Book Finder

Have you ever wondered about the creator of Mickey Mouse; the man whose name is synonymous with theme parks and family films? Meet Walt Disney in this readable (though unauthorized) biography.

Underwater photographers, Hayes and Doubilet, provide basic information about their work as photographers as well as about sharks, their habitats, and the challenges faced by sharks in lucid text and stunning photographs, the latest in this captivating series.

This worthy addition to the “scientists in the field series” is filled with information presented visually and textually about the impact of invasive plant and animal species. Their impact can be devastating and irrevocable though readers are encouraged to take action.

From mailbox to homes, the process of handling mail is introduced in Gibbons’ signature style illustrations and crisp text in this brief but informative book.

Join a chubby cheeked mail carrier as he delivers letters to well known characters from recognized tales — such as Goldilocks and the Three Bears — then turn the page and read each humorous note.

This is the story of librarian Pura Belpré, told through the eyes of two young children who are introduced to the library and its treasures just before Christmas. Lulu Delacre’s lovely illustrations evoke New York City at the time of the Great Depression, as well as the close-knit and vibrant Puerto Rican community that was thriving in El Barrio during this time. Bilingual Spanish-English text.

“How goes the work?” demands the lazy farmer. The beleaguered worker Duck responds, “Quack…” until, the cow, sheep, and hens hatch a plan to run the lazy man off of the farm. The expressive illustrations and satisfying telling continue to delight as it celebrates its 25^th anniversary. 

Just when the five firefighters are getting ready to eat their dinner, an alarm sends them out to rescue a family and their cat. The small size, lots of onomatopoeic language, and a diverse cast of firefighters make this contemporary book even more appealing.

Ruby and her friend sell lemonade in order to buy matching rings. When Max’s help is rebuffed, he sells leftover Halloween candy to Grandma in time to buy the last ring. Good-natured competition and lots of humor make this another Max and Ruby winner.

Wangari Maathai’s native Kenya was a changed land, literally blowing away because its trees and growth had been destroyed. Rather than complain, she started a reforestation effort for which she was the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. Handsome illustrations combine with crisp text to tell the story of one person’s impact.

Children describe the basic duties of the U.S. President, from campaign speeches to lighting the national Christmas tree. Cheery illustrations, simple text, and the position’s more pleasurable duties create a fine introduction to the office for younger children.

During the hot summer, Devon likes to visit Mitch. Mitch is a man who makes sparks fly as he creates welded metal sculptures — and invites Mitch to make one with him. As the boy decides what to make, he begins to see things differently — because of “that fiery metal man.”

Since Oliver’s class has been studying about elections and voting, he decides to nominate his teacher for President, and contacts a local television station, clearly stating her many qualifications! Humor abounds as the teacher’s assets are juxtaposed with U.S. presidential duties — and with a real sense of child-like appreciation for what the teacher does.

Many trucks that are small have big jobs like ambulances or mail trucks. Others have different jobs like pick-ups, zambonis, and ice cream trucks. Readers who are intrigued by things that go will enjoy the full color photographs and brief explanation of the truck’s job, cleverly placed on sign-shaped backgrounds of different colors.

Conversations with families provide insight and information into how books are created and the intergenerational impact of illustrating and writing them. From the Rockwells, the Crews/Jonas family, the Pinkneys, the Myers’, and the Hurds — talent seems to run in the family!

As a pirate, Jack Plank was not a very good plunderer, although he makes up for it as a fine storyteller. He wows Mrs. Del Fresno’s daughter and her other boarders with his stories as he seeks another profession. This episodic yarn spins a wonderful read aloud.

This spy history features cool gadgets and the stories of famous spies, as well as the fictional spies we know through movies and books.

While her father is away, Amy’s mother must get a job. But it’s not the usual kind of employment; Amy’s mom becomes a professional baseball player! Told from Amy’s perspective, historical detail of the World War II period is conveyed through an engaging narrative and stylized paintings.

The capable canine kindergarten teacher leads her class (also animals) on a field trip around the community to meet its helpers. The rhyming text and crisp illustrations make this a delightful book for young children. Readers can also search for hidden shapes found during this well chaperoned tour.

Anatole’s position as First Vice-President in Charge of Cheese-Tasting is endangered when Monsieur Duval’s cat, Charlemagne, begins coming into the cheese factory, interfering with Anatole’s cheese taste and confidence. However, Anatole’s bravery and ingenuity save the day and his job - and he even invents a new cheese recipe along the way! Anatole the mouse is as marvelous in this sequel as in the first book.

Anatole, a mouse who lives with his wife and children near Paris, earned his position in Monsieur Duval’s factory as its First Vice-President in Charge of Cheese-Tasting by his astute judgment and clear ratings. Anatole’s work is most appreciated by Duval even though his identity remains secret. Readers will appreciate the gentle humor and practical wisdom of this lighthearted tale.

Mr. Baker gets up early to make cookies each morning. After mixing, cutting, baking, and decorating them he is ready for his customers — a group of hungry children. Straightforward text and clean-lined illustrations relate the simple, satisfying story. Several of Mr. Cookie Baker’s tasty-looking recipes are included.

Trash isn’t gross with Mr. Gilly at the wheel of the collection truck. In fact, he is proud of his job picking up the trash around town — from the school to the pizza parlor. Boldly colored illustrations and a catchy rhyme tell the story of this Trashy Town — and how we all helped make it so!

Chuck throws caution to the wind, along with safety rules, when he rides on his spiffy new red motorcycle. That is, until he’s brought back to reality by a highway patrol officer! Lively, alliterative language and realistic illustrations combine for this funny cautionary tale.