Plumbean's expression of creativity and individuality challenges his neighbor's ideas about the importance of having a “neat street.” By repainting his house to reflect his colorful dreams, Mr. Plumbean breaks away from the conformity of his street.“My house is me and I am it. My house is where I like to be and it looks like all my dreams.”— Daniel Pinkwater

    Under her table, she and Al Dente could transport themselves anywhere....Tomorrow is Kalamata's first day at a new school, and she's nervous! What if the kids aren't friendly? Or worse, what if they don't like alligators!? If only Kalamata and Al Dente could go to back to the Indian spice market they visited this summer, then maybe she'd remember how to feel brave when new experiences seem scary.Luckily for Kalamata, all the magic required for her journey is right in her own kitchen! As Kalamata and her alligator friend, Al Dente, transport themselves to a magical land filled with tasty ingredients, she realizes being brave is exciting! And most importantly, she learns that when we're nervous about trying new things, food can comfort us and remind us to stay curious, courageous, and compassionate.

    Today they're going on a hike. Follow the duo into the mountains as they witness the magic of the wilderness, overcome challenges, and play a small role in the survival of the forest. By the time they return home, they feel alive—and closer than ever—as they document their hike and take their place in family history. In detail-rich panels and textured panoramas, Pete Oswald perfectly paces this nearly wordless adventure, allowing readers to pause for subtle wonders and marvel at the views. A touching tribute to the bond between father and child, with resonant themes for Earth Day, Hike is a breath of fresh air.

    One morning Shima finds a marvelous new paper elephant on his desk. Where could it have come from? When he discovers who the mysterious artist is, he learns a surprising lesson about friendship. Full color.

    From then on, Sophie brings Bernice everywhere, despite her parents' gentle warnings that Bernice will begin to rot. As winter nears, Sophie does start to notice changes.... What's a girl to do when the squash she loves is in trouble?

    A natural innovator and problem solver, Tallulah finds herself unexpectedly stumped when six year-old Ballard Burchell leaves a note instead of his tooth under his pillow. What's a Tooth Fairy to do when there's no tooth to take?

    The wind blows in something feathery and plump -- a bird, and something wiggly and pink -- a worm, and something green, who hops and leaps -- a frog. But before it's time to go back inside, Mouse finds something that's soft and new with petals... the prettiest flower he's ever seen! Could it mean spring is finally here?

    This helps children grow up confident in their bodies, comfortable with expressing physical boundaries, and respectful of the boundaries of others. Full color.

    Ava is delighted when she discovers a brilliant red poppy in the middle of her yard.  She sits with the little flower in the sunny days of summer and shields it from the rain, until one day the petals start to drop and the tiny flower fades away.  But when spring comes again...Ava is surprised anew.

    Next, some oil is generously applied. (It's really water.) And then some tomatoes. (They're really checkers.) When the dough gets tickled, it laughs like crazy.

    Felicia Sanzari Chernesky's simple verses are beautifully accompanied by Susan Swan's collage art.

    At this baby party, basic shapes are a cause for celebration! Circles become treats, squares become gifts, and stars are prizes to share. Toddlers are welcomed to join the irresistible festivities and pick out all the shapes in this cheerful romp from the author and illustrator team of Baby Parade.

    

    Descriptions of such familiar activities as playing peek-a-boo, clapping, and banging a drum are accompanied by lively illustrations, and will inspire many imitations.

    She loves the crackle of the leaves in the wind. She even loves the snowflakes when they tickle her nose. But when the rain starts to fall, Tiny Mouse runs for her hole. What will make her come out? Toddlers will love turning the wheel to discover the answer—a beautiful rainbow. A cheerful board book about different kinds of weather makes the perfect pick for rainy-day story time.