Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré

The story of extraordinary librarian, storyteller and author Pura Belpré.  The remarkable contributions she made to children’s literature and vibrant spirit of her work are captured in this glorious new picture book biography.  She was the first Puerto Rican librarian in New York City and wrote some of the first mainstream Spanish children’s books in the country.  She brought a special energy, magic and joyful creativity to whatever she did.

The seeds she sowed indeed established deep roots whose impact can still be felt and seen today.  She would probably agree that there is still much more to be done to better represent diversity in children’s books.  We’re thankful for her example, her warmth and devotion to Spanish-speaking immigrant families, the cuentos that she shared and how they will continue to inspire new voices and stories today.

Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré was written by Anika Aldamuy Denise, illustrated by Paola Escobar and published by HarperCollins.

The Flight of Mr. Finch

Mr. Finch’s best friend, a usually cheery and chirpy bright red bird named Pip, has fallen into a malaise as of late.  One afternoon, despondent Mr. Finch happens upon an unusual shop selling a quite intriguing plant which bears the promise of happiness to whomever it is given.  Back at home, Mr. Finch’s hopes are dashed when the plant doesn’t quite deliver on its claims, and he’s back at square one with an unhappy bird.  The next morning he wakes up to find out that the plant has grown wildly and exponentially into a jungle overnight and Pip is nowhere to be found.  It’s time for Mr. Finch to leave his quiet life and embark on an extraordinary journey through the jungle in search of his dear friend and hopefully, restored happiness.  

The Flight of Mr. Finch was written and illustrated by Thomas Baas and published by Tate.

Harold Loves His Woolly Hat

There’s nothing more that Harold loves than his woolly hat.  It makes him feel very special and not a day goes by when he doesn’t wear it.  When a crow suddenly swoops down and takes his prized possession, he is resolute to recover it.  Until he sees something that changes his mind...and heart.  A heartwarming story about what we gain by giving up our possessions.

Harold Loves His Woolly Hat was written and illustrated by Vern Kousky and published by Schwartz & Wade Books.

Sometimes Rain

Sometimes Rain’s playful, lyrical text takes readers on a jaunt through the seasons.  It assures them that though there are changes throughout the year, there will always be constants — like friendship.  Diana Sudyka’s illustrations are lighthearted and lovely and though Meg Fleming’s text is simple and succinct, it is so satisfying.  This celebration of the seasons could easily become a new bedtime favorite for little ones.

Sometimes Rain was written by Meg Fleming, illustrated by Diana Sudyka and published by Beach Lane Books.

Found

Jenn is no stranger to lost dogs, having lost her Prudence a while back.  One day she comes across a little brown furry stray and despite a few mischievous missteps on the pup’s part during his first day at Jenn’s house, she embraces him wholeheartedly.  But one day she finds out that he does indeed have an owner — someone who misses him and is looking for him.  She has a tearful decision to make.  A poignant and hopeful wordless story about love and being brave enough to open up your heart again to the possibility of loss.

Found was written by Jeff Newman, illustrated by Larry Day and published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.