"Wait" by Antoinette Portis

Every child who has tried to go from one place to another with an adult has been frustrated by the adult's singular focus on getting to where they're going. And every adult who has tried getting from one place to another with a child has been frustrated with the child's need to stop and examine everything along the way. Which way is best? Antoinette Portis examines this universal struggle in her newest book, "Wait." There are only two words used in this picture book, the adult saying "Hurry!" and the child saying, "wait." As they travel through town, the adult keeps admonishing the child, but he keeps finding beautiful and interesting things, like a fish tank, a cement mixer, and a butterfly. When it starts raining, they really hurry, but their flight is stopped instantly by something wonderful. This is a delightful and lovingly illustrated story for everyone.

--Andrea W., Headquarters

Go for a "Drive" with Kellen Hatanaka

The iconic North American roadtrip comes to life in "Drive: A Look at Roadside Opposites" by Kellen Hatanaka. A wood-paneled station wagon leaves the city, loaded with suitcases, lantern, beachball and football. As it travels across the countryside through tunnels, over mountains, and into deserts, it encounters all sorts of opposites. There are the usual "near" and "far", but there's also some unconventional opposites, like "worm's eye view" and "bird's eye view." Each bold and colorful illustration has many things for your young reader to pick out. This would be a perfect gift for a preschooler or kindergartener about to go on a long journey. If you like "Drive," check out "Work."

--Andrea W., Headquarters

Dewey Discoveries: "Super Shark Encyclopedia" by Derek Harvey

Do you think you know everything about sharks? Think again! Check out this "Super Shark Encyclopedia: And Other Creatures of the Deep" by Derek Harvey. Chock full of every kind of shark (like the thresher shark, which boasts a tail as long as it's body which they use to shock their prey) and illustrated by large, full-color photographs, this encyclopedia is sure to shed light on some new information. Click on the link to make your request right now! Great for all shark and deep sea enthusiasts.

Dewey Number: 597.3

--Andrea W., Headquarters

New Music for Tiny Ears

This is a great season at St. Louis County for toddlers and preschoolers who love listening to music. We've got four great new albums that I would like to introduce you to. Click on the links below if something strikes your fancy and you want to make a request. Enjoy!

For  your classic toddler, we have "The Salamanders," a silly rock album. My personal favorite is "My Grandma Is a Spy."

If you're more of a preschooler or kindergardener and you love to rock out, take a listen to The Alphabeticians album "Pants!" The eponymous song is so full of silly that it makes me laugh.

When mellow is more your speed, you just might need some Little Root in your life. The folk duo keeps it sweet and simple on their album "Seeds to Sow," and it's perfect for all the hipster toddlers in your life, or if you're a fan of Dan Zanes and Elizabeth Mitchell.

When you've had a long hard day and need some musical comfort, reach for Caspar Babypants' latest album, "Night Night!" While the music is toned down from his usual silliness, the lyrics, while lullaby sweet, still have a tinge if his unusual humor. This album is good for anyone, really, and if you've never tried Caspar Babypants, do it right now!







--Andrea W., Headquarters

Kids Music Friday: "Gingerbread Man" by Lunch Money

Here's a silly little song and video for the "Gingerbread Man" by Lunch Money. I bet you never knew he was so sassy! Enjoy!

--Andrea W., Headquarters

For Super-Spy Fun, Check Out "The Double Cross" by Jackson Pearce

Do you need a little danger and adventure in your life? Pick up Jackson Pearce's new book, "The Double Cross." You will especially like this book if you appreciated Stuart Gibbs' "Spy School."

How cool would it be to grow up in a secret spy compound? You'd get to attend spy school with the other kids and learn how to put on disguises, evade detection, and lie well enough to get away with it. Only it's not so great for Hale. While his formerly geeky best friend Walter managed to hit puberty and grow muscles, Hale was left behind to always come in last during physical tests and become the brunt of everyone's jokes. Despairing of ever making it to Junior Agent, everything changes when Hale's parents, super-spies, disappear. In an effort to discover their whereabouts, Hale stumbles upon some pretty big and evil secrets that SRS, the spy agency, is keeping from everyone. Does Hale have the skills necessary to save his parents and his little sister, Kennedy? This book is appropriate for grades four to six.

--Andrea W., Headquarters

Celebrating African American Children's Literature: Jacqueline Woodson

Although Jacqueline Woodson may be best known for her recent achievement, "brown girl dreaming", which has won numerous awards including the Coretta Scott King Award, a Newbery Honor Medal, and a National Book Award, her children's picture books are also treasures to share with young readers. Here are a few of my favorites:

"The Other Side" is a wonderful book to share and discuss with school-aged children. This is the story of two neighbors, Clover and Annie, who find a way to become friends while peacefully resisting segregation.

 "Visiting Day" describes one special day when a young girl visits her Daddy in prison. This special trip with Grandma demonstrates Jacqueline Woodson's ability to present a difficult subject matter in a tender, loving manner.

"This is the Rope: A Story from The Great Migration" reflects upon the importance of family history as we trace three generations of one family that moved north to New York City. Children will recognize the simple rope shared by Grandma, Mama, and Beatrice.

"Pecan Pie Baby" captures the emotions of a young girl when a new "ding-dang baby" sister is on the way! Will Gia welcome the new baby?

--Teresa R., Sachs