Books in X-Ray Picture Books series

The little boy from The Best Place to Read can now read by himself, and he's looking for an audience. But everyone--his parents, siblings, grandparents, even his dog!--is too busy to hear a story in this fun and lively tale. When our young reader finally settles in to read to his toys, he gets a surprise visit and learns that the best time to read is whenever you have loved ones to listen! With catchy, rhyming text and vibrant illustrations, this is the perfect read-aloud--anytime!

In a little house on the top of a hill lives a happy little guy named Hugo. When Hugo sees a mysterious red string, he just knows he’s going to find something wonderful at the end of it! Hugo’s journey takes him across the river, underground, and throughout town—all while gathering curious new friends along the way! What does Hugo finally find at the end of the mysterious red string? An embarrassing, hilarious, wonderful surprise! A rhyming refrain and Bob Boyle’s signature animated, geometric art style will entertain readers as they learn about what happens when new friends work toward a common goal.

Even though eight-year-old Ernestine lives with her family up North, "back home" is Lumberton, North Carolina, the place where she was born and where her mama grew up. From the moment she steps off the train, Ernestine feels right at home in the lush, green countryside, working on the family farm, and spending time with her aunt, uncle, and cousins. This nostalgic, sweetly humorous visit home--based on Gloria Pinkney's own childhood memories--is perfect for intergenerational sharing.

This delightful picture book is based on the beloved classic tale and retold for younger children. Run, run as fast as you can, you can't catch him, he's the Gingerbread Man! But although he may be able to out-run everyone, can the Gingerbread Man outwit the cunning fox? This title features vibrant illustrations taken from the popular "First Reading" series.