Big new titles perfect for the littles.
Like in Laura Ingalls Wilder’s The Long Winter, the next few months — as the world awaits distribution of a covid-19 vaccine — are shaping up to be dark and challenging. So why not brighten things with these new releases? Whether you save them for the holidays or embrace the idea that every day is special and dive into them right away, they’re sure to make the weeks ahead a bit sweeter for you and your kids.
The Snow Dancer by Addie Boswell; illustrated by Mercè López (Two Lions). “Sofia was asleep when the snowflakes came. All through the night they fell — frosting the rooftops, fluffing the sidewalks, laying fuzzy hats on the fire hydrants.” The city is transformed into a magical, wintry wonderland! But what will young Sofia do when the other kids’ cacophony — stomping, shouting, shrieking — threatens to drown out her perfectly placid dance amid the drifts? Join in the fun, of course!
The Ninth Night of Hanukkah by Erica S. Perl; illustrated by Shahar Kober (Sterling Children's Books). It’s the first night in their new apartment, and Max and Rachel can’t wait to celebrate the Festival of Lights with their parents. But where’s the packing box filled with their menorah, dreidels, and candles? Oh, no! It hasn’t come yet! Luckily, for eight nights, the family’s new neighbors pitch in and create a makeshift, not-quite-traditional celebration filled with love and good cheer. Who says French fries can’t stand in for latkes?
Even Reindeer Wear Masks by Isla Wynter (Peryton Press). St. Nick isn’t the only one social distancing, washing his hands, and wearing a mask this Christmas! So are the reindeer and the elves and the…wait, why isn’t the snowman wearing his face covering? He must not understand why it’s so important. Lucky thing Santa — heading back to the North Pole — swings by on his sleigh to explain things to the frosty fellow in this cute, simple story that’s peak 2020.
