Children’s Book Blog: May 2026

Happy Mother's Day!

This Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 10, 2026), we’re celebrating the many ways maternal love shows up with a collection of picture books that are funny, heartfelt, and deeply relatable for kids and grown-ups.

On paper, the primary audience of picture books is roughly children aged 3-8 years old (preschool to early elementary). I have always argued, though, that picture books are for EVERY AGE.  In this blogs case, these picture books are for MOMS. These books made me feel seen, validated and filled with love/pride. I hope they have the same affect on you, momma! 

 


Grumpy Monkey Mom for a Day by Suzanne Land & Max Lang

Jim Panzee thinks being a mom looks easy—until he tries it. Taking care of a whole group of babies quickly becomes overwhelming, showing just how much effort motherhood really takes.

Unexpectantly, Joanna and Connor really took the message to heart here. I received big hugs after we finished reading.  If that’s not a good picture book, I don’t know what is! 

Mother Bruce by Ryan T. Higgins

Bruce is a grumpy bear who just wants to cook eggs—but when they hatch, the goslings decide he’s their mother. What follows is a hilarious and surprisingly tender look at parenthood. 

If you’re looking for laughs, this one delivers. The kids and I giggle every time we read it. The attention to detail in the illustrations and story really ramp up the humor. 

Higgins does continue Bruce’s series but, in my humble opinion, Mother Bruce (being the first) is the best. 

Owl Babies by Martin Waddell & Patrick Benson

A classic for a reason!

Three baby owls wake to find their mother gone and worry until she returns. This reassuring story captures a universal childhood fear (for humans and owls) of mother leaving and the relief of her return.

Owl Babies, even as my kids get older, remains a favorite in our household.  They reach for it for the same reason they reach for me – comfort.  

Shaped by Love: An Ode to Mom Bods by Nikki Powers & Amanda Calatzis

While I do think the body positivity message is wonderful for children, too – this one is really for the moms. 

Any mom who has stared at a body she doesn’t recognize…and maybe even dislikes. 

It’s an ode to mom bods but also to the physical and emotional connection between a mom and her child(ren). I smiled triumphantly after reading it. 

Because of a Shoe by Julie Fogliano & Marla Frazee

All moms have been there. The seemingly unwarranted tantrum of a toddler followed by the explosion of frustration from mom proceeded by the guilt, repair and unwavering love.  

This book is so relatable – for both mother and child who have undoubtedly experienced this exact scenario.  

I just love it. Of all the mother’s day books – this is my favorite. 

 

A note on this blog: Michelle Milford is the Office & Marketing Manager at Town Hall Library.  She has two young children – Joanna (8) and Connor (6).  All three have a deep love of books and voracious appetites for reading.  Here they’ll share their monthly book recommendations.

Children’s Book Blog: April 2026

Earth Day!

Earth Day is April 22, 2026. 

“Environmental progress is built through everyday action—from communities protecting ecosystems to innovators advancing solutions. Clean air, safe water, and climate resilience aren’t optional—they’re essential. For Earth Day 2026, we’re mobilizing at scale. Every action counts. Every voice matters.” -from earthday.org 

Here are a few standout titles that encourage kids to appreciate—and protect—our one and only home. Titles that prove every action counts and every voice matters.

Bonus: Three of these titles are brand new to our shelves (as of April 2026). 


Black Beach by Shaunna & John Smith and Maribel Lechuga

For a blog on Earth Day, we had to start with an origin story! Black Beach tells the story of the 1969 Santa Barbara oil spill, which prompted the creation of Earth Day. 

I love when nonfiction children’s literature is presented in a storytelling format – it makes it really accessible.  Black Beach is engaging and educational for kids and adults alike.

Joanna and Connor liked the end page about how to become environmental activists – proud of what they are already doing and excited to take additional actions on the list. 

Bothered By Bugs by Emily Gravett

Introducing a new favorite in our house! I hadn’t even started reading and Connor exclaimed, “I like this book!”; that’s how amazing the illustrations are! Colorful, detailed and whimsical. 

While the art initially steals the show, the rhyming story is beautifully done, too. A group of animals, once bothered by bugs, quickly learns how important they are. 

A great reminder that all life is connected and deserves a place on Earth!

What A Waste by Jess French

This book is not a waste – it’s a gem! 

This is a nonfiction book even adults should read.  Packed with eye-opening facts and bold visuals, What A Waste breaks down the global problems of waste, pollution, and more. From plastic in our oceans to overflowing landfills, it explains what’s happening—and, more importantly, what we can do to help. 

I will note that I personally get dispirited when I read about this topic; it feels so out of control and daunting. But, this is a great pick for empowering kids (and adults!) with real-world knowledge and practical solutions.  

If This Were The World by Stephen Barr and AG Ford

With fairness and stewardship at the forefront, this thought-provoking book helps kids understand big concepts by scaling the world down into relatable comparisons. 

‘With every world they dismiss, the kids figure out more about what kind of world they want. Maybe there really is only one world that gives us everything we need – but it needs a few things from us, too.’ 

However, even if the important message goes right over your child’s head, it is a FUN book with ‘kids experimenting, clashing and chasing their imaginations.’ 

The Great Bear by Annie Booker

Since the dawn of time, the Great Bear has patrolled the oceans, protecting the Earth and her animals and overseeing the delicate balance of life. But now, one creature is changing everything.  Spoiler alert: the creature is us – humans. 

Written like a classic folklore, The Great Bear gently explores environmental responsibility and conservation themes. 

 

 

A note on this blog: Michelle Milford is the Office & Marketing Manager at Town Hall Library.  She has two young children – Joanna (8) and Connor (6).  All three have a deep love of books and voracious appetites for reading.  Here they’ll share their monthly book recommendations.

Children’s Book Blog: March 2026

Seeing Things Differently

Perspective is a powerful concept for kids to explore (and adults to revisit!) — it builds empathy, curiosity, and critical thinking. Books help young readers discover that there’s often more than one way to see a situation – an important life skill at any age.

The following picture books play with point of view in clever, funny, and thought-provoking ways. Whether it’s a misunderstood character, a physical point of view shift, or multiple interpretations of the same object, each story invites readers to look again… and see something different. 

After reading, ask:

  • Who saw things differently in this story?

  • Why did they see it that way?

  • Have you ever experienced something like that?

You might be surprised by the thoughtful conversations that follow.


Ursula Upside Down by Corey R. Tabor

What a clever book!

Ursula is based on a real species of catfish that swims upside down – the appropriately named upside-down catfish. 

Children will love turning the book upside down and back again as they follow Ursula’s humorous journey to self-discovery.

It’s funny, engaging (physically!), and perfect for introducing the idea that what we experience may not match someone else’s reality.

If you like this style, I highly recommend Tabor’s other book Mel Fell, too.

The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs! by Jon Scieszka & Lane Smith

What if the Big Bad Wolf wasn’t as bad as we were led to believe? Is a predator bad for following its natural diet? 😂  Told from the wolf’s point of view, this familiar classic is turned on its head. 

This book is a fantastic intro into unreliable narrators (one of my favorite tropes!), bias, and how stories change depending on who tells them.

I have always disliked how wolves are continually depicted as villains so naturally I prefer this version – I hope you love it, too!

The Wall in the Middle of the Book of Jon Agee

Another very clever book! 

A knight confidently declares that the wall in the middle of the book keeps him safe from danger on the other side. But as the story unfolds, readers begin to notice things the knight doesn’t. Like Ursula Upside Down, the physical layout of the book becomes part of the storytelling, reinforcing the theme that assumptions don’t always match reality. It encourages kids to notice details and recognize that perspectives can be incomplete.

A Stone Sat Still by Brendan Wenzel

“Michelle, what’s your favorite picture book of all time?” 
“Easy: A Stone Sat Still by Brendan Wenzel” 

That’s the truth. Every illustration is a beautiful wonder. It is quiet and contemplative yet whimsical and rhythmic too.

It can be interrupted from so many different philosophical lenses. For this blog, it’s all about perspective. Is the stone a pebble or a mountain? A danger or safe haven? A resting place or a kitchen? It depends entirely on the animal’s perspective.

Inside Cat by Brendan Wenzel

Brendan Wenzel is one of my favorite children’s book authors and illustrators so he earned two spots in this blog! It could have easily been three because They All Saw A Cat is a classic on perspective. 

I picked Inside Cat though because inside cat is just so charming. Filled with imagination and wonder, readers of all ages will love discovering what inside cat “knows”. 

Other perspective-related favorites include: 

 

A note on this blog: Michelle Milford is the Office & Marketing Manager at Town Hall Library.  She has two young children – Joanna (7) and Connor (5).  All three have a deep love of books and voracious appetites for reading.  Here they’ll share their monthly book recommendations.

Children’s Book Blog: February 2026

National Library Lovers' Month

February isn’t just a month for chocolate hearts and valentines – it’s for libraries, too!

National Library Lovers’ Month is celebrated throughout February, a time dedicated to showing appreciation for libraries, librarians, library patrons and books.  Libraries provide vital community resources, going beyond just borrowing books to include digital access, educational programs, and community gathering spaces. 

We’re recommending books that highlight the wonder of libraries and the characters (just like you!) who can’t resist their charm.

Bats at the Library by Brian Lies

Libraries are for everyone – even nocturnal patrons! 

When a window is left open, the bats seize the opportunity to enjoy all the the library has to offer. 

Bats are a really misunderstood creature – often feared unnecessarily. I love that this book showcases them in a playful (and well-read) light.   

Joanna and Connor enjoyed the rhyming text and detailed illustrations – searching for all the fun things the bats were up to in the library. 

The Loud Librarian by Jenna Beatrice and Erika Lynne Jones

This joyful story reminds readers that libraries are places for curiosity, creativity, and being yourself. Penelope, our empowered and loud main character, doesn’t need to sacrifice who she is to solve her problem. 

Think libraries are too quiet? Think, again! Libraries have evolved over the years. There’s a lot less “shhhh!”. Sure, there’s still quiet spaces but Town Hall Library has spaces to be loud, too.  

The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce

Quoting Adam Kampe of the National Endowment for the Arts: “The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore is something of a publishing miracle. What began as a book evolved into an animated short film (that won an Oscar in 2012, mind you), then morphed into a state-of-the-art app, and only then, after all that complicated technical magic, did the original concept—the book—enter the world as a physical object.” 

With a journey like that, you know this book is, as the cover implies, FANTASTIC. 

The Not So Quiet Library by Zachariah Ohora

The Not So Quiet Library is a crowd pleaser. It’s bursting with color and humor – perfect for all ages. 

The monster making noise in the library has 5 heads – each with their own personalities and funny commentary.  

Everyone, even monsters, can enjoy reading. 

 

A Library Book for Bear by Bonny Becker and Kady MacDonald Denton

In A Library Book for Bear, a determined mouse works hard to convince a ‘stuck in his ways’ bear to become a library user. 

This story might be familiar to you! Some of the most important people in my life are still reluctant to use library systems (gasp!). So, this one is for all the library lovers diligently working to introduce more folks to the wonder of libraries! 

 

A note on this blog: Michelle Milford is the Office & Marketing Manager at Town Hall Library.  She has two young children – Joanna (7) and Connor (5).  All three have a deep love of books and voracious appetites for reading.  Here they’ll share their monthly book recommendations.

Children’s Book Blog: January 2026

Foxes!

Why foxes? Unlike many animals that hunker down, foxes are active all winter long. 

Foxes have inspired countless stories and fables. They appear across cultures as symbols of adaptability and intuition. Some mythologies see them as guides. I thought these sentiments were helpful as many of us struggle to thrive during the winter months. 

Plus, they are cute critters – and cute critters are always popular with kids. 😉 

– Michelle 

A Warm Winter Tail by Carrie Pearson & Christina Wald

Of the fox featuring books listed, this is Joanna and Connor’s favorite. 

Twisting perspective, animals question how humans stay warm in the winter. Do they use the same adaptation strategies that they do? 

The rhyming text and clever illustrations of children with turtle shells and fox tails are cute and humorous. And it’s educational! What more could you ask for? 

Winter Dance by Marion Dane Bauer and Richard Jones

Similar to A Warm Winter Tail, Winter Dance explores animal adaptions in surviving cold winters.  

This one is a bit more whimsical while still being educational. However, the ending might confuse some readers so I’ll clarify here: Foxes do “dance”! Their winter dance is referring to their hunting technique and mating displays. Read this book and then look up videos of foxes ‘dancing’! 

Little Fox by Edward Van De Vendel & Marije Tolman 

In 2020, Kirkus Reviews awarded Little Fox Best Picture Book, praising its ‘beautiful, fully realized dreamscape” and tender story of a young fox’s adventures and dreams. 

Marije Tolman’s unique mixed-media illustrations are incredible. Using photos she took of Dutch dunes and woods, she created risograph prints (similar to screen printing). Then, she drew on them in gouache, watercolor, acrylic, colored pencil, pen, ink and chalk. Cool, huh? 

Fox versus Fox by Corey R. Tabor

Have an emerging reader in your house? Corey Tabor’s “Fox” books are a must! 

From the publisher’s website: “Carefully crafted using basic language, word repetition, sight words, and whimsical illustrations, Fox versus Fox is ideal for sharing with your emergent reader. The active, engaging My First I Can Read stories have appealing plots and lovable characters, encouraging children to continue their reading journey.” 

^^ I wholeheartedly agree with their marketing! 

Shibu’s Tail by Tess Thomas & Kamwei Fong

I know, I know. Shibu is NOT a fox; Shibu is a cat.  But, Shibu has a fox-like tail and I simply couldn’t wait to share Shibu’s Tail with you. I predict this newly published (2025) book will become a beloved classic in no time.

Shibu has BIG feelings.  Shibu’s tail expresses those big feelings. Shibu helps readers (young and old!) learn that feelings – “good” and “bad” – are best when shared. 

 

A note on this blog: Michelle Milford is the Office & Marketing Manager at Town Hall Library.  She has two young children – Joanna (7) and Connor (5).  All three have a deep love of books and voracious appetites for reading.  Here they’ll share their monthly book recommendations.

Children’s Book Blog: December 2025

The Long Night Moon

December’s full moon will be the Cold Moon occurring on Thursday, December 4, 2025. This is also known as the Long Night Moon because it happens near the winter solstice, the longest night of the year. 

The December full Moon is also a supermoon, the third in a series of three consecutive supermoons at the end of 2025 (October, November, December). A supermoon occurs when the Moon is at its closest point to Earth in its orbit. Rising brighter and slightly larger than usual, it lights up the long winter night.

All that shared, it felt fitting to use our December children’s book picks to highlight our wonderous moon. One of my family’s favorite winter traditions is to go for a full moon hike (bonus if there’s snow!) and cuddle up for a story and hot cocoa after. 

– Michelle 

Kitten’s First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes

Joanna, Connor and I all love Kitten’s First Full Moon. It’s a simple, yet charming and humorous, story of a kitten who mistakes the moon for a bowl of milk. 

While it’s intended readership skews to the youngest, it’s storytelling at its finest– so I encourage everyone to give it a try! 

Illustrated in greyscale with bold outlining and endearing facial expression from Kitten, Kitten’s First Full Moon was 2005 Caldecott Medal winner. Published in 2004, this one is a timeless classic. 

When the Moon Comes by Paul Harbridge and Matt James

Hockey fans – this one is for you! 

Evocative and atmospheric, this beautifully illustrated story follows a group of children waiting for the perfect winter night when the ice is ready for moonlit hockey. It’s a peaceful and nostalgic celebration of community, anticipation, and the magic of winter evenings.

This book took me back in time – watching my older brothers play pond hockey – and makes me want to get the kids on the ice. 

New to our shelves as of Nov. 2025.  

Mending the Moon by Emma Pearl and Sara Ugolotti

When the moon accidentally breaks, it’s up to a brave girl, her father and their forest friends to help put it back together. Mending the Moon celebrates creativity, teamwork, and the power of believing that anything is possible—even fixing the moon itself. 

It is great introduction to traditional folklore. In many folklore tales, questions about natural phenomena are answered.  Here we get the whimsical answer to “Why does the moon look the way it does?”

Owl Moon by Jane Yolen

A timeless winter classic, Owl Moon invites readers into the quiet woods as a child and father go owling on a snowy night. It’s a tender story about patience, courage, and the bond between parent and child. 

This book evokes everything I feel when we embark on our own moonlit hikes (mentioned above): calm, peace, wonder, hope, togetherness. Everything the holiday season should bring. 

“The kind of hope that flies on silent wings under a shining Owl Moon.”

The Full Moon at the Napping House by Audrey & Don Wood

A full moon is keeping everyone in the napping house awake! Soft rhythms, dreamy illustrations and building text make this a perfect bedtime read for “not so sleepy” kiddos. 

We didn’t feature any holiday books on our December list so this is my nod to the restlessness of Christmas Eve! Plus, Town Hall Library has a signed copy! 

 

 

A note on this blog: Michelle Milford is the Office & Marketing Manager at Town Hall Library.  She has two young children – Joanna (7) and Connor (5).  All three have a deep love of books and voracious appetites for reading.  Here they’ll share their monthly book recommendations.

Children’s Book Blog: November 2025

Trees!

Typing this on November 1, 2025: the trees in our community are at peak fall color and the ground is blanketed with an assorted of warm colors. It is absolutely gorgeous…and fun! Leaf piles transformed our backyard into a stunt course for my 7 and 5 year old.  Cushioned by the colorful piles, they  jumped, dove and hid all weekend.  

 It is through this lens that I am so thankful for the changing of seasons in Wisconsin.  And so, November’s children’s book blog is about trees and all they share with us! 

– Michelle 

Pro parenting tip: skip the manual labor and use a leaf blower to make your leaf piles! 😉 

Otto and the Story Tree by Vivien Mildenberger

Otto and the Story Tree is about growth, connection and the magic of storytelling.  

The kids and I stumbled upon this darling book while gift shopping at our local bookstore.  I knew immediately that, not only did I need it on my shelf but, the Library needed it on theirs.  At my recommendation, our children’s department added it right away. 

Milderberger’s illustrations are absolutely stunning – adding so much depth to the charming story of an old bird who tells stories to a seed. 

 

Nell Plants a Tree by Anne Wynter & Daniel Miyares

Nell Plants a Tree was published in 2023; I’m disappointed it took us 2 years to discover this gem! 

Told in lyrical verse, this beautiful story weaves together generations. It shows how one small act—planting a tree—grows into a family legacy. It’s a heartfelt reminder that the seeds we plant today nurture the future.

It’s also an ode to trees. The wonder they bring, the play they inspire, and the gifts they share. 

This one has secured a spot in my all time favorite picture books. 

The Busy Tree by Jennifer Ward & Lisa Falkenstern

For good reason, The Busy Tree is a staple in many classroom. 

This rhyming picture book introduces the many creatures that call a tree home. Perfect for read-alouds, it encourages curiosity about nature’s interconnectedness. 

It’s a good reminder to everyone how crucial trees are to our world.  They sustain, provide and nourish so many creatures – including us! 

Little Tree by Loren Long

Cue the tears! 

Little Tree tells the story of a tree who clings tightly to his leaves while the forest around him moves on. It’s a tender tale about embracing change and letting go.

This book is applicable to so many seasons of life. It reminded me of a video clip I saw recently: 
Interviewer: “What’s the best part of being a parent?”
Interviewee: “Watching them grow up.”
Interviewer: ” And the worst part?”
Interviewee: “Watching them grow up.”

When Tree Became a Tree by Rob Hodgson

Shouting it from the tallest tree: Nonfiction children’s books can be fun, too (even for little ones)! In fact, research shows that young readers enjoy nonfiction books just as much as, if not more than, fiction books. 

Kids love stories, but they are also incredibly curious about their world. 

So, here’s a great example of a fun nonfiction read! When Tree Became a Tree follows an apple tree’s life cycle, using humor and whimsical art to explore scientific concepts in an approachable way.

 

A note on this blog: Michelle Milford is the Office & Marketing Manager at Town Hall Library.  She has two young children – Joanna (7) and Connor (5).  All three have a deep love of books and voracious appetites for reading.  Here they’ll share their monthly book recommendations.

Children’s Book Blog: October 2025

Spooky Season is Back!

It’s officially spooky season! From loyal ghostly pets to party planning witches and a bear who discover that independence isn’t always what it seems, these Halloween characters capture the fun of the season without sending little ones running for the covers (no nightmares, I promise!). 

October’s children’s book recommendations have spooky vibes but are still very accessible to all ages (and scare levels!). 

– Michelle 

Bone Dog by Eric Rohmann

Cue the tears – at least for us whose beloved canine family member is getting older…and weaker each day. 

Bone Dog balances grief and comfort beautifully—loss is acknowledged, but the love between Gus and Ella transcends even death. 

It’s a great Halloween read for spooky fun without being overly frightening. The skeletons, while they do try to eat Gus, are illustrated in a friendly manner. 

Beanie the Bansheenie by Eoin Colfer and Steve McCarthy

In Irish folklore, banshees are spirits who foretell death. In this tale, young banshees are “bansheenies,” who bond to a human. Beanie is one such bansheenie, meant to be paired with a girl named Rose. But things don’t go as expected— and Beanie discovers a different path for her and Rose.

As folklore fans, we all LOVE this book about friendship and breaking the mold. 

Given it’s length and slightly darker fairy-tale elements, it might be better for ages 5+. 

Grizelda the Green Hates Halloween by A.A. Livington and Katya Longhi 

A witch who doesn’t like Halloween?! Meet Grizelda the Green! 

Grizelda is the Halloween version of the Grinch. She tries to ruin Halloween but a group of kids endless optimism, enthusiasm, kindness and acceptance change her mind. 

The rhyming text is bouncy and playful, making it especially good for read-alouds. The illustrations are bright and whimsical, making it a great Halloween choice for younger kids.

*This is a new book to our shelves as of fall 2025. 

Luna and the Witch Throw a Halloween Party by Dan Murphy, Aubrey Plaza & Hannah Peck 

Another great book that keeps a playful Halloween mood without being too spooky. 

When she meets Pheenie, a witch whose Halloween parties always flop, Luna proposes a deal: she’ll help Pheenie plan the best Halloween party ever, and in return, Pheenie will teach her magic.

As a parent, I really liked the themes of ambition, open-mindedness and cooperation. Luna and the witch both have knowledge and insights to share with each other – just like children and adults. 

*This is a new book to our shelves as of fall 2025. 

Little Bear’s Big House by Benjamin Chaud 

Like the house, this book is BIG.  It sticks out awkwardly on our shelves. And that’s one of the reasons kids love it! 

With so much page space to work with, Chaud’s art is full of detail. Kids can spend a long time observing all the animals, rooms, curious objects and more. It’s a great book for an impromptu game of eye spy. 

If you like this one, our shelf does have more big book adventures featuring Chaud’s bear family. 

 

A note on this blog: Michelle Milford is the Office & Marketing Manager at Town Hall Library.  She has two young children – Joanna (7) and Connor (5).  All three have a deep love of books and voracious appetites for reading.  Here they’ll share their monthly book recommendations.

Children’s Book Blog: September 2025

Reminders for Back to School

Heading back to school is an exciting time! But, it can also be a source of anxiety and uncertainty.  For September, we selected books with universally uplifting messages on kindness, individuality, empathy and leadership.  

At the end of an exhausting school day, reset and connect as a family with these reads:

The Boy and The Shells by Erik Richter

This book begins with the age-old playground question “who is your best friend?”. Having a best friend is wonderful until you are asked to pick just one…excluding your other friends. 

Richter ‘highlights the value of individuality and differences and the importance of each friendship within the reader’s own life.’ THAT is a message worth sharing with every back-to-schooler. 

The Day The Book Disappeared by Dan Santat

Per usual, if Dan Santat illustrated it, I’m reading it.  In Santat’s signature style, the author’s timely story comes to life. 

Arnold, who only reads books about airplanes, accidently makes every other classmate’s books disappear. Close-mindedly, he is excited about this. But, Arnold discovers that we don’t all have to like the same thing. 

It’s a celebration of choice, diversity, and empathy. 

We Are Definitely Human by X. Fang 

Three ‘definitely human’ creatures (ha!) crash their ‘car’ in Mr. Li’s field. Mr Li and others show the trio what it means to be human. Being human is being kind. 

This book is FANTASTIC! It’s funny and silly and heartwarming. 

Keep your eye on the dog – he knows something is up. Like the other characters, his facial expressions are expertly illustrated. 

The Littlest Drop by Sascha Alper, Jerry Pinkney & Brian Pinkney

Another FANTASTIC book – this one is all heart (no alien humor). 

When a fire rages through the forest, a tiny hummingbird takes charge.  The positive messages are endless:

  • When we work together, we can make the world a better place. 
  • Even the smallest can have a big impact. 
  • Self-motivation and hard work do pay off. 
  • and more much more!

For kids returning to school, I believe this line with resonate: “I am doing what I can.”

 

Back To School, Backpack! by Simon Rich & Tom Toro 

Does your child have first-day-of-school jitters? Lighten their mood with this hilarious story. 

While this one had Joanna and Connor belly laughing, it also reminded them that they aren’t alone.  Everyone gets nervous, especially on the first day of school, but with a little help from friends, everything will be OK. 

 

 

A note on this blog: Michelle Milford is the Office & Marketing Manager at Town Hall Library.  She has two young children – Joanna (7) and Connor (5).  All three have a deep love of books and voracious appetites for reading.  Here they’ll share their monthly book recommendations.

Children’s Book Blog: August 2025

To The Beach!

As August heats up, our book recommendations are headed to the beach.

Family vacations are said to strengthen bonds, improve cohesion and enhance communication. Plus, they provide opportunities for new experiences, cultural exposure and real-world learning. These are all benefits of reading together, too!  

So, whether you are going to salty, shady shores physically or in your mind – soak up your time together! 

Don’t Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson & Dan Santat 

Our family reads (and inevitably loves) anything written or illustrated by Dan Santat. 

After a laugh-out-loud first read, Don’t Trust Fish earned a permanent spot in our home library.  Now, we all have it memorized. 

The book begins with simple vertebrate classifications: what makes a bird a bird, an animal an animal, etc. Until we get to fish…who don’t seem to follow any rules. The “author” hilariously lays out all the reasons we can’t trust fish. Joanna & Connor especially liked the “author” reveal at the very end. 

Hot Dog by Doug Salati  

In a too loud, too crowded, too hot city, this dog has had enough.  A terribly relatable feeling, for kids and adults.  Hot Dog reminds us that a relaxing reset is not just a want, but a need – especially when you are overwhelmed (and overheated). 

Doug Salati deservingly won the 2023 Caldecott Medal AND Ezra Jack Keats Award for his illustrations. Hot Dog is picture book perfection. 

Swashby and the Sea by Beth Ferry & Juana Martinez-Neal

This book is just a delight – clever, charming & cute. It’s about friendship and coming out of your shell. 

The fiddling sea (who shines as an anthropomorphic character) provides new readers with spelling challenges.  You can take this concept and make it into a fun game at home, too!  

When reading, please give Swashby a proper pirate-like accent. 🙂

Our Blue Planet by Leisa Steward-Sharpe & Emily Dove

As a former zoologist, if Sir David Attenborough is involved – I am reading (or watching) it. 

I’ve found that some non-fiction reads – even those written for children – can be too dense, too overwhelming. Our Blue Planet introduces young readers to the wonders of the oceans in an accessible way. Like the Blue Planet series, its categorized by beautifully illustrated ocean habitats.  

Joanna and Connor really enjoyed the stories from each habitat.  We would read the stories and then watch the corresponding Blue Planet clips – this helped tremendously with their understanding and recall. 

The Princess in Black Takes a Vacation by Shannon Hale, Dean Hale & LeUyen Pham

We love The Princess in Black series. The kids like the humor, animal sidekicks and mild monster fighting (nothing too scary/violent!). And I appreciate the underlining message: you can be more than one thing – a monster fighting hero AND a tea party going princess.  

The series is best for ages 5-9 as a first chapter book for early readers or as a family read aloud. 

Vacation (Bat, Cat & Rat) by Ame Dyckman & Mark Teague 

Vacation, the second book in Dyckman and Teague’s Bat, Cat & Rat books, won the 2025 Theodor Seuss Geisel Award.  This award is given to authors and illustrators whose books excel at engaging beginning readers. 

This easy reader combines repetitive text and simple & complex words with humorously illustrated antics making it a favorite to read again and again. 

 

A note on this blog: Michelle Milford is the Office & Marketing Manager at Town Hall Library.  She has two young children – Joanna (7) and Connor (5).  All three have a deep love of books and voracious appetites for reading.  Here they’ll share their monthly book recommendations.