Check Out These Awesome New Children’s Books

By Lisa Mcintyre on February 16th, 2010

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Choosing children’s books to read can seem like an easy task, especially when the person you are reading them too has little if any literary taste.  However, these recently-published books promise to be entertaining for both you and your young, aspiring literary analyst.

1.  On The Night You Were Born – Nancy Tillman (ages 4-8). This book is a lovely boost of self-esteem for your little one.  As a parent, you are the one who can instill a healthy sense of self in your child and this book helps.  News of your child’s birth travels the animal-laden pages of this book, and the animals dance and sing with jubilation.  ”Because there had never been anyone like you…ever in the world.  When the polar bears heard, they danced until dawn.”  Lines like these celebrate the life of your child, leaving both you and your young one feeling unique and loved by the universe.

2. Happy Easter Mouse – Laura Numeroff (ages 6-9). This book is a great way to get ready for the upcoming Easter holiday.  As you read, your child will practice counting skills while trying to figure out who is leaving Easter eggs all over Mouse’s house.  Although it may not be the most entertaining read for you, it’s a great read before decorating eggs with your child.  Your young one can have fun on Easter as he or she runs around the house just like Mouse trying to find eggs.

3.  Disney: Alice in Wonderland – based on the motion picture directed by Tim Burton – T.t. Sutherland (ages 9-12). This hardcover book is an excellent way to get your young reader excited about reading.  After reading the book with your child, take a trip to the theater to see the movie, out March 5.  Even an informal talk about which was better and why can develop your child’s skills in analysis.  Although your child is bound to love Tim Burton’s 3-D version better than the book, it’s still a worthwhile activity.  The hardcover book will be a keepsake regardless.

4.  Cupcake – Charise Mericle Harper (ages 4-8). This book tells the story of a plain vanilla cupcake and his feelings of inadequacy next to his more flavorful friends. It’s a simple story, but the reason I chose this book is because it’s an easy read before spending time cooking with your child.  Your child will be excited to spend time cooking with you, trying to make a plain cupcake extraordinary.  In addition to developing reading skills, you and your child can spend time bonding in the kitchen. The teachable opportunity in basic measurement skills is just an added bonus.

5.  Sesame Beginnings: Tummies! - Sarah Albee (ages baby-preschool). What can I say, I’m a sucker for Elmo.  This book is all about tummies and what newborns do with them – crawl, giggle, fill them with food.  It also includes a poetic ode to the belly button – always an entertaining body part.  And the best part?  A touch and feel belly in the back of the book!