The Leopard's Drum: An Asante Tale from West Africa
retold and illustrated by Jessica Souhami
A simple tale about how the tortoise got it's hard shell. The book and illustrations are adapted from a puppetry performance by the author.
I like reading these old tales and stories about creation; they rather intrigue me. Everett wanted to read it over and over. He was fascinated by the story, enjoyed the animal illustrations and just loves drums.
Hedgie's Surprise
retold and illustrated by Jan Brett
A Scandinavian folktale about a hen who wants to keep her eggs and how her friend the hedgehog helps her trick the little tomten out of them. Jan Brett is one of our very favorites because of her knack for retelling old folktales with such playfulness. The illustrations, as any of her books are extraordinary- detailed watercolor scenes with a needlepoint border to each page. If you haven't checked out Jan Brett you need to! Her version of The Mitten is the best!
Make it Go (Let's Explore Science)
by David Evans and Claudette Williams
A great introductory book to the science of what makes things move. Bright action photographs, practical and easy projects, and provocative questions. This book opened the door to many activities and topics of interest we have barely begun to explore. A big recommendation for this one, it will give us plenty to explore indoors this winter!
Micawber
written by John Lithgow, illustrated by C.F. Payne
As with all Lithgow books, this is a silly and unusual story. A New York City squirrel who loves frequenting the windows of a nearby art museum gets his chance at painting.
We both thought this was such a fun and unique story. The remakes of the artworks are a hoot for anyone who appreciates art history.
The Circle of Days
written by Reeve Lindbergh, illustrated by Cathie Felstead
A sweet and reflective poem inspired by the Canticle of the Sun, written by Saint Francis of Assisi in 1225. Lindbergh takes the root meaning of St. Francis's poem and translates it both powerfully and gently for children. She (and he) sing praise for the the world around us, calling it by its many names- Mother Earth, Brother Wind, Sister Moon, and honoring it with beautiful collaged illustrations. Everett took comfort in this book as it serves as a perfect bedtime prayer (regardless of religion).
Shall I Knit You a Hat?: A Christmas Yarn
written by Katie Klise, illustrated by M. Sarah Klise
An endearing story about Mommy Rabbit and Little Rabbit knitting hats for their friends before a big blizzard on Christmas Eve. The illustrations are the star of this book, so lively and and fun. Klise has every detail included that makes it feel life-like (notice the rabbit's home cluttered with the day's activities) and fun (enjoy the comical hat creations). It's a fabulously warm alternative to the hum-drum of Frosty and Rudolf during Christmas time.
*Okay, we cheated with this one, we own it! But it's just too much fun and you can borrow it from the library...
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