Dad's Bookshelf: April 2022
As is so often the case, the three books on Dad’s Bookshelf this month first caught my attention because of their cover illustrations. For the first time in a while, it wasn’t because I knew anything about them beforehand, or because they have authors or illustrators that I closely follow. No - they simply caught my attention because they’re so handsome at first glance.
Of course they’re also still handsome upon a longer glance. These are three pretty beautiful books that look quite good on the shelf. And after they draw you in with their handsomeness, you’ll soon find they’re quite enjoyable to read as well. Plus they’re all brand new releases just this month - if you’re into that kind of thing.
There are very few similarities between the books in terms of theme. But of course in some ways you could say they’re all about life and the wonderful possibilities that exist out there. One is a celebration of our planet, one is something of a graduation book, and one is something of a random checklist of seemingly mundane but beautiful things.
It’s always a real pleasure to gather up the picture books we’ve been reading in our house each month - and then whittle that list down to 3 for Dad’s Bookshelf. I like reflecting on the books I enjoy the most, and the ones my kids (now 9 and 6) connect with the most as well. And I always hope our little lists helps you and yours find a new story to enjoy together as well.
Dad’s Bookshelf is a continuing, monthly series featuring the kids books we are most excited about each month. The series is named after the real life bookshelf we have in our home, where I keep all of my favorite picture books of all time. While the books we share on Dad’s Bookshelf are often new releases, it’s also not uncommon for us to be excited about an older book we just discovered.
Disclosure: Some of the books in this month’s Dad’s Bookshelf were provided to us by their publishers, with no expectation of inclusion on this monthly article of the books we’re most excited about. All thoughts and opinions are our own. Some of the links in this article are affiliate links that will lead you to view the books on Bookshop.org and Amazon.
Big and Small and In-Between
Written by Carter Higgins and Illustrated by Daniel Miyares
This incredibly attractive little book (roughly 6 or 7 inches square) is a beautiful example of design. Daniel Miyares’ art is very special, and I think it should be a textbook example of how a cover can attract you to a book. How can you possibly say no to a mouse in teacup holding an even smaller teacup?
The interior design is impressive as well - especially the inclusion of the chapters that are always marked by a bit of papercraft to unfold. This certainly adds to the engagement and makes it a very memorable book perfectly suited for both read alouds and displaying on the coffee table.
The book itself serves as a catalog of seemingly random observations - organized by whether they are big, small or in-between things. Examples are “what’s left of your fort after your mom says to clean up those pillows” and “those cozy socks that keep your feet warm and your shoes less smelly.” It’s hard to do justice to all of the little choices, but it’s pretty wonderful.
Only One
Written by Deborah Hopkinson and Illustrated by Chuck Groenink
I’m a sucker for an appeal to treat our planet with the respect it deserves - especially if it’s done well. I openly admit it’s one of those themes that’s very abundant these days, and one seen in plenty of bland books - but Only One manages to deliver the message of conservation with actual freshness and originality.
They key that makes this book stand out is the beauty of the art and the cleverness of the structure. It starts with “only one” - a child. And this repetition of “only one” continues throughout the book. There are trillions of galaxies in the universe, but only one is our home. Only one star is close enough to give us warmth. There are 8 planets spinning around our son, but only one is our planet.
It’s a very effective and engaging structure, and, once again I must stress this, it really looks fantastic. Not to mention that it’s actually quite educational, but in that perfect sneaky kind of way that blends very well into the story. And, I forget, did I compliment the illustrations yet?
The Path
Written and Illustrated by Bob Staake
I told you that this month’s Dad’s Bookshelf had the consistent theme of attractive covers - and The Path is certainly no exception. Look at those colors and the style of trees - and that cute little guy on the path! This is my style right here - made by renowned New Yorker cover artist Bob Staake - and I knew we were in for something good.
It turns out The Path fits into the genre of a graduation book. It’s a bit of a pep talk about all of the things you’ll do in your life - like Dr. Seuss’ “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” It’s sweet and thoughtful and it has a good rhythm to it. But that wouldn’t mean as much if it didn’t also have wonderful illustrations to accompany it. And it most certainly does! In some ways, every single page somehow feels like a new experiment with color and style.
Very often the art - particularly the environment - gives me flashbacks of the art of Jon Klassen. So it’s very obvious why I enjoy looking at this book so much. The child in this book goes on a very scenic walk through the woods and past waterfalls and over boulders - and the style of all that nature is wonderful stuff.
What picture books have you been enjoying recently? Have you read any of the books on Dad’s Bookshelf yet? Let us know in the comments!
