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Greenfield, IN 46140
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New Palestine, IN 46163
United States
2015 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
The delightful tale of a curious baby kangaroo, from the creator of Leaves
When you're new to the world, every hop brings another surprise! Joey wants to go exploring, but everything he discovers is almost too exciting. Bees, rabbits, birds . . . other creatures can be scary! But Mama is never far away, and who knows?Joey might even make a friend.
David Ezra Stein's gentle story will amuse and comfort readers.
2015 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Pete the Cat is wearing his favorite shirt—the one with the four totally groovy buttons. But when one falls off, does Pete cry? Goodness, no! He just keeps on singing his song—after all, what could be groovier than three groovy buttons? Count down with Pete in this rocking new story from the creators of the bestselling Pete the Cat books.
2015 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Kids will love watching Tiptoe Joe lead a group of his animal friends on an adventure. Joe instructs his buddies to be as quiet as possible. They tiptoe—as well as they can on their hooves, claws, and furry feet—through a field, across a fallen log leading over a stream, through the woods, and up a hill. When they arrive at Joe’s, he shows them something very special. It’s his brand-new baby bear cubs, fast asleep!
Tiptoe Joe is a great pick for parents who want to acclimate a child to a new baby brother or sister, and perfect for bedtime or story hour.
Charming full-color illustrations by Laura Rankin bring Tiptoe Joe and the rest of the animals to life.
2015 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
An interactive picture book from the New York Times bestselling "Prince of Preschool"
Great for toddlers, preschoolers, and early readers to learn about combining colors in a fun and imaginative way.
A mess-free way to learn about transforming colors and following directions: Accept Hervé Tullet's irresistible invitation to mix it up in a dazzling adventure of whimsy and wonder. Follow the artist's simple instructions and suddenly colors appear, mix, splatter, and vanish in a world powered only by the reader's imagination. In Mix It Up! Tullet sets readers on an extraordinary interactive journey all within the printed page.
Fans of Press Here, Let's Play!, and Say Zoop! will love this glorious and richly satisfying companion book, Mix It Up!
Great for preschoolers and early readers to learn about combining colors in a fun and imaginative way.
2015 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Kids will giggle as they count all the animals that have frightened the monkeys off the pages. Full of fun reader interactions and keeps readers guessing until the very last page! Matching Mac Barnett's brilliant wit are Kevin Cornell's luminous illustrations, which will have young readers begging to count the monkeys all over again.
2015 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
This playful picture book from Jan Thomas features a courageous cowboy who croons to his cows before bed—with just a few fearful interruptions.
Join the Brave Cowboy as he tries to sing his young calf pals to sleep on a dark, dark night—EEEEEEEK! IS THAT A HUGE HAIRY SPIDER OVER THERE? Oh, it’s just a flower? Well then, back to the lullaby.
No one does preschool humor with Jan Thomas’s wit, verve, and bold, snappy color. And her Brave Cowboy and his silly, interrupted lullaby are sure to get everybody singing—before they head off into cozy dreamland….
2015 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
The acclaimed interactive picture book about the changing seasons. “Like Hervé Tullet’s Press Here, Matheson’s Tap the Magic Tree proves you don’t need apps for interactivity,” praised the New York Times.
Every book needs you to turn the pages. But not every book needs you to tap it, shake it, jiggle it, or even blow it a kiss. Innovative and timeless, Tap the Magic Tree asks you to help one lonely tree change with the seasons. Now that’s interactive—and magical!
It begins with a bare brown tree. But tap that tree, turn the page, and one bright green leaf has sprouted! Tap again—one, two, three, four—and four more leaves have grown on the next page. Pat, clap, wiggle, jiggle, and see blossoms bloom, apples grow, and the leaves swirl away with the autumn breeze. The collage-and-watercolor art evokes the bright simplicity of Lois Ehlert and Eric Carle and the interactive concept will delight fans of Pat the Bunny. Combining a playful spirit and a sense of wonder about nature, Christie Matheson has created a new modern classic that is a winner in every season—and every story time!
And don't miss the follow-up, Touch the Brightest Star!
2015 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Winner
Larry is a lovable monster (if a bit too curious) and the star of this hilarious, interactive picture book debut
There's only one rule in Larry's book: don't push the button.
(Seriously, don't even think about it!)
Even if it does look kind of nice, you must never push the button. Who knows what would happen?
Okay, quick. No one is looking... push the button.
Uh, oh.
2016 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Explore colors with Bear in the first of a new concept picture book series from the New York Times bestselling creators of Bear Snores On.
Colors, colors everywhere!
Can you find colors just like Bear?
Karma Wilson’s playful text and Jane Chapman’s adorable illustrations creatively introduce colors to the youngest Bear fans, who will delight in discovering a rainbow of fun.
2016 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
On a simple trip to the park, the joy of music overtakes a mother and daughter. The little girl hears a rhythm coming from the world around her- from butterflies, to street performers, to ice cream sellers everything is musical! She sniffs, snaps, and shakes her way into the heart of the beat, finally busting out in an impromptu dance, which all the kids join in on! Award-winning illustrator Frank Morrison and Connie Schofield-Morrison, capture the beat of the street, to create a rollicking read that will get any kid in the mood to boogie.
2016 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Two is enough when it's me plus you!
Two is enough for
joy . . .
love . . .
comfort . . .
support . . .
celebration . . .
a family.
From playing in the snow to a rainy-day ride, to double-scoop treats and crash-landing in leaves, two can be the perfect number for creating life's memories. And two can definitely be enough for a warm family, full of the love, support, and comfort that every child needs.
2016 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Perfect for fans of Eric Carle's From Head to Toe! Sing and dance along with tigers, pandas, giraffes, and more in this interactive picture book.
Wave your hands!
Tap your feet!
Tug your ears!
From the singer of Les Savy Fav, Tim Harrington, comes this joyful celebration that celebrates every delightful body part. An accompanying free song is available online.
2016 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Winner
Elephant wakes up grumpy--until ding, dong! What's in the surprise box at the front door? A hat! HOORAY FOR HAT! Elephant marches off to show Zebra, but Zebra is having a grumpy day, too--until Elephant shares his new hat and cheers up his friend. Off they march to show Turtle! The parade continues as every animal brightens the day of a grumpy friend. An irresistible celebration of friendship, sharing, and fabulous hats.
2017 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Race car 1 honks look at me!
He zooms in front with the turn of a key.
Race car 2 is close behind.
The sound of vroom is on his mind.
This simple, rhyming text is perfect for reinforcing counting with young children, and the vibrant, energetic illustrations make this a terrific package for the youngest vehicle enthusiasts.
2017 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Hooray!
Music class is underway!
As soon as the teacher starts to play his guitar and sing, the kids are whirling and twirling and having a blast. But for one hesitant little music maker, it is all a bit overwhelming at first. With energetic and bright illustrations, this reassuring story about the courage it sometimes takes to try something new will resonate with children everywhere.
From David Weinstone, the creator of the wildly popular Music for Aardvarks program, and the pitch-perfect Vin Vogel comes this infectious celebration of music class that will make you want to sing and dance with your own little ones!
2017 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Have you ever had a grumpy day and not known why? Penguin is having a grumpy day like that. No matter what he does, he just can't shake it! Sometimes the only thing left to do is wash the grumpy day away and start over. The simple text and lively illustrations are the perfect cure for even the grumpiest of days.
2017 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Discover the wonderful world of snow with this companion to the celebrated Raindrops Roll!
With gorgeous photo illustrations, award-winning author April Pulley Sayre sheds sparkly new light on the wonders of snow. From the beauty of snow blanketing the forest and falling on animals’ fur and feathers to the fascinating winter water cycle, this nonfiction picture book celebrates snowfall and the amazing science behind it.
2017 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Winner
Tiger is fast asleep. But — oh dear! — she’s completely blocking the way. Just how will the animals get past without waking her up? Luckily, Frog has an excellent idea. Holding his balloon, he floats right over sleeping Tiger! Fox is next, followed by Tortoise, Mouse, and Stork, but it will be tricky for them all to get past without Tiger noticing. It’s good that the reader is there to help keep Tiger asleep, but where exactly are the animals going with all those big shiny balloons?
2018 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Bunnies dance, play, sing, and make a new friend in this delightful picture book from the author of Follow Me!, which School Library Journal called “a winsome selection suitable for storytime.”
Nobody is watching.
Now’s the perfect chance.
Ready bunny,
Steady bunny,
EVERYBUNNY DANCE!
Thus begins a whimsical celebration of movement, which will have children jumping out of their seats to dance, play, and sing with these cheerful bunnies—and one not-so-scary fox.
Everybunny is invited to join together in this joyous display of playful creativity.
2018 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
A hilarious, high-energy romp by a beloved author and an exciting new artist.
Sleepy little monkey won't get out of bed. Mama called the Doctor and the Doctor said: "Apple Juice, Orange Juice, Gooseberry Pies --Monkey needs some exercise!"Sleepy little monkeys everywhere will clap, stomp, shake, and cheer -- while chanting this rhythmic, energetic dance song based on a popular playground game. And as they move their heads, hands, hips, and feet -- everyone will be bursting with clapping energy -- and ready to start a new day!With humor, high energy, and Bill Martin Jr's trademark rhythm and rhyme, young readers will learn to name parts of the body. And the book makes a perfect exercise warm-up to start off a busy day of school!
2018 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
A stylishly illustrated, ingeniously simple picture-book debut perfect for teaching young children about colors and sharing.
Ruby has red blocks and Benji has blue blocks. They both build with their blocks, until Benji takes one of Ruby's red blocks and, in the tussle that follows, all the blocks CRASH to the floor. But now Benji has blue and red blocks, and Ruby has red and blue blocks, and together they build and build . . . until Guy comes with his green blocks!
2018 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
In an exuberant display of color, Lucy Cousins invites little ones to imagine themselves as brilliant birds.
Birds of all feathers flock together in a fun, rhyme-filled offering by the creator of Maisy. From the rooster’s “cock-a-doodle-doo” at dawn to the owl’s nighttime “tuwit, tuwoo,” the cheeps and tweets of many bright and beautiful avian friends will have children eager to join in as honorary fledglings. This day in the life of birds will hold the attention of even the smallest bird-watchers, whether at storytime or just before settling into their cozy nests to sleep.
2018 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Winner
A clever picture book about a multi-level apartment building's occupants and their many nighttime noises.
It's a noisy night in this city building! The residents of each floor can hear their neighbors above them, and are wondering what's going on above their heads. Climb floor by floor and page by page to find out whose singing, dancing, cheering, and cooing are keeping a grumpy old man awake.
With innovative split-level spreads that offer the feeling of climbing an apartment building floor by floor, this clever and colorful collaboration between New York Times–bestselling author Mac Barnett and gifted illustrator Brian Biggs offers an irresistible investigation of one noisy night.
2019 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
For fans of Press Here, this new interactive picture book line invites readers to touch and move and "play" with the book.
To start our show we need a band--maybe you can lend a hand!
There are lots of ways little hands can make music. Each page of this interactive book invites readers to strum the guitar, slide the trombone, crash the cymbals, and more--no instruments required! With a delightful rhyming text and engaging illustrations, this book is full of instruments waiting to share their sounds. The only thing this band needs is YOU! Just use your imagination, turn the pages, and Play This Book!
Pair with Pet This Book, another title in this young picture book line that comes printed on heavy-duty card stock pages to stand up to all kinds of play!
2019 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Named a Best Children's Book of the Year by The Washington Post, Amazon, Working Mother and more: A new picture book from Brendan Wenzel, the New York Times bestselling and Caldecott Honor-winning author of They All Saw a Cat!
Hello, Hello! is an interactive book for kids. Beginning with two cats, one black and one white, a chain of animals appears before the reader, linked together by at least one common trait. From simple colors and shapes to more complex and abstract associations, each unexpected encounter celebrates the magnificent diversity of our world-and ultimately paints a story of connection.
Brendan Wenzel's joyous, rhythmic text and exuberant art encourage readers to delight in nature's infinite differences and to look for-and marvel at-its gorgeous similarities in this children's nature book. It all starts with a simple "Hello."
2019 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Working up the courage to take a big, important leap is hard, but Jabari is almost absolutely ready to make a giant splash.
Jabari is definitely ready to jump off the diving board. He’s finished his swimming lessons and passed his swim test, and he’s a great jumper, so he’s not scared at all. “Looks easy,” says Jabari, watching the other kids take their turns. But when his dad squeezes his hand, Jabari squeezes back. He needs to figure out what kind of special jump to do anyway, and he should probably do some stretches before climbing up onto the diving board. In a sweetly appealing tale of overcoming your fears, newcomer Gaia Cornwall captures a moment between a patient and encouraging father and a determined little boy you can’t help but root for.
2019 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
From the illustrator of the award-winning Sophie's Squash comes a rollicking read-aloud featuring a very tiny toad who gets displaced as animals--and humans--brush past him on the road.
In the middle of a puddle
in the middle of a road
on a teeter-totter twig
sat a teeny-tiny toad.
Snap! went the twig!
Up went the toad!
And he landed on a tree
by the side of the road.
It's hard to be a tiny toad minding your own business on a twig. First a bird pecks at him. . . . Then a bee buzzes. . . . Then a dog barks . . . and so on. And each time the toad is surprised by a buzz or a woof (or the toe of a sneaker!), he hops to a new location farther down the road. With fun sounds, clever rhymes, and an irresistible rhythm, this is the perfect story for sharing one-on-one or in a group.
2019 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Winner
UH OH! There's a MONSTER in YOUR book! Shake, wiggle, and tickle the monster out in this interactive bedtime read-aloud that launched the Who's In Your Book series!
With the irresistible pull of Hervé Tullet’s Press Here and the charm of The Monster at the End of This Book, this inviting and interactive read-aloud will have kids tilting, spinning, and shaking the book to get the adorable little monster out! That’s right! He’s out of the book . . . and in their room somewhere. OH-NO!!
Bestselling author and musician Tom Fletcher and illustrator Greg Abbott have created a monster that readers will fall in love with—and want to play with—again and again! It will get your own little monster tuckered out and snuggled in!
Don't miss a single story in the Who's In Your Book series!
• There's a Monster In Your Book
• There's a Dragon In Your Book
• There's an Elf In Your Book
• There's an Alien in Your Book
...and more books to come!
Children's Choice Award Honor Book (K-2nd grade)
"Playful, engaging, and full of opportunities for empathy—a raucous storytime hit." —Kirkus Reviews
2020 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • A moving and universal picture book about the power of listening to show empathy and kindness, sure to soothe heartaches big and small.
ONE OF THE BEST CHILDREN’S BOOKS OF THE YEAR: The New York Times Book Review, Time, The Wall Street Journal, New York Public Library, Chicago Public Library, Kirkus Reviews, Publishers Weekly
When something sad happens, Taylor doesn't know where to turn. All the animals are sure they have the answer. The chicken wants to talk it out, but Taylor doesn't feel like chatting. The bear thinks Taylor should get angry, but that's not quite right either. One by one, the animals try to tell Taylor how to act, and one by one they fail to offer comfort. Then the rabbit arrives. All the rabbit does is listen . . . which is just what Taylor needs.
With its spare, poignant text and irresistibly sweet illustration, The Rabbit Listened is about how to comfort and heal the people in your life, by taking the time to carefully, lovingly, gently listen.
2020 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Ahoy, matey! Join jaunty pirate Captain Jack as he uses every color of the rainbow to pick out his outfit in this bright and bold read-aloud.
It’s the crack o’ dawn, and dapper Pirate Jack is ready t’ get dressed for a day out on the high seas with his motley crew. He’ll need every color of the rainbow to make his outfit complete—from his itchy gray long johns and his toasty pink socks to his bright red sash and his cozy purple coat. And he won’t be forgettin’ his black eye patch and trusty brown peg leg, either!
But just as he’s about to step outside, he realizes he’s still missing one color: green! Thank goodness a certain feathered friend is ready to jump from her swing and onto his shoulder to complete his colorful look. Squawk!
2020 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
"A charming, interactive tale that can help young readers engage with reading—probably one that will earn that simple command, 'Again!'" —Kirkus Reviews
There’s no place like home. But poor Florence Firefly is lost, and there are so many bright lights shining in the night sky that she doesn’t know which way to go. She’ll need some help to find her way back home. In this clever interactive picture book, readers can participate in Florence’s journey by encouraging her to fly faster, suggesting which direction to take, and making a wish.
2020 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Atinuke and Angela Brooksbank, creators of the award-winning Baby Goes to Market, pair up again for a bright and beautiful first book of words.
B is for Baby. B is for Brother. B is for going to see Baba!
One morning after breakfast, Baby’s big brother is getting ready to take the basket of bananas all the way to Baba’s bungalow in the next village. He’ll have to go along the bumpy road, past the baobab trees, birds, and butterflies, and all the way over the bridge. But what he doesn’t realize is that his very cute, very curious baby sibling has stowed away on his bicycle. Little ones learning about language will love sounding out the words in this playful, vibrantly illustrated story set in West Africa.
2020 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Winner
This interactive book may seem to be on your side, reluctant sleeper -- but it's truly a bedtime book in disguise! New from New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Amy Krouse Rosenthal and David Roberts!
Here's how it works: if you can avoid getting to the end of this book, you can avoid bedtime, simple as that. (It's a pretty sweet deal, actually.) But each time you blink, you have to turn a page. Those are just the rules. So whatever you do, DON'T BLINK!
From New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Amy Krouse Rosenthal and David Roberts comes a playful, super-duper interactive bedtime story, narrated by a cheeky stuffed owl. Kids love a challenge, and you can bet they'll do their darndest to rise to the one set out in Don't Blink!...especially when bedtime is on the line!
2021 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Who says you have to sit still at story time? This book encourages toddlers and preschoolers to shimmy, shake, and stomp along with a story that's both fun and filled with layers of learning!
Who has wiggle-waggle toes? I do. Who has flip-flop feet? I do!
The girls and boys in this book have kissable noses, out-there elbows, big bold bottoms, and hokey pokey heads--which they crinkle, flap, shimmy, and shake. This joyful celebration of our amazing body parts encourages fun, high-energy learning about science, language, self-regulation and focus, and more!
Perfect for brain breaks and active story times!
2021 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
A bit Each Peach Pear Plum, a bit Go, Dog, Go!, this read-aloud joy is deceptively simple yet packed with delights for the very young--a preschool standout deserving of modern-classic status.
A little mouse makes her way around the world, and invites preschoolers along as she sets out: Red house / Blue house / Green house / Tree house! / See the tiny mouse in her little brown house? Seamless, simple, and inspiring, the rhyming story abounds in concepts for the very young, with a particular focus on colors, and a delightful search-and-find element on every spread--the intrepid mouse herself!
* "Wonderful...Delightful" --Kirkus (starred review)
* "Excellent...Perfectly aimed at the very youngest" --The Horn Book (starred review)
"Appealing...Calls for engagement on multiple levels" --PW
"Fun...offers multiple opportunities for reader interaction" --SLJ
2021 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
A playful picture book that urges readers to bop, bounce, and shake, from the award-winning author of Alfie and Fraidyzoo.
There are so many ways to dance! You can jiggle or wiggle or stomp. You can bop or bounce or go completely nuts. You can dance at the market or the bus stop, with your fingers or your face. You can dance because you're happy or even because you're sad.
But, what's the best way to dance? Exactly how you want to!
In How Do You Dance?, award-wining author/illustrator Thyra Heder explores dance in all of its creativity, humor, and--most of all--joy, in a picture book celebration of personal expression that will inspire young and old readers alike to get up and get moving.
"Heder explores dance with pages of graceful, rhythmic watercolors that show people of myriad ages, ethnicities, shapes, and abilities stretching, bopping, spinning, and swaying. Moves executed in exuberance, impulsiveness, and self-care climax in a gigantic, inclusive dance party complete with glittery disco ball. Heder's stream of dancers encourages everyone to find a way to dance--even, perhaps, the most stubborn nondancers." --Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)
2021 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
This lyrical bedtime picture book is a must-have for every brown baby's bookshelf.
Come, my sweet brown baby...
From sunset to bedtime, two parents lovingly care for their beautiful baby: first, they play outside, then it is time for dinner and a bath, and finally a warm snuggle before bed. Precious and heartfelt, this story is a true celebration of the love shared between parent and child -- and the actions that say "I love you."
With gorgeous text by Tameka Fryer Brown and featuring warm art by New York Times–bestselling and NAACP-Award–winning illustrator AG Ford, Brown Baby Lullaby is the perfect new baby or baby shower gift.
2021 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Winner
An irresistibly cute story about finding the confidence to be yourself, starring a turtle in search of the perfect shell.
Terrance the turtle was born without a shell, so he uses a cardboard box instead. Terrance loves his box. It keeps him dry on soggy days, safe from snooping strangers, and is big enough to cozy up with a friend. But when another turtle points out that Terrance's shell is, well, weird, he begins to wonder whether there might be a better shell out there...
Eventually, and through much trial and error, Terrance learns that there's nothing wrong with being different--especially when it comes to being yourself.
2022 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Part counting game, part dinosaur celebration, this energetic romp is a numbers concept book for the ages.
One-osaurus, two-osaurus, three-osaurus, four!
Look there, in a child’s bedroom, where some prehistoric pals are gathered in a counting game. Nine dinosaurs are playing a sing-song rendition of hide-and-seek—but something isn’t adding up. Where is number ten? Stomp, stomp, stomp! CHOMP, CHOMP, CHOMP! Ready or not, here he comes, and he sounds . . . big! With big, bold numerals, an array of dinosaurs in comical poses, and a humorous twist at the end, this tribute to a child’s imagination makes learning numbers a gigantic treat.
2022 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
A little girl and a refrigerator box go on many adventures as they imagine all the things they can be in this debut picture book from Kim Howard and Megan Lotter, Grace and Box...
Grace and Box have become fast friends. Box delivered a refrigerator earlier in the week and by the end of it, Grace and Box had already been to space, gone camping, and explored the depths of the sea together.
But on Sunday, Grace notices something’s wrong with her buddy. Box has some rips and crumples that Band-Aids, ice packs, and rest on the couch can’t seem to heal. Grace certainly doesn't want these adventures to end, so she is determined to fix Box so that they can continue their play together!
A universal friendship (child and box) has come alive in this imaginative and humorous picture book. The depths of friendships run deep with children, even if they're just boxes to us!
2022 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
In this hilarious picture book, all of the farm animals are ready for the seasons to change-but not Cow
Rooster and his farm friends are ready for springtime play. But not Cow, who can't seem to dress for the weather. She's decked out in a parka and mittens as the first flowers bloom, ski-pants and a wool hat as the summer sun beats down, and a bathing suit and flip-flops when snow starts to tumble. Readers will love shouting out the catchy refrain "Not NOW, Cow!" while learning all about the seasons!
2022 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
A BEST CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR: New York Times, Washington Post, New York Public Library, Kirkus Reviews, Globe and Mail, Horn Book, and Boston Globe
STARRED Reviews in Kirkus, Publisher's Weekly, The Horn Book, School Library Journal
A 2022 Best Book for Babies
From Julie Flett, the beloved author and illustrator of Birdsong, comes a joyous new book about playtime for babies, toddlers, and kids up to age 7.
Animals and kids love to play! This wonderful book celebrates playtime and the connection between children and the natural world. Beautiful illustrations show:
We play too! / kimêtawânaw mîna
At the end of the book, animals and children gently fall asleep after a fun day of playing outside, making this book a great bedtime story. A beautiful ode to the animals and humans we share our world with, We All Play belongs on every bookshelf.
This book also includes:
2022 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Winner
Play the funniest game of hide and seek ever with Fergus, a bear who's very, very bad at hiding.
The hilarious illustrator of I Don't Want to Be a Frog brings picture book fans a super-silly, interactive story that will have children giggling from start to finish. Follow huge, loveable Fergus and see all the many ways in which he is TERRIBLE at playing hide-and-seek, such as standing behind a VERY tiny tree ("Found you, Fergus! That was too easy!") or trying to camouflage in a giant crowd of bunnies and squirrels ("Try bears, Fergus. Bears!").
But wait! The game isn't over yet! The last two pages fold out into a giant panoramic look-and-find scene, where Fergus is well and truly hidden, and young readers can have fun looking for him and lots of other details in the the crowd. There are hours and hours of play value in this adorable book. Children will want to come back to it again and again.
★ Winner: Iowa Library Association Bridge to Reading Award, 2022
★ Winner: Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 2021
★ Winner: Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award, 2022
★ Nominee: Missouri Building Block Award, 2022
2023 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
A young boy on a crowded bus discovers that, after some wiggles and giggles, there’s room for everyone in this lighthearted rhyming picture book set in Zanzibar.
The dala dala rumbles and roars as Musa and Dada drive off to the shore—but the bus stops for multiple detours: “Do you need a ride? It’s hotter than peppers out there in the sun! Come in, there’s room for everyone!”
One stop becomes two stops which soon becomes ten, and Musa wonders when it will end: “How can any more people get in? We’re already smushed like sardines in a tin!” But there's always room for one more, if you make the room, which is the heartwarming take-away from this bouncy, joyous tale in rhyme.
2023 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
A vibrant picture book celebrating the strength of community and the tastes of summer from Latin Grammy-winning musician Lucky Diaz and celebrated artist Micah Player.
Ring! Ring! Ring! Can you hear his call? Paletas for one! Paletas for all!
What's the best way to cool off on a hot summer day? Run quick and find Paletero José!
Follow along with our narrator as he passes through his busy neighborhood in search of the Paletero Man. But when he finally catches up with him, our narrator's pockets are empty. Oh no! What happened to his dinero? It will take the help of the entire community to get the tasty treat now.
Full of musicality, generosity, kindness, and ice pops, this book is sure to satisfy fans of Thank You, Omu! and Carmela Full of Wishes.
Includes Spanish words and phrases throughout, an author's note from Lucky Diaz, and a link to a live version of the Lucky Band's popular song that inspired the book.
A Junior Library Guild Selection!
2023 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Cats + water: What could go wrong? This riotous romp of a picture book follows a frantic family as they try to get some chores done--with no help from the family cat, who keeps scrambling the list of chores to hilarious effect. Get ready for a rollicking read-aloud with a truly purrfect ending.
It's cleaning day, but the family cat will do anything to avoid getting a bath. So instead of mopping the floor or feeding the fish, the family is soon busy rocking the rug, vacuuming the lawn, and sweeping the dishes. Bouncy rhyme carries the story headlong into the growing hilarity, until finally Dad restores some kind of order--but will the cat avoid getting his whiskers wet?
HILARIOUS READ-ALOUD: Word scrambles are a delight in this silly rhyming picture book! Kids will love the accessible rhyming text, and emerging readers will be able to anticipate words after repeated reads, making for an engaging and interactive read-aloud experience.
CATNIP FOR CAT LOVERS: This sweet and sneaky feline will do anything to get out of having a bath! Ample cat antics and scenes of increasing mischief (and increasing chaos!) around the house will tickle young readers and entice parents--particularly those with a furry feline of their own in the house.
TWO DADS LEAD THE WAY: Dad and Papa are the heads of this large and loving biracial family, mirroring illustrator David Roberts' own orientation and providing picture book readers with a positive depiction of LGBTQ+ characters in a fun and funny family story.
WINNING AUTHOR-ILLUSTRATOR TEAM: Alice McGinty is a prolific author of books for children, and David Roberts is well-known for his work on the New York Times bestselling Questioneers series. Together, their upbeat text and energetic art with pops of neon color make for a standout picture book, just right for gifting and enjoying together at storytime.
Perfect for:
2023 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Winner
From the creator of Maisy, a joyful picture book with a gentle environmental message finds four insect friends in search of a good place to live.
Bee, Ladybug, Beetle, and Dragonfly are looking for somewhere to live. And each has a different want: Bee loves flowers, Ladybug prefers leaves, Beetle is fond of dead wood, and Dragonfly likes ponds. But every time they find what seems like the perfect spot—with beautiful flowers, a tiny pond, some dead wood, or gorgeous green leaves—they discover it’s underfoot, near traffic, or otherwise not safe. Will these four friends ever find a good place? Lucy Cousins brings her bold artwork and endearing characters to an inviting story that leads to a dazzling conclusion, showing children that even in an urban environment, encouraging wildlife and natural ecosystems can create a healthy and beautiful habitat for all of us.
2024 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
A joyful ode to the special bond between grandfathers and their grandchildren and the fun of a camping trip
A girl and her grandfather strike out on an outdoor adventure in this heartfelt rhyming picture book, set to the classic rhyme of "One Two, Buckle My Shoe," from acclaimed creators Shelly Becker and Dan Yaccarino.
"Yaccarino's signature illustrations feature bold, bright colors and patches of pattern on each spread, coupled flawlessly with Becker's exhilarating text to capture the immeasurable love shared between the child and her grandfather. Sure to be a cherished favorite, this simple but resonant book is highly recommended for early elementary collections." (School Library Journal starred review)
One, two, Grandpa loves you.
Three, four, rush to the door.
Five, six, camping trip.
Seven, eight, best travel mate.
2024 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Grab a raincoat, pull on some boots, and head out the door for a joyful celebration of splish-sploshing in puddles. Squelch!
Clouds gather,
skies darken,
rain falls,
puddles appear.
Yippee! Here comes the rain! Three families meet up in front of their high-rise apartment building, all with the same idea. The children can’t wait to stimp-stamp-stomp through the muddy puddles until their boots overflow—then snuggle with the grown-ups on the couch as their soggy socks dry. Emma Perry’s buoyant text summons the thrill of being outdoors regardless of the weather, while Claire Alexander’s lively watercolors capture the children’s exuberant play amid the splashing drops.
2024 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
Ring! Clang! Firefighter Flo and her team race to stop a fire in this picture book filled with bold art and fun onomatopoeia.
Last night at the Fire Station…
With a jingly-jang, the telephone rang.
RING-RING! RING-RING!
Firefighter Flo jumps out of bed! There’s a fire and only a pro like Flo and her team can help. Read along as the firefighters put on their fireproof suits, rush off in their truck, douse the fire with the big hose, and rescue the family pet. The CLANG of the siren and WHOOSH of the fire will have parents and kids reading aloud together.
The Big Jobs, Bold Women series introduces even the youngest readers to strong women in tough hands-on jobs. Don't miss out on Crane Jane! and Plumber Pearl!
With dynamic artwork from Dan Yaccarino, Nickelodeon character designer for The Backyardians, and energetic verse from Andrea Zimmerman, best-selling author of Trashy Town, Firefighter Flo is the perfect read for kids who love to watch the big red fire trucks rush by.
2024 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
In this multilayered Big, Little Concepts book for preschoolers, explore body parts along with animals and celebrate the differences and similarities of our wonderful bodies.
A soft, round belly,
Bear has a belly.
I do too!
Do you have a nose like Fox, cheeks like Squirrel, and a tongue like Frog does? In rhythmic text perfect for an energetic read-aloud, Bear Has a Belly points out Moose's legs, Otter's back, and Duck's feet, inviting little ones to chime in with every body part they share in common. Bright photographs of the animal friends are paired with images of real children of diverse backgrounds and abilities who are joyfully engaging with that body part.
Jane Whittingham, author of Animals Move and A Good Day Ducks, channels her expertise as a children's librarian into yet another celebration of active preschooler fun. The chant-along text supports pattern recognition for language learning and reading readiness, and a closing spread of enriching age-appropriate activities invite further exploration and learning. The book's Toddler Tough format with a padded cover, rounded corners, and extra-heavy pages makes it a sturdy choice for endless repetitions of foot-stomping, belly-laughing, body-positive story times.
2024 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Winner
Don't miss this irresistible read-aloud in the vein of Chicka Chicka Boom Boom--with catchy rhymes and bold, silly art about baby animals and the names they share!
I was born a baby and grew into a kid...
Soon all the other baby animals can't help but share what they are called and what they grew up into! Readers will learn about owlettes, pufflings, and more. But when the chick, calf, cub, and pup realize they share their names with several other species, they can't believe it. "No way! No how! That can't be true!" becomes a catchy, energetic refrain readers will love chanting.
The text invites readers to predict what the baby animal is by using context clues and checking the endpapers to see if they guessed right.
The strong rhythm and unexpected discoveries of the baby animal kingdom, plus deadpan humor and wonderfully expressive art, will spark a conversation about names and nature and leave readers wanting to read it aloud again and again.
2023 Indiana Early Literacy Firefly Award Nominee
A Caldecott Honor Book and ALA Notable Book of the Year! An innovative and charming tale about a plucky little bird, from the award-winning author-illustrator of Fox the Tiger.
Readers will delight in turning their book sideways and upside down to follow Mel on her journey from downward fall to triumphant flight in this tale of self-confidence and taking a leap of faith.
An especially enjoyable and satisfying read-aloud!
Sometimes, you might fall
down,
down,
down,
before you learn to fly
up,
up,
up...
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