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Best Children's Books of 2012: Picture Books

Cover art for FIFTY CENTS AND A DREAM
CHILDREN'S
Released: Dec. 4, 2012
Kirkus Star FIFTY CENTS AND A DREAM: YOUNG BOOKER T. WASHINGTON
by Jabari Asim, illustrated by Bryan Collier
"An outstanding achievement and a life worthy of note. (additional facts, author's note, illustrator's note, bibliography) (Picture book/biography. 4-8)"
A former slave fulfills his quest for an education and much more in this superbly designed tribute to an oft-maligned African-American educator and author. Read full book review >
Cover art for CHARLEY'S FIRST NIGHT
CHILDREN'S
Released: Nov. 1, 2012
Kirkus Star CHARLEY'S FIRST NIGHT
by Amy Hest, illustrated by Helen Oxenbury
"Be forewarned: Youngsters will find Charley as irresistible as Henry does and will no doubt beg for puppies of their own. (Picture book. 4-8)"
The tenderness a child feels for his new puppy seeps from the pages of a book sure to be instantly beloved. Read full book review >
Cover art for SPIRIT SEEKER
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 23, 2012
Kirkus Star SPIRIT SEEKER: JOHN COLTRANE'S MUSICAL JOURNEY
by Gary Golio, illustrated by Rudy Gutierrez
"Lyrically narrated, resplendently illustrated, and deeply respectful of both subject and audience. (afterword, author's and artist's notes, bibliography, discography) (Picture book/biography. 8-12)"
In attuned counterpoint, Golio and Gutierrez present a portrait of John Coltrane's lifelong quest to discover and share his spiritual truth through music. Read full book review >
Cover art for MAN FROM THE LAND OF FANDANGO
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 23, 2012
Kirkus Star MAN FROM THE LAND OF FANDANGO
by Margaret Mahy, illustrated by Polly Dunbar
"Wonderfully exuberant and completely delightful. (Picture book. 3-8)"
There's fun for all when the man from Fandango comes to call. Read full book review >
Cover art for BOOT & SHOE
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 9, 2012
Kirkus Star BOOT & SHOE
by Marla Frazee, illustrated by Marla Frazee
"Read unhurried, in a lap, again and again. (Picture book. 4-7) "
This gem about canine siblings goes from peaceful routine to funny mayhem to erroneous bereavement--and relief. Read full book review >
Cover art for COLD SNAP
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 9, 2012
Kirkus Star COLD SNAP
by Eileen Spinelli, illustrated by Marjorie Priceman
"This may not be the most exciting or enthralling winter tale, but it is perfect for sharing during readers' own cold snaps--calming, reassuring, charming. (Picture book. 4-8)"
A community caught under the pall of a weeklong cold snap comes together in this cozy, old-fashioned story that is high on both charm and appeal. Read full book review >