Sunday, May 11, 2008

This Week's Bestselling Picture Books from the New York Times

Have you checked out the special children's book section in the New York Times this weekend? There are lots of reviews on a variety of children's books.

Also, after 10 years (10 YEARS!!!!!), the Harry Potter series is off the list. Dwight Garner has an interesting article about J.K. Rowling's reign.

And while we're at it, check out this week's bestselling picture books.


1. Read All About It!, by Laura Bush and Jenna Bush. Illustrated by Denise Brunkus.
Despite numerous negative reviews, the first-lady and recently-wed first daughter's picture book about a boy who discovers he likes to read is at the top of the list. Speaking of reviews, check out Roger Sutton's review of this book in the New York Times.




2. Gallop!: A Scanimation Picture Book written and illustrated by Rufus Butler Seder
Now here's a book that is worthy of its spot on the list (this its the 25th week on the list, in fact). By flipping through the book you can see a horse galloping, an eagle soaring, and many other animals in movement. The content rhymes and has funny replies that will leave your child laughing. I even saw a board book version at my local bookstore the other day.



3. Dirt on My Shirt, by Jeff Foxworthy. Illustrated by Steve Bjorkman. Here's another book whose place on the list is probably propelled by its author's fame. It's a collection of poems that will probably get a chuckle or two out of your child.






4. Alphabet , by Matthew Van Fleet. In its fourth week on the list, this interactive alphabet book showcases a TON of plants and animals. With different textures, flaps, foils, and pull-tabs, it will definitely keep your preschooler occupied for a while.




5. Knuffle Bunny Too: A Case of Mistaken Identity, written and illustrated by Mo Willems. On the list for 26 weeks, Knuffle Bunny Too is the follow up to Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale. Here, little Trixie goes to school and discovers that her beloved Knuffle Bunny is NOT the only one in the world…oh boy. Willems illustrations and story had ME laughing out loud more than once. If you’re unfamiliar with Knuffle Bunny or Willems’ other works, I highly recommend you check him out.


6 Ladybug Girl, by Jacky Davis and David Soman. Illustrated by David Soman.
Meet a new kind of superhero who shows kids how to have fun in their own backyards. This would be a great choice for a younger sibling who always feel like they're "too little" to do the things their older siblings do.






7. Zen Ties, written and illustrated by Jon J. Muth.

In its 16th week on the list, this is a heartwarming story of a Buddist panda who encourages his nephew and friends to help a grouchy neighbor. They’re surprised by what they get in return.






8. My Dog May Be a Genius, by Jack Prelutsky. Illustrated by James Stevenson.
Poetry books sure are popular this week. This book of funny poems features a pig in a bathing suit, a skunk in a courtroom, a witch in a hardware store, and more.






9 Don't Bump the Glump!: And Other Fantasies, written and illustrated by Shel Silverstein.
Originally published in 1964, Shel Silverstein's first book of verse is still a hit with children and parents.







10. I Love You More, by Laura Duksta. Illustrated by Karen Keesler.
If you're looking for a sweet and sappy book that illustrates a mother's love for her child, look no further. This makes a great gift for a new mom or a great mother's day gift. There's still time to go out to your bookstore and grab a copy.







Happy Mother's Day everyone! I'm off for the rest of the day to do "mothery" stuff.

2 comments:

  1. Some great books on that list - which is nice to know. It's sad when everyone's out there buying the latest crap - oh, hold it, the Bush book was on the list wasn't it? I hadn't seen Roger's review, so I'm heading over.

    If you feel like playing, I've tagged you for a meme. Here it is.

    ReplyDelete
  2. MR--yes, unfortunately, the Bush book is on the list. Thanks for the meme; I left my link on your post!

    ReplyDelete