Cumulative tales build the way a snowball does: they get bigger as each new point in the tale passes to add another layer to the whole. Items (and sometimes people) are collected as the story moves along. “Stone Soup” is such a tale and has various versions in many cultures. Cumulative stories are sometimes rhythmic, […]
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For many decades, children’s picture books we see in North America that include realistic descriptions and/or illustrations of dwellings have largely featured homes that appear to be single family, often suburban with lawns. Like others around the world, however, many kids here live in homes that are apartments—whether middle class, well-to-do, or economically struggling. What
Many Doors, One Home: Apartment Living in Kids’ Books Read More »
This article was last updated 16 January 2026 What’s better than a book award? A list of best books! Why? There are more titles to choose among and to compare and contrast. While judges who determine book awards are looking at lots of competing titles critically, with a list of bests, we get to see
Best of the Year Lists Are the Best! Read More »
This article was authored by Publisher Spotlight intern Zoe Spangler. Libraries are more than just places filled with dusty books and information databases; they’re vital community centers open to everyone, regardless of status or background. They provide social access for older adults, the wherewithal to enrich child-raising support for parents, language connection for immigrants, and
Uncovering Incredible Library Books Read More »
This is one in our Double Scoop Sundae series featuring a pair of thematically-related books and ideas for teachers and library program developers seeking ways to extend storytime with them. Owls have long fascinated children with their wide eyes, quiet flight, and mysterious nocturnal habits. Their presence in stories sparks imagination and invites questions about
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August is a time to celebrate the women authors who can be read in more than the language in which they write. Thanks to their recognition by publishers, and the skillful work of professional translators, we want to call attention this year to the following women during the Women In Translation month of August. The
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Mystical, mythical, and fantastical creatures seem to be taking the forefront of literature! Everyone, adult and kid alike, wants to read about these creatures and escape into a different world. One particular such being that is perhaps the most popular and powerful is the dragon. While adults are finding dragoncentric romantasy like Fourth Wing, children’s
Just as two eyes provide depth missing when we look ahead with just one eye, a pair of complementary books provide a deeper experience of their shared—and complementary—theme. The pairs suggested here each fit together, rather than presenting oppositional or dichotomous views. Like a pair of friends rowing a boat across new waters with greater
It’s the end of another publishing year and the best lists are snowing upon us! What we love about the plethora of these lists from children’s literature experts, review publications, and national press resources is how so many perspectives pop into focus: diverse list makers see “best” in so many different—and complementary—ways. Some of the
Celebrating Titles Featured on 2024’s Best Books for Kids Lists Read More »
