My favorite books to ignite the imagination of young readers

Why am I passionate about this?

Growing up in Cincinnati, Ohio, my dyslexia made reading a challenge. However, my close encounters with books led to a meaningful and expressive life. From my family's barbershop, I absorbed colorful conversations and tall tales, fueling my imagination. Expressing those narratives through drawings at my kitchen table granted me solace. Driven by a desire to bring stories to life, I leaped and pursued an education in art. In a picture book art class, my calling as an author and illustrator became clear. Transforming words into vivid illustrations and breathing life into children's literature became my heartfelt pursuit. With over 75 books now in my repertoire, I am truly fortunate.


I wrote...

The Voice in the Hollow

By Will Hillenbrand,

Book cover of The Voice in the Hollow

What is my book about?

When a blizzard unexpectedly forces the library to close early, young Hubert takes a daring shortcut through the enchanted Hollow on his way home. Just as he gathers his courage to press on, a fox appears, offering to lend a hand. Together, they traverse treacherous terrains, including snow-covered landscapes, ominous forests, fallen trees, ravines, and mountains.

Throughout their journey, the young mouse and his guardian encounter hidden scenes that evoke myths surrounding the origins of Earth's mysterious features and nature's erratic behavior. A double gatefold illustrates the Bear spirit awakening in a stunning twist. As Hubert nears his home, he realizes his guiding companion has disappeared. Filled with wonder, he rushes home to share his exhilarating journey through the Hollow with his family.

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The books I picked & why

Book cover of The Tale of Peter Rabbit

Will Hillenbrand Why did I love this book?

When I was four years old, my Grandmother Hillenbrand sat by my side and read me the captivating book The Tale of Peter Rabbit. At that moment, I embarked on a whimsical journey as if I had fallen down the rabbit hole.

This charming book not only entertained me with its mischievous protagonist, Peter Rabbit, but it also introduced me to the power of a great story, expertly woven and accompanied by enchanting illustrations beyond compare. Whether it was Peter's adventures in Mr. McGregor's garden or his daring escape back home, this incredible tale illuminated the captivating world that awaited me within the pages of a well-told story.

And so, with my grandmother’s gentle guidance, I discovered the magic that lies within a truly captivating book.

By Beatrix Potter,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked The Tale of Peter Rabbit as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, 5, and 6.

What is this book about?

Level Two

Follow the story of naughty Peter Rabbit as he squeezes under the gate into Mr. McGregor's garden and finds himself in all kinds of trouble! Beatrix Potter's original artwork and text have been adapted for this easy-to-read version of the classic tale.


Book cover of The Snowy Day

Will Hillenbrand Why did I love this book?

After reading this story (I was 5), I felt an overwhelming desire to meet Peter. It was as if I already knew him.

Intrigued, I stepped outside my house and followed the snow prints that led me to the branch library. Not surprisingly, I found Peter on the pages of The Snowy Day. I even found Peter there on warm summer days, too. The way Peter embarked on adventures in the snow enchanted me. How he embraced a snowy day's joy resonated deeply within me.

I couldn't help but be captivated by his spirit. This encounter left me eagerly anticipating every snowy day, even now.

By Ezra Jack Keats,

Why should I read it?

5 authors picked The Snowy Day 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?

The magic and wonder of winter's first snowfall is perfectly captured in Ezra Jack Keat's Caldecott Medal-winning picture book. This celebrated classic has been shared by generations of readers and listeners, a must-have for every child's bookshelf and a perfect gift for the holiday season.

New York Public Library's #1 book on the list of "Top Check Outs of All Time"

In 1962, a little boy named Peter put on his snowsuit and stepped out of his house and into the hearts of millions of readers. Universal in its appeal, this story beautifully depicts a child's wonder at a new…


Book cover of Where the Wild Things Are

Will Hillenbrand Why did I love this book?

After reading this story, I was greatly relieved. It was as if the author could see and imagine the world like I did. My dreams at night, filled with boundless wonder, found their perfect match in this book's enchanting tale. The way it connected with my mythical imagination surpassed any other book I had ever come across. 

In this extraordinary story, I delved into the life of a young boy named Max. As he donned his wolf suit, chaos ensued within his household, resulting in being sent to bed without supper. But that's when something magical happened. Max's bedroom transformed mysteriously into a jungle, and he embarked on a voyage to an island inhabited by captivating creatures known as the Wild Things.

This story, capturing the essence of my innermost dreams, brought immense relief. It assured me that someone out there shared my extraordinary perspective. Through its perfect storytelling, this book resonated with my mythical imagination like no other.

By Maurice Sendak,

Why should I read it?

14 authors picked Where the Wild Things Are 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?

Read-along with the story in this book and CD edition!

One night Max puts on his wolf suit and makes mischief of one kind and another, so his mother calls him 'Wild Thing' and sends him to bed without his supper.

That night a forest begins to grow in Max's room and an ocean rushes by with a boat to take Max to the place where the wild things are. Max tames the wild things and crowns himself as their king, and then the wild rumpus begins.

But when Max has sent the monsters to bed, and everything is quiet,…


Book cover of Frog and Toad Are Friends

Will Hillenbrand Why did I love this book?

Upon reading this story, I found myself laughing and gaining a deeper understanding of the complexities of friendship. It became clear to me that friendships have their ups and downs, just like the two anthropomorphic creatures in these short tales, Frog and Toad.

As I delved into their amusing adventures, I realized that despite their differences, these unlikely friends were brought together by their love for one another. Frog, with his cheery and relaxed demeanor, stood taller and green. Toad, on the other hand, was shorter and stout, with a brown shade. Though more serious and uptight, he was equally caring and friendly.

Through their attempts at flying kites, cleaning houses, and exploring the reasons for isolation, I was reminded that even the most diverse beings can be bound by a deep connection. It's a testament to the incredible power of friendship, where laughter and understanding can bridge the gaps between us all.

By Arnold Lobel,

Why should I read it?

5 authors picked Frog and Toad Are Friends 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?

This beautiful commemorative picture book edition of the Caldecott Honor title Frog and Toad Are Friends is the perfect way to celebrate Frog and Toad's 50th anniversary!

This handsome edition features matte paper, remastered artwork, and a green ribbon book marker. It makes a lovely gift for collectors, fans of children's literature, and anyone and everyone who loves Frog and Toad!

First published in 1970, Frog and Toad Are Friends was the first of the four beloved Frog and Toad books. This special edition contains all of the original stories-from the story about going swimming, to finding lost buttons!

This…


Book cover of The Glorious Flight: Across the Channel with Louis Bleriot July 25, 1909

Will Hillenbrand Why did I love this book?

After reading this captivating story, I was overwhelmed with the desire to embark on a grand adventure, flying in an open-air cockpit.

Coming from Ohio, not far from where the Wright Brothers took to the skies, flight has always fascinated me, from observing birds to marveling at airplanes. The vivid pictures within the pages of this book ignited a fire within me, giving me wings to soar through the air.

With its delightful portrayal of Louis Blériot's historic flight across the English channel in 1909, this picture book beautifully brings the world of first flights and eccentric contraptions to life. Its clever illustrations, filled with wit and whimsy, truly captured the essence of the extraordinary journey.

By Alice Provensen, Martin Provensen,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Glorious Flight as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 5, 6, 7, and 8.

What is this book about?

Winner of the Caldecott Medal, this stunningly illustrated book depicts Louis Bleriot's historic first cross-Channel flight.

“Factually accurate, yes-but also a witty pictorial reincarnation of Bleriot’s first experience of an airship”--Kirkus Reviews


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The Hummingbird & The Narwhal

By Annie Higbee,

Book cover of The Hummingbird & The Narwhal

Annie Higbee

New book alert!

What is my book about?

This is the story of two creatures who look alike, but come from completely different worlds.Their unlikely meeting on the horizon begins a journey of kindness, friendship, purpose, and magic!

The Hummingbird & The Narwhal

By Annie Higbee,


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