by Catherine Wiese of Green Bean Books
“COUNTING ON COMMUNITY”
by Innosanto Nagara (Board Book, $8.99)
If you loved “A is for Activist,” you will find “Counting on Community” to be an equally refreshing read for your little one. Innosanto Nagara brings to life the best aspects of community through diversity, eco-friendly habits, and a beautiful support system. Whether there are six music makers rocking on the street or two friends who are always ready to play, count from 1-10 to see what makes your community so great.
“LENNY & LUCY”
by Philip C. Stead (Picture book, Hardback, $17.99)
Moving to a new house in the dark woods doesn’t seem like a good idea to Peter. Luckily, he has his trusty dog, Harold. But, even Harold can’t keep away the scary things that could lurk in the woods. So Peter creates friends, Lenny and Lucy, to help smooth his difficult transition. Philip and Erin Stead have beautifully and imaginatively written and illustrated the fears of moving and the unknown of what’s next. Perfect book for the lover of imaginary and real friends alike!
“WAITING”
by Kevin Henkes (Picture book, Hardback, $17.99)
The season of patiently waiting, or impatiently for some, is upon us. Kevin Henkes is back with his newest children’s book about the wonder and comfort of waiting. Little owl, pig, puppy, rabbit, and bear are all waiting for something. What could they be waiting for? The rain? A visitor? A surprise? Join them in this warm-hearted tale of patience that comes with waiting and the joys of what you might encounter along the way!
“HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE: THE ILLUSTRATED EDITION”
Written by J.K. Rowling, Illustrated by Jim Kay (Middle Reader, Hardback, $39.99)
Calling all muggles! Your favorite magical series is now fully illustrated and unabridged. Hand-picked by J.K. Rowling herself, award-winning artist Jim Kay richly illustrates Harry’s spellbinding adventures. Whether you have a long- time fan of the series or are introducing Harry’s enchanting world for the first time, this book is the perfect keepsake for the muggle in your life. Grab your copy before they disappear!
“THE MARVELS”
by Brian Selznick (Middle Reader, Hardback, $32.99)
With a Caldecott award under his belt, Brian Selznick has writ- ten another wondrous novel. Be swept away with two seemingly irrelevant stories, one illustrated with astonishing pictures and the other written with enchanting prose, which collide to create a hauntingly beautiful tale. The first story illustrates shipwrecked Billy Marvel in 1766, following generations of his family in theater; the second narrative introduces Joseph in 1990 who runs away to his uncle’s house in London only to stumble upon some mysteries of his own. See how the pieces fall together in this tale of mystery and excitement.