Book picks similar to
Nature is an Artist by Jennifer Lavallee
picture-books
kids-stuff
art-music
stem-or-steam
If Kids Ruled the World
Linda Bailey - 2014
Every two-page spread offers something new about this fantasy life, including, ?If kids ruled the world, every day would be your birthday! Birthday cake would be good for you. Your doctor would say, 'Don't forget to eat your birthday cake so you'll grow up strong and healthy!'? And, ?You could go to any kind of school you like ... Circus School. Fairy School. Inventing School. Lots of kids would go to Recess School.? The topics that bestselling, award-winning author Linda Bailey has chosen are pitch-perfect for young children, from bedtime and baths (none!) to pets and tree houses (lots!). And illustrator David Huyck's detailed, brightly hued artwork is full of energy, joy and humor that gets right to the heart of a child's view of the world. While this is a book that would happily be enjoyed from cover to cover, it's not hard to envision an enthralled child spending long stretches of time daydreaming about one particular scenario. In the classroom, this book would make an excellent springboard for art projects or creative writing assignments that explore children's own unique image of the perfect world. Particularly gratifying is the emphasis throughout on sharing all the good things brought to life in a world of a child's own making. This book is a truly exuberant celebration of childhood, play and imagination. It's sure to become a classic.
The Storyteller
Evan Turk - 2016
It had fountains of cool, refreshing water to quench the thirst of the desert, and storytellers to bring the people together. But as the kingdom grew, the people forgot the dangers of the desert, and they forgot about the storytellers, too. All but one young boy, who came to the Great Square for a drink and found something that quenched his thirst even better: wonderful stories. As he listened to the last storyteller recount the Endless Drought, and the Glorious Blue Water Bird, he discovered the power of a tale well told. Acclaimed illustrator Evan Turk has created a stunning multidimensional story within a story that will captivate the imagination and inspire a new generation of young storytellers.
Bear Out There
Jacob Grant - 2019
He loves sharing his tidy home with his friend Spider. Spider loves the outdoors!When Spider's kite flies away, Bear must venture out and into the messy forest to help his friend.As their quest in the forest goes from bad to worse, Bear and Spider show readers that being a friend means being there for each other, no matter what.
Deep Underwater
Irene Luxbacher - 2018
She encounters beautiful fish and floating forests. Farther down, the dark water is full of tentacles and treasures. Deep underwater, she is never alone. Do you dare dive down after her?The ocean is full of endless possibilities in this dreamy, imagistic story from acclaimed author / illustrator Irene Luxbacher. Her otherworldly paintings show colorful fish, rippling seawater and the secrets to be found at the bottom of the ocean. Sophia’s journey will linger with readers long after the return to shore.
The Storybook Knight
Helen Docherty - 2016
But can a story be as mighty as a sword?
The Outcast Child
Jacobo Priegue - 2019
When she discovers Kevin, an abandoned two-year-old boy injured and on the verge of starvation, Laura thinks she has finally found a purpose and decides to devote herself to saving the child.However, what looks like a case of neglect turns out to be something much darker, and Laura finds out very soon that to save Kevin she will have to fight ignorance and superstition, not only in the slum in Cusco but also back in England.In her search of happiness for her and her family, Laura’s life becomes an eternal struggle against prejudice and ignorance that makes her doubt about everything she knows, only to discover that the greatest obstacle in her way is none other than she herself.
One Leaf, Two Leaves, Count with Me!
John Micklos Jr. - 2017
By summer, there's a glorious canopy. And when autumn winds blow, leaves fly from the tree, one after another, leading us into winter. There's a world of activity to spy in and around this beautiful tree as the wild creatures, and one little boy, celebrate the cycles of nature. As little ones count leaves, look for animals, and enjoy the changing seasonal landscape, bouncy rhymes and bold illustrations make learning to count easy--corresponding numerals reinforcing the learning fun.
The Broadcast: A Mystery Thriller
Liam Fialkov - 2018
Two decades ago, nuns collaborated in seizing her newborn baby.Could the show help her reunite with her son? Who is behind the astonishing footage? Are the films authentic or an elaborate scam? How far back in time will the TV show go? Will it show the crucifixion of Jesus? Will Sarah and Jonathan manage to restore their love?"A riveting story with exciting plot twists and characters that linger in readers' minds. Liam Fialkov's ability for summary and measured sentences makes his work absorbing." - Readers' Favorite, 2019 International Contest - Award WinnerSarah thinks she’d found an opportunity to reunite with her son, but the road is filled with centuries’ old mysteries, and a peculiar connection to “The Broadcast,” a riveting new television show, that may or may not be a scam.
“If you’re looking for a riveting novel that is shrouded in mystery and will draw you in with vivid details, then “The Broadcast” is a fabulous choice.”
- Editorial Review, Manybooks.
Sarah watches with awe as “The Broadcast” not only cracks unsolved crime cases, but it airs actual footage of historical events going back 2,000 years.A well-respected journalist is on the hunt for answers too, and he works tirelessly to prove the strange recordings are a hoax.While they seek answers, the show begins to expose a shattering secret that could threaten many people’s beliefs and perception of history.This captivating psychological thriller is as enigmatic and gripping as the television series itself. It intertwines personal drama with suspenseful twists and turns, all leading to an astonishing conclusion.If you like charismatic characters, riveting suspense, and mysteries that keep you guessing, then you’ll love Liam Fialkov’s gripping novel.
"A truly innovative thriller that should make for a lively book club discussion."
- Official Review, BestThrillers.com
"I love it when a unique book comes my way. Well-written and intelligent, "The Broadcast" is such an interesting premise and it twists and turns with many of the characters’ stories and secrets. This book was a fun read and I can recommend it to anyone looking for a thrilling and different book that draws you in and won’t let you go. Isn’t that the best kind?"- HUGEOrange Publication Review - Editor’s Pick Winner"If you are looking for a story filled with mystery and a great plot, then this is the book for you." - Official review, onlineBookClub.com
"A complex suspense tale which convincingly examines esoteric characters. In addition to the mystery of Walter’s unnamed source, this book is also an engrossing melodrama. Backstories are particularly strong, from 2-year-old Jonathan experiencing a car accident to nuns taking away teen Sarah’s baby while she’s at a convent."
- Kirkus Reviews
“The book is a promising and engaging read that'll stick with readers.”
- Pacific Reviews
“Wow! This story’s mystery and meticulous build-up to the “what’s next” and “what’s gonna happen” is a work of art. This is what mysteries are supposed to be like.
A Is for Asteroids, Z Is for Zombies: A Bedtime Book about the Coming Apocalypse
Paul Lewis - 2017
Starting with a father whose son has been asking questions about global dangers, A Is for Asteroids, Z Is for Zombies takes us inside our worst fears, laughing at some and taking others seriously. With macabre verse and fantastically gory illustrations, it provides gallows humor for our doom-haunted times.
How it Works: The Husband
Jason A. Hazeley - 2015
Featuring original Ladybird artwork alongside brilliantly funny, brand new text.Also available:How it Works: The HusbandHow it Works: The WifeHow it Works: The MumThe Ladybird Book of the Mid-Life CrisisThe Ladybird Book of the HangoverThe Ladybird Book of MindfulnessThe Ladybird Book of the ShedThe Ladybird Book of DatingThe Ladybird Book of the Hipster
The Prodigal Captive
Rachel Woods - 2018
On a gorgeous morning in paradise, tourists find a dead body on the pristine white beach of St. Killian, an island in the Caribbean. The victim was killed in a ritualistic murder. The dead man was castrated and branded. Burned into his skin is a strange word—“eros.” Investigative journalist Vivian Thomas-Bronson heads to the scene of the crime. She’s got to cover the story alone. Her husband, Leo Bronson, has to do a mysterious favor for his father. Leo is less than thrilled when he’s asked to find the missing son of a billionaire. There’s only one clue to go on—something known as “eros.” Could the missing scion be connected to the dead man on the beach? And what is the mystery behind “eros"? Their investigation uncovers an ultra-secret cult whose members perform bizarre rituals. When Leo goes undercover to get more information, he finds himself face to face with a demented killer. Can he escape with the truth? Or, will he fall prey to a psychotic villain who believes that murder is a sacrifice worth making?
The Grumpy Fairies
Bethan Stevens - 2021
Deep in the darkest forests, under rustling leaves, live the fairies. You probably think that fairies are good, kind, and sweet. Well, a lot of them are. These helpful fairies take care of the forest and they're happy to do it. But I'm sorry to tell you that some of the fairies, particularly the littlest ones, are GRUMPY. I mean super grumpy. I mean foot-stompy, frowny, bottom-lip-sticking-outy kind of grumpy. I mean "it’s just one of those days" grumpy. But these grumpy fairies better watch out. There's a goblin about, and grumpy fairies happen to be a his favorite food… This wonderful, funny book will bring a smile to the smallest (and grumpiest) of children.
Table for One
Neha Bindal - 2018
She grew up seeking her “happily ever after’ but amid various heartbreaks and culture of modern age short term relationships, her believe in “true connections" got replaced by the comfort of being “emotionally disconnected.” After she turned 31, her parents persuaded her into meeting a guy for marriage who sounded just perfect for her. Acting on impulse, she told her parents that she would meet him only if they let her go on a trip to Europe. As Taara went on to explore the world, she experienced what actually happens when a single Indian girl travels to Europe all by herself. Is it only about dancing, singing or falling in love? What happens after you fall in love? Does love conquer all? Only her story would tell.
On a Magical Do-Nothing Day
Beatrice Alemagna - 2016
Now a New York Times Best Illustrated Book of the Year!All I want to do on a rainy day like today is play my game. My mom says it’s a waste of time, but without my game, nothing is fun! On the other hand, maybe I’m wrong about that…While reading On a Magical Do-Nothing Day, one gets the sense that the illustrator became lost in her drawings, and as a reader, you'll want to do the same. Perfect for fans of picture books by Julie Morstad, Carson Ellis, Jon Klassen, and Tomi Ungerer.“Hands down, Beatrice Alemagna is my favorite contemporary illustrator," said the Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator of Last Stop on Market Street, Christian Robinson.On a Magical Do-Nothing Day has been recognized with a Gold Medal from the Society of Illustrators. Don't miss this picture book that beautifully encourages unplugged exploration.
The Wordsmith
Alan Ayer - 2017
The secret behind his novels is the stuff of nightmares.With his agent, an associate, and a particularly unique typewriter by his side, Walt’s creative process is much more sinister and merciless than the average writer’s. The lengths to which one man will go to achieve fame and notoriety give a chilling glimpse into what humans are capable of, regardless of the moral consequences.The Wordsmith is a thrilling and darkly innovative story of suspense, one that will force you to wonder if we can ever truly know the whole story behind the people we love. Is it possible to unearth the darkest details of ourselves and still come out alive? As Walt’s hunger for fame continues to grow, and his girlfriend begins to suspect the unsettling truth behind his words, the tenuous threads holding Walt’s life together begin to fray. From the astoundingly imaginative mind of Alan Ayer, The Wordsmith is a gripping narrative that dares to peer into the shadows of the darkest aspects of humanity. Our story—our fate in life—is often written against our will.