King & Kayla and the Case of the Unhappy Neighbor
by Dori Hillestad Butler
illustrated by Nancy Meyers

When Jillian’s dog, Thor, is accused of digging up Mr. Gary’s garden, King and Kayla put their detective skills to work to clear his name. A witness to the crime tells King that the culprit is a “new guy” who likes to fight. But who could that be? And can they track down this new guy and clear Thor’s name? The King & Kayla series from Geisel Honor Award-winning team Dori Hillestad Butler and Nancy Meyers is perfect for readers transitioning from easy readers to beginning chapter books and great for introducing important concepts of fact gathering, list making, clues, and analytical thinking.

Explore more King & Kayla with the series teacher’s guide and activity kit, and download a free poster!

Lillian’s Fish
by James Menk
illustrated by Louisa Bauer

When Lillian turns six, her favorite gift is an extraordinary, shimmery, and colorful fish. But when the brand-new birthday fish disappears, the other family pets secretly band together to help unravel the mystery. A trail of clues soon leads the animals on a fantastic adventure along the river and deep into the woods, where they encounter new places and strange creatures. James Menk’s delightful, lively tale of discovery and friendship will enchant readers of all ages. Louisa Bauer’s captivating drawings bring this charming story of children and their pets to life.

Dive deeper into Lillian’s Fish with a free discussion guide.

Homer on the Case
by Henry Cole

Homing pigeon Homer and his parrot friend Lulu learn something is afoul when they witness a four-legged crime-spree in their neighborhood. Can Lulu and Homer track down the bandits and lead their human keepers to the culprits’ hideout to stop the thieves? Award-winning author-illustrator Henry Cole delivers a fun, action-packed middle grade mystery that will keep readers guessing if the crime-solving pigeon will get his guy. A supporting cast of animals and humans forms a community that will have every reader wishing they could join in the hunt.

Download this discussion guide for middle grade summer book clubs!

The Girl Who Stole an Elephant
by Nizrana Farook

Chaya, a nobleman’s rebellious, outspoken, no-nonsense daughter, just can’t resist the shiny temptations the king’s palace has to offer. But playing Robin Hood for her impoverished community doesn’t come without risks, and after leaving her village as a thief, can she return as a hero? Or will Chaya’s sticky fingers be the beginning—or the end—of everything for her and her intrepid gang? Own Voices debut author Nizrana Farook spins a page-turning middle grade tale in a lush, fictional Sri Lankan setting. Just right for adventure fans, the book explores themes of friendship and loyalty, risk and reward, and heroism.

Continue your jungle adventure with a free discussion guide!

Hat Tricks
by Satoshi Kitamura

You’re invited to Hattie the rabbit’s magic show! Abracadabra, katakurico… Oh, goodness! Out pops a cat from Hattie’s magic hat. Can you guess what creature will appear from the magic hat next? Perfect for magic-themed activities this summer, renowned author and illustrator Satoshi Kitamura delivers an adorable read aloud with simple, repetitive language, fun magic words, and ample opportunities for prediction.

Recreate some of Hattie’s magic tricks at home with this activity sheet.

Madeline Finn and the Therapy Dog
by Lisa Papp

Madeline Finn and Star are off to Walker Oaks, a retirement community where Star will take his tests to become a therapy dog. They make their way through a variety of challenges and meet several new friends, but Madeline Finn can’t stop thinking about an elderly man in a wheelchair who never smiles. Is there something she and Star can do to help? Author-illustrator Lisa Papp’s empathetic, feel-good story explores the therapy dog training process and provides a realistic and appealing example of a young person making a difference. Ideal for social emotional learning and discussions about self-esteem, volunteering, community, and—of course—therapy animals.

Explore more about therapy dogs, library dogs, and shelter dogs in the Madeline Finn activity kit!

The Society of Distinguished Lemmings
by Julie Colombet

The Society of Distinguished Lemmings aims to be distinguished in absolutely everything. It takes an awful lot of rules to be so distinguished, and Bertie has had quite enough. After venturing outside, Bertie discovers a bear, who is very unlike a lemming. Will the Society ever accept Bertie’s new friend, or is the bear simply too big and clumsy of a creature to be distinguished? This hilarious tale features valuable themes of finding new friends, challenging peers, and questioning the rules. Readers will return to the story again and again to discover the quirks of every distinguished lemming while also learning about the importance of staying true to yourself amidst pressure to conform.

Download this discussion guide to dive into the distinguished world of lemmings, and find out whether you’re more like a bear or a lemming with this personality quiz!

The Thingity-Jig
by Kathleen Doherty
illustrated by Kristyna Litten

Under the light of a silvery moon, Bear wanders into people town and discovers a springy thing, a bouncy thing—a sit-on-it, jump-on-it thing! This Thingity-Jig is too heavy to carry home by himself, so Bear invents a Rolly-Rumpity to wheel the Thingity-Jig home. When it all gets stuck in the mud, Bear creates a Lifty-Uppity, of course! Reading specialist and former educator Kathy Doherty perfectly blends inventive upcycling and STEAM elements with whimsical wordplay and a delightful story celebrating ingenuity. Illustrator Kristyna Litten brings the world to life with incredible settings and empathetic characters.

Start your own wacky inventions at home or in the classroom with this teacher’s guide!

Curious About Birds
by Cathryn Sill
illustrated by John Sill

“A lovely book to introduce small children to the natural world.” ―Jean Little Library

Educator and author Cathryn Sill introduces very young children to basic facts about birds with the help of beautifully detailed illustrations from noted wildlife illustrator John Sill. Simple and clear descriptions of how birds look, where they live, what they eat, and how they move around make this first title in the Discovering Nature series a thoughtful and informative first glimpse into the world of birds.

Buy Curious About Birds today through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, or IndieBound!

Lali’s Feather
by Farhana Zia
illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman

“This circular story has the ring of an Indian folk tale. Its art strikingly contrasts the warm bright colors of silks and spices with the lush turquoise of peacock feathers.” —The New York Times

What would you do with a feather?

Lali finds a little feather in the field. Who might it belong to? Lali sets out to find the feather a home, but one bird after another rejects it. That is until Lali decides to keep the little feather and discovers all the things she can do with it, and the other birds begin to recognize its value. Farhana Zia’s vivacious and endearing #OwnVoices story of identification, values, and the rewards in looking closely and thinking imaginatively features an inventive circular structure that reveals the importance of looking beyond first impressions. Illustrator Stephanie Fizer Coleman brings this delightful story of inspiration to life.

Buy Lali’s Feather today through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, or IndieBound!

Three Hens and a Peacock
by Lester L. Laminack
illustrated by Henry Cole

“Frenetically posing chickens will inspire giggles…Good farm fun.” ―Kirkus Reviews

The Tuckers’ farm is a peaceful place where everyone has a job and no one complains. That is, until a hapless peacock falls off the back of a passing truck and stirs things up. What follows is the riotous tale of three hens who get in way over their feathered heads, and one very distressed peacock who just can’t figure out how to lay an egg. Award-winning author Lester Laminack has created a comical look at envy, finding your strength, and what happens when we underestimate the value of others’ work. Henry Cole’s delightful illustrations heighten the story’s humor and will have readers of all ages laughing out loud.

Buy Three Hens and a Peacock today through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, or IndieBound!

Bird Count
by Susan Edwards Richmond
illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman

“A wonderful introduction to bird-watching and the concept of observing nature…” —Booklist Online

For the New England Christmas Bird Count, young Ava and her mother prepare to be the best “citizen scientists” they can be. Ava dutifully counts all the birds along the way, using her most important tools―her eyes and ears―and the birding identification techniques she’s learned. But will she locate her favorite raven again this year in time for their town’s annual Christmas Bird Count party? Author Susan Edwards Richmond offers a charming introduction to birdwatching with simple explanations of birdwatching techniques and clear descriptions of bird habitats. Stephanie Fizer Coleman’s charming illustrations add color and context to this joyful story. Backmatter includes more information about all the birds featured in the book and about the National Audubon Society’s annual Christmas Bird Count, the nation’s longest-running community science bird project.

Buy Bird Count today through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, or IndieBound!

Arlo the  Lion Who Couldn’t Sleep
by Catherine Rayner

Arlo is a very tired lion, and he’s tried everything to get to sleep. But the grass is too prickly, the trees are too noisy, and his family wriggles awfully too much. Goodness! How is an exhausted lion ever to get a wink of shut-eye? Luckily, owl has a few tricks up her sleeve and Arlo couldn’t be happier to give them a whirl. Perfect for reluctant or troubled sleepers, author-illustrator Catherine Rayner’s breathtakingly beautiful bedtime book has a calming, meditative message of mindfulness and centeredness.

Get your copy today at Amazon, Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, or your indie bookstore!

Little Tigers
by Jo Weaver

As hunters approach their home in the jungle, Mother Tiger and her cubs must venture to find a new home away from danger. Together, they explore different homes, but the ones they find aren’t suited for tigers, and some are just downright unwelcoming. But with their mother’s help, they may be able to find one that’s just right. With gentle text and stunning monochromatic illustrations, Jo Weaver reveals the wonder of nature, the excitement of discovery, and the strength of familial bonds.

Get your copy today at Amazon, Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, or your indie bookstore!

Lion vs. Rabbit
by Alex Latimer

Lion bullies all the other animals until finally they can’t take it anymore. They post an ad, asking for help. One animal after another tries and fails to defeat Lion. Can no one stop him? Finally, a rabbit arrives. No one thinks that such a small animal will be brave enough or strong enough to defeat Lion. But perhaps this rabbit is smart enough? This hilariously quirky tale from Alex Latimer features visual puns, wordplay, and an entertaining and unique message about working together to defeat a bully.

Get your copy today at Amazon, Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, or your indie bookstore!

The Snow Lion
by Jim Helmore
illustrated by Richard Jones

After moving to a new home, Caro wishes she had a friend, but she’s too shy to meet the neighborhood kids. With a little imagination, however, Caro finds the Snow Lion. Together, they have all kinds of fun racing, climbing, and playing hide-and-seek. But when the boy next door asks Caro to come play, Caro isn’t so sure. Then, the Snow Lion has an idea! Making new friends isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it in the end. This gorgeously illustrated and gentle story celebrates the joy in making new friends and will appeal to any shy or lonely young reader.

Get your copy today at Amazon, Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, or your indie bookstore!

Tiger in My Soup
by Kashmira Sheth
illustrated by Jeffrey Ebbeler

Sometimes it’s almost impossible to get your big sister to read your favorite book to you. Sometimes you have to go to great lengths even to get her attention! But if you’re really creative and use your imagination, you might just get what you want. Take care, though, not to go too far. Once you conjure up a tiger, there’s no telling where it might lead… Author Kashmira Sheth brings readers a humorous, reading-centered story of the dynamic between a younger brother and older sister, imagination, and tigers!

Get your copy today at Amazon, Bookshop.org, Barnes & Noble, or your indie bookstore!

Lula and the Sea Monster
by Alex Latimer

Lula loves living by the beach. But soon, her family must leave their home to make way for a new highway. Counting down the days to her move, Lula walks along the beach to find keepsakes and discovers a small sea monster that she names Bean. Each day Lula returns to the beach to feed him. And each day Bean grows bigger and bigger. But what will happen to Lula’s new friend once she moves away? From popular children’s book author-illustrator Alex Latimer comes this delightfully odd story of friendship and standing up for others.

Bo the Brave
by Bethan Woollvin

Bo wants to be just like her brothers and capture a fearsome monster, but her brothers say she is too small. Luckily, Bo isn’t one to take no for an answer, and so she sets off on a quest to catch a monster of her own. Can Bo defeat the monstrous creatures she encounters, or has she got the wrong idea about who the real monsters are? Author-illustrator Bethan Woollvin, creator of the New York Times Best Illustrated Book Little Red, delivers an original fairy tale with a spirited female protagonist, a vibrant medieval backdrop, and a clever twist ending.

Mr. Penguin and the Catastrophic Cruise
by Alex T. Smith

Mr. Penguin and his Adventuring gang board a luxury cruise ship for some much-needed rest and a little entertainment, and Mr. Penguin isn’t even bothered that he can’t swim and is deeply afraid of water. But when a series of odd events infiltrates a façade of glamorous parties, film stars and politicians, Mr. Penguin can’t help but feel that something shifty is happening on board. This third installment in the humorous, page-turning series from Alex T. Smith, the author-illustrator of the popular Claude series, is sure to thrill young readers looking for a good adventure.

Peep!
by Kevin Luthardt

PEEP! A duckling breaks through its shell and immediately attaches itself to the first thing it sees—a warmhearted young boy. The two become inseparable, but one day…QUACK! The boy realizes with a great pang of sorrow that his new friend will have to return to live among its own kind. This deceptively simple story poignantly and humorously dramatizes a special tale of friendship and demonstrates the importance of learning to let go of something you love.

Coming August 1st!

Preorder Peep! today through Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, or on Amazon.

While You Were Sleeping
by John Butler

Take a trip through the animal world in this exquisitely illustrated counting book. While young Daisy sleeps, animals play and swim and fly. When she wakes up, her mother tells her about each animal in turn. Children can learn to count while they discover what animals do while they’re asleep, and adults will be equally enchanted by the luminous beauty of Butler’s brilliant, detailed illustrations.

Buy While You Were Sleeping today through Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, or on Amazon.

Hush, Little Ones
by John Butler

From tiny birds and rabbits safely tucked into warm nests and underground burrows to young whales lulled in the deep blue sea, the noisy animal kingdom settles down for the night. Each animal is depicted in its natural setting as, one by one, baby animals are gently put to bed by their mothers and fathers. This soothing bedtime story features an easy, rhyming text and beautifully evocative, detailed art.

Buy Hush, Little Ones today through Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, or on Amazon.

Little Rabbit Lost
by Harry Horse

It’s Little Rabbit’s birthday and his family surprises him with wrapped presents and a special trip to Rabbit World Theme Park. Little Rabbit is excited but insists he is a big rabbit now and ignores his parents’ warnings to stay close. But when he suddenly finds himself all alone, he doesn’t feel quite so grown up anymore. Families will identify with the young character’s conflicting desire for independence and his need of loving supervision.

Buy Little Rabbit, Lost today through Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, or on Amazon.

Peep!
by Kevin Luthardt

PEEP! A duckling hatches and immediately attaches itself to the first thing it sees—a warmhearted young boy. The duckling follows the boy home and soon the two are inseparable, but the duckling is growing up. One day when a flock of ducks flies by, the boy realizes that his friend will have to return to live among its own kind. Kevin Luthardt’s deceptively simple story poignantly and humorously demonstrates the importance of learning to let go of something you love.

Bird Count
Written by Susan Edwards Richmond
Illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman

This year, young Ava gets to record the tally in the Christmas Bird Count. Using the birding techniques she’s learned, she eagerly identifies and counts the birds she observes around the town. At the end of the day, all the teams in the area meet up for a Christmas Bird Count party, where they combine their totals and share stories about their observations. This informative book offers simple explanations of the identification methods used by birdwatchers and clear descriptions of bird habitats to introduce young readers to birdwatching, and a section in the back provides more information about the birds featured in the book and the Christmas Bird Count.

Lali’s Feather
Written by Farhana Zia
Illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman

Lali finds a little feather in the field. Is it lost? Lali sets out to find feather a home, but one bird after another rejects it. The feather is too small for Rooster, too slow for Crow, and too plain for Peacock. But as soon as Lali decides to keep the little feather and discovers all the things she can do with it, the other birds begin to recognize its value. Farhana Zia’s charming tale of identification and values employs an inventive circular structure that reveals the importance of looking beyond first impressions and thinking imaginatively. Illustrator Stephanie Fizer Coleman brings this delightful story of imagination and inspiration to life.

P. Zonka Lays an Egg
by Julie Paschkis

The other hens can’t understand why extraordinary P. Zonka never lays eggs like they do―they think she’s just plain lazy. But when P. Zonka finally decides to give egg-laying a try, the other chickens are in for a spectacular surprise! Award-winning author and illustrator Julie Paschkis is sure to delight readers with this lovely story, inspired by the Ukrainian tradition of pysanky, about enriching the imagination and appreciating the beauty of the world.

Kalinka and Grakkle
by Julie Paschkis

Kalinka’s a showy little bird with an eye for neatness, but her grumpy neighbor Grakkle doesn’t care one bit about cleaning.  He just wants to relax in his favorite chair and soak his feet in a cool bucket of pickle juice.  “Grakk!” he complains as Kalinka “tidies up” his messes.  “You’re welcome,” she responds. They simply aren’t on the same wavelength.  Can an unfortunate accident plus a little humor and empathy help an odd couple like this see eye to eye?

Penguin’s Hidden Talent
by Alex Latimer

Peep!
by Kevin Luthardt

PEEP! A duckling breaks through its shell and immediately attaches itself to the first thing it sees—a warmhearted young boy. The newly hatched duck follows the boy home and soon the two are inseparable. But the duckling is growing up, and soon the boy realizes with a great pang of sorrow that his friend will have to return to live among its own kind. Kevin Luthardt’s deceptively simple story poignantly and humorously dramatizes this special tale of friendship and demonstrates the importance of learning to let go of something you love.

No! Said Rabbit
by Marjoke Henrichs

Rabbit is happy doing his own thing, and he doesn’t want to listen to anyone else. Or so he thinks. Then, Mom makes a suggestion he simply can’t resist! Debut author-illustrator Marjoke Henrichs delivers a laugh-out-loud tale with Rabbit embodying every strong-willed child. Adult readers will recognize and empathize with parenting moments throughout, and a warm and loving twist at the end celebrates the joy of coming together again after a very contrary day. Perfect for bedtime read alouds!

Download these activity sheets for more fun with Rabbit!

Hat Tricks
by Satoshi Kitamura

Meet Hattie the magician—she’s a natural performer, and you’re invited to her magic show. Abracadabra, katakurico! Oh, goodness! Out pops a cat from Hattie’s magic hat. Can you guess what creature will appear from the magic hat next? Follow along as Hattie conjures up a parade of animals, and don’t miss the grand finale! From renowned author and illustrator Satoshi Kitamura, this humorous story is a delightful choice for audience participation.

Download this activity sheet, and recreate some of Hattie’s magic at home!

Little Rabbit’s New Baby
by Harry Horse

Little Rabbit can’t wait to be a big brother! But having babies around might not be as much fun as Little Rabbit thought. They take up all of Mama’s and Papa’s time. But one night when a tired Mama and Papa are at their wit’s end, Little Rabbit comes to the rescue and begins to understand what an important job it is to be a big brother. Young readers will relate to Little Rabbit’s challenging situation as he learns to cope with change. Harry Horse’s colorful and buoyant illustrations vividly bring to life the indomitable hero in this gently uplifting and reassuring story. For more on this title, visit the Little Rabbit website here.

Best Friend in the Whole World
by Sandra Salsbury

Roland lives a quiet life by himself, but sometimes he feels rather lonely. He’s overjoyed when he finds the perfect companion in Milton (Good listener! Enjoys music! Also alone!), but clues start popping up in the woods, suggesting someone else might be missing their best pine cone friend. Roland must decide if it’s worth leaving someone else in their loneliness to keep Milton in his life. In this sweet picture book about friendship and compassion, debut author-illustrator Sandra Salsbury celebrates the transformative power of connection and the painful melancholy of loss.

Download this activity kit to learn how to make your own pine cone best friend!

Duck and Penguin Are NOT Friends
by Julia Woolf

Duck and Penguin are NOT friends, despite what Betty and Maud might have you think. They do not want to swing together, build sandcastles together, and they certainly do not want to play baby dolls together! Friendship is a choice, and Duck and Penguin will let you know when they’re ready to be friends, thank-you-very-much. This laugh out loud tale about the secret world of toys and making friends on your own terms from author-illustrator Julia Woolf makes the perfect read-aloud with a relatable topic and hilarious illustrations that will have children begging for multiple reads.

Grab your favorite stuffed animal, download this free activity kit, and have a plush toy playdate party!

And don’t miss Duck and Penguin’s other adventure, Duck and Penguin Do NOT Like Sleepovers!

P. Zonka Lays an Egg
by Julie Paschkis

Extraordinary hen P. Zonka spends her time taking in the beauty around her: the shiny green of the grass, the buttery yellow of the dandelions, the deep blue of the sky. The other hens can’t understand why she never lays eggs like they do―they think she’s just plain lazy. But when P. Zonka finally decides to give egg-laying a try, the other chickens are in for a spectacular surprise! Award-winning author and illustrator Julie Paschkis is sure to delight readers with this lovely story, inspired by the Ukrainian tradition of pysanky, about enriching the imagination and appreciating the beauty of the world.

Download this free event kit for an activity egg-stravaganza!

Spi-KuA Clutter of Short Verse on Eight Legs
Written by Leslie Bulion
Illustrated by Robert Meganck

Welcome to the silk-spinning, bungee-jumping, hunting, trapping, trick-filled world of spiders! Watch as they find mates, find prey…or find mates that become prey! Award-winning poet Leslie Bulion and illustrator Robert Meganck team up again for this clutter (a collective noun for spiders) of Haiku and other short poems and humorously accurate illustrations that celebrate the amazing attributes of Araneae. A feast for science and animal fans and a bonanza for teachers and students interested in cross-curricular studies!

Looking for more information about these rolling, diving, web-weaving creatures? Check out this teacher’s guide for spider-themed fun in the classroom!

Order Spi-Ku from Bookshop.org, Amazon, or Barnes & Noble just in time for some at-home poetry month celebration.

Amphibian Acrobats
Written by Leslie Bulion
Illustrated by Robert Meganck

Step right up and learn all about the lively participants in the Amphibian Acrobat show—from the agile Wallace’s flying frog to the bouncing Venezuelan pebble toad to the tricky yellow-eyed ensatina. These show-stopping creatures hail from around the world and your own backyard! Come along and get to know all about these lively denizens with this entertaining collection of science verses from author Leslie Bulion. Illustrator Robert Meganck’s witty drawings add another layer of fun to this humorous and informative exhibition.

Can’t get enough of these talented critters? Check out this teacher’s guide for more amphibian learning fun!

Order Amphibian Acrobats from Bookshop.org, Amazon, or Barnes & Noble just in time for some at-home poetry month celebration.

Superlative Birds
Written by Leslie Bulion
Illustrated by Robert Meganck

Explore the fascinating world of superlative birds―from the bee hummingbird, the tiniest bird in the world, to the peregrine falcon, the fastest creature on Earth. Get to know all about the best and brightest―and smelliest!―denizens of the bird world with this collection of nonfiction science verses. You won’t need your binoculars to observe the superlative characteristics of these avian wonders. Author Leslie Bulion’s science glossary, notes on poetry forms, and resources for information about these extraordinary birds, and Robert Meganck’s enjoyable illustrations make this an informative and humorous gallery of the world’s most accomplished birds.

Fly further into the wonderful world of birds with this teacher’s guide!

Order Superlative Birds from Bookshop.org, Amazon, or Barnes & Noble just in time for some at-home poetry month celebration.

Leaf Litter Critters
Written by Leslie Bulion
Illustrated by Robert Meganck

Have fun on this poetic tour through the leaf litter layer and dig into the fascinating facts about the tiny critters who live there. Nineteen poems in a variety of verse forms with accompanying science notes take readers on a decomposer safari through the “brown food web,” from bacteria through tardigrades and on to rove beetle predators. Glossary, hands-on investigations, and resources are included in the back matter.

Check out this teacher’s guide, and dive deeper into the leaf litter layer.

Order Leaf Litter Critters from Bookshop.org, Amazon, or Barnes & Noble just in time for some at-home poetry month celebration.

Random Body Parts
Written by Leslie Bulion
Illustrated by Mike Lowery

Take a free-form trip though the human body with these humorous riddle poems. In these pages you will discover the astonishing answers to these questions such as, “Which body parts would wrap four times around the equator?” or “Which body part, if spread out flat, would cover a tennis court?” Put your cerebral cortex to work. Follow the anatomical, poetic, and visual clues to make a guess, then read the science notes to check your powers of riddle reasoning. You’ll even find hints from the greatest poet of them all―William Shakespeare!

Want to learn more about human anatomy? Download the free teacher’s guide.

Order Random Body Parts from Bookshop.org, Amazon, or Barnes & Noble just in time for some at-home poetry month celebration.

At the Sea Floor Café
Odd Ocean Critter Poems
Written by Leslie Bulion
Illustrated by Leslie Evans

Witty poems and elegant artwork introduce what’s on the menu for some unusual undersea creatures. The ocean is Earth’s largest ecosystem, and this clever collection of poems for kids describes the devious and surprising methods ocean denizens use to forage for food, capture prey, and trick predators. The poems bobble and swim effortlessly from page to page, leading readers from the snailshell home of the jeweled anemone crab to a raft of violet snails hanging upside down in their bubble houses. In addition to helpful resources included in the back matter, striking linoleum prints round out this title, which can be used across the curriculum.

Order At the Sea Floor Café from Bookshop.org, Amazon, or Barnes & Noble just in time for some at-home poetry month celebration.

Little Tigers
Written and illustrated by Jo Weaver

As hunters approach their home in the jungle, Mother Tiger and her cubs must venture to find a new home away from danger. Together, they explore different homes, but the ones they find aren’t suited for tigers. Some are too wet, some are too dry, and some are just downright unwelcoming. But with their mother’s help, they may be able to find one that’s just right.

Jo Weaver’s gentle text and stunning monochromatic illustrations reveal the wonder of nature, the excitement of discovery, and the strength of familial bonds.

Buy Little Tigers through your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or on Amazon.

Madeline Finn and the Shelter Dog
Written and illustrated by Lisa Papp

Madeline Finn asks her mother for a puppy every single day. Finally, Mom says yes, and Madeline Finn chooses Star, one of the puppies born to Mrs. Dimple’s dog Bonnie. Then Mrs. Dimple tells Madeline Finn about animal shelters―a place many other pets come from. After a visit to their local shelter, Madeline Finn has some questions. These questions lead to answers, and ideas, and soon Madeline Finn and her human and animal community discover that there are lots of ways for small people to make a big difference.

In this companion to the award-winning Madeline Finn and the Library Dog, author-illustrator Lisa Papp offers a heartwarming exploration of life in an animal shelter in this inspiring and endearing book for young readers eager to help their communities.

Buy Madeline Finn and the Shelter Dog through your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or on Amazon.

Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers
Celebrating Animal Underdogs
Written by Melissa Stewart
Illustrated by Stephanie Laberis

Puny? Poky? Clumsy? Shy? Written with a lively, playful voice, Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers introduces young readers to a variety of “animal underdogs” and explains how characteristics that might seem like weaknesses are critical for finding food and staying safe in an eat-or-be-eaten world.

Award-winning author Melissa Stewart offers readers a humorous and informative nonfiction picture book with a gentle message of understanding and celebrating differences. Stephanie Laberis’s bright, bold―and scientifically accurate―illustrations add to this fun, lighthearted look at the surprising traits that help some animals survive.

Buy Pipsqueaks, Slowpokes, and Stinkers through your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or on Amazon.

King & Kayla and the Case of the Missing Dog Treats
King & Kayla series
Written by Dori Hillestad Butler
Illustrated by Nancy Meyers

King is here to help his human girl solve mysteries in this easy-to-read and fast-paced series. Eager to solve any puzzle from some missing dog treats to a lost tooth, this lovable dog-and-human duo provides a great introduction to mysteries for young readers.

With simple, straightforward language and great verbal and visual humor, the King & Kayla series from Geisel Honor Award-winning team Dori Hillestad Butler and Nancy Meyers is perfect for young animal lovers and newly independent readers.

Buy King & Kayla and the Case of the Missing Dog Treats through your local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or on Amazon.