Brrrrrr, it's cold outside! Which means it's time to curl up and read together. Here are some great picture books to read with kids:
Snow by Uri Shulevitz: This is a beautiful picture book for any child waiting for snow. Snow tells the story of a child excited to see the first flakes of the year. "It's snowing!" the child exclaims, although the grown-ups refuse to accept it. "It's only one flake" they say, and "It'll melt." But, as snowflakes do, one sticks to the ground, and then another and another, until the city is white. This simple story and the rich illustrations gracefully invoke the magical feeling of the first snowfall of the year.
Froggy gets Dressed by Jonathan London, illustrated by Frank Remkiewicz: Froggy wakes up in the middle of winter and, even though the snow is deep and he's supposed to be hibernating, he is determined to get dressed and play outside. The getting dressed part proves to be quite difficult. The first time he makes it outside, he forgets to put on his pants, the next time he forgets his shirt. Finally, when he thinks he has everything put on, his mother calls out to remind him about one important piece of clothing: his underwear. Kids will relate to the trials of putting on so many layers and crack up at the punchline. The comical illustrations, exaggerated dialogue and expressive action sounds will make this story popular in any household.
Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson, illustrated by Jane Chapman: Nothing could be cozier than a warm fire, a fresh pot of tea and a bowl of hot popcorn - even if it is in a bear's den. Mouse, badger and rabbit sneak into bear's den when he's hibernating. They make a fire, brew some tea, pop some popcorn and happily snack on nuts, all while the bear snoozes soundly. Eventually, the bear wakes up and instead of being mad, he's upset that he missed all of the fun. Luckily, his friends are happy to stay and continue the party with him. Told in rhyming verse with rhythmic repeating lines, this story begs to be read aloud.
Ten on the Sled by Kim Norman, illustrated by Liza Woodruff: This goofy book will be loved by any fan of the song "Ten in the Bed." Ten arctic animals are crowded on a sled. As they zip down the hill, each animal tumbles hilariously out until only the goggle-clad Caribou is left. Clever cartoon-like drawings (a walrus in earmuffs!) and deft alliteration make this sleigh ride so much fun that, like a real sleigh ride, you'll want to go again.
Winter is the Warmest Season by Lauren Stringer: Yes, the temperature is plummeting but we shouldn't be cold. This book is a reminder that the frostiest winter night can be toasty inside. All of the things that make the winter warm are beautifully displayed. Down-filled jackets, woolly sweaters and mittens, fuzzy boots, roaring fires, cats on laps and heaps of blankets prove the author's point: Winter really is the warmest season.
Grab these books, some hot chocolate and a blanket or two, and settle in for some cozy, cuddly reading. And remember to visit your library for more books that are perfect for sharing.
A Good Read is a column by Tri-City librarians that is published every Wednesday. Dana Ionson works at Terry Fox Library in Port Coquitlam.
