Thursday, January 28, 2021

Brooke's Books - 2020 Faves

Welcome to our newest monthly columnist, Brooke Newberry! Brook is the Early Literacy Librarian at La Crosse Public Library and a frequent UW-Madison iSchool CE instructor and consultant on youth services, especially service to our youngest patrons. She will be sharing recommendations on great picture books for your collection. 

While 2020 was a terrible year in so many ways, new picture books were a lovely highlight. Below are just a few of my favorite picture books of 2020:

The Barnabus Project
Terry Fan
Tundra Books, 2020
This stunning picture book tells an epic adventure of a misfit pet, and his friends, looking for freedom. This title will be enjoyed by both younger and older audiences, and the magical story will leave everyone with a smile on their face. The extension activities for this title are endless. 


Evelyn Del Ray is Moving Away
 
Meg Medina 
Candlewick Press, 2020
This bittersweet story will tug on your heartstrings and is a great depiction of losing a close friend when they move away. Beautiful illustrations by Sonia Sanchez further enhance the storyline and will invite readers into Evelyn and Daniela's world. 


Swashby and the Sea
Beth Ferry
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2020
This hilarious picture book is a wonderful read aloud for storytimes, one on one reading, or even if you need a quick pick me up. The grump old man's friendship with his new neighbor brings such joy in this title, and the breathtaking illustrations by Juana Martinez-Neal work incredibly well with the text. 


Bedtime for Sweet Creatures
Nikki Grimes 
Sourcebooks Jabberwocky, 2020 
A realistic depiction of all of the bedtime routines and struggles make this bedtime story an all time favorite! Gorgeous illustrations by Elizabeth Zunon will appeal to all, and help make this title perfect for storytimes.

Lift 
Min Lê 
Disney Hyperion, 2020
This fantastical story of a young girl's adventures in an elevator will light up the imagination of any reader. The dynamic illustrations by Dan Santat make readers feel engaged in the storyline, and the comic panels will appeal to those who love graphic novels too. 

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