Two Homes

Two Homes by Claire Masurel, illustrated by Kady MacDonald Denton 2003

A young boy named Alex describes what life is like with his divorced parents. He does so in a simple and straightforward manner. He has two rooms, two sets of friends, and two toothbrushes. One can only imagine the depth of emotion that dwells inside this young person as he is transported back and forth, but Masurel speaks of the adjustments in an immensely sensitive way. No matter where Alex is, he is completely loved, and this truth makes an enormous impact as he copes with the magnitude of divorce.

Whether you have struggled through a divorce yourself, or have sidestepped the wounds it can inflict, this is a must read with your child. It makes one very grateful for the love of a parent, whether together or apart.

Appropriate for ages 3-6

Claire Masurel on Amazon

Kady MacDonald Denton on Amazon

Sometimes You Get What You Want

Sometimes You Get What You Want by Meredith Gary, illustrated by Lisa Brown 2008

Children will relate to the text by Gary that focuses on day to day activities and the emotions that arise when we get what we want, and when we don’t. No doubt, a great conversation will ensue after reading this book with your child.

“Sometimes you can make as much noise as you want. Sometimes you have to be quiet. Sometimes you can do it yourself. Sometimes you need a little help. Sometimes you have to go right to sleep, but sometimes you don’t.”

Appropriate for ages 2-6

Say Hello

Say Hello by Jack Foreman, illustrated by Michael Foreman 2008

A dog and a little boy are experiencing what it feels like to be lonely and left out. A group of kids having a great time can be very intimidating, but it only takes the kindness of one to begin the process of friendship and belonging.

The spare text and illustrations leave ample room to observe the moral of kindness towards others, and the powerful life change it can render.

Appropriate for ages 3-6

Michael Foreman on Amazon

Roller Coaster

Roller Coaster by Marla Frazee 2006

A common scene at an amusement park sets up this story. The line of people is long, and pulsing with anticipation. As they draw nearer to the daunting roller coaster, some opt out. But a brave little girl and her Dad stand their ground and go on an adventure they will never forget, and might possibly repeat.

The emotion that oozes out of each person in Frazee’s artwork is astounding. You will want to laugh when the big burly men get scared on the roller coaster, and bite your nails in trepidation for those who are obviously petrified. The humor and suspense depicted here are unforgettable.

Appropriate for ages 3-6

Marla Frazee on Amazon

La La Rose

La La Rose by Satomi Ichikawa 2004

This story takes place in Paris’ Luxembourg Gardens. It is told from the viewpoint of Clementine’s stuffed rabbit, who gets separated from her little girl while visiting the gardens. La La Rose stays in one piece despite getting tossed about, wet, and dirty. An old man picks her up and dries her out on the infamous metal chairs of the Luxembourg Gardens. Luckily she ends up in the hands of a compassionate girl who reunites her with Clementine.

The importance of friendship and belonging are explored in the subtle, and dreamy watercolors by Ichikawa. Having visited the Luxembourg Gardens myself, it reminds me of the beauty and magic that exists there.

Appropriate for ages 3-6

Satomi Ichikawa on Amazon

My Heart Is A Magic House

My Heart is a Magic House by Julie Jacobs, illustrated by Bernadette Pons 2007

Stephanie Squirrel’s mom is about to have another baby, and she is worried that everything will change. She’s concerned about sharing material things, as well as her mother’s love. Her mom explains that her heart will expand, just like a house with many rooms, and her love will swell. The reassurance and loving comfort of this story will encourage older brothers and sisters in the change ahead.

Appropriate for ages 4-8

Bernadette Pons on Amazon

Chester

Chester by Ayano Imai 2007

Chester the dog feels ignored by his owners. Even though he still loves them he feels like perhaps there is a better place for him. He hoists his doghouse upon his head and sets out. The forest and the city don’t seem like the right place to settle down. When a rich lady takes him home he is convinced that he will be happy. But after being dressed, pampered and otherwise treated like a doll, he is even more unhappy. He finds himself outside in the rain, with only a nasturtium leaf to protect him. Chester’s family finds him there and they are reunited. He realizes that they still have love for him, and that they provide the best home he could ever have.

Imai’s watercolor illustrations are delicate, but so powerful in emotion. On each page children will enjoy finding the small brown bird that never leaves Chester’s side. There is much to learn here about leaving and loving.

Appropriate for ages 4-8

Rosa's Room

Rosa’s Room by Barbara Bottner, illustrated by Beth Spiegel 2004

Rosa and her mom are moving to a new house, and her empty bedroom emphasizes the loneliness she feels. Each day of the week she contributes special items to her room, but there is something (or someone) missing. She then meets and invites a new friend to enjoy the space with her. The happiness they share together is obvious in their exuberant faces.

The uncertainties of moving can cause stress, but there is great joy in making a place your own, and sharing it with someone special. Spiegel's illustrations are soft and comforting as Rosa eases into her new surroundings and her loneliness recedes.

Appropriate for ages 4-8

Barbara Bottner on Amazon

How Are You Peeling?: Foods with Moods

How Are You Peeling?: Foods with Moods By Saxton Freymann and Joost Elffers 2004

This amazingly creative and original story is full of thought provoking questions. Vegetables and fruit emoting every kind of expression roll across each page. Your child may relate to a jovial lemon, a flabbergasted pepper, or a jealous tomato. The expressive black-eyed peas used for the eyes are genius. You will never look at a display of produce the same again.

Appropriate for ages 3-8

Saxton Freymann on Amazon

Joost Elffers on Amazon

Nobody Notices Minerva

Nobody Notices Minerva by Wednesday Kirwan 2007

Being ignored has made Minerva’s day begin horribly. She makes it her goal to get attention, even if it means being naughty. Her siblings always seem to get the time that she craves with her parents. Minerva’s response includes peeling wallpaper off the wall, making a mess of her lunch, and using force with her brother’s toys. Her angry pout turns into tears of loneliness. After being reminded of her families love, she makes a mature decision and gets everyone’s attention in a positive way.

Kirwan has written a story that young people can easily relate to. Our lives are so filled with busyness, yet it behooves us to have love as a permanent resident in our homes. Giving attention for a job well done gives Minerva, and our kids, the desire to keep doing better.

Appropriate for ages 4-8

Mouse Was Mad

Mouse Was Mad by Linda Urban, illustrated by Henry Cole 2009

Mouse is unsure how to express his anger, but his friends are willing to give him some valuable tips. Hare, Bear, Bobcat, and Hedgehog each demonstrate how they react. Try as he might, Mouse cannot imitate them without repercussion of the muddy sort. He tries his hand at the "standing-still mad" stance and this seems do marvels.

Find out how Mouse handles his anger through the playful language, and vivid watercolors of this book. This is a great reminder for children that it's okay to be mad, but there is an appropriate way to handle it, and it looks different for all of us.

Appropriate for ages 3-8

Henry Cole on Amazon