REVIEW: Crankee Doodle by Tom Angleberger, Illustrated by Cece Bell

Rating: 4/5 Stars
Genre: Picture Book/Humor
Audience: Pre-K–Grade 2

Summary: Crankee Doodle is bored. But when his pony helpfully suggests several possible solutions for the tedium, Crankee is unreceptive and becomes increasingly contrary with each of the pony's ideas.

First Line: "I'm bored."

Tracy's Thoughts: The song "Yankee Doodle" has never made much sense to me, but I absolutely loved singing it as a kid. (Truthfully, it's still kind of fun to sing.) But in this hilarious picture book, the nonsense lyrics take on new life and even get a bit of much needed clarification.

The illustrations are simple, in bold primary (and patriotic) colors. As Crankee becomes increasingly...well, cranky, squiggly, wavy lines are introduced in the background. Other subtle artistic touches add humor—particularly in the last pages, when Crankee and his pony finally make it to town. The highlight here, though, is Angleberger's (the Origami Yoda books) dialog between the cranky Yank and his pony. Crankee's escalating rants grow more and more long-winded and personal until  both characters unravel in complete (and highly hilarious!) meltdowns.This book makes for a great read aloud and will prove particularly relevant for a child in the midst of his own irritable day.

REVIEW: Wait! Wait! by Hatsue Nakawaki and Komako Sakai (Illustrator)

Rating: 5/5 Stars
Genre: Picture Book
Audience: Pre-Kindergarten


Summary: A toddler explores the outside world, chasing after a variety of creatures only to have them escape. Eventually the child is scooped up by dad for the trip home from the park.


First Lines: "Wait! Wait!"

Tracy's Thoughts: Gentle, minimalistic text and delicate acrylic and oil pencil illustrations beautifully capture a child's sense of wonder and growing independence in this quiet picture book originally published in Japan. Simple lines and smudges are used to convey both emotion and movement. The child's facial expressions and movements are perfectly rendered in realistic, subtle detail.Curious children will almost feel the cat slipping from their grasps and will fully relate to the child's startled awe when the pigeons take flight and flap away.

The book's palette is mostly neutrals, with small splashes of color to emphasize flushed cheeks and background details. But the focus throughout is on the toddler, who is at the center of a series of two-page spreads. Dressed in a black and white ensemble of overalls, shirt, and chunky shoes, the child could be either a boy or a girl, adding to the universality of her actions. This is a tender and lovely work which perfectly illustrates a child's curiosity and early interaction with the natural world.

REVIEW: Giant Dance Party by Betsy Bird, Illustrated by Brandon Dorman

Rating: 4/5 Stars
Genre: Picture Book/Humor/Fantasy
Audience: Preschool–Grade 2

Summary: Six-year-old Lexy loves dancing. But every time she tries to perform in front of a crowd, she freezes completely. So she decides to quit and become a teacher. Unfortunately, no one wants to learn from a kid—until a group of fuzzy blue giants turn up at her door looking for dance lessons.

First Line: "One day Lexy decided that when it came to dancing, she was done."

Tracy's Thoughts: 
This highly enjoyable story comes from a well-known children's librarian and blogger, and it's clear she knows her stuff. Bird's action-packed language and Dorman's energetic artwork fairly leap off the page, creating a fantastic read aloud. Vivid, full-color digital art and a likeable, exuberant protagonist will capture the attention of readers, and the humorous text and story will hold it. I was charmed when Lexy refers to herself as an "ice pop" after freezing onstage (anyone want to guess how the giants are described when they too suffer from stage fright?), and laughed out loud when the giants practiced a wide variety of dances, from the chicken dance to krumping. The story nicely weaves together a tale of realistic fears with fantasy elements, and the result is a fun, engaging read that makes Lexy's eventual triumph less pointedly didactic than many other picture books dealing with childhood fears. Even better, the final page leaves room for a follow up title—or so I hope.

REVIEW: The Dark by Lemony Snicket, illustrated by Jon Klassen

Rating: 4/5 Stars
Genre: Picture Book
Audience: Preschool to 2nd Grade

Summary: Laszlo lives in a large house with a creaky roof and several intimidating staircases, but it is the dark that scares him. It hides in corners and comes out at night, but most of all, it lives in the basement. Then one night, the dark comes to Laszlo's room and speaks to him, urging Laszlo to visit the one place he fears most.

First Line: "Laszlo was afraid of the dark."

Tracy's Thoughts: From the moment I first heard of this book, I was psyched. Yes; I'm a grown woman without children excited over a picture book! But it's a collaboration between Lemony Snicket and Jon Klassen! I loved the dark, edgy humor of Klassen's I Want My Hat Back and thought a book by Klassen and Lemony Snicket about a child's fear of the dark would be perfect. And the duo does not disappoint.

This imaginative, suspenseful picture book manages to be both appropriately eerie and oddly comforting (in a Lemony Snicket kind of way!). Here, the dark is a living, breathing entity. As least it is to Laszlo, who sleeps with a flashlight and avoids shadowy corners. Most of the illustrations are deceptively simple two-page spreads depicting the interplay of light and shadow, with solemn little Laszlo looking on warily. The house is austere and barren, giving the dark room to expand. Overall, the muted color scheme and mildly creepy tone of the text compliment one another perfectly. And after Laszlo comes to an understanding of sorts with his nemesis, the ending comes full circle. Only now, instead of watching the creeping shadows with suspicion as the sun sets outside, Laszlo is oblivious to the coming night and plays happily with his toy trucks, his flashlight nowhere in sight.

For a completely different take on nighttime fears, I highly recommend I Need My Monster by Amanda Noll.

FLASH REVIEWS: Dot by Patricia Intiago & Flood by Alvaro Villa

With the reintroduction of Toddler Storytime and Storyhour this week at BCPL, I thought it would be a good idea to explore some recent additions to our children's picture book collection. Here are my thoughts on two titles that recently caught my eye:

Dot by Patricia Intriago
Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
Audience: Preschool–Kindergarten
Genre: Picture Book/Concept Book

This book is a restful and appealing way for young children to explore the concept of opposites. There are occasional splashes of color—such as with the red "Stop dot" and green "Go dot"—but most of the work is in black and white, placing greater emphasis on the simple, side-by-side juxtapositions. For example, one left page shows a a large black dot with concave indentations suggesting a bowling ball. The text labels it as "Heavy dot." On the right-side page are "Light dots," differently sized circles—sketched out in thin black lines drawn with a white center against the white page—all floating near the top of the page to resemble bubbles. For me highlights include the humor-laced images depicting a dot with a bite taken out of it ("This dot is yummy") and its opposite, a similar dot with the removed portion discarded to the side as if spit back out ("This dot tastes bad"). All in all, this is a clever and well designed book that encourages children to explore an important concept and sparks imaginations. The simplicity of the design and the many opportunities for reader interaction are somewhat reminiscent of Hervé Tullet's fabulous Press Here.

Flood by Alvaro F. Villa
Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
Audience: Kindergarten–Grade 2
Genre: Picture Book/Wordless Picture Book

Flood begins with an idyllic two-page painting of two children playing outside with their dog on the water's edge, a lovely cottage looming large in the foreground. But then the clouds roll in, bringing a sense of menace. Interior shots show the family gathering information and discussing the incoming storm before eventually shoring the house up and evacuating. The storm then comes in full force, devastating the land and house despite the precautions taken. A bird perched on a broken branch—perhaps the same bird seen flying overheard in an earlier illustration—seems to be the lone survivor. When the family returns, their grief is clear, but with the help of the community everything is rebuilt, allowing a return to a new idyllic world. Often, the appeal of wordless picture books is lost on me, but this is a gripping story of loss and regeneration featuring beautiful illustrations that skillfully relate the story, no words required. Flood provides many opportunities for children to interpret and discuss the family's emotions, and parents may also want to introduce the subject of persevering after an unexpected loss or setback.

REVIEW: How to Be a Cat by Nikki McClure

Rating: 3/5 Stars
Genre: Picture Book
Audience: Toddler-Preschool

Summary: Using single-word text on each page, Nikki McClure gives the reader a glimpse into what a cat's day might look like.


Lucinda's Views: With its simple text and black, white and blue pictures, this eye-catching picture book is good for younger preschoolers and toddlers, especially if there is a cat in the house. The illustrations are basic, but manage to convey a great deal of action with just the simple, bold line drawings. The actions of the cat could be easily mimicked by young children, which makes this a fun read aloud that would be ideal for active kiddos. A fun read!

A Note from Tracy:
I am sorry to report that this post will be our final review from Lucinda at Book News & Reviews as she has decided to resign from her position here at BCPL. (Unless we can convince her to send us the occasional guest review? :))

Thank you, Lucinda, for all of your contributions here at Book News & Reviews and to BCPL. There would be no Book News & Reviews without your efforts and enthusiasm to get us started. (Check out the new statement in the footer!) I wish you the best of luck in whatever the future brings.

REVIEW: Again! by Emily Gravett

Rating: 4/5 Stars
Genre: Picture Book
Audience: Preschool–Kindergarten

Summary: Again! Again! is the refrain of Cedric the little dragon, whose poor Mommy dragon is trying to get him to go to bed. Mommy dragon reads the story again and again, until she falls asleep and then something surprising happens!

Lucinda's Views: As the mother of a three-year-old girl, I completely identified with this book's premise. How many times have we as parents had to read or repeat an action "Again!" The illustrations of Cedric's patient mother are hillarious as she gets more and more exhausted as the book progresses. Cedric, in spite of his demands, is just an adorable little dragon and preschool children will completely identify with his wish for his mommy to read the story "Again!" The ending has a surprise twist that I won't spoil here, but needless to say, kiddos will enjoy the novelty and the imagination of the ending. A fun read!

DUAL REVIEW: Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin

Lucinda's Rating: 4/5 Stars
Tracy's Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
Genre: Picture Book
Audience: Preschool to 1st grade

Summary: In this cautionary tale for all would-be hosts of parties for dragons, Adam Rubin gives tips for what to feed the guests at your party.  In short:  DRAGONS LOVE TACOS!  However, do not ever feed your guest dragons spicy salsa.  (Dragons hate spicy salsa! It makes them "hot under the collar!")


Lucinda's Views: This cute, imaginative book's title was what really caught my attention. How often do you see the words dragon and tacos in one title?  Exactly....Anyway, with its cute tale of what to feed dragons this book is a humorous read aloud that kids of all ages will enjoy. With its fanciful art and innovative subject matter, this is a book that your kiddos will want you to read again and again.

Tracy's Thoughts: This cute and clever picture book is virtually guaranteed to tickle any young child's fancy. The story revels in its silliness, and the colorful pencil and watercolor artwork is both fabulous and hilarious. Despite an unfortunately abrupt ending (from my point of view, and the primary reason I didn't select it for our Best of 2012 list), this is a fun and cheerful story with a lot of kid appeal.

BEST OF 2012: Children's Picture Books and Early Chapter Books

And BCPL's favorite 2012 books for young children are:

Picture Books (Fiction) 

And Then It's Spring by Julie Fogliano, illus. by Erin Stead
A boy plants a seed in a brown world. And waits. And waits. And then it's spring. A gentle lesson in patience and the cycle of nature. Pre-K–2nd Grade.

Baby Bear Sees Blue by Ashley Wolff
Leaving the den as the weather warms, Baby Bear explores to discover blue birds, red strawberries, orange butterflies, and more. What really makes this book shine are Ashley Wolff's vibrant illustrations, which manage to convey both gentleness and a sense of adventure. Pre-K–Kindergarten.

Bear Has a Story to Tell by Phillip C. Stead, illus. by Erin E. Stead
Bear has a story to tell, but as all his animal friends are busy preparing for winter, will there be anyone to listen? This is a gentle and heartwarming story about friendship and nature, superbly illustrated. Pre-K–1st Grade.

The Bear in the Book by Kate Banks, illus. by Georg Hallensleben
Books and reading are the stars of this picture book, not a bear. The clever structure allows readers to peek in on the intimate process of  a mother and child reading together at bedtime, then offers glimpses into the book they are reading within the story. Pre-K–1st Grade.

Because Amelia Smiled by David Ezra Stein*
It all begins when Amelia smiles. Someone sees her smile and is inspired to do a good deed and so on, and so on. The effects of that one smile cross oceans and then somehow make their way back to Amelia. A lovely concept, and a great jumping off point for a discussion between kids and parents. Pre-K–1st Grade.

Boy and Bot by Ame Dyckman, illus. by Dan Yaccarino*
Despite their differences, a boy and a robot become true and caring companions. This sweet-natured tale is enhanced by charming artwork and humor-inflected dialog. Pre-K–Kindergarten.

Charley's First Night by Amy Hest, illus. by Helen Oxenbury
This tender and warm story chronicles a little boy's first night with his new puppy. A timeless tale, lovingly illustrated and sure to have the kiddos clamoring for puppies of their own. Pre-K–2nd Grade.

Creepy Carrots! by Aaron Reynolds, illus. by Peter Brown*
The carrots growing in Crackenhopper Field are the yummiest around and Jasper Rabbit can't resist grabbing a snack every time he passes by. But then Jasper begins seeing creepy carrots stalking him wherever he goes—even watching him brush h. This is a horror story for the kiddos, with an equal does of humor. Brown's contrasting orange/gray illustrations are fabulous, creating a classic horror movie vibe, and the subtle lesson on greediness won't go amiss. Pre-K–1st Grade.

The Duckling Gets a Cookie!? by Mo Willems
In this fifth book of the beloved Pigeon series, the duckling gets a cookie by asking politely. Meanwhile, Pigeon rants and raves about all the things he has wanted and been denied. This is a wonderfully fun read aloud, which also offers material for a discussion about politeness and making reasonable vs. unreasonable requests. Pre-K–1st Grade.

Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson, illus. by E.B. Lewis*
Quiet yet intense, this story of bullying and remorse is told from the bully's point of view. When her teacher gives the class a lesson on kindness, Chloe realizes the opportunities for kindness she has missed, especially in relation to a classmate she has refused to play with and has made fun of in the past. Some of the depictions of schoolyard bullying are truly striking, and Chloe's regret when she looks back on her actions is almost palpable. Kindergarten–3rd Grade.

Extra Yarn by Mac Barnett, illus. by Job Klassen
After discovering of magical box of yarn that never runs out, Annabelle knits for everyone and everything in town—until an evil archduke decides he wants the box for himself.  Kindergarten–2nd Grade.
Read Lucinda's Review.

Fire! ¡Fuego! Brave Bomberos by Susan Middleton Elya, illus. by Dan Santat*
Rhythmic rhyming text interspersed with Spanish words tell the story of a brave group of firefighters off to battle a blaze. Context clues make it easy to guess the meaning of most of the Spanish words, though a glossary is provided at the end of the book. Santat's bold pencil drawings are vibrant and appealing. Pre-K–1st Grade.

Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs by Mo Willems
When Goldilocks wonders into the home of three dinosaurs, will she be able to escape? Or will the dinosaurs have a tasty treat awaiting them when they return home? This clever fairy tale with a twist will amuse adults and children alike. Pre-K–3rd Grade.

Good News, Bad News by Jeff Mack
While on a picnic, Bunny and Mouse see everything that happens to them from opposite points of view: Bunny sees only the good, while Mouse sees only the bad. The repetitive, rapid-fire call-and-response text makes it a great read aloud, but this also works well for independent readers. Pre-K–1st Grade.

The Hero of Little Street by Gregory Rogers*
This wordless picture book follows a boy's escape from bullies into a museum, into a series of paintings, and back out again—with reinforcements to take on his tormentors. It's a grand adventure, presented in graphic novel format. The art is rich with nuance and humor, providing a clear and detailed story despite the lack of words. Book three in the Boy, Bear series. Kindergarten–3rd Grade.

A Home for Bird by Phillip C. Stead
 Sweetness and gentle humor punctuate this tale of a frog who meets a bird who seems sad and doesn't talk, then becomes determined to help the bird finds his home and be happy. A lovely book about kindness and perseverance. Pre-K–1st Grade.

Kel Gilligan's Daredevil Stunt Show by Michael Buckley, illus. by Dan Santat*
A daring preschooler invites readers to watch as he performs such daring stunts as eating broccoli, dressing himself, and going to bed without checking for monsters. As always, Santat's illustrations are rife with humor bold as can be—just like Kel Gilligan. We dare you not to laugh! Pre-K–1st Grade.

King Arthur's Very Great Grandson by Kenneth Kraegel
On his sixth Henry Alfred Grummorson, sets off in search of adventure, hoping to follow in the footsteps of his great-great-great-great-great-great-great grandfather, King Arthur. This picture book has the feel of a classic, with it's timeless illustrations, and provides ample discussion material on themes of bravery, aggression, and friendship. Pre-K–2nd Grade.

Lemonade in Winter: A Book About Kids Counting Money
by Emily Jenkins, illus. by G. Brian Karas
It may be winter, but Pauline is determined to set up a lemonade stand and her brother John-John is happy to help. This is a lovely and entertaining book about money, the entrepreneurial spirit,  and sibling relationships. As Pauline teaches her little brother to count change, she also provides a lesson to the reader. Pre-K–3rd Grade.

Magritte's Marvelous Hat by D.B. Johnson*
This unusual, surrealist-inspired picture book issue to inspire imagination and creativity as readers explore a world with Magritte and his hat where ordinary objects become extraordinary. Kindergarten–4th Grade.

Nighttime Ninja by Barbara DaCosta, illus. by Ed Young
Stealthily and oh-so-quietly, the ninja creeps through the house on a late-night mission. It's a deadly serious journey—until the lights go on and the secret mission is revealed. DaCostsa's spare, elegantly crafted text and Young's expressive collage artwork bring life to a young boy's fantasy. Pre-K–1st Grade.

Nothing Ever Happens at the South Pole by Stan and Jan Berenstain
When a little penguin receives a blank book in the mail he is eager to fill it up with exciting things, but while he is seeking adventure he misses the action right before his eyes. Pre-K–2nd Grade.

Oh, No! by Candace Fleming, illus. by Eric Rohmann*
A tiger stalks its prey hungrily through a bamboo forest, while accident-prone forest creatures have close escapes and take turns rescuing one another.  The woodblock artwork is wonderfully expressive, and lots of repetition and silly sounds make it natural read aloud material. Pre-K–1st Grade.

Oh No! Not Again!: (Or How I Built a Time Machine to Save History) (Or at Least My History Grade) by Mac Barnett, illus. by Dan Santat*

Some kids are too smart for their own good...and maybe for everybody else's good too. The overly ambitious little girl from Oh No! is back; this time, she has a problem of historic proportions on her hands. She got a wrong answer on her history quiz! The only thing to do now is to build a time machine and travel back in time to make her wrong answer right! This is a hilarious adventure, from the construction of the time machine (among the parts: an original Nintendo game controller), to the search for the correct time period to the unforeseen consequences of the journey. Kindergarten–3rd Grade.

Olivia and the Fairy Princess by Ian Falconer
In the seventh Olivia book, the funny, strong-willed piglet is having an identity crisis or sorts. Pre-K–2nd Grade.

Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons by Eric Litwin, illus. by James Dean
In this third installment of the Pete the Cat series, Pete loves the buttons on his shirt so much that he makes up a song about them, and even as the buttons pop off, one by one, he still finds a reason to sing. Pre-K–1st Grade.

The Pirates Next Door by Jonny Duddle*
Nothing interesting ever happens in the boring town of Dull-on-Sea—until a pirate family moves into town. Despite the suspicion of her parents and neighbors, Miranda can't wait to befriend her new neighbors. Told in buoyant, comic rhyming text with just the right amount of absurdity mixed in, this is a jolly fun tale. Pre-K–2nd Grade.

Stay Close to Mama by Toni Buzzeo, illus. by Mike Wohnoutka
A curious baby giraffe wanders away from his mother to explore the interesting sights and smells of the savanna. Includes a note on giraffes. Pre-K–Kindergarten.

Sky Color by Peter H. Reynolds
Marisol is an artist. When her class learns that they will work together to create a mural, Marisol want to be in chrge of the sky. But there is no blue paint. What will she do? This is a gorgeously illustrated, whimsical book about problem solving, artistic expression, and the power of imagination. Pre-K–2nd Grade.

This Is Not My Hat by Jon Klassen
Yet another hat is stolen in Klassen's latest solo effort—and yet this time around, we see things from the point of view of the thief, who rationalizes his thievery and is confident in his escape. Clever reader will notice the hints that getting away with it may not be so easy after all.. Sly and suspenseful, with plenty of ironic humor, the text and illustrations combine perfectly for another winner. Pre-K–1st Grade.

Z Is for Moose by Kelly Bingham, illus. by Paul O. Zelinsky
This is not your average ABC picture book. When Zebra gathers the animals together to create a picture book, Moose simply cannot wait for his turn. So he tries to insert himself a bit early in the roster only to be forcibly removed. But when it's finally time for "M," Zebra chooses someone else to represent the letter. That's when things get really crazy. Delightfully silly humor makes this one a sure-fire hit. Pre-K–1st Grade.

Picture Books (Nonfiction)

The Fantastic Jungles of Henri Rousseau by Michelle Markel, illus. by Amanda Hall*
This charming child's biography of painter Henri Rousseau explores the late-life's painter's many rejections before he was hailed a a great artist. Bright, gorgeous illustrations create a fanciful world, from Henri's jungles to the galleries where his work is eventually displayed. Pre-K–3rd Grade.

Green by Laura Vaccaro Seeger*
This concept book explores a variety of shades of the color green before delving into more abstract ideas. Simple rhyming text and clever die-cuts create texture. Pre-K–1st Grade.

Here Come the Girl Scouts! by Shana Corey, illus. by Hadley Hooper
This fresh and lively picture book explores the unconventional life of Girl Scouts founder Juliet (Daisy) Gordon and the establishment of the organization in 1912. Mixed media art and a plenitude of Girl Scout creeds enhance the story and provide an authentic, crafty feel in keeping with the subject. Kindergarten–2nd Grade.

How Things Work in the House by Lisa Campbell Ernst*
From cats to popcorn to plumbing, Lisa Campbell Ernst explains simply and clearly how a variety of household objects "work." In addition, she provides interesting facts and even a few projects to undertake (with a responsible adult, when appropriate). The collage art is wonderfully balanced and fully illustrates the text. Kindergarten–3rd Grade.

I Have a Dream by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., illus. by Kadir Nelson
An abbreviated version of King's iconic speech provides the text for Nelson's fabulous paintings. Together, the unforgettable words and perfectly done illustrations inspire and captivate. As a bonus, the entirety of King's speech is printed in the back, and the book comes packaged with a CD recording of King himself delivering the speech. All ages.

Island by Jason Chin*
This visual tribute to the evolving terrain and animals of the Galapagos Islands perfectly simplifies a complex subject and presents it is a balanced and entertaining format. Pre-K–5th Grade.

Beginning Reader/Early Chapter Books

Bink and Gollie: Two for One by Kate DiCamillo and Alison McGhee, illus. by Tony Fucile*
This early reader/picture book hybrid—the second in the Bink and Gollie series—includes three short stories within a larger tale. This time out Bink and Gollie are at the Sate Fair, and their friendship is as steadfast as ever. These two opposites know each other inside and out, and their loyalty is unquestioned. Fucile's illustrations is brimming with humor, and the vocabulary is rich yet approachable. Kindergarten–2nd Grade.

Penny and Her Doll by Kevin Henkes
This feel-goo beginning reader tells the story of Penny and her search for the perfect name for her new doll. Penny's voice is authentic, and according to a School Library Journal reviewer, "[the] sight words and repetition are perfect for emerging readers." Kindergarten–1st Grade.

Sadie and Ratz by Sonya Hartnett, illus. by Ann James
Hannah frequently gets in trouble. Or, more specifically, it is her hands—whom she has named Sadie and Ratz—that cause all the trouble. Sadie and Ratz especially love tormenting Hannah's younger brother, Baby Boy. But then bad things start happening when Sadie and Ratz aren't around, but Hannah is still getting in trouble. This humor-laced early reader has a bit more edge than the usual beginning reader books, but despite her troublemaking—and occasionally violent ways—Hannah is a sympathetic character. Hartnett's themes of imagination and sibling rivalry receive realistic and original treatment. Kindergarten–3rd Grade.

*Library copies for some titles are not yet available for checkout.

FLASH(back) REVIEWS: '80s Picture Books

As we wrap up our Awesome 80s month here at BCPL, I thought it might be fun to take a look back at some of the best picture books from the 1980s. How many of these titles do you remember fondly? Which do your children or grandchildren still love today?

The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch, illus. by Michael Martchenko
Year: 1980
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Genre: Picture Book– Fairy Tale/Humor
After a dragon burns down the castle and kidnaps her fiancé, Princess Elizabeth is slightly singed and has nothing to wear but a paper bag. But Elizabeth doesn't let the loss of her finery stall her for long as she intrepidly goes off to rescue her Prince, armed with nothing but her wits. This is a quick, lighthearted read with plenty of humor and a twist at the end. The drawings—especially the characters' expressions—perfectly reflect the text. This is a great book for teaching resourcefulness and independence. Budding young feminists (and their like-minded parents) will love it. Ages 3 to 5.

Doctor De Soto by William Steig
Year: 1982
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Genre: Picture Book– Humor
Doctor De Soto will make a great story to build up a child's courage before a dreaded dentist visit. Dr. De Soto is a very dedicated mouse-dentist in a world where animals act as humans.They drive cars, push baby strollers down the road, and visit a mouse-dentist for their toothaches. Of course, Dr. De Soto wisely refuses to treat animals—such as cats!—that might be tempted to eat him. That is, until the day a fox, in tears from the pain, begs Dr. DeSoto for his help. The story is slyly humorous and engaging from beginning to end. The kiddos will be fascinated by the ludicrous size discrepancies: Dr. De Soto uses a ladder to treat large animals and a pulley, operated by his wife/assistant, is necessary to reach the extra-large ones. He even climbs inside their mouths, "wearing rubbers to keep his feet dry" and is able to do such delicate work that his patients "hardly feel any pain."  Subtle visual cues, like the separate large and small staircases outside the office, keep the size theme running throughout. And of course there is plenty of amusement to be derived from Mr. Fox's guilty desire to snack on his dentist and the De Sotos' clever plan to outfox the Fox. This is one of the shortest books (32 pages) ever to be named a Newbery Honor Book; it also shared the 1983 National Book Award for Children's Books with Barbara Cooney's Miss Rumphius. Ages 4 to 7.

King Bidgood's in the Bathtub by Audrey Wood, illus. by Don Wood
Year: 1985
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Genre: Picture Book– Humor
King Bidgood apparently loves a good bath, and instead of dealing with the business of the kingdom, he decides to hold all his meetings and events in the bathtub. Meanwhile, various members of the court are attempting to persuade him to come out. I had a huge smile on my face all the way through this one, beginning with the copyright and dedication pages, which shows a young page lugging a large, leaking cask of water up the winding castle stairs. The story is delightfully silly, and the illustrations are amazing, with plenty of little details to linger over. There is the Duke baiting a hook with a wiggling worm while fish watch eagerly; the page always pictured off to the side, watching and cleaning up after the court's antics; and, of course, the members of the court, clad in elaborate Elizabethan dress, emerging drenched and dripping from their failed attempts to lure the King from his bath. Unsurprisingly, this delightful book was a 1986 Caldecott Honor book, losing out only to the much loved book The Polar Express.



More Great Picture Books from the '80s:
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr and John Arachambault, illus. by Lois Ehlert (1989)
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff  (1985)
Jumanji by Chris Van Allsburg (1981)
Lon Po Po: A Red-Riding Hood Story from China by Ed Young (1989)
Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney (1982)
The Mitten by Jan Brett (1989)
The Mysteries of Harris Burdick (1984)The Napping House by Audrey Wood (1984)
Owl Moon by Jane Yolen, illus. by John Schoenherr (1987)
The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg  (1985)
The Relatives Came by Cynthia Rylant, illus. by Stephen Gammell (1985)
The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scietzka (1989)
The Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle (1984)
Where's Spot? by Eric Hill (1980) 
Where's Waldo? by Martin Handford (1987)

What's your favorite '80s picture book? Did I leave your personal favorite off the list?