On the Shelf: Books for kids who love mom, dinosaurs and houseplants – because reading is for everyone

“Chicka Chicka I Love Mom”
“Where Are You, Brontë?”
“Digging for Dinosaurs” and “Digging for Dinosaurs at the Beach”
“Supernavigators: How Animals Find Their Way”
“My First Book of Houseplants”
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Books about what and who you love are the best books, especially for little readers who are learning that they are unique and special and so are their interests. Get these from your favorite local bookseller.

“Chicka Chicka I Love Mom”

by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault, illustrated by Julien Chung (Little Simon, preschool ages)

A told B and B told C… Based on the beloved classic “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom,” this makes a sweet (and last minute) Mother’s Day gift to share. The rhyming is joyful and little ones will love making mama smile all year long.

“Where Are You, Brontë?”

by Tomie dePaola, illustrated by Barbara McClintock (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, ages 4 – 8)

Where Are You Bronte

This one is really special. It was the final manuscript completed by Tomie dePaola before his death in 2020, completed with illustrations by award-winning artist Barbara McClintock. But that’s not the (only) reason why you might sob through this sweet story about dePaola’s dog, Brontë. It’s for anyone who has loved enough to grieve.

“Digging for Dinosaurs” and “Digging for Dinosaurs at the Beach”

by June Smalls, illustrated by Grace Habib (Sourcebooks, ages birth – 4)

Digging for Dinosaurs

Dinosaurs are having a moment right now, and these board books are a wonderful way to engage the tiniest readers in the fun. And they are perfect for the car if you are taking a summer beach trip. They aren’t limited to dinosaurs though – kids can lift the flaps to learn about paleontology and marine and earth science in ways they can understand and get excited about. Add these to a pail and shovel for a great summer birthday gift.

“Supernavigators: How Animals Find Their Way”

adapted by Rebecca Stefoff, illustrated by Qu Lan (Tra Publishing, ages 8 – 12)

Supernavigators

Adapted from David Barrie's award-winning “Supernavigators,” even this adapted version remains a truly in-depth look at how animals find their way. Kiddos who are reading chapter books for content will dive right into this, learning so much about animal navigation and wayfinding. (Adults might learn a lot, too.) This is an incredible book that might light a spark and engage kids in all sorts of learning.

“My First Book of Houseplants”

illustrated by Åsa Gilland (Duopress Labs, preschool ages)

My First Book of Houseplants

Part of the Terra Babies at Home board book series, this is a fun guide even for early elementary ages. Learn about common house plants and get a basic guide for potting and caring for your own.