Picture storybooks: imagination and play
Candlewick Press,U.S. The Concrete Garden
Book Synopsis
£16.14
Amazon Publishing Some Days
Book SynopsisFrom an Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award nominee comes a touching story of family, security, and loss. A young girl tells her mother about a passageway in their yard. Down this passageway, it is not cold, there is no danger, and nothing bad can ever happen—and the person she longs for is with her again. The only problem is that, on some days, the passageway is not there. But maybe, together, mother and daughter can find a way to carry that feeling with them always. First published in Argentina, this lovely picture book will tug on the heartstrings of anyone who knows what it means to miss a loved one.Trade Review“In Schimel’s translation, Wernicke’s words are few but well chosen and expertly paced, the sentences split among the pages allowing for unhurried absorption of meaning. Her curved figures are solid, with cream-colored skin; straight, black hair; and short lines for eyes. No mouths are visible, a decision that adds to the contemplative aura. Subtle patterns add interest, and red—ultimately applied to the mother—signals warmth and love…A gentle model for living while missing a loved one.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “This brief, wistful exchange between a mother and her child delivers its emotion between the lines, and Schimel’s translation handles the understatement deftly…Wernicke shows the two twirled up in another set of sheets, looking for the passageway together, in this portrait of a parent who hears and honors her child’s words.” —Publishers Weekly “In this economical, poignant picture book, a girl tells her mother about a passageway in their yard that leads to a place on ‘the other side’ where there is ‘no danger’ and ‘nothing, nothing at all, can happen to you.’ The illustrations tell more—in this place, the girl gets a ride on the shoulders of a large man (possibly her father) who makes her feel safe…Wernicke’s emotive picture book expresses a child’s strong feelings about longing and safety.” —The Horn Book “Some Days is an incredibly moving and poignant story with layers of meaning which are sure to resonate with anyone who knows what it means to miss a loved one.” —Outside In World
£12.34
Little, Brown & Company The World's Longest Sock
Book SynopsisExperience the world’s fiercest knitting competition in this lively book about community, cooperation, and two knitters who are determined to create the world’s longest sock. In Chile, Nana Nina starts knitting a sock and forgets to stop, and soon it's won the world record for "Longest Sock”! When Chuck, a lonely lumberman in New Zealand who also happens to be knitting a very long sock, sees Nina’s news on the TV, he is determined to beat her world record. And he does! Thus begins a battle of the knittest to see who can hold onto the world record—for good. The world takes sides: Team Nina or Team Chuck. But will all the pressure cause them to unravel? This yarn about a competition out of control will charm the socks off readers of all ages and knitting abilities.
£12.34
Little, Brown & Company Domino's Tree House
Book SynopsisJoin one boy's quest to build the ultimate tree house in this imaginative picture book about the good things we might be missing in our never-ending pursuit of "better."Domino's backyard isn't enough for him, so he builds a tree house. When the tree house isn't quite enough, he builds a tree cottage, then a tree mansion, and on and on, pursuing something "more"-something that he can't put his finger on and can't quite reach. In a series of escalating feats of tree-house engineering, Domino builds and builds, until he finds himself alone on the moon, still not satisfied.Gorgeous illustrations of a gravity-defying tree house will capture little ones' imaginations, while the satisfying conclusion will remind young readers that wanting more might cause us to miss the sweetness of what we already possess.
£13.49
Little, Brown & Company Trick or Treat, You're So Sweet!: A Lift-the-Flap
Book SynopsisCelebrate Halloween and the little ones who love it with this sweet lift-the-flap board book about Halloween's true hero--its candy.Children love Halloween costumes and candy, and we love seeing them all dressed up, enjoying the spoils of their trick-or-treating. This book's simple, lighthearted text celebrates children and their favorite candies, with a mix of humor and sincerity that will appeal to both little ones with a sweet tooth and parents with a soft spot for their kids.Vivid illustrations feature a varied cast of trick-or-treaters, each with his or her candy of choice. As the text expresses affection in a clever-yet-"sweet" way, readers can lift flaps to reveal more Halloween fun. Heartfelt and funny, Trick or Treat, You're So Sweet! will soon be a Halloween favorite.
£8.49
Little, Brown & Company Gift Shop Bear
Book SynopsisDiscover the power of friendship in this nostalgic Christmas tale of a young girl and her furry friend-perfect for fans of The Velveteen Rabbit, Corduroy, and The Polar Express. All year long, Bear watches from his spot in the attic as the seasons change, waiting for the first snowflakes that signify Christmas is coming. You see, at Christmastime, Bear gets to join his special friend, Annie, in the festivities in her grandma's gift shop. But this year is different-the gift shop is closing and Bear's future seems uncertain. Will Bear see Annie and Nana again? Author-illustrator Phyllis Harris brings a warmth and coziness to her art and storytelling that give the book the timeless feel, and the heartwarming conclusion will make this story a family favorite at Christmastime each year.
£13.29
Little, Brown & Company Dream Big, My Precious One
Book SynopsisCelebrate the hopes and dreams you have for your little one with this rhyming board book that inspires children to dream big, work hard, and trust in God. In Dream Big, My Precious One, a whimsical narrator explores the boundless potential of a child's future, imagining what the child will love as he or she grows up and all of the incredible things the child could become, from "a doctor or zoologist, a nurse or archaeologist" all the way to "a preacher sharing God's good news, a captain on a sailing cruise, a vet to cure sick kangaroos!" Upbeat and playful, this book will inspire children to passionately pursue their dreams, knowing that God will be with them every step of the way.
£6.99
Bloomsbury Publishing Plc Lola Dutch I Love You So Much
Book Synopsis
£16.14
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC The Song for Everyone
Book Synopsis
£16.14
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC The World Made a Rainbow
Book Synopsis
£15.29
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Be Wild, Little One
Book Synopsis
£16.14
Bloomsbury Publishing Plc Meesha Makes Friends
Book Synopsis
£7.59
Bloomsbury Publishing Plc Think Big
Book Synopsis
£7.59
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Grandpas Are the Greatest
Book Synopsis
£16.14
Fitzhenry & Whiteside Gabby
Book Synopsis
£12.30
Peachtree Publishers,U.S. Snow Day!
Book SynopsisA clever take on this familiar childhood wish features an unexpected twist sure to surprise and delight school-age readers.When the television weatherman predicts a big snowfall, the narrator gleefully imagines the fun-filled possibilities of an unscheduled holiday from school. But when the family wakes up the next morning, they are in for a disappointment. No snow! As the family members pile into the car so they won?t be late for school, an unexpected twist reveals who wanted the snow day most of all.Adam Gustavson?s expressive illustrations comically capture the excitement of pure possibility in author Lester Laminack?s thoroughly original tale.
£15.29
David R. Godine Publisher Inc Rocket Boy
Book SynopsisA child’s art comes to life and takes him on an out-of-this-world adventure. In this bewitchingly wordless black-and-white picture book, one young child explores the boundless reaches of his imagination. Armed only with a pencil and a pad of paper, he transports himself to the moon, the deep sea, and remote jungles where he meets new friends, visits undiscovered words, and makes his way back home again to his own bed before dawn. Damon Lehrer's visual narrative, a penciled mix of line work and detailed graphite drawings, will appeal to readers of all ages who are invited to help tell the story.
£12.34
Creative Company,US What to Do with a Box
Book Synopsis
£8.54
Creative Company,US What to Do with a String
Book Synopsis
£14.45
Creative Company,US Simon Says Open the Book
Book Synopsis
£8.54
Creative Company,US It?
Book Synopsis
£16.99
Creative Editions What to Do with a Stick
Book Synopsis
£16.14
Creative Editions Bat Wings! Cat Wings?
£14.45
Creative Editions Up and Down
Book Synopsis
£14.39
Charlesbridge Publishing,U.S. Lola Loves Stories
Book Synopsis
£7.59
Charlesbridge Publishing,U.S. Lola quiere un gato
Book Synopsis¡Ahora disponible en español! Lola, la famosa amante de los libros, vuelve a aparecer con mascota en la quinta aventura de la serie Lola lee.Su mamá le explica que un gato da mucho trabajo, entonces Lola practica cuidando a sus gatitos de juguete y leyendo muchos libros sobre gatos. Junto con su mamá, investiga sobre adoptar gatos, compra alimento y suministros, y visita un refugio de animales. Finalmente, Lola escoge a su gata y tiene la paciencia de esperar que el animalito se adapte a su nuevo hogar. Lola, la amante de los libros, y Leo, su hermano menor, disfrutan pasando juntos el tiempo en familia leyendo, haciendo actividades especiales y viviendo nuevas aventuras. Now available in Spanish! Popular, book-loving Lola returns with a pet in the fifth adventure of the Lola Reads series.Mommy says that a cat is a lot of work, so Lola practices caring for her stuffed kittens and reads lots of cat books. With Mommy, she researches pet adoption, shops for food and supplies, and visits an animal shelter. Finally, Lola chooses her cat and is patient while her new friend settles in at home.
£14.44
Charlesbridge Publishing,U.S. Lola quiere un gato / Lola Gets a Cat
Book Synopsis
£7.59
Paul Dry Books, Inc Friday's Tunnel
Book Synopsis
£11.69
New York Review of Books Mouse House
Book Synopsis“Once upon a time there was a little mouse house. It was like a doll’s house, but not for dolls, for mice.” Not proper mice, but a flannel He-Mouse and She-Mouse with beady eyes and bristle whiskers who stand quite still, propped on their hind legs in the sitting room. Mary knows real mice run and scamper, and disappointed with her new gift, she puts the mouse house away in her room. Meanwhile, down in the basement, a real mouse named Bonnie has been jostled out of her woefully inadequate flowerpot home by her older brothers and sisters. Overlooked by her harried parents and desperate for shelter, Bonnie ventures upstairs and finds the mouse house. And before too long what was a miniature make-believe house becomes a marvelously messy home for proper mice who know how to play, much to everyone’s delight.
£15.16
Enchanted Lion Books The Grand Expedition
Book SynopsisThey have made a very serious decision—they are going on an adventure. All by themselves, just the two of them. Dad might offer a suggestion or two, but this expedition is just for them! Of course, they will have to bring coffee and pickles and blankets and a cozy tent. And, just in case, a jump rope to use as a lasso. They set up camp in the lee of a small mountain (or, in their backyard) and get ready for an evening of fun. But when the pickles are gone and the mosquitoes come out, what’s to be done? The Grand Expedition is the quietly comic story of two kids and their dad and the everyday adventures that make life great.Trade Review"There are those (like me) who feel that 'camping out' in the backyard is a high point of childhood adventure, and this adorable book from Sweden confirms it. Two small siblings inform their dad of their plans, and after gathering their supplies they pitch a tent and hunker down. No, they don't make it through the whole night out there, but does that even matter? With winsome mixed-media illustrations that capture all the most telling details, and a fine-tuned ear for the way kids think and talk, Adbage understands the fun that can be found in a child's everyday reality." —Maria Russo, The New York Times "There is something entirely lovely about this quiet book. Any child who has camped in the backyard will see themselves here. From the little drama of the ant in the book to the pickles to the need to suddenly return home, each element is so clear, so child centered, so realistic. The strong relationship the children have with their father is another highlight of the book. The illustrations have a supporting quiet simplicity to them and yet the busyness and clutter that also accompanies childhood." —Tasha Saecker, Waking Brain Cells "This ode to exploration encourages youngsters to think big; sometimes the most fun is in the preparation."—Kirkus Reviews "A Swedish import that’s ideal to be shared in a seasonal family storytime or as summer bedtime fare."—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY, School Library Journal "a funny, delightful book with unforgettable drawings, especially the expressive looks in the boys' eyes." —The Vermont Country Sampler ”In The Grand Expedition the most quintessential elements of childhood are pedagogically represented with flourishing imagination, natural world exploration and the quiet presence of a nonjudgmental parent watching over yet never interfering. In an over scheduled and over media drenched world, this book reminds us of the heart of genuine childhood.” —Jesica Sweedler DeHart, The Wandering Bookseller
£11.04
Enchanted Lion Books Vacation
Book SynopsisSummer vacation is going great for a girl who has everything to herselfincluding Grandpauntil a gray patch arrives.Recipient of the 2017 Montreuil Children''s Book Salon Pépite D''Or Literary Award, Silver Medalist in the 2018 Society of Illustrators Original Art Exhibition, A USBBY Outstanding International Book of 2019, and named one of The Most Astonishingly Unconventional Children''s Books of 2018 by 100 Scope NotesIn this wordless story from artist Blexbolex, a young girl''s idyllic vacation is interrupted by the appearance of an unexpected houseguest, and she learns how hard it can be to invite another in on the fun.On vacation at her grandfather''s home in the countryside, a young girl has thoroughly been enjoying her summer. All this time, she has had the garden, the kitchen, forest paths, the lake, and even Grandpa all to herself. So when her grandfather brings an elephant home to stay, she is not pleased at all. How will she react to this intrusion into what she believes to be her own personal space and time?Nostalgic and often dreamlike, this wordless story is about interrupted solitude, learning to be together with another, and how the choices we make deeply affect our lives. With beautifully textured pages inside a hardcover with cloth spine, this is silent visual storytelling at its best!
£16.19
Enchanted Lion Books Be Still;Life
Book SynopsisA Brain Pickings Best Children's Book of 2018 "The rambunctiously designed illustrations of bugs, plants, fruit, snails, and other aspects of the natural world are done in simple, warm, unshaded colors and black crayonlike outlines that echo and support the narrative's ingenuousness, as does the hand-lettered text. It doesn't take itself too seriously—some segments are endearingly silly, especially the asides of some of the critters voicing their opinions. What sets this book apart from so many others with the same theme of the nourishment derived from connecting with life is its infectious joy, delivered simply and sincerely."—STARRED REVIEW, Kirkus Reviews Starting from the premise that everything is alive—a feeling that is deep and immediate for many children—Be Still, Life draws the reader into a still place where everything is moving. Thought-provoking in its depiction of the relationship between stillness and motion, this is certain to engage children, slowing them down through sheer fascination and delight. Ohara Hale is a multi-disciplinary artist. Born in Hollywood, California, she now lives in Montreal, Quebec. She works as a fine artist, illustrator, musician/singer, director, animator, voiceover actor, graphic designer, and art director. Hale shares her studio with her dog, Banana. Hale loves all creatures, including spiders and snakes!Trade ReviewA Brain Pickings Best Children's Book of 2018 ★ "The rambunctiously designed illustrations of bugs, plants, fruit, snails, and other aspects of the natural world are done in simple, warm, unshaded colors and black crayonlike outlines that echo and support the narrative's ingenuousness, as does the hand-lettered text. It doesn't take itself too seriously—some segments are endearingly silly, especially the asides of some of the critters voicing their opinions. What sets this book apart from so many others with the same theme of the nourishment derived from connecting with life is its infectious joy, delivered simply and sincerely."—STARRED REVIEW, Kirkus Reviews "Hale beckons eye, heart, and mind to drink in the glorious aliveness of the world with a generous curiosity, evocative of Simone Weil’s assertion that 'attention is the rarest and purest kind of generosity.' [...] Playful levity and vibrancy carry the deeper soulfulness of the message, which unfolds with a songlike quality — a sort of hymn in word and image."—Maria Popova, Brain Pickings "Part mindfulness meditation, part delirious flight of fancy, this unusual picture book encourages readers to pause, quiet down, and take in the world, senses open. ...Hale creates winsome expressions in the plants, fruits, and creatures that fill her sherbet-colored pages, and the text’s surprising blend of profound questions and wild goofiness forms a unique invitation to delight in life and its smallest wonders."—Publishers Weekly "A lasting reminder to slow down and let the world fill you up"— Matthew C. Winner of The Children's Book Podcast "A bright splash of poetic genius splashed across any day. With exuberant illustrations this book beckons smiles."—Jesica Sweedler DeHart, The Wandering Bookseller “Incredibly charming, sweet, and meditative.” —Anabela Piersol, @fieldguided “This book is just so tranquil and lovely. It is all about slowing down to enjoy the sweet and simple things that this beautiful life has to offer. Its rhythmic text and whimsical illustrations are everything and it has jumped to the top pile of my new favorite things this spring. It is honestly a refreshing breath of fresh air that I could read over and over again in succession.” —Clarissa, Book Nerd Mommy “…A book that is a celebration of the senses…” —The Book Beat (Detroit, MI) “Using simple, soothing meter and rhyme, the book speaks to young kids about the need to slow down and the joy of living, all in the context of their own childhood experience. The artwork is delightfully whimsical and the muted color speaks to this idea of measured calm. I wholeheartedly recommend it, especially to those of us who feel inspired by the slow living movement.” —Rebecca, The Bookplate
£11.69
Star Bright Books 123 ?Quien Viene Despues? / 123 Who Comes Next?
Book Synopsis
£7.99
Star Bright Books Leaves to My Knees
Book Synopsis
£6.99
Treasure Bay If I Had a Snake (We Read Phonics - Level 4
Book Synopsis
£7.37
Our World of Books Bath Time Mermaids
Book SynopsisBath Time Mermaids features playing with dolphins, mermaid tea parties, seahorse riding, mermaid school, playing dress up, blowing bubbles, searching for sunken pirate treasure, coral reefs, mermaid lullabies, and more. Make way for the mermaids! Dive into the magical sea and discover the enchanted world of mermaids. This book is part of the bestselling Good Night Our World series, which includes hundreds of titles exploring iconic locations and exciting themes.This charming board book explores all aspects of mermaid life while guiding little ones to drift into a sea of magical dreams.
£9.09
Clavis Publishing A Cup of Tea?
Book SynopsisWhen mommy got home from work today, she was "oh, so tired" and couldn't play. I had hoped she would go on a bug hunt with me, but she just needed to relax with a "nice cuppa tea". A warm picture book about a boy longing to play with his parents. And about tea!
£14.99
Clavis Publishing Celebrate with Zaza
Book Synopsis"A perfect story to read on a birthday, or any day!” - Black Children’s Books and Authors "Young readers will relate easily to the story and how much fun it is to throw a party for their good friends". - Kiss the Book, librarian blog It’s Rosie’s birthday and Zaza is having a party for her. It’s time to celebrate! For toddlers ages 24 months and up, with a focus on the child's daily life. At Clavis, our focus is on what’s best for children. We believe that books play an important role in each new phase in life. Our toddler books are tailored for every stage from 0 to 3 and focus on the five most important themes in their life: daily life, skills, emotions, the world, and language development. The age range and theme of every book in our toddler series can be found on the back cover in the form of a colored train.Trade Review"Here’s a small smattering of some of the true beauties I’ve run across this year. There are two Zaza books out this year (the other is called Celebrate with Zaza), and they’re both great.” - Elizabeth Bird, Fuse Eight, SLJ.com "A perfect story to read on a birthday, or any day!” - Black Children’s Books and Authors "I could see my kids making instant connections with Zaza and Rosie ... with how they played together. This book is about how a young child can pretend play with her toys. How they set up a party and pretend to share, to give, to celebrate – all of which encouraging imagination use versus being entertained by something or someone else. Due to the easy language and storyline this book would be perfect if you were in need of a book for Text-to-Self activities – I think a high number of children do this type of play at some point....Another positive is that because of the simple nature of this book it would be especially beneficial to ESL/ELL students in a preschool or childcare setting." - Miss Jenny's Classroom blog "Young readers will relate easily to the story and how much fun it is to throw a party for their good friends". - Kiss the Book, librarian blog
£10.99
Clavis Publishing What Really Happens at Night?
Book SynopsisSilver Medal Winner of the 2022 Key Colors Competition, the two-yearly national contest for illustrators of children’s books.This is a classic “I don’t want to go to bed” quirky bedtime story about curiosity, imagination, and creative solutions. It’s bedtime already? But I don’t feel like going to sleep. There’s so much to think about. I have so many questions! What happened to my other sock? Why is dad losing his hair? What does the sun do at night? And most of all: why am I so sleepy? The everyday questions of a little girl are visualized in the pictures with a lot of imagination."Delightful bedtime fare, and, ironically, a potential get-to-sleep tool." -Kirkus ReviewsTrade ReviewSilver Medal Winner of the 2022 Key Colors Competition, the two-yearly national contest for illustrators of children’s books."A book of bedtime questions big and small. “What are you thinking about?” Mom asks their child at the foot of the bed in a cozy room scattered with socks and books. The child is resisting sleep because of a racing mind—relatable content sure to hook caregivers and children alike. Each spread contains a single question in chunky black text, with the “Why,” “Where,” or “What” enlarged for emphasis. Some of the questions are simple on the surface (like “Where’s the last piece of cake?”), but a closer look at the illustrated scene suggests mischief in the form of ants devouring the cake, crumb by crumb. Other scenes cheerfully introduce magical realism, as a fish watches TV with the child, a lost clicker dropped in their bowl, to wordlessly answer the question, “Where’s the TV remote?” Attention to the quietly improbable possibilities behind each question encourages imagination, and reading can be scaled for a wide age range. Plenty of negative space balances the thoughtful art, which is based in pinks, blues, and earthy grays and browns. The human characters have light skin tones; names and gender identities are not shared. Those who have had mundane and existential queries zip through their minds while they’re trying to sleep will revel in the innocently blunt tone of this brief, gratifyingly inconclusive story of inquiry. Delightful bedtime fare, and, ironically, a potential get-to-sleep tool." -Kirkus Reviews
£13.29
Princeton Architectural Press My Island
Book SynopsisA young girl imagines a lovely island populated by thousands of birds, where she picnics with her animals, plays games, reads, and collects flowers. You too are welcome on this island, if you know how to dream. Gorgeous, colorful illustrations accompany this gentle yet impactful story that celebrates the imagination of young readers.
£10.79
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Jump In!
Book Synopsis
£16.14
Charlesbridge Publishing,U.S. Lola Loves Stories with Daddy
Book Synopsis
£7.59
Charlesbridge Publishing,U.S. Leo at the Park
Book SynopsisLeo, Lola’s little brother, is back with a fun-filled day with Mom at the park!A perfect everyday read-aloud for little ones, this playful spin-off of the best-selling Lola Reads series is sure to delight.Leo is hot hot hot! So he and Mommy head to the park to cool down. There they meet up with Leo’s friend Yu and her mommy. The two toddlers dig in the sandbox, have fun on the swings, eat a picnic, and play on the splash pad to cool off. Vibrant art with warm and cool colors supports the underlying theme of a day full of hot and cold.
£8.54
Capstone Young Readers Good Morning, Superman!
Book Synopsis
£15.15
Crocodile Books August the Tiger
Book Synopsis
£15.26
Crocodile Books The Reader
Book Synopsis
£15.26
Interlink Publishing Group, Inc August The Tiger
Book Synopsis
£8.54
Xist Publishing El Pequeño Hoo va a la Playa/ Little Hoo goes to the Beach (Bilingual Engish Spanish Edition)
£9.10
