Reciprocating

In messages back and forth this week, my sweet and talented friend (who also happens to be a librarian) and I decided that despite our hectic schedules, we most wanted to spend time together today. We talked about projects and dreams and ideas, and then she pulled a stack of books from her bag, telling me she was reciprocating all the good book ideas I have shared with her. What a treat!

Here are some I loved:

Little Owl Lost by Colin Naughton - As Little Owl searches for his mother, a squirrel uses Little Owl's descriptions (big eyes, for example) to find just the right motherly creature.

Dog Loves Drawing by Louise Yates (see also Dog Loves Books) - When Dog receives a blank book from Aunt Dora, he draws a door and has soon created amusing characters and a lovely story. One illustration is so similar to a page in Don Freeman's The Chalk Box Story, and we both noted that at the same time! Best of all is the ending, where Dog draws an illustrated thank-you note.

One Special Day by Lola Schaefer - This book is perfect for giving to a boy about to become a big brother! The images of Spencer being strong, funny, wild, and tall are perfectly contrasted with the quiet of holding a new baby.

underGROUND by Denise Fleming - The cross-sections of the ground under a child's feet offer so many opportunities for discovery. I had already seen this book, but we both love the incredible pulp paper paintings!