BUTTERFLIES IN MY STOMACH  by Serge Bloch
How can you be inside a real pickle or turn the color of blue? On the first day of school, a student is confused by many of the phrases that are used. When the librarian says not to open a can of worms, why would she want a can of worms anyway? Or when the teacher says he expects the class to be busy bees doing their homework. Why are there all these bees in the classroom? The illustrations are what make this picture book fun. It also makes us think of how crazy some of our expressions must sound!  (E Fiction)

CHRISTMAS FARM  by Mary Lyn Ray
Can a middle-aged woman and a five-year-old-boy plant and care for more than 600 trees? Perhaps that is one of the miracles of the holidays. This lovely tale celebrates intergenerational friendship and determination, growth and nature, and the joy of the holiday season. The author's note in the back of the book gives additional information about Christmas trees and how they grow.  (E Fiction)

DOT IN LARRYLAND: THE BIG BOOK OF AN ODD-SIZED FRIENDSHIP  by Patricia Marx
When he sits down to his enormous breakfast, the last thing that lonely, Extra-Large Larry expects to find in the pepper shaker is a new friend! Meet Dot, an extremely tiny girl who has trouble making friends with people who aren’t “Dot-sized.” Told with sympathy, affection and good humor, Dot in Larryland tells the story of an unconventional but devoted friendship between two people who are more alike than their outward appearances would ever suggest.  (E Fiction)

GRUMPY CAT  by Britta Teckentrup
There was a cat who lived all alone. He wanted to play with the other cats, but he didn’t know how to join in and make friends. The other cats thought he was a grumpy cat, but he was really just a lonely cat. Then one day a small orange kitten appeared, and Cat’s life was never the same.  (E Fiction)

HOW TO HEAL A BROKEN WING  by Bob Graham
When an injured bird falls to the ground in a big city, Will is the only one who sees it. The little boy takes the bird home, and he and his family nurse it back to health. Told mostly through pictures, this sparsely worded, gentle picture book is filled with love and hope.  (E Fiction)

IMAGINE A DAY  by Sarah L. Thomson
Imagine a day when the ordinary becomes extraordinary. The fantastic illustrations by Rob Gonsalves are what really make this book. Each full page painting creates a sense of wonder and imagination in the style of surrealist artists like Rene Magritte or M.C. Escher. This book is sure to spark a child’s imagination and encourage him to look beyond the limits of the everyday world.  (E Fiction)

JUMPY JACK & GOOGILY  by Meg Rosoff
Meet Jumpy Jack, a very nervous snail who’s afraid of monsters, and Googily, who is a—well—who is a very good friend, indeed. Wherever they go, Googily kindly checks high and low just to make sure there are no scary monsters about. But as every child knows, monsters come in many shapes and sizes. Some are even blue with hairy eyebrows and pointy teeth.  (E Fiction)

MAYBE A BEAR ATE IT!  by Robie H. Harris
A critter yawns while reading his bedtime book, then realizes the book is missing! He explores numerous possibilities for its disappearance—“Maybe a BEAR ate it!” or “Maybe a STEGOSAURUS stomped on it!”— none of which is the correct answer. A quick read with fun and expressive illustrations.  (E Fiction)

ONE BOY  by Laura Vaccaro Seeger
At first glance, One Boy is a simple one-to-ten counting book with illustrations that are bold and colorful. True, but look closer through the cut-out “windows” and you will discover that this is also a book about finding words hidden within words. A perfect blend for younger ones learning to count and older ones learning to read. Fun for a wide audience.  (E Fiction)

ONE HEN  by Katie Smith Milway
This is the story of how changes happen in the world, one person, one family, one community at a time. Kojo lives in a small town in Ghana, West Africa. He and his mother survive by gathering and selling firewood. There is never much money or food – just enough to get by. When Kojo is given a small loan, he has an idea. He will use the money to buy a hen, so that they will have eggs to eat. Soon there are extra eggs to sell at the market. With the profits, Kojo buys more hens and eventually earns enough for his school fees. After finishing school, he gets a bigger loan and gradually builds up a poultry farm, hires workers and pays taxes that improve his community. Along the way, Kojo loans others money so that they too can leave poverty behind.  (J Picture)

RHYMING DUST BUNNIES  by Jan Thomas
Meet Ned, Ted, Fred, and Bob. They rhyme all the time! Well, all except Bob. For some reason, when the others are finding words that rhyme with car, Bob says, “Look!” And when they are finding rhymes for bug, Bob says, “Look out!” Is Bob trying to warn the other dust bunnies? Don’t be surprised if your kids beg to hear this hilarious story again and again!  (E Fiction)

THE SNOW DAY  by Komako Sakai
A little rabbit awakes to find school is closed due to snow. Readers will experience the sheer joy of a snow day shared by mother and child. Simple text and charming illustrations make this a joy to share with young children.  (E Fiction)

SOUTH  by Patrick McDonnell
When a little song bird is separated from the rest of its flock as they head south for the winter, a kind-hearted cat lends a hand and helps reunite the lost bird with family and friends. This simple wordless book artfully weaves a sweet, moving tale of reaching out and helping others.  (E Fiction)

TEN LITTLE FINGERS AND TEN LITTLE TOES  by Mem Fox
This gentle book, told in rhyme, compares babies around the world. While it describes how they are different, the refrain emphasizes how they are the same, for “each of these babies as everyone knows had ten little fingers and ten little toes.” A wonderful read-aloud for babies and toddlers.  (E Fiction)

THAT BOOK WOMAN  by Heather Henson
When a little song bird is separated from the rest of its flock as they head south for the winter, a kind-hearted cat lends a hand and helps reunite the lost bird with family and friends. This simple wordless book artfully weaves a sweet, moving tale of reaching out and helping others.  (E Fiction)

THOSE DARN SQUIRRELS!  by Adam Rubin
Old Man Fookwire is a grumpy old man. The only thing he likes is birds. He enjoys painting pictures of all the birds that visit his backyard, so he builds birdfeeders to try to keep the birds from flying south for the winter. But the birds aren’t the only ones who like the birdfeeders, the squirrels do too! What is Old Man Fookwire to do? The ensuing battle and surprise ending is filled with laugh-out-loud humor.  (E Fiction)

VUNCE UPON A TIME  by J. Otto Seibold
Sure, it’s past Halloween, but this amusing tale is fun no matter when you read it. Imagine a fearful, young vampire, who actually prefers candy to blood, bravely venturing into the human world on Halloween night to satisfy his sweet tooth. Of course, he has the perfect costume—he’s a vampire, remember? Along the way, he makes a human friend dressed as a ghost. The striking color illustrations add even more fun and laughs.  (E Fiction)

ARE YOU READY TO PLAY OUTSIDE?  by Mo Willems
Piggie is excited to play outside with elephant pal Gerald—until it starts raining! Simple text tells a story of friendship and making something good out of something bad. This winner of the 2009 Theodor Seuss Geisel Award will be a hit with beginning readers.  (VER Reader)

CHICKEN SAID, “CLUCK!”  by Judyann Grant
Piggie has been invited to her very first party, but she doesn’t know what to wear.  So she asks her best friend Elephant (who “knows parties”) and gets some rather odd advice.  This very easy reader ends with a delightful surprise.  Party!  Party!  Party!  (VER Reader)

FINDERS KEEPERS  by Dori Chaconas
Cork is a short muskrat who likes to find things, while his best friend Fuzz is a tall possum who likes to keep things. They learn the spirit of sharing when Fuzz finds Cork’s stone and wants to keep it. But first they have to get it back from a chipmunk who’s run off with it. This is the fifth title in the “Cork & Fuzz” series. The beautiful illustrations add to an appealing story.  (ER Reader)

FUN WITH DICK AND JANE 
See Dick, Jane, Sally, Spot, Puff, Mother, and Father as they introduce a whole new generation to the joy of learning to read. The short stories with simple, repetitive phrases and delightful illustrations are sure to be enjoyed by all.  (VER Reader)

HOUNDSLEY AND CATINA AND THE QUIET TIME  by James Howe
When the first snow of winter falls, Catina worries that their plans to perform an evening concert will be ruined. It is up to her friend Houndsley to help Catina let go of her worries and enjoy the quiet beauty of a snowy day.  (ER Reader)

AL CAPONE SHINES MY SHOES  by Gennifer Choldenko
Follow-up to the Newbery Honor-winning Al Capone Does My Shirts. Set in 1935, Moose is your typical twelve year old who likes baseball and discovers girls aren’t all bad. Typical, except for the fact he lives on Alcatraz Island, home to one of the most famous prisons in the world and where his father is a prison guard. Someone has done a favor for Moose and now wants him to return the favor. But helping a criminal is not only against the law; it could get his father fired. However the one that wants him to return the favor is Al Capone, the most famous gangster of the time, and no one refuses Al Capone! Interesting mystery mixed in with what it was like to live around criminals. Fascinating and enjoyable!  (J Fiction)

A CROOKED KIND OF PERFECT  by Linda Urban
Eleven-year-old Zoe dreams of owning a piano and someday playing in Carnegie Hall. Instead, her dad bought her a Perfectone D-60 organ. Now she’s learning the hits of the seventies and will be playing in the Perform-ORama organ competition. Not quite what she was expecting, but then life never is with a mom who works all the time, a dad who’s afraid to leave the house, and a best friend who abandons you for someone else. Meet Zoe, and discover that sometimes perfect isn’t quite what you expected it to be.  (J Fiction)

A DOG ON HIS OWN  by Mary Jane Auch
K-10, named so by his mom because “you’re one step above all the other canines,” is a cute, friendly, independent mutt who just wants to go places and do things on his own. Unfortunately, he finds himself back in the animal shelter – again! – planning his next great escape – again! K-10 and his friends face misadventures and setbacks but in the end learn the true meaning of friendship and family. Sure to touch the hearts of all dog lovers.  (J Fiction)

DYING TO MEET YOU  by Kate Klise 
Ignatius B. Grumply takes up residence at 43 Old Cemetery Road in the hopes of finding some peace and quiet so he can tackle a nagging case of writer’s block. However, the house is currently occupied by 11-year-old Seymour Hope, his cat Shadow, and a cantankerous ghost named Olive. Alas, no one in the house is pleased with the arrangement, but friendship and inspiration reveal themselves in the most surprising places. Sisters Kate and M. Sarah Klise, the creators of the award-winning “Regarding the . . . “ series, offer up this debut volume in a clever new series told in letters, drawings, newspaper articles, a work-in-progress manuscript, and even an occasional tombstone engraving.  (J Fiction)

THE GRAVEYARD BOOK  by Neil Gaiman
As a baby, Nobody “Bod” Owens survives the murder of his family and comes to live in a graveyard populated by ghosts (including his adoptive parents) and a mysterious guardian who seems to be neither alive nor dead. The graveyard is full of adventures and perils for Bod to navigate as he grows, but eventually he must face the greatest danger of all—the man who killed his family and still searches for him. Winner of numerous awards, most notably the 2009 Newbery Award.  (Scary J Fiction)

GREETINGS FROM NOWHERE  by Barbara O’Connor
Aggie isn’t expecting visitors at the Sleepy Time Motel. The pool is empty, the garden is overgrown, and not a soul has come to stay in nearly three months. But when she puts the run-down motel up for sale, suddenly people start showing up at her door. A troubled boy and his mother, a happy family seeking adventure, and a man and his lonely daughter all end up at the Sleepy Time and find their lives transformed by the shared experience.  (J Fiction)

THE LONDON EYE MYSTERY  by Siobhan Dowd
When Ted and Kat’s visiting cousin Salim disappears while riding the London Eye, a ferris wheel, it is up to them to find him. Ted’s brain is “wired differently” which becomes a real asset in solving the mystery which stumps even the police. A well-crafted mystery with surprises at every turn.  (J Mystery)

MADAME PAMPLEMOUSSE AND HER INCREDIBLE EDIBLES  by Rupert Kingfisher
Life looks pretty bleak for Madeline, a young girl forced to live with her greedy Uncle and wash the dishes in his revolting restaurant. But things are about to change for the better when Madeline meets the illustrious and mysterious chef, Madame Pamplemousse. Through her friendship with Madame and the cat, Camembert, Madeline discovers within herself a hidden talent for gourmet cooking and the means to a brighter future.  (J Fiction)

THE SEER OF SHADOWS  by Avi
Horace is a photographer’s assistant in 1870’s New York City, who doesn’t believe in ghosts. But a request from a wealthy customer might make him change his mind. Is he seeing things or did his pictures bring back an angry ghost who’s bent on revenge? And how do you stop this ghost before she gets her murderous revenge? Highly atmospheric and suspenseful, it’s an entertaining read which mixes mystery with a bit of horror.  (J Fiction)

JOEY FLY, PRIVATE EYE IN CREEPY CRAWLY TIME  by Aaron Renolds
Have you ever had one of those moments? You know—you’re trying to find a stolen diamond pencil box for your beautiful butterfly customer, your mosquito witness won’t give you any information, and your clumsy scorpion assistant has just tampered with your only bit of evidence? Joey Fly has those moments a lot. In fact, he’s probably having one right now. But that won’t stop him from solving the mystery in Creepy Crawly Crime, his fantastic first graphic novel!  (Comics J 741.5)

AN ARTIST’S AMERICA  by Michael Albert
Modern pop artist Michael Albert creates brilliant collages using recycled materials such as cereal boxes, cookie packages, candy wrappers, etc. He often uses his unique approach to reinterpret historic events like the signing of the Declaration of Independence or the Gettysburg Address. The author writes about his development as an artist and includes brief directions on creating collages of one’s own. Children will enjoy pouring over the pictures identifying familiar characters like Tony the Tiger, Mr. Clean, Captain Crunch, and Wonder Woman. Sure to inspire any young artist.  (J 709)

THE BECKONING CAT: BASED ON A JAPANESE FOLKTALE  by Koko Nishizuka
When a muddy white cat comes begging at the door of a poor, hardworking fish monger, Yohei shares his meager dinner with the cat, and the next day his life changes. The grateful white cat lures people to Yohei’s door with his beckoning paw. This tale about a Japanese good luck symbol and its happy ending will bring joy to readers.  (J 398.2)

THE BILL MARTIN, JR. BIG BOOK OF POETRY 
Selected by beloved author Bill Martin, Jr., this considerable anthology contains the works by many wellknown poets, including Robert Frost, Jack Prelutsky, Nikki Grimes, and Langston Hughes. Illustrated by various, well-known children’s book illustrators, this is a delightful collection of poetry for children.  (J 811.008)

BROTHERS AND SISTERS: FAMILY POEMS  by Eloise Greenfield 
IBrothers and brothers. Sisters and sisters. Brothers and sisters. Full, half, step, old and young, close in age and far apart. The bond between all siblings is powerful and special. Celebrate the love of brothers and sisters everywhere.  (J 811.6)

DO NOT OPEN  by John Farndon
Using a clever format similar to that of the 2006 book Pick Me Up, Do Not Open explores mysteries, oddities, and the unexplained—topics sure to appeal to many older children, even reluctant readers. Intriguing topics such as “Bermuda Triangle,” “Werewolves versus vampires,” and “Conspiracy theories” are discussed in vibrantly-illustrated and visually unique two-page spreads.  (J 031.02)

ELEANOR, QUIET NO MORE: THE LIFE OF ELEANOR ROOSEVELT  by Doreen Rappaport
This beautifully illustrated picture biography brings Eleanor Roosevelt to life. The sparse text, along with quotes from Eleanor on each page, conveys a real sense of who this woman was and what motivated her. Girls may be especially inspired by this story of one of our nation’s most memorable first ladies, but everyone can be challenged by the remarkable woman who boldly stated, “Do something every day that scares you.”  (J Bio)

ELLIS ISLAND  by Raymond Bial
From the years 1892 to 1954, over twelve million people were processed through the Ellis Island Immigration Station before they became legal citizens of the United States. Many of these immigrants came to America to escape religious persecution, poverty or political oppression found in their native countries. Although it is no longer used to process immigrants, Ellis Island now serves as a popular tourist destination for those wanting to learn more about their heritage and the historic past of the facility. Raymond Bial’s book is filled with detailed information regarding the creation and operation of what was once America’s busiest immigration station. The book also incorporates many stories of the courageous and resourceful people who came through this institution hoping for a better life. 
(J 304.873)

INDEPENDENT DAMES: WHAT YOU NEVER KNEW ABOUT THE WOMEN AND GIRLS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION  by Laurie Halse Anderson
We hear all the time of the Founding Fathers, but what about the Founding Mothers? Read about some ladies who actually fought in the war for independence. While some didn’t do any real fighting, some women still made an impact, including female slaves, wealthy widows, wives of generals and future presidents and even one spunky 9 year old! Their stories are told through timelines and cartoon illustrations that make for an easy and amusing, yet educational book.  (J 973.3)

JACK AND JILL: THE MIRACLE DOG WITH A HAPPY TAIL TO TELL  by Jill Rappaport
NBC's Today show correspondent Jill Rappaport tells the story of Jack, one of many dogs she has rescued and taken into her family. Jack develops bone cancer and must have a leg amputated. Will he survive? What kind of life will he have? A heartwarming story of the love and determination of a dog and his master.  (J 636.737)

ONE MILLION THINGS: A VISUAL ENCYCLOPEDIA  by Kim Bryanl
Vibrant and engaging photo spreads are a feast for the eyes, and the short paragraphs and blurbs describing them are interesting as well as educational. The Human Body section’s “gross factor” is an added bonus, with otherworldly up-close photos of fingernails and microscopic cells, and fascinating (if a bit stomach-churning) photos of preserved muscles! Sure to appeal to a wide age range.  (J 031)

SOPA DE FRIJOLES/BEAN SOUP  by Jorge Argueta
Sopa de Frijoles tells the story of making bean soup in bilingual poetic verse. A little boy abandons his video game to take part in the making of the soup. In the end we see the entire family sit and enjoy the meal together.  (Spanish J 811.54)

WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH AN OLD RED SHOE?  by Anna Alter
Wait! Don’t throw out that one flip-flop or that ripped t-shirt. Instead, make an art stamp or a pillow. Not sure what to do with a worn blanket, bits and pieces of crayons, or empty tin cans? Make something fun and useful! In other words, recycle and reuse. By following step-by-step instructions (some adult help is needed) you, too, can turn trash into treasure.  (J 745.5)

WHITE HOUSE Q & A  by Denise Rinaldo
Was the White House always white? Did someone actually burn down the White House? Is it true that a person went skinny-dipping in a White House fountain? More than 200 years old, the White House is no ordinary house. The site of many significant moments in American history, this is certainly a home of great importance. Get an insider’s tour of the president’s mansion with the fun facts, stories, and photos.  (J 975.3)

WHO’S HAUNTING THE WHITE HOUSE?  by Jeff Belanger
Does the most famous house in America have ghosts living there? Many say, “Yes!” Would you want the ghost of First Lady Dolley Madison telling you to leave her beloved colonial garden alone? How would you react if you saw Abe Lincoln’s ghost standing in front of you? Former presidents, first ladies, foreign prime ministers, and even queens have seen him! Other resident ghosts include several presidents, their wives and children and one British soldier. Colorful illustrations and photos tell the history and stories of the president’s home. Even if you don’t believe in ghosts, this book is still a fun and informative read.  (J 133.1)