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Best Children's Books of 2012: Picture Books

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Cover art for EAST DRAGON, WEST DRAGON
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 3, 2012
Kirkus Star EAST DRAGON, WEST DRAGON
by Robyn Eversole, illustrated by Scott Campbell
"This primer on friendship wrapped in hijinks is paced for maximum pleasure. (Picture book. 3-7)"
In this variant of "The City Mouse and the Country Mouse," two dragons learn to appreciate each other's talents and milieus. Read full book review >
Cover art for EXTRA YARN
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 17, 2012
EXTRA YARN
by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen
"A quiet story of sharing with no strings attached. (Picture book. 4-7)"
A little girl in a town of white snow and soot-blackened chimneys opens a small box and discovers a never-ending gift of colorful yarn. Read full book review >
Cover art for WE MARCH
CHILDREN'S
Released: Jan. 17, 2012
Kirkus Star WE MARCH
by Shane W. Evans, illustrated by Shane W. Evans
"Share with readers of all ages as a beautiful message about peaceful protest and purposeful action. (author's note) (Picture book. 4-8)"
An African-American family awakens before dawn to prepare for the historic March on Washington in August, 1963. Read full book review >
Cover art for TRAINS GO
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 1, 2012
Kirkus Star TRAINS GO
by Steve Light, illustrated by Steve Light
"Sheer, fabulous power. (Board book. 1-3)"
There's more than just "choo-choo" along this track. Read full book review >
Cover art for QUESTION BOY MEETS LITTLE MISS KNOW-IT-ALL
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 7, 2012
Kirkus Star QUESTION BOY MEETS LITTLE MISS KNOW-IT-ALL
by Peter Catalanotto, illustrated by Peter Catalanotto
"Grown-ups beware. Youngsters might have their own questions and answers after this romp. (Picture book. 4-8)"
An irresistible force meets an immovable object with hilarious results. Read full book review >
Cover art for AND THEN IT'S SPRING
CHILDREN'S
Released: Feb. 14, 2012
Kirkus Star AND THEN IT'S SPRING
by Julie Fogliano, illustrated by Erin E. Stead
"This sweet seedling will undoubtedly take root and thrive. (Picture book. 3-8)"
A boy plants seeds in late winter's brown, barren earth and vigilantly watches for green sprouts alongside his companions (a dog, turtle, rabbit and bird). Read full book review >