Seb and the Sun by Jami Gigot
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is a touch of HYGGE (happiness/coziness) to light long, wintry evenings. A perfect bedtime book for little ones and for anyone who wants to be transported to the far North while snuggling beneath the covers. I fell in love with Seb, his walrus sidekick, and their quest to restore a bit of light to their arctic community. Jami Gigot revisits an age-old theme in a brand-new way and graces it with glowing illustrations. To me, Seb and the Sun has all the makings of a classic.
Bob, Not Bob!: *to be read as though you have the worst cold ever by Audrey Vernick
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Brilliant, heart-warming, hilarious. Rarely have I seen a picture book (both text and illustrations) infused with so much personality and humor. Gift it to any and every kid in your life!
The Bearskinner: A Tale of the Brothers Grimm by Laura Amy Schlitz
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I worked in the children’s book industry for years, in several different capacities, and today I still actively collect the very best in illustrated children’s books. I consider The Bearskinner to be the most powerful picture book I own. Never have I seen a picture book so honestly portray the darkness life can bring, while still championing hope and driving home the message, “No matter how hard things get, choose life. There will be a way out.” What a valuable book to share with a (slightly older) child audience! I read it to 8 to 12 year-olds and they are always spellbound by Laura Amy Schlitz’s rendering of this timeless Grimms’ tale. And yes, there is a happy ending.