Picture Book Favorites #2

Here are a few more picture books that have been favorites with my children:

Peace at Last
Author: Jill Murphy
Illustrator: Jill Murphy
Genre: Picture Book
Age Level: 3-7 years

Poor Mr. Bear; he is so tired, but he can’t get to sleep. He tries sleeping in the living room, the kitchen, even the car. Everywhere he goes, there are noises that keep him awake. He finally returns to his bedroom and finds peace at last. Or does he?

The simplicity of this story appeals to younger children. However, this book would also be an appropriate choice when teaching older elementary students about onomatopoeia.

You may also enjoy another of Ms. Murphy's picture books. In All in One Piece, Mr. and Mrs. Large are trying to get out of the house to go to a dinner dance party. Their children, however, keep causing mischief. Can they make it out of the door all in one piece?

Library Lil
Author: Suzanne Williams
Illustrator: Steven Kellogg
Genre: Picture Book
Age Level: 4-9 years

As a child, Lil loved to read, so it was no surprise to anyone when she grew up and became a librarian. Unfortunately, in the town of Chesterville, people prefer to watch television. Eventually, Lil is able to win them over. However, when Bust-‘em-up Bill rolls into town with his book-hating motorcycle gang, she really has her work cut out for her.

This tall tale, about an unlikely hero, can’t help but be entertaining. Combine that with Steven Kellogg’s whimsical illustrations, and you’re in for a real treat.

The Happy Lion
Author: Louise Fatio
Illustrator: Roger Duvoisin
Genre: Picture Book
Age Level: 4-9 years

There was once a lion that lived in a small zoo in a French town. He was a happy lion and always had plenty of visitors. One day, the door of his house is left open, and the lion decides to pay some calls on his friends from the village. To his surprise, everyone reacts so strangely to his greetings that he soon wishes he could go home again. His closest friend, François, finally comes to his rescue.

This is a sweet story, amusingly told from the perspective of the lion. When I first read it to my daughter, we were both laughing out loud. I hope you enjoy it too.