DwellStudio Board Books

DwellStudio (2009), 8 pages

Audience: babies, toddlers

Format: board book

Stylish, modern, and educational … designer DwellStudio has created great starter books for babies and toddlers. Simplified, minimal, outlined objects and animals such as a bear, house, whale, etc. (inspired by their design product line) are perfect subject matter for infants and young children. The glossy black and white images are not only appealing to young audiences; they are especially effective for babies whose vision is still developing in the first few months. However, the black and white images are sparingly paired with bright pops of color to add interest and whimsy; for instance the whale depicted in black and white pops with a turquoise splash of water. Published as board books, this series is both sturdy and durable-perfect for babies and toddlers. Although on the small size (7x7) they are just the right size for lap reading. However, since the images are bright and graphic they may translate well for baby storytime … if concerned about size enlarge the pictures, create felt board cutouts, and display them for everyone to see. Introducing babies to books is important; while being read to, they make connections to words and sounds making reading out loud not only a sensory experience, but also instrumental to early literacy.

In addition, the Dwell Studio has developed baby books devoted to learning colors, textures, and more. For instance, What Colors? was produced as an accordion-style (see bottom image) book which folds out to illustrate a rainbow of color. This unusual format would be great for baby storytimes since the “pages” are unfolded to reveal a large, colorful panel. Have parents create their own accordion-style book with folded construction paper and stamp or outline images. Dwell Studio’s most tactile books for children are their Touch & Feel series; using different textures and patterns not only help engage children – they are a great sensory experience, another way to make reading fun!

Reviewed by: Katharine Conn, MLIS

If you liked this book, you may like: White on Black by Tana Hoban or Charley Harper’s 123s or ABC Books, Sara Anderson’s Vegetables or Fruit

Other books by this company: Eat, Go, Count, Touch & Feel Zoo, Touch & Feel Town, Goodnight Owl, and Good Morning Toucan

Beautiful Oops!

Barney Saltzberg (2010), 28 pages

Audience: all ages

Format: board book

Can you take a crumbled piece of paper and make it into a sheep’s coat? Can you turn a scrap piece of paper into something interesting? Why, yes you can! This book reminds everyone that mistakes are okay. In fact, making mistakes is a part of life – so why not celebrate them! Author and illustrator, Saltzberg delivers this message in a very creative and innovative way. Using a series of flaps, pop ups, and die cuts he produced a fun, interactive, and imaginative book that people (at any age) will appreciate. With some ingenuity, “Oops! A torn piece of paper” becomes a wide-smiling crocodile or watch as a little paint spill morphs into … a collection of purple puppies, a family of birds, even an elephant. Satlzberg proves that no matter the mistake, whether torn paper, a drip of paint, a stain, a hole, etc … it’s just a chance to make something unique and interesting. This board book is constructed well with durable, glossy pages … so that even young children can enjoy moving the pages and gain motor skills. Each interactive element is surprising and delightful for more details check out the publisher’s promotional video. It may just inspire you to get crafty and go make some mistakes of your own! With it’s movable parts, bright colors, and creative design-this book is both fun and functional and the authors message is timeless … mistakes provide an opportunity to be creative and imaginative and more importantly they are an opportunity to create something new … something beautiful!

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: Lines that Wiggle by Candace Whitman, or The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds

Other books by this author: Kisses, Peekaboo Kisses, Crazy Hair Day, Star of the Week, Baby Animal Kisses, The Flying Garbanzos, and Cornelius P. Mud, Are You Ready for Bed?

Little Books Boxed Set Featuring Little Pea, little Hoot, Little Oink

Amy Krouse Rosenthal (2005), 36 pages

Illustrated by Jen Corace

Audience: toddlers, pre-K

Format: board book

There is something for everyone is this boxed set whether you have a picky eater, a sleepless night-owl, or a mess maker … both parents and children will delight in Rosenthal’s trio of little characters (Little Pea, Little Hoot, and Little Oink) who each overcome certain family obligations. For example Little Pea liked to do lots of things, “but there was one thing that little pea did not like … candy.” When you’re a pea you have to eat candy everyday. His parents insist that he finish his dinner of candy before having dessert. He asks woefully, “How many pieces do I have to eat?” They reply five pieces. After he swallows each piece, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. … He’s allowed dessert and to Little Pea’s delight dessert is a bowl full of green leafy spinach! “My favorite!” says Little Pea. Similarly, Little Hoot wants nothing more than to go to sleep like all his other friends get to do, but when you’re a young owl, you must stay up late and play. After Little Hoot plays for another hour – his parents reward him with a good night sleep. And finally, you would think that Little Oink is a parent’s dream – all he wants to do is tidy up and go play. But his parents remark, “if you want to grow up to be a respectable pig, you must learn to make a proper mess.” Reluctantly, Little Oink unfolds his clothes, unmakes the bed, and empties his toys on the floor sufficiently turning his room into a total pigsty. Winning his parents approval, Little Oink is allowed to play ... and what is Little Oinks favorite game? Playing house – where he can clean and scrub and tidy up. All three of these books are clever and a joy to read; one is sure to please your Little One.

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked these books, you may like: LMNO Peas by Keith Baker, Pinkalicous by Elizabeth Kann, Owl Babies by Martin Waddell, Don't Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late! By Mo Williams, or Nice and Clean by Anne and Harlow Rockwell

Other books by this author: Spoon, One of Those Days, Duck! Rabbit! and Yes Day!

Counting with Wayne Thiebaud

Susan Goldman Rubin (2007), 26 pages

Audience: babies, toddlers

Format: board book

Foster art appreciation at an early age whilst teaching your baby or toddler how to count. The artwork of contemporary artist, Wayne Thiebaud (famous for delicious renditions of candies, pastries, and cakes) makes counting a delight! Rubin reproduces a sampling of Thiebaud’s works, including Pie Slice (1991), Jolly Cones (2002), Sugar Sticks (1964) and many more to create a decadent counting book from 1-10. With minimal text and a carefully crafted sequence, “One piece of pie, two ice-cream clowns, three sandwich slices, three pickle rounds,” … Rubin creates a clever and simple counting book featuring Thiebaud’s beautiful artwork. With each turn of the page, readers are treated to Thiebaud’s painterly pastels, oils, and watercolors – each one striking and luscious; a sweet treat for readers everywhere! In addition, the book includes a complete catalog of the works used along with collection locations. Published in a board book format with rounded edges and in a compact size makes this ideal for little hands. Rubin has used other artists such as Warhol and Matisse as inspiration for children’s books. Her books are a great introduction to modern art and before long you’ll be visiting some museums to these works in person!

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: Touch the Art: Make Van Gogh’s Bed by Julie Appel or My First ABC by The New York Metropolitan Museum of Art, or A is for Art: An Abstract Alphabet by Stephen T. Johnson

Other books by this author: Delicious: Wham! The Art and Life of Roy Lichtenstein, Matisse Dance with Joy, and Andy Warhol’s Colors

Where’s Spot? The Original Lift-the-Flap Book

Eric Hill (1980), 24 pages

Audience: toddlers

Format: board book

A popular book for over thirty years … this book has become one of the classic mainstays of a child’s library. Hill combines large text, bright illustrations, and picture flaps making this story very interactive and engaging –an appealing storybook for pre-readers! As the title suggests Spot (the puppy) has gone missing. Children are encouraged to find Spot in a variety of locations (in the piano, under the stairs, under the bed, etc) by lifting up embedded picture flaps. This exploratory motion is great for kids as it helps keep them engaged in the story and follow along as the adult reads. This book is especially useful for toddlers who are developing motor skills; parents should welcome their child’s participation and ask them to lift the flaps. Hill has created an entire Spot series, which follows the pup through several adventures – examples include Spot Goes to the Farm or Spot’s First Easter. This original book is a great one to start with and one that young children will enjoy!

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: Tails by Matthew Van Fleet, Peek-a-Moo! or Peek-a-Boooo! by Marie Torres Cimarusti

Other books by this author: Spot Goes to the Farm, Spot’s First Easter, Spot Loves His Daddy, Spot Loves His Mommy, Spot Goes to the Beach, Who’s There, Spot?

Moo, Baa, La La La!
Sandra Boynton (1982), 8 pages

Audience: babies, toddlers

Format: board book

“Moo, Baa, La, la, la” – sounds like a cow, a sheep, and three singing pigs? Hold on a minute, somehow that doesn’t seem right … I thought pigs said: “Oink?”

Boynton’s unique brand of humor is infectious and pure joy for both children and adults! Her cartoon illustrations are extensions of her witty storylines – this artwork provides personality and character to her books. Hilarious and clever, Boynton has landed a winning combination, entertaining both reader and child. This book will definitely appeal to young children with its rhyming cadence and simple concept (animal sounds). An ideal book for young children who are learning about animals - they can participate by naming the animals and saying the sounds aloud. This best selling book is also available in Spanish titled Muu, Beee, ¡Asi Fue! Try pairing this book with a boisterous round of "Old MacDonald Had a Farm" during storytime.

Old MacDonald had a farm, E-I-E-I-O
And on his farm he had a cow, E-I-E-I-O
With a "moo-moo" here and a "moo-moo" there
Here a "moo" there a "moo"
Everywhere a "moo-moo"
Old MacDonald had a farm, E-I-E-I-O

Old MacDonald had a farm, E-I-E-I-O
And on his farm he had a pig, E-I-E-I-O
With a (snort) here and a (snort) there
Here a (snort) there a (snort)
Everywhere a (snort-snort)
With a "moo-moo" here and a "moo-moo" there
Here a "moo" there a "moo"
Everywhere a "moo-moo"
Old MacDonald had a farm, E-I-E-I-O

Old MacDonald had a farm, E-I-E-I-O
And on his farm he had a horse, E-I-E-I-O
With a "neigh, neigh" here and a "neigh, neigh" there
Here a "neigh" there a "neigh"
Everywhere a "neigh-neigh"
With a (snort) here and a (snort) there
Here a (snort) there a (snort)
Everywhere a (snort-snort)
With a "moo-moo" here and a "moo-moo" there
Here a "moo" there a "moo"
Everywhere a "moo-moo"
Old MacDonald had a farm, E-I-E-I-O

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: The Cow that Went Oink by Bernard Most, The Noisy Book by Margaret Wise Brow, or Bark, George by Jules Feiffer

Other books by this author: A to Z, Belly Button Book, Blue, Hat, Green Hat, Hippos Go Berserk, Doggies, The Going to Bed Book, Opposites, & many more

Whose Toes are Those?

Jabari Asim (2006), 12 pages

Illustrated by LeUyen Pham

Audience: babies, toddlers

Format: board book

“Who do you suppose has such fine toes?” I wonder … who could it be? Without ruining the surprise you’ll know for sure at the book’s end! Poet, playwright, and author Jabari Asim creates a wonderfully joyous book filled with fun-loving rhymes. He explores feet in a whole new way by taking a creative spin on the traditional rhyme “This Little Piggy Went to Market” where children are encouraged to explore and discover their toes – a popular subject for babies. As babies grow they explore the world around them; some of the first few things they discover are hands and feet. Pham’s original illustrations were drawn graphite sketches digitally painted with computer tools, resulting in vibrant and bubbly pictures. Her images are bright and cheerful complimenting Asim’s poetry perfectly. Author and illustrator pair up again in Asim’s Whose Knees are These? For more reading fun combine these storybooks with a rowdy song of “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes.” Babies and toddlers will love this combination!

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes by Annie Kubler, Where is Baby’s Belly Button? by Karen Katz or Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney

Other books by this author: Boy of Mine, Girl of Mine, and Whose Knees are These?

Panda Bear, Panda Bear, What do You See?

Bill Martin Jr. (2003), 14 pages

Illustrated by Eric Carle

Audience: babies

Format: board book

Two great children’s authors Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle have come together to create a very popular series of “what do you see” books. These books are great fun for babies. Filled with repetitious and cumulative text makes this an easy read and especially enjoyed by babies who follow along and anticipate the next lines. This popular series began with Martin’s Brown, Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See? which teaches children about colors and animals. All of these books are unique in the animals they represent however Panda Bear, Panda Bear What Do You See? features all endangered animals. Examples include water buffalo, spider monkey, green sea turtle, macaroni penguin, and the red wolf. Carle’s illustrations are done in his signature collage-style with bold colors and primitive perspective capturing the essence of each animal. At the end of the book, children are treated to a re-cap of all the animals which effectively works to practice all that they’ve learned. This series translates well to a board book format, which is more accessible for babies.

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: My Big Animal Book by Roger Priddy or My Very First Book of Animal Sounds by Eric Carle

Other books by this author: The Bill Martin Jr. Big Book of Poetry by Bill Martin Jr. and Michael R. Sampson, A Beasty Story, Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, The Maestro Plays, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? and Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear?

White on Black

Tana Hoban (1993), 12 pages

Audience: babies

Format: board book

White on Black is the perfect first book for babies. Known for her bold graphic designs, photographer Hoban created a series of baby books featuring high contrasts of black and white images. This sparse contrast makes the images easier for infants to see (especially during the first few months as the baby’s eyesight develops). Tapping into a baby’s surroundings – Hoban showcased simple, yet familiar objects (examples include a bottle, duck, boat, buttons, necklace, flower, apple, and banana), which appeal to babies and become fitting when she/he starts associating shapes and images with words. A great beginner book for any infant! Hoban’s collection of board and picture books are a wonderful series of children’s books – known for their high contrast motifs; these books teach kids about shapes, household objects, and opposites, many books also feature color photography. Board books hold up well for young children and are often easier for them to hold; have a baby hold the book and turn its pages (this action builds a fundamental skill known as print awareness). It's never too early to start enjoying books!

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: Look Look! by Peter Linenthal, I Kissed the Baby! by Mary Murphy, and My Animals (Black & White) by Zavier Deneus

Other books by this author: A, B, See!, Black & White, Is It Larger? Is It Smaller?, So Many Circles, So Many Squares, Exactly the Opposite, and Shapes, Shapes, Shapes

Good Dog, Carl

Alexandra Day (1996), 40 pages

Audience: babies, toddlers

Format: Board book

“Look after the baby, Carl. I'll be back shortly" says mother as she leaves Carl, her trusty Rottweiler to babysit Baby Madeline. Moments later readers are treated the duo's busy afternoon of dancing, eating, getting into mother's makeup drawer, even swimming in the fish tank ... after all the ruckus, Carl dutifully cleans up the mess, gives baby a bath, and puts baby back safely in the crib. When mother returns, little does she know ... the wild adventure Carl and the baby have had! Children will delight in this book's absurdity! The images are endearing and sweet, easy for pre-readers to follow along and create their own stories. Although this is a wordless picture book ... the narrative is just as engaging as a traditional text. Day's characters reappear in a series of Carl books - highly recommended for babies and toddlers!

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: Tuesday (Caldecott award) by David Wiesner, Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crocket Johnson, or Pancakes for Breakfast by Tomie dePaola

Other books by this author: Carl’s Sleepy Afternoon, You’re a Good Dog, Carl, and Carl Goes Shopping

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Eric Carle (1969), 13 pages

Audience: babies, toddlers

Format: Board book

Carle takes readers on a metamorphic journey from egg to butterfly in his timeless tale of The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

But, my goodness … this caterpillar isn’t just hungry he’s ravenous! Eating his way through pears, plums, strawberries, oranges, (and literally the pages of the book) he continues to eat a strange diet of salami, swiss cheese, cherry pie, etc, but smartly makes his way through “one nice green leaf” before settling into his cocoon and becoming a beautiful butterfly. This story has been published in many formats, including board books and has become a childhood favorite for many generations. Now a timeless, classic tale loved by young children ... Carle's colorful collages and cutouts continue to delight readers everywhere.

Brimming with educational elements, this book can be used to teach counting, the days of the week, nutrition, and insect life cycles. Activity suggestions range from making paper butterflies to acting out the four stages of metamorphosis (egg, larva, cocoon, and butterfly) or ask children what their favorite foods are and re-read the story using those items. The possibilities are endless!

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: Eating the Alphabet by Lois Ehlert

Other books by this author: The Mixed-Up Chameleon, The Very Quiet Cricket, The Very Busy Spider, Papa Please Get the Moon for Me, and Little Cloud

Peek-a-Who?

Nina Laden (2000), 10 pages

Audience: babies

Format: board book

Looking for a book to entertain your infant? Look no further. With bold graphic illustrations, creative cutouts, and rhythmic rhyme Laden's take on the classic peek-a-boo board book is the perfect read! Entertaining for both baby and adult; the short, quick rhymes are great for reading aloud, especially fun is the last line where the author writes …Peek-a-Who? … Peek-a-You ... appropriately ending with a foil mirror on the final page for the baby to look at! Published as a sturdy board book means it should hold up to the wear and tear of little hands. For additional reading, pair with In My Nest by Sara Gillingham or Owl Babies by Martin Waddell. Or try incorporating some games ... babies love playing the classic game of Peek-a-boo; play a round after reading to start teaching your baby basic motor skills.

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: In My Nest by Sara Gillingham

Other books by this author: Button Noses, Who Loves You Baby? and Ready, Set, Go!

Dr. Seuss’s ABC

Dr. Seuss (1963), 63 pages

Audience: babies, toddlers

Format: board book

"BIG A, little a, what begins with A? Aunt Annie's alligator. A ... a .... a. BIG B, little b, what begins with B? Barber, baby, bubbles, and a bumblebee." This book is a great introduction to the alphabet, written almost entirely in alliterative words. Children are able to listen and gain letter awareness while being entertained by Seuss's wacky characters. A great introduction to the alphabet, even babies will enjoy the rhymes and children can practice making up their own amazing alphabet as they get older. Parents and educators can even download an iPhone eBook app for Dr Seuss’s ABCs!

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: The Z was Zapped: A Play in Twenty-Six Acts by Chris Van Allsburg

Other books by this author: One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish, The Cat in the Hat, and Horton Hears a Who!

Mama, Do You Love Me?

Barbara Joosse (1991), 24 pages

Illustrated by Barbara Lavallee

Audience: babies, toddlers

Format: board book

An age-old tale of children testing parental limits and finding that a mother’s love is unconditional –even in the Arctic. Inuit mother and daughter charmingly demonstrate love, imagination, fear, and acceptance as the story unfolds. Native arctic animals, like the raven, whale, and puffin along with Inuit terminology such as “mukluks” give way to a culture-rich narrative. In addition, the back of the book includes historical/geographic information and a glossary of traditional terms.

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: I Love you the Purplest and Papa, Do You Love Me? by Barbara Joosse or Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney

Other books by this author: In the Night Garden, Nikolai, The Only Bear

The Napping House

Audrey Wood (1984), 30 pages

Illustrated by Don Wood

Audience: Babies, Toddlers

Format: book board

Follow the story of a sleeping household as they get a surprise wake-up call. Readers are slowly lured into a slumbering world of muted gray and rainy weather where “there is a house, a napping house, where everyone is sleeping.” As more characters climb aboard the bed, the morning light slowly fills the room until a “wakeful” flea disrupts the slumber party and the house bursts into bright sunshine and colorful pastels (a perfect opportunity to sing a verse of "You are my Sunshine"). Beautifully written and illustrated, the Woods, a husband and wife team have created a classic childrens' book. The cumulative storyline is catchy and fun; this type of repetition is ideal for young children who are just learning how to read. In addition, the Woods have created free printable templates at their website depicting each of the story's characters - a great activity for kids to enjoy after storytime.

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: The Little House (Caldecott award) by Virginia Lee Burton or I Know a Place by Karen Ackerman

Other books by this author: The Little Mouse, The Red Ripe Strawberry, and The Big Hungry Bear, Piggies, Silly Sally, and King Bidgood’s in the Bathtub (Caldecott award)