You may or may not have heard about the recent controversy in the children’s book world: Not going to name names here, but a popular and accomplished author/illustrator opined in a book that 94.7% of the stories being published for children today are “crud.” The comment did not go over well.
It’s certainly true that some books are better than others; we all recognize that. But I have always believed that any book that gets a child jazzed up about reading has accomplished something important. It’s hard to remember, but not so long ago, before the advent of graphic novels, people REALLY looked down on comic books. They were not legitimate when it came to reading. Well! The graphic novel/picture book format has opened the door to a legion of new, enthusiastic readers.
Anyway, for what it’s worth, here is a highly incomplete list of some of my favorite, recently published titles; there are way too many to choose from, definitely more than 5.3%. Check them out!
Picture books:
Awe! / Chana Stiefel and Susan Gal: The title says it all. It’s a gorgeously written, gorgeously illustrated homage to all that is wondrous in the world.
Stalactite & Stalagmite / Drew Beckmeyer: Who knew nonfiction about rocks could be so engaging? Informative and very funny.
Jim: Six True Stories about One Great Artist / Jerrold Connors: For all George and Martha fans, and fans of all things James Marshall-ian, this book is just glorious–witty, tender, poignant.
I’m Sorry You Got Mad / Kyle Lukoff and Julie Kwon: The perfect book for those who have a hard time apologizing–and who doesn’t? An important topic, handled with plenty of humor.
Don’t Trust Fish / Neil Sharpson and Dan Santat: Can you tell I like funny books?! Another hilarious nonfiction. It defies description, but you won’t be sorry!
Middle Grade:
Bat and the Business of Ferrets: The latest installment of Elana K. Arnold’s brilliant series, featuring neuro-divergent and thoroughly wonderful Bat.
The Lions’ Run: Sara Pennypacker’s action-packed, emotionally charged, and ultimately uplifting story of a young French boy during the Nazi occupation.
