Reading Roundup: February 2012

By the Numbers
Picture Books: 20

Sources
Library: 20

Standouts
Writing: Let's Go See Papa! by Lawrence Shimel, illustrated by Alba Marina Rivera
A little girl learns that no matter where she is, she's going to be separated from someone she loves, but there's always a way to keep close to them in her heart.
Illustration: Moonlight, illustrated by Laura Dronzek, written by Helen V. Griffith
The lovely acrylics in this peaceful book celebrate the full moon, and the animals bathed in moonlight. Very much in the gently curving style of Kevin Henkes, if he's a favorite.
Overall: TIED
I Don't Want to be a Pea! by Ann Bonwill, illustrated by Simon Rickerty
This story of two friends who both want to be the most important element in their dual costume will strike a chord with kids just learning how to navigate friendship.
Mitchell's License by Hallie Durand, illustrated by Tony Fucile
Given a license to drive his car (really his dad) to bed, Mitchell makes the most of it. Car-obsessed kids will probably get the most giggles out of this, but really it's buckets of fun for everybody.

Because I Want To Awards
Universal Experience: Omer's Favorite Place by Ifeoma Onyefulu,
Even though this takes place in Ethiopia, kids everywhere will recognize themselves and their families in Omer's tour of his home.
Aww-Worthy: Plant a Kiss by Amy Krouse Rosenthal, illustrated by Peter Reynolds
When a little girl plants a kiss, she finds that the harvest is more wonderful even than she expected.
Diff'rent Strokes: Rosie Sprout's Time to Shine by Allison Wortche, illustrated by Patrice Barton
As someone who's been both the quiet kid in the corner and the one grabbing center stage, I appreciated the nonjudgmental attitude of this book. Just right for your quiet kids, and maybe something to think about for your little divas as well.