“THE 3 LITTLE DASSIES,” by Jan Brett, G.P. Putnam’s Sons, $17.99 (ages 3-8)
Inspired by a trip to Namibia, Jan Brett trades the pigs for rock dassies in a retelling of the “The 3 Little Pigs.” Mimbi, Pimbi and Timbi are looking for a place to build their new homes. It should be cooler, less crowded and safe from eagles. Based on African patterns and landscapes, “The 3 Little Dassies” features intricate illustrations done in Brett’s trademark style.
“EVERYTHING BUT THE HORSE,” by Holly Hobbie, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, $16.99 (ages 4-8)
When Holly Hobbie was a young girl, her family moved from the city to the countryside. Plenty of things on their new farm were scary at first, but as she gets settled it’s not too bad. The farm has ducks, geese, wild cats, a dog, a cow, chickens and a rooster. It has everything but the horse. Beautiful watercolor paintings bring this chapter of Hobbie’s own childhood to life.
“HOW TO RAISE A DINOSAUR,” by Natasha Wing and Pablo Bernasconi, Running Press Kids, $16.95 (ages 4-8)
What makes the perfect pet? There are lots of choices. Maybe a cat or a dog or a horse? What about a dinosaur? Dinosaurs are great pets, too, and this book gives kids all the how to’s at their fingertips. Colorful and beautifully textured illustrations are enhanced by lift-the-flaps and fun die-cuts. “How to Raise a Dinosaur” is definitely eye-catching.
“AND I LOVE YOU,” by Ruth Krauss and Steven Kellogg, Scholastic Press, $16.99 (ages 4-8)
A cat and her kitten share adventures big and small in “And I love you,” a book that celebrates the love between a parent and a child. Simple yet heartwarming text is accompanied by charming illustrations of rich forests, golden fields and flying books.
“THREE LITTLE KITTENS,” by Jerry Pinkney, Dial, $16.99 (ages 4-8)
“The Three little kittens,” is one of the best-known Mother Goose nursery rhymes and now it’s a book by Caldecott Medal winner author/artist Jerry Pinkney (“The Lion and the Mouse”). This familiar tale comes to life with vibrant illustrations that are full of action and warmth.
“ONE HAND, TWO HANDS,” by Max Lucado, Thomas Nelson, $16.99 (ages 4-8)
A young girl imagines her stuffed animals coming to life in this book about how much hands can do. Her hands can scratch and latch and comb and brush, but they can also dig in the dirt and wash dishes and clean up a mess, too. Rhyming text is accompanied by sweet illustrations in this learning book.
