Best New-to-Me Books of 2005: Picture Books
Picture Books
Toots the Cat, by Karla Kuskin
This picture book of poems will charm cat-lovers (and general pet enthusiasts) of all ages. Toots is a calico cat who naps, wanders, and naps again as she pleases. Kuskin perfectly captures the independent spirit that make cats so charming and yet so crazy-making. Each short poem is accompanied by a vivid, expressive watercolor illustration by Lisze Bechtold. The clever - and sometimes a little tricky - rhymes are especially suited to being read aloud.
Traction Man Is Here!, by Mini Grey
Everything about this book is hysterical. A little boy receives the new "Traction Man" action figure, who embarks on a number of dangerous adventures (e.g., doing the dishes, rescuing dolls from the sandbox). The illustrations are hilarious down to the tiniest detail, with priceless expressions on Traction Man's face as he battles toes and suffers the humiliation of wearing the outfit Grandma knits for him. This would make a great gift for just about anyone - anyone worth talking to, at least.
Toots the Cat, by Karla Kuskin
This picture book of poems will charm cat-lovers (and general pet enthusiasts) of all ages. Toots is a calico cat who naps, wanders, and naps again as she pleases. Kuskin perfectly captures the independent spirit that make cats so charming and yet so crazy-making. Each short poem is accompanied by a vivid, expressive watercolor illustration by Lisze Bechtold. The clever - and sometimes a little tricky - rhymes are especially suited to being read aloud.
Traction Man Is Here!, by Mini Grey
Everything about this book is hysterical. A little boy receives the new "Traction Man" action figure, who embarks on a number of dangerous adventures (e.g., doing the dishes, rescuing dolls from the sandbox). The illustrations are hilarious down to the tiniest detail, with priceless expressions on Traction Man's face as he battles toes and suffers the humiliation of wearing the outfit Grandma knits for him. This would make a great gift for just about anyone - anyone worth talking to, at least.