Stomp! by Stephanie Calmenson is a part of the Ready-to-Read collection for young emergent readers. A hippopotamus named Ziggy and a raccoon named Zak want to go to the Stomp City Show, but the train is late, the bus is full, the bike pops a tire, and when they finally arrive, the show is sold out! Ziggy is mad enough to stomp—until the Statue of Liberty gives him breathing instructions to help calm him down. Once Ziggy is calm, the two characters follow a beat to join in on a party in the park. 

This is a humorous fast paced story that will engage those early readers. The two main characters Ziggy and Zak are fun and entertaining. Easy words, fun rhymes, and a lesson on how to stay calm by counting to ten all make for an exciting adventure. Baptiste Amsallem’s illustrations of ink and watercolor clearly share the emotions of the characters.

“The Greatest in the World!” is the first book in the Tater Tales by Ben Clanton. Rot is a mutant potato students may recognize from the picture book, “Rot the Cutest in the World!” Rot is a cheerful, medium-sized and brownish potato, his brother Snot is larger, grumpy and greener. Tot is the smallest, with yellowish skin and a blue and white polka-dotted bow which matches the endpapers. 

In this beginning chapter book series, brothers Rot and Snot have a competition to decide who is the greatest in the world, to be judged by their little sister, Tot. When neither a potato sack race nor a game of hot potato produces a winner, they have a laugh-off, with an unexpected result. 

This book has five short chapters, ­and has some early graphic novel features with speech bubbles and vibrant illustrations. The end of the book includes “Spudtacular Facts”  as well as step-by-step instructions for how to draw Rot. This book introduces readers to Clanton’s new characters, who are just as silly and ­appealing as Narwhal and Jelly.

“Snow Horses: A First Night Story” by Patricia MacLachlan, with enchanting illustrations by Micha Archer, is a stunning  picture book that captures the magic of a snowy winter night. MacLachlan’s lyrical prose transports readers to a serene winter landscape, while Archer’s intricate artwork evokes a sense of wonder and tranquility. 

The book’s gentle narrative follows a child’s journey into the snowy world, emphasizing the bond between humans and nature. Through its soothing words and stunning visuals, “Snow Horses” sparks imaginations and ignites a sense of connection with the environment. 

 “Snow Horses” is a perfect read-aloud choice that transports children to a world of snowy landscapes and tender moments. This book is a heartwarming addition to our library that beautifully celebrates the beauty of nature and the joy of companionship.

“If You Were a Princess” by Hillary Homzie, with vibrant illustrations by Udayana Lugo, is an empowering picture book that will resonate with our young readers. Homzie’s engaging narrative invites children to explore various roles and embrace their uniqueness, while Lugo’s colorful artwork vividly brings these possibilities to life.

The book’s inclusive representation and relatable scenarios foster a sense of connection and confidence among readers. Through its charming storyline and captivating illustrations, “If You Were a Princess” encourages creativity and celebrates the diverse dreams and aspirations of every child. This book will be a heartwarming addition to any library to encourage young minds to dream big and embrace their own royal journeys. I highly recommend this enchanting tale, which celebrates imagination and self-expression.

“Go, Sled! Go!” by James Yang is a delightful and energetic picture book that brings the thrill of winter adventures. This book has an engaging storyline and dynamic illustrations that will appeal to our younger readers.

Yang’s minimalist yet expressive art style captures the exhilaration of sledding down snowy slopes, drawing children into the heart of the action. 

The rhythmic text and onomatopoeic language add to the book’s interactive nature, making it an ideal read-aloud choice. Through the protagonist’s determined spirit, the book subtly conveys messages of perseverance and the joy of outdoor play. “Go, Sled! Go!” is a perfect addition to our library collection, offering an entertaining and visually appealing reading experience that will resonate with our young readers.

“A Bucket of Questions” by Tim Fite is a delightful and imaginative picture book that captures the essence of curiosity for young readers. Fite’s engaging storytelling takes children on a captivating journey of exploration, sparked by a bucket brimming with thought-provoking questions. The relatable characters and whimsical illustrations create an inviting atmosphere that encourages active participation and critical thinking.

This book serves as a wonderful tool to foster classroom discussions and inspire young minds to embrace their curiosity. “A Bucket of Questions” not only entertains but also nurtures the natural desire to learn and discover, making it a perfect resource to spark curiosity and creativity in our young readers.

“The Van Buren Sisters VS. The Pants Police” by J.F. Fox and illustrated by Anna Kwan is a spirited and empowering picture book that tackles the notion of gender norms with humor and heart. Set in a world where “Pants Police” enforce strict clothing rules for women, the Van Buren sisters challenge convention by wearing pants and setting off on a mission of change. 
Fox’s engaging narrative is accompanied by Kwan’s vibrant illustrations, capturing the sisters’ determination and camaraderie. This book gently dismantles stereotypes and encourages individuality while celebrating the bond between siblings. With a playful tone and a powerful message, “The Van Buren Sisters VS. The Pants Police” is a delightful read that champions self-expression and challenges societal expectations. This book is also part of the Head-to-Head History series, this inspiring story by J. F. Fox showcases one of the many battles in the history of the women’s movement.

“The Only Astronaut” by Mahak Jain, brought to life through the captivating illustrations of Andrea Stegmaier, is a stellar picture book that ignites young minds with its poignant tale of ambition and courage. The story follows a determined young girl who dreams of becoming an astronaut. She quickly discovers that space is a lot of work and sets out to find an assistant. 

Jain’s lyrical prose weaves a narrative of resilience, emphasizing the importance of chasing one’s aspirations. Stegmaier’s art brilliantly balances earthly scenes with dreamlike cosmic visions, sparking a sense of wonder. Together, words and images convey the transformative power of following one’s heart, while making room for both creativity and another person’s perspective. “The Only Astronaut” is a great reminder that dreams are boundless, and determination knows no bounds.

“Can You Hug a Forest?” by Frances Gilbert is a beautifully illustrated picture book that invites young readers on a captivating journey into the natural world. Through vivid prose and enchanting artwork by Lorna Murphy, the book awakens curiosity about the wonders of nature. The story follows a child’s exploration, pondering if it’s possible to hug elements of the environment, from a tree to a stream, a mountain, and more. 

Gilbert’s gentle narrative and Hevron’s expressive illustrations harmonize to evoke a sense of wonder and appreciation for the earth’s treasures. With its rhythmic language and imaginative approach, this book not only entertains but also encourages children to connect with nature and understand the importance of caring for our planet.

“Wonder Dogs!” by Linda Ashman is a heartwarming and vibrant picture book that celebrates the unique qualities that make every dog special. Through rhythmic and engaging verse, Ashman introduces readers to a delightful array of dogs, each with its own remarkable talent or trait. The colorful and expressive illustrations by Karen Obuhanych bring these furry characters to life, capturing their personalities and actions with great charm. 

As the story unfolds, young readers are treated to a delightful showcase of canine abilities, from fetching to leaping, cuddling to guarding. Beyond the captivating visuals, “Wonder Dogs!” subtly imparts a message of acceptance and appreciation for individual differences. This book would be a wonderful read-aloud that will leave our dog loving kids smiling.

“Linus” by Stuart Hausmann is a whimsical picture book that takes young readers on a captivating journey of curiosity and friendship. With enchanting illustrations that burst with color and detail, the story follows Linus, a spirited young explorer, as he discovers the magic of the world around him. 

Hausmann’s prose and the charming artwork work in harmony to convey the joy of exploration and the value of forming connections. In just a few pages, “Linus” beautifully encapsulates the wonder of childhood and the importance of embracing new experiences. This picture book is a delightful celebration of curiosity and the bonds that unite us.