Looking for some great reads for your kids? Check out the list below for books recommended by local libraries, Northeast Ohio Parent editors and more. Be sure to check back as we add more books each month.
I Am Me & You Are You
By Stacie Sullivan-Simon
Simon, who lives in Northeast Ohio and is a registered nurse, was inspired to create a story of tolerance and inclusion. The picture book has colorful illustrations by Chad Thompson that show a young boy and his friends coming to the realization that no matter what we look like on the outside, we are really all the same. Available at Halo Publishing, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and other outlets.
All’s Faire in Middle School
By Victoria Jamieson
The author of “Roller Girl” releases this book about an 11-year-old girl who grows up with two parents who work at the Renaissance Faire. This year, instead of homeschool, she going on her own quest: attending public school.
The Diary of a Wimpy Kid “The Getaway”
By Jeff Kinney
Release date: November 7, 2017
Greg Heffley and his family are leaving town and getting away from the holiday season. They discover their tropical vacation isn’t all what it seems.
50 Cities of the U.S.A.
By Gabrielle Balkan, illustrated by Sol Linero
This quirky, fun and beautifully illustrated book is great for kids — and adults — to explore the skyscrapers, museums, local food trucks and city parks of our nation. It’s filled with interesting, lesser-known facts about 50 cities, including Cleveland and Columbus. The book would make a great companion on your family’s next road trip, and also serves as a “vacation wish list” planner.
Zooflakes
By Brian and Becky Masuga, of Wadsworth
Printed on paper that was certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, this 72-page, full-color, hardbound book features a series of intricately detailed, snowflake-shaped designs using animals as their main decorative element. The book provides a creative way to talk about animals, conservation and art. Visit 1984publishing.com (Cleveland-based publisher) to learn more about the book.
The Wonderling
By Mira Bartók
After staging a daring escape from an orphanage with the help of a small mechanical bird, the Wonderling sets off on a glorious adventure through forests and wild country to the shiny city of Lumentown, ruled over by the High Hats, where he will discover the mysterious Songcatcher and unlock the secrets of his past.
Military Animals with Dog Tags
By Laurie Calkhoven
Children will learn all about these incredible animals that have aided the military in the air, on land, and by sea. Discover how dolphins, bears, pigs, penguins, and even glow worms became heroes in times of war. scholastic.com
Dog Man and Cat Kid
By Dav Pilkey
The heroic hound with a real nose for justice now has a furry feline sidekick, and together they have a mystery to sniff out.
Recommended by Willoughby-Eastlake Libraries, we247.org
A Kiss for You
By Joan Holub
There are so many things a little hand can do, like blow a kiss, say hello, or hold you tight. This is the epitome of simple, innovative novelty, perfect for little kids.
Recommended by Connecting for Kids, connectingforkids.org
Pillowland
By Laurie Berkner, illustrated by Camille Garoche
The world of pillowland provides sleep-filled fun for kids. Parents will love this simple bedtime book to read — or have kids read — to learn sounds and view creative illustrations.
We’re All Wonders
By R. J. Palacio
A picture book from the bestseller “Wonder.” Now younger readers can meet Auggie Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face, and his beloved dog, Daisy.
Recommended by Wickliffe Public Library, wickliffepl.org
Stuck
By Oliver Jeffers
Floyd gets his kite stuck up in a tree. In an attempt to knock it down, he starts throwing other objects up into the tree. Let’s just say that Floyd’s upper body strength is impressive.
Recommended by Marilyn Weiss, children’s library associate at Mentor Public Library, mentorpl.org
December’s Local Author Spotlight
Wunderkind: The Pinfold Key Volume 1
By Ryan P. Delaney
Charlie Cormac can see and talk with faerie creatures. The story, set in the city of Painesville, provides a glimpse into Charlie’s first year at Wunderkind Academy, a faerie training school, which leads to an adventurous journey — including self-discovery. www.wunderkindbooks.com