But when nervous Regina is given the undesirable part of the rat while all the other girls gets to dance the waltz, she starts turning green with envy. If only someone would get sick, she wishes, then she would get to dance the waltz, as well!

    It's not until Little Bear suggests that they make each other a Kiss Box--filled with a hundred kisses--that they are able to stay connected--no matter where they are.Whether it be an errand to the grocery store, a business trip, or the first day of school, this is a tender reminder that we are always together where it matters most: in our hearts.

    At school, especially around class bully Irwin, who teases her nonstop, she retreats into a shell of shyness. But when Irwin, playing the part of Planet Mars in the class play, begins to spin wildly out of control and threatens to ruin the entire production, it's Violet who saves the day -- managing not only to give Irwin his comeuppance but to find her own unique way of surviving the spotlight. Illustrations brimming with humor and charm add to the fun in this fresh take on overcoming shyness.

    Special, tender words are on the tip of her tongue. Are the words meant for Mommy and Daddy? Or should she tell her teacher? Or maybe her friend Frankie, the Skateboard King? The day is frustrating indeed as the words puff out impatient Lola’s cheeks. But eventually, her powerful, magical words are sure to burst forth. They’ll be worth the wait! Children and adults alike will cherish this exuberant and universal story of self-expression and family love.

    Poor Porcupine just cannot be hugged-his quills are too spikey! Each night, before settling down to sleep, all of Porcupine's forest friends hug each other goodnight. All except Porcupine, who feels left out-and grumpy! But when Armadillo shows him what a warm, fuzzy "kiss" is (even for a porcupine!), Porcupine is delighted and cannot wait to show his friends. With adorable art, Zoe Waring's story of making the most out of your physical limitations is sure to win hearts. No Hugs for Porcupine is filled with love and friendship, and is the perfect gift for Valentine's Day, or any day that requires a hug and a kiss.

    Along the way it becomes softer, sleepier, bigger, even peanut-buttery. But when the hug runs away, Lucy discovers that it's not so easy to get it back.

    IF YOU'LL BE MY VALENTINECynthia Rylant and Fumi KosakaIf You'll Be My Valentine sweetly celebrates the true meaning of Valentine's Day.Charming prose and captivatingly sweet art create an adorable tableau of loving wishes from one little boy to all the members of his family.

    She walks on her hind legs, and what a sight that is! Cookie's walking catches the attention of a show producer, who turns her into a star. And with fame comes benefits: bacon, candy, a fanny pack, her own mini-fridge But the more Cookie walks, the more people expect from her. Cookie's old friend Kevin keeps reminding her about how great her regular life used to be. And Cookie's legs are getting tired. Will Cookie keep walking for fame and fortune? Or will she stand down and get her life back?

    When Frogilina smiles at him through the monkey bars, Froggy falls smack on his head-bonk! So with Valentine's Day just a week away, Froggy gets busy making an extra-special valentine. The fifth book about the irrepressible Froggy, this is sure to keep children giggling with delight.An IRA-CBC Children's Choice Book"The narrative is smoothly written with rhythmic language and the repetition that young children love...A great read-aloud for Valentine's Day, or whenever love is in the air." —School Library Journal

    "A humorous celebration." --Booklist.

    This calls for hugs around the neck while reading, so be sure to share it with someone special.

    This is a rare and inventive visual feast-a runaway story about a curious boy, a magic cloak, a grumpy bard, a captive bear and a baron bound for the chopping block. It is also a richly illustrated, dramatic and very funny tale of adventure and friendship.

    No matter what kind of kisses they are, all kisses come from love. Illustrated with family scenes of adorable animals, this charming book is perfect for Valentine's Day and beyond.

    Whether it's giving someone a big hug, offering a helping hand, or sharing words of encouragement, it's these gestures that make the world a better place to live. Emma Randall's delicate and appealing illustrations accompany delightful verses in a timeless story perfect for reading aloud with loved ones.

    Guaranteed.   Let award-winning comedy troupe Kasper Hauser transport you into the sublime universe that is SkyMaul, where Banana-ganizers and Reality-Canceling Headphones coexist with Crack Pipe Chess Sets and Llamacycles. More than just a catalog parody, SkyMaul explodes with razor-sharp wit, boundless creativity, and a keen eye for the absurd. This smart, edgy satire will earn your laughter again and again.