Antoinette Portis

It all started with a little brown bird that tired of making and hearing the same old sounds: caw, coo, chirp, peep. Instead, it said “Froodle sproodle!” which came as an unwelcome shock to the crow, cardinal and dove. But the small brown bird’s continued wordplay inspired the others — even the crow. Simple, bold illustrations and varied type present a comical tale of individuality and lots of potential for wordplay.

Water can be found almost everywhere and in many different forms. Clear, colorful, and well placed illustrations combine with crisp language to describe water from a tear to fog, from rain to an iceberg. This handsome introduction may inspire even the youngest reader to further explore a liquid that is often taken for granted.

The sun is up and so is the baby along with the dog, the teddy and finally, mama and papa. When the moon is up, everyone is sleepy except for the baby; that is until the baby falls asleep. Families with young children will appreciate the humor and the simple, playful illustrations.

The day before the first day of school Annalina declares in her diary: “I don’t want to go to kindergarten!” Her worries are familiar, expressed in boldly colored and outlined illustrations. As the month goes along, however, Annalina’s concerns are dispelled and she grows to love school, her friends and teacher, and kindergarten.

When is a brown box not a box? When it’s being used by a small rabbit as a racecar, a mountain, or a burning building being rescued by the fire fighter, of course! Straightforward illustrations and minimal language convey the power of imagination and play in this contemporary classic.

A young pig is warned to be careful with a pointy stick — but it’s not really a stick. It’s a paint brush, it’s a fishing pole, it’s “not-a-stick”! Children and adults will recognize a child’s imaginary play and an adult’s concern for safety in the brief text, simple line, and flat color in this good-natured book.