to place in my classroom library, I want concepts that leave a lasting conversation point, a thread I can pull to extend the literature into our day. It’s so meaningful when that happens. And I am very inspired by artwork that was made the old fashioned way. My heart just likes the effort, creativity, vulnerability and dedication of hand-made art.
Just a few titles I like to recommend:
- Curious George by Margaret and HA Ray – The affirmation repeated within each story of the series, plus mischievous adventures and finally solutions found by that little money are funny and clever. I like that some of the stories are based on feelings children will experience, but with a lack-of-supervision twist that is mesmerizing to a young audience. I like the problem/solution pace to children’s books as well.
- Lion & Mouse by Jerry Pinkney – It is nearly wordless, leaving room for readers to soak in the meaning for themselves. I am drawn to other books like that, too. Float, by Daniel Miyares is a beautiful wordless story. The illustrations are soft and wonderful in both of these delightful books.
- A Tree is Nice, by Marc Simont – Just simply lovely, and could literally reach anyone at any stage of life. That is a keeper for me, it just makes me feel good inside. I am also touched by the way the illustrator alternates from colored pages to black and white drawings.
Share with me some of your favorite titles below!