Stellaluna by Janell CannonA heartwarming story of a baby fruit bat, Stellaluna, who lands in a nest of baby birds when her mother is attacked by an owl and falls out of her grip. The mama bird says Stellaluna can stay if she behaves like a baby bird, so Stellaluna has to stop sleeping upside down and start eating bugs. But baby bats will utimately follow their instincts, and Stellaluna shows her bird siblings what it's like to be a bat. Not only does this book send the message of the importance of accepting and celebrating difference, it's also a great way to teach about bats and birds as well as the concept of compare/contrast.
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale by Mo WillemsIf you haven't read Mo Willems, what are you waiting for? His books make me snort, and Knuffle Bunny is no exception. Little Trixie goes to the laundry mat with her daddy and loses her beloved Knuffle Bunny. The book focuses on the search for the toy. The sepia-toned photographs with the hilarious cartoon cartoons superimposed upon them are AMAZING. I bought copy of this book and the follow-up, Knuffle Bunny Too: A Case of Mistaken Identity because of the unique illustrations and hilarious story.
Llama, Llama Red Pajama Anna DewdneyWhen Mama Llama tucks baby llama into bed and leaves the room, baby llama experiences a bit of separation anxiety that gradually grows into a full-blown meltdown. When panic-ridden Mama Llama runs into the room and realizes what's wrong with him, she assures him that she's "always near, / even if she's / not right here." The colorful illustrations are humorous, and the book could help provide comfort to kids who are experiencing their own bit of separation anxiety.
Oh, I just LOVE Stellaluna. My son and I really enjoyed reading this one over and over. Our library has a backback set that includes the book, a stuffed Stellaluna, a puzzle, and a cassette of the story. We checked that kit out more times than I can remember. Kiddo loved the story and I'm a huge fan of bats, so we BOTH wanted to get this one every time we went to the library.
ReplyDeleteI love Knuffle Bunny! One of my favorite "older" books for kids is Cloudy with a Side of Meatballs. Have you ever read that one?
ReplyDeleteHeather,
ReplyDeleteThat kit sounds AWESOME. I'm definitely going to check and see if my library has it.
Stephanie,
I actually have not read Cloudy with a Side of Meatballs. I've seen it in bookstores and libraries, but I will be sure to check it out. Thanks for the recommendation.