Thursday, April 5, 2012

Picture Book Picks

As some of you may know, I LOVE PICTURE BOOKS!  When I grow up, I want to be a picture book author.  Which is, frustratingly, so much harder than it sounds.  None-the-less, I’m an avid picture book reader in an effort to know the market, become inspired and mainly just because I enjoy it.  Here are my latest purchases and I must say, I am completely in love with all three.
Marcel the Shell With Shoes OnMarcel the Shell With Shoes On, Things About Me by Jenny Slate and Dean Fletcher-Camp (dig the hyphenated name by the way).  Sigh.  Love, love, love this book!!!  I know I keep throwing that word around, but it’s true.  Marcel, I’m in love with you!  This is a picture book rendition of their popular Youtube video of Marcel, which I’m embarrassed to admit I only heard about AFTER I got the book.  The illustrations are beautifully painted by Amy Lind, based on photographs taken by David A. Erickson and they masterfully lead the reader through Marcel’s world.  Marcel’s voice is evident through his words but also through the pictures and timing of the page turns.  Read it - you’ll love it too!

Mud






Mud by Mary Lyn Ray, illustrated by Lauren Stringer.  This book will appeal to all your senses, as it perfectly depicts this eternal childhood fascination.  It’s the quintessential spring book.   “Winter will squish, squck, sop, splat, slurp, melt in mud.”  The lyrical language and lush, colorful paintings are a perfect match.  Your inner child will love it for sure! 













Wherever You Are, My Love Will Find You by Nancy Tillman.  Nancy Tillman is another one that I LOVE!  I adore the simple message of, what else, LOVE, that she conveys in all her stories.  Equally as appealing are her illustrations which combine photographs and painting, creating this magical feel.  It’s what every mother wants to convey to her children: I will love you, wherever you may go in life - and may you go far, knowing how much I love you.  Another sigh.  Dreamy.  Read it!





There you have it!  Those are my picture book picks.  I would of course, LOVE to hear about any great books you wish to share!

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