Off to See the Sea by Nikki Grimes (Toddler, Preschool)
With phenomenal mixed-media illustrations, this story is about a reluctant bath-taker and his mother who weaves a magical and persuasive tale to convince her child to get clean in the tub. The story is simple, but the creative way the words swirl on the page and are emphasized can lead to conversations about how print works and what the letters stand for. ▸ Get it at the Library
Milo Imagines the World by Matt de la Peña (Preschool)
Fans of Last Stop on Market Street and Carmela Full of Wishes will enjoy this latest book by Matt de la Peña. Milo and his sister take a long subway ride together. Milo is intrigued by the people he sees and draws the lives he imagines for them. In the end, he learns that you shouldn’t judge a person so quickly only after a small encounter or what they’re wearing – they may be on the same journey as you. ▸ Get it at the Library
Lazybones by Claire Messer (Toddler, Preschool)
Using a mixture of speech bubbles and straight text, this story is about a dog who loves to do tricks but prefers to stay at home. When his owner wants to take him on a long walk in the park and Lazybones can no longer avoid it, he’s forced to leave his comfort zone. However, he soon finds that leaving the house can mean new and exciting things will come his way. ▸ Get it at the Library
Strollercoaster by Matt Ringler (Toddler, Preschool)
No Pants by Jacob Grant (Toddler, Preschool)
These resources were recommended by Samantha Blanquart, an Early Literacy Outreach Librarian with the Anchorage Public Library. Visit their website for more info about early literacy or to check out one of their reading kits for young children.