A book may have one author, but it has many, many readers. The author writes a story, then it’s up to the reader to bring their own, unique interpretation giving the book a new meaning for every reader. The books in this list are books with characters and plots that give readers opportunity to come to their own conclusions.
The Missing Pairs. Written and illustrated by Yvonne Ivinson. Greenwillow Books. Ages 4-8. $17.99.
Fox loses a sock, Badger loses a shoe, and Hare loses a mitten. Off they go, in search of the missing pair. Bear says he knows where. But Bear is thinking of a pear not a pair! The friends continue the search and find the missing pairs and someone who is looking for friends. Playful text and fuzzy illustrations accompany this simple story that holds twists and turns.
The Smart Cookie. Written by Jory John. Illustrated by Pete Oswald. Harper. Ages 4-8. $18.99.
The sweet story of a cookie in a bakery who struggles in school, until his teacher, Ms. Biscotti, announces that tonight’s homework is to create something completely original. Each treat demonstrates their unique abilities, and Cookie realizes that “smart” comes in many forms. Cookie’s vulnerability and self-discovery will inspire readers to take inventory of their own individuality.
Detective Mole. Written and illustrated by Camilla Pintonato. Harper. Ages 4-8. $17.99.
Mole is a chef with a passion to become a detective. After all, he can sniff out anything. The unlikely private eye stumbles into his first case quite blindly. Follow Mole along on his investigation to find the missing squirrel, but be ready to spot hilarious comments and silly situations on each page. Mole proves that anyone can live out their dreams despite the odds against them.
A Walk in the Words. Written and illustrated by Hudson Talbott. Nancy Paulsen Books. Ages 4-8. $17.99.
The true story of the author and illustrator’s struggle to read. Art came easily to Hudson, but not reading. As his classmates read book after book, Hudson finds himself entangled in big, scary words. He learns to break down the words, use clues, and read at his own pace, finding a way to explore books instead of fearing them. Heart-warming, inspiring, and clever, this story aims to end the stigma associated with being a slow reader.
Fox at Night. Written and illustrated by Corey R. Tabor. Baltzer + Bray. Ages 4-8. $4.99.
Fox is scared of nighttime because the night is full of monsters. As he keeps a lookout for the scary monsters, he finds out that when he faces his fear he finds friends. A nocturnal tale of misperception with a surprise monster sighting finale. Winner of the 2022 Theodor Geisel Book Award for beginning readers.
Birdie’s Bargain. By Katherine Paterson. Harper Collins. Ages 8-12. $17.99.
The story of a young girl wrestling with faith. Birdie promises God that she will be good if God brings Dad back from the war in Iraq safely. When God doesn’t hold up his end of the bargain, Birdie questions the existence of God. A surprisingly funny story chock full of pop culture references, friend troubles, and preteen angst. Paterson’s well-developed characters present critical points to ponder. Suitable for readers of any faith background.
Kerry S. Teeple is an assistant professor in the College of Education at the University of Findlay.
First Published March 13, 2022, 5:00 p.m.
