Random Stuff That Rocks: Gifts for Little Readers

Look for these children’s books in your local bookstores or online.

 

Joseph Had a Little Overcoat

Written and illustrated by Simms Taback

Joseph had a little overcoat, but it was full of holes – just like this book! When Joseph’s coat got too old and shabby, he made it into a jacket. But what did he make it into after that? And after that?

As children turn the pages of this book, a story based on an old Jewish folksong, they can use the die-cut holes to guess what Joseph will be making next from his favorite overcoat, while they laugh at the bold, cheerful artwork and learn that you can always make something, even out of nothing.

$16

 

 

There’s a Dinosaur on the 13th Floor

Written by Wade Bradford

Illustrated by Kevin Hawkes

Will Mr. Snore ever get some shut-eye at the busy Sharemore Hotel? The room on the first floor is too noisy. The room on the second floor is too crowded. The room on the third floor is too damp. Everywhere Mr. Snore goes he encounters something that’s bound to keep him awake. Perhaps he will have better luck on the thirteenth floor. This is laugh-out-loud tale that plays with expectations and revelations – and ends with a surprisingly thought-provoking final twist.

$12

 

 

What Do You Do with a Chance?

Written by Kobi Yamada

Illustrated by Mae Besom

This is a third book in a series called What You Do Matters. These books were created to inspire children and parents to find the courage to go for the opportunities that come their way. Because you never know when a chance, once taken, might be the one to change everything.

In this story, a child sees his first chance and unsure what to do with it, he lets it go. Later on, when a new chance arrives he reaches for it, but this time he misses and falls. Embarrassed and afraid, he begins ignoring each new chance that comes by. Then one day he realizes that he doesn’t need to be brave all the time. But he does need to be brave and fast at the right time. He needs to take that chance and hold on to it to find out what it might bring. See how the talented and creative Mae Besom illustrated the concept of chance. This is truly a work of art.

$13

 

 

Do You Believe in Unicorns?

Written and illustrated by Bethanie Deeney Murguia

Is that a horse wearing a hat? It’s definitely not a unicorn in disguise – that would be ridiculous, right? It’s probably just a horse that’s having a bad hair day. Or trying to keep the sun out of its eyes. Or perhaps this horse just really likes hats! If you follow it long enough, maybe it will take off its hat and you’ll finally know for sure. Or will you? It’s all a matter of perspective in this sweet and funny story about seeing magic in the everyday.

$13