I have always been a lover of the arts and spent a lot of time coloring and drawing as a young person. I remember the feeling of being fully immersed in picture books and cartoons. My interests led to a career as a graphic designer which turned into a career as an illustrator and author. There are so many wonderful children’s books that can engage young (and not so young!) readers that it was hard to choose just 5. Here are a few from artists that will wow you with creativity, humor, and imagination.
This delightful story is all about the power (and fun) of using your imagination, and even better, how awesome it can be to combine your powers with a friend! Kaylani Juanita brings this adorable story to life with mixed-media illustrations.
The artwork is so energetic, playful, and totally perfect at translating the main characters’ daydreams into a magical, action-packed adventure.
1
author picked
Ta-Da!
as one of their favorite books, and they share
why you should read it.
This book is for kids age
3,
4, and
5.
What is this book about?
What makes a good story? One little girl thinks it's a princess with magical powers that can-ta-da!-overcome any obstacle. Her friend thinks it's-dun dun duh!-a combination of dragons, pirates, and fire that cause total chaos. But as their stories intertwine, these two young storytellers soon learn that a good story needs both conflict-dun dun duh!-and resolution-ta-da! An irresistible celebration of imaginary play, storytelling, and the joys of collaboration, this gorgeous picture book features two strong voices throughout, making it the perfect read-aloud.
Saving American Beach is a biography of MaVynee Betsch, an American activist and environmentalist.
Betsch is best known for her campaign to conserve American Beach, a historically Black community in Jacksonville, FL. Euka Holmes is an award-winning illustrator. She uses acrylic paint and paper collage to create absolutely gorgeous landscapes and portraits from the life of Betsch and her American Beach.
In my favorite spreads, you can honestly feel a peaceful, seaside breeze that will give you goosebumps.
This heartfelt picture book biography illustrated by the Caldecott Honoree Ekua Holmes, tells the story of MaVynee Betsch, an African American opera singer turned environmentalist and the legacy she preserved.
MaVynee loved going to the beach. But in the days of Jim Crow, she couldn't just go to any beach--most of the beaches in Jacksonville were for whites only. Knowing something must be done, her grandfather bought a beach that African American families could enjoy without being reminded they were second class citizens; he called it American Beach. Artists like Zora Neale Hurston and Ray Charles vacationed on its sunny…
Christian Robinson will have you swooning in this illustrated story of Nina Simone. He uses paint and collage mixed media to bring life to this stunning biography.
The illustrations are so beautiful and sophisticated, that they should truly be enjoyed by people of all ages. I especially love the graphic recreations of Nina Simone’s iconic fashion looks. And don’t forget to take a peak under the book jacket.
2
authors picked
Nina
as one of their favorite books, and they share
why you should read it.
This book is for kids age
4,
5,
6, and
7.
What is this book about?
A BIG ISSUE BOOK OF THE YEAR
Longlisted for the UKLA Book Awards
This illuminating and defining biography from bestselling author Traci N. Todd, with illustrations from award-winner Christian Robinson, tells the story of Eunice Waymon, who grew up to become Nina Simone - and shares her bold, defiant, and exultant legacy with a new generation.
With passion and unparalleled skill, Traci N. Todd and Christian Robinson bring this iconic singer's story to young readers and their families. Meet young Eunice, who sang before she could talk, and journey with her from the piano stool she shared with her father…
Rocket is a little girl who loves outer space and the famous astronaut, Mae Jemison.
She’s on a mission to spread her enthusiasm for the subject and also to see the Phoenix Meteor Shower. Dapo Adeola creates the most endearing characters in this story. All the details in Rocket’s neighborhood and the characters’ wonderful expressions will keep you chuckling and totally engaged.
You might also be wondering where you can see a meteor shower near you!
Meet Rocket--a plucky aspiring astronaut intent on getting her community to LOOK UP! from what they're doing and reach for the stars in this auspicious debut picture book. Honored as a Chicago Public Library 2019 Best of the Best Book!
A comet will be visible tonight, and Rocket wants everyone to see it with her--even her big brother, Jamal, whose attention is usually trained on his phone or video games. Rocket's enthusiasm brings neighbors and family together to witness a once-in-a-lifetime sighting. Perfect for fans of Ada Twist, Scientist and Cece Loves Science--Rocket Says Look Up! will inspire readers of…
Just Like Me is the most joyful celebration of girlhood. This outstanding compilation of poetry and art is written and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton.
She uses mixed media and collage to create colorful and charming portraits of warriors, dreamers, friends, and explorers that are bursting off the pages. Every kid can find a poem in this book that will feel like it was written just for them.
An ode to the girl with scrapes on her knees and flowers in her hair, and every girl in between, this exquisite treasury will appeal to readers of Dear Girl and I Am Enough and have kids poring over it to find a poem that's just for them.
I am a canvas Being painted on By the words of my family Friends And community
From Vanessa Brantley-Newton, the author of Grandma's Purse, comes a collection of poetry filled with engaging mini-stories about girls of all kinds: girls who feel happy, sad, scared, powerful; girls who love their bodies and girls…
Good morning, Larry! It's time to wake up! But why would Larry want to get out of bed? His pillows are in the perfect spot, his blankets are just oh so soft, his left foot is tucked in the blanket... this is obviously most comfortable and best place to be! But look—the breakfast table is loaded with Larry's favorites: eggs and bacon and waffles and hot chocolate and one tiny, perfect, tangerine. Perhaps, Larry would change his mind?
In this adorable picture book, debut author-illustrator Alison Hawkins presents the relatable and too common tale of a stubborn little bear who's gently, lovingly coaxed into eating breakfast, playing with friends, taking a bath, and going to bed! Parents of little ones will surely relate to this hilarious and adorable bedtime book.
