Classic children’s books of the month

Each month, WORLD’s print magazine highlights recent children’s book releases that we hope will help families navigate selections at the library while also giving parents and grandparents suggestions of books to add to their own home bookshelves. Sadly, many of the review copies that have crossed my desk over the past few years are what I would term eye candy: books lacking substance or engaging storytelling, and all too often reeking of an agenda. As libraries continue to add new selections to their catalogs, it’s important to remember timeless picture books and middle grade reads so they won’t be overshadowed by fleeting trends. This online series of book reviews will invite a variety of reviewers sharing good stories that they enjoyed either as children themselves or as parents reading aloud to their children. — Kristin Chapman

Carl’s Masquerade

Alexandra Day
First Published 1992

When my son was small, our dog-loving family pored over the Good Dog, Carl books, a delightful collection written and illustrated by Alexandra Day. The books feature an unusually capable rottweiler named Carl who babysits a tiny toddler. Day’s mostly wordless books contain elaborately detailed scenes that tell stories through pictures. They are a feast for the eyes, chock-full of whimsy and humor. One of our favorite books in the collection was Carl’s Masquerade. When Mom and Dad announce, “We’re going to a masquerade party, Carl. Take good care of the baby,” dog and toddler secretly follow them to the party, immersing themselves in the fun. Afterward, dog and child race home—Carl boosting the tot into her crib—before her parents return. Other favorites include Carl’s Birthday and Carl’s Afternoon in the Park. Ages 2-5

The Rainbow Fish

Marcus Pfister
First Published 1992

A fish with sparkly silver scales—dubbed Rainbow Fish by the others—is the most beautiful fish in the entire ocean. The other fish beg him to play, but he just swims around proudly displaying his dazzling looks. A small blue fish asks for one of his scales, but he refuses to share. His haughty selfishness alienates him from all the others, and Rainbow Fish becomes lonely. After seeking advice from a wise octopus, Rainbow Fish decides to share his glittery scales, leaving himself with only one special scale. Rainbow Fish is happy at last when he realizes that sharing and friendship are more satisfying than possessions and outward appearances. Author and illustrator Marcus Pfister used holographic foil to create the fish’s eye-catching iridescent scales. Ages 3-8

Oh, the Places You’ll Go!

Dr. Seuss
First Published 1990

Oh, the Places You’ll Go was Dr. Seuss’ (Theodor Geisel) last published book before his death. Written in his signature rhyming verse and illustrated in his distinctive whimsical style, it celebrates life’s journey, encouraging young readers to embrace the unknown, face challenges (beware the Hakken-Kraks!), make good decisions along the way, and have the courage to persevere when things don’t go right. As class president in 2014, my son’s speech to his fellow high school graduates included lines from this now-classic book, which continues to have a lasting influence on subsequent readers. Its uplifting message of endless possibilities makes it a popular gift for milestone celebrations. Ages 3 and up

Corduroy

Don Freeman
First Published 1968

Written and illustrated by Don Freeman, Corduroy is an age-old story about the simple joy of finding a friend. Corduroy, a small stuffed bear, lives in the toy department of a large store. Realizing he’s lost a button on his overalls, he searches for the missing object. He goes on an adventure in the palace-like store until the night watchman finds Corduroy and returns him to the shelf with all the other toys. The next morning, a little girl named Lisa buys Corduroy. Her small apartment is nothing like the fancy store, but Corduroy is happy to have a home. In her room, Lisa sews a button on his loose strap. “You must be a friend,” Corduroy tells her. “I’ve always wanted a friend.” Ages 3-8