Books in First Picture Books series

Its a beautiful day for a swim, but Little Bear isnt sure that he likes the water. With Grandpas encouragement, will he be brave enough to try something new? Written by best-selling author David Bedford, with gorgeous illustrations by Brenna Vaughan, this sweet, encouraging, and comforting picture book is perfect for any grandpa and his little one to share.

A lyrical story about how looking back is helpful when you start looking forward. . . .A young girl thoughtfully considers her family tree and the vibrant ancestors who populate it. As each family member’s story is revealed, her quiet meditation—about what kind of person she’ll be when she grows up—transforms into a testament to the importance of sharing family stories. The simple, elegant narrative combined with Sean Qualls’s evocative art makes for a wonderful read-aloud experience.

After losing her mother, shy Natumi is rescued by a team from the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, an orphanage for baby elephants. At the shelter, Natumi hides behind keepers' legs to watch the other elephants at the shelter. But soon, she meets several other orphans, and the eight of them play together in the surrounding bush. As the babies become closer and more like a real family, they need a leader, someone they can trust. Can Natumi grow into this role? Join the herd to find out what happens when they travel back into the wild. This sweet story, with its heartwarming photographs, explores the challenges and joys of family, love, and growing up, and is a perfect bedtime tale.

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!From the Hardcover edition.

A cautionary tale for mice reminiscent of Carroll’s Jabberwocky!Out in the open, in the clear,Where any wisenmouse would fear,Jam licks his paw, he grooms an ear,And never hears approaching hisssss . . .What will happen to the brave mouse Jam when he breaks the rules and goes for a moonlit adventure against the advice of the elder mice?Award-winning illustrator Barry Moser has created a dark and vivid mouse world to complement this cautionary tale full of clever nonsense words and rhyming prose that will keep kids on the edge of their seats.