It is the week of Halloween and our street is already verging on disgusting with all the creepy, crawly decor. I’m not much of a Halloween fan, especially of the gross and terrifying stuff. But I do like hanging out with friends, eating fun treats, wearing great costumes, and clever decorations. I love themed things. So today I want to do a group pairing with a ghostly theme perfect for Halloween. Two of them aren’t technically Halloween books, but ghosts are always appropriate for the occasion and so I think they work. Join me in reading three lovely books celebrating one of the famous characters of the holiday. Let’s read three books about ghosts!
Continue reading “Let’s Read Three: Ghost Books”Tag: Dick Bruna
Let’s Read Three: Books About The Sea!
Summer is in full swing here and it is hot. So hot, that most people have fled to the beach to take refuge in the cool water, shady umbrellas, and chilled beverages. My August does not hold such plans, so instead I think it appropriate to read about such sea escapees. It’s time for another in the Let’s Read Three series. Join me as we see three beloved characters take to the sea for lovely vacation adventures. Let’s read three sea books!
Continue reading “Let’s Read Three: Books About The Sea!”25 Days – Book 2: The Christmas Book
December 2 is upon us (and almost gone! Still getting back into writing, so bear with my belatedness.) For today, we read a simple Nativity story by one of my favorite simple illustrators, Dick Bruna. His work is so stripped down that many assume it is easy, but he is an excellent creator and completely fascinating to children. He knows just the right way to tell a story and his linework is firm and no-nonsense with flat, solid colors. I requested this book for last Christmas and have been impatiently waiting to share it until this year. So have a peek at Dick Bruna’s lovely story, The Christmas Book, 1964.
Continue reading “25 Days – Book 2: The Christmas Book”Picture Books For Big Siblings With A New Baby
It should come as no surprise to anyone that the number one way we prepared for a new baby in our house is with books. Yes, I skimmed a few birthing books, nursing and sleep habits books; but ultimately the books we treasured and pored over were new baby and big sister picture books (not to mention an incredible amount of New York City books, but that’s another list altogether). And I have to say, I really think it paid off. There is a lot of big sibling love in this house and very little, if any, jealousy which is the complete opposite of all the unsolicited advice we received. I carefully chose the books we’ve added, making sure they were positive and humorous and gave the air of excited anticipation. It is all about expectations, I think.
In no way is this list comprehensive of the best sibling books or new baby books ever. And in fact, this list is very biased towards big sisters and little sisters because well, that is what we are dealing with here. Also, most of these are older books, a few classic you could say, but all worth your time and effort to find if you are looking for some sweet sibling love books to share. So here are my 8 picture books for big siblings and their new babies.
Continue reading “Picture Books For Big Siblings With A New Baby”Book Review: Dick Bruna’s Little Red Riding Hood
Continuing with my minor obsession for great illustrated versions of “Little Red Riding Hood,” I was quite thrilled to recently acquire this 1960s graphic depiction of the tale by the renowned Dick Bruna. His ability to pare down ideas to bold and clever images is unique and beloved by many. I couldn’t wait to share this one! Here is Dick Bruna’s Little Red Riding Hood, 1966.
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