Farmer Brown Shears His Sheep: A Yarn About Wool by Teri Sloat, illustrated by Nadine Bernard Westcott 2000
Follow Farmer Brown and his shivering sheep through the complete process of turning wool into yarn. The sheep are perturbed by the loss of their wool, and even a little embarrassed. They trail after Farmer Brown to see what will become of their lovely white wool. In the end, they are wearing their wool again, in a more fashionable and colorful way.
Appropriate for ages 3-6
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
And Here’s to You! By David Elliott, illustrated by Randy Cecil 2009
Infectious read-aloud poems celebrate the animals around us, from the “Bubble People” to the ”Giving People”. But let’s not forget the “People People” who, after reading this delightful story, are even more thankful for the creature world around them and the fact that they are a vital part of it.
Cecil’s oil illustrations are full of whimsy and warmth, complimenting the text perfectly.
Appropriate for ages 4-8
Before You Were Mine by Maribeth Boelts, illustrated by David Walker 2007
This story about adopting a new dog after loss is full of emotion. The young narrator imagines what life was like for his new puppy before his family rescued it from the shelter. Did the previous owner “talk about you at recess? Or laugh when you licked his chin?” The boy even worries that the dog may have been treated in a mean way, or experienced loneliness. But after all the speculation this compassionate child realizes that what really matters is the love his family can offer, and the joy of a new friend.
The artwork from Walker is full of warmth, and emotion. I especially appreciate the hopeful look exchanged between the boy and the dog when they see each other for the first time. A short essay from Boelts in the back of the book talks about the joy that a successful animal adoption can bring to all parties involved.
Appropriate for ages 4-8
Yes Day! by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld 2009
Coco All Year Round by Sloane Tanen, photography by Stefan Hagen 2006
