Penny and Her Song
Greenwillow Books, an imprint of HarperCollins, 2012
Ages 4-8; $12.99
Penny and Her Song is the latest release from writer and illustrator Kevin Henkes; it’s his first for beginning readers. The story focuses on a lovable mouse, Penny, who has made up the most amazing song, but she’s unable to share it with the world until her baby siblings have awakened and dinners have been eaten. Finally, her time comes and Penny sings to the rave reviews of her family.
Ava’s Poppy
NorthSouth Books, 2012
Ages 4-8; $16.95
Marcus Pfister’s book, Ava's Poppy, tells the wonderful story of a girl named Ava and her friendship with a cherished poppy. After discovering the flower in her front yard, Ava lovingly takes care of it all summer long. But as fall comes, the flower first loses its petals, and then eventually fades away completely. Ava is heartbroken, and puts a circle of rocks around her departed flower to remember it. But when spring arrives, Ava finds a miraculous delight.