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Our Favorite Kids Books

Here are some of our staff's favorite recent reads for kids! 

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The Lost Ryu By Emi Watanabe Cohen Cover Image
$17.99
ISBN: 9781646141326
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Levine Querido - June 7th, 2022

Set in post-war Japan, 10-year-old Kohei goes on a journey to find a full-sized dragon in order to make his grandfather smile again and makes discoveries about his own father along the way. Full of history and a touch of fantasy, this book is full of heart. 

Recommended by Becky. For readers ages 8-12.


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Once Upon a Book By Grace Lin, Kate Messner Cover Image
$18.99
ISBN: 9780316541077
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers - February 7th, 2023

Two award-winning children's book author/illustrators team up for this stunning picture book about a girl named Alice who discovers worlds inside the pages of a book. The illustrations are stunning and will suck you into the pages right alongside Alice.

Recommended by Becky


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The Very, Very Far North By Dan Bar-el, Kelly Pousette (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Dan Bar-el, Kelly Pousette (Illustrator)
$8.99
ISBN: 9781534433427
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Atheneum Books for Young Readers - October 6th, 2020

This is a perfect read-aloud for the whole family. I read it with my son and we both loved it and have since given it as gifts to almost every family we know! It's a bit reminiscent of Winnie the Pooh. Each chapter is its own adventure, each character uniquely quirky. This is bound to become a classic! The sequel - Just Beyond the Very Far North - is JUST as wonderful. 

Recommended by Becky for kids ages 7-12


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Osmo Unknown and the Eightpenny Woods By Catherynne M. Valente Cover Image
$17.99
ISBN: 9781481476997
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Margaret K. McElderry Books - April 26th, 2022

An odyssey-like adventure full of magic and wonder. A journey that brings Osmo empathy and understanding. All the characters are so funny and wonderful. A great family read-aloud! 


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Answers in the Pages By David Levithan Cover Image
$17.99
ISBN: 9780593484685
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Knopf Books for Young Readers - May 10th, 2022

When I pick up a book by Levithan, I know I'm going to get a story that is written with quiet tenderness and genuine heart. Answers in the Pages is an extremely timely novel centered around a book being challenged in a fifth grade class for portraying two boys that may or may not be in love-- and if they were, would that really be so bad? I implore readers young and old to read this one-- I was moved to tears by the intertwining points of view that weave this tale together.

Recommended by Andrew for readers ages 8 - 12


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Birdie and Me By J. M. M. Nuanez Cover Image
$8.99
ISBN: 9780399186783
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Puffin Books - February 16th, 2021

Jack and Birdie have lost their mother and are bounced between two uncles who couldn't be more different - especially their approach to brother Birdie's preference for glitter and boas. Exquisite portrayal of family! 

Recommended by Christy for kids ages 10 and up. 

 

 

 


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The Search for Sasquatch (A Wild Thing Book) By Laura Krantz Cover Image
$19.99
ISBN: 9781419758188
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Abrams Books for Young Readers - October 11th, 2022

After learning that an old family member was both an anthropology professor and collector of Bigfoot evidence, author Krantz dives right into the woods with several sasquatch seekers on a straightforward and scientific mission: Is there something to the Bigfoot phenomenon? From modern research methods to revisiting ancient stories of the elusive species, The Search for Sasquatch is a fantastic guide for young readers curious about cryptids, exploring how part of the fascination and passion for them comes from chasing both the possibilities and the unknown.

 

Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 13


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Dear Mothman By Robin Gow Cover Image
$18.99
ISBN: 9781419764400
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Amulet Books - March 21st, 2023

After Noah's best friend passes away, he decides to continue their science project on Mothman, the infamous cryptid. As Noah processes his grief, he writes letters to Mothman-- about being trans, autistic, and feeling different from other kids. After all, Mothman is misunderstood too; he may understand Noah better than anyone. Dear Mothman is often poignant, but so sweet, thoughtful, and full of healing and growth. This book left a big, mysterious handprint on my heart that's here to stay.

Recommended by Andrew for ages 10 & up


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My Otter Half By Michelle Schusterman Cover Image
$7.99
ISBN: 9781338741490
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Scholastic Inc. - January 4th, 2022

A baby sea otter and a dachshund puppy are accidental runaways-- Oliver from his momma, and Franklin from his human, Lucy. After an oil spill in Puget Sound brings them together, this unlikely duo puts their paws together, determined to help each other find their way home. A quick-paced, otter-ly adorable adventure of friendship, filled with heart and charm worthy of a Disney film.

 

Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 12

 


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The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge By M.T. Anderson, Eugene Yelchin, Eugene Yelchin (Illustrator) Cover Image
$14.99
ISBN: 9781536213096
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Candlewick - April 14th, 2020

There is a long history of war and anger between elves and goblins, and it's up to two well-mannered scholars to figure it all out. Anderson's writing is hilarious and Yelchin's art is beautiful. This book just keeps rolling and keeps you guessing. 

Recommended by Kevin for kids ages 10-13


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The Language of Seabirds By Will Taylor Cover Image
$17.99
ISBN: 9781338753738
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Scholastic Press - July 19th, 2022

There's more than just birds up in the air this summer for twelve-year-old Jeremy-- like whether he'll live with mom or dad now that they're divorced, or if he'll ever feel comfortable telling anyone he likes boys. Fortunately during his visit on the Oregon coast, he meets Evan, and they form a close friendship-- and perhaps it might be more than that. The Language of Seabirds is a soft and sweet story that takes place at such a pivotal time in life, right on the cusp of adolescence, and Taylor captures that uncertainty and growth in a wonderfully realistic fashion. Jeremy and Evan come up with a secret bird language in this novel-- "cormorant" means "beautiful". I would definitely say that The Language of Birds is a cormorant book, one that has made a nest in my heart.

Recommended by Andrew for readers ages 10 - 13


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My Pet Feet By Josh Funk, Billy Yong (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Josh Funk, Billy Yong (Illustrator)
$18.99
ISBN: 9781534486003
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers - August 23rd, 2022

What would you do if you woke up one morning and a letter has vanished from the whole world? When the letter R goes missing, everything is different-- even Doodles the ferret, who has shrunk into feet. My Pet Feet is a hilarious and clever book that demonstrates how much one letter can change a word.

Recommended by Andrew for ages 4 - 8


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When Mino Took the Bus By Simona Ciraolo Cover Image
$17.99
ISBN: 9781838740887
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Flying Eye Books - February 7th, 2023

This tender and sweet book about a little chipmunk on a big journey emphasizes the impact of meeting new friends and making memories together along the way. I adore the gorgeously soft illustrations full of little details that accompany this wonderful book!

Recommended by Andrew for ages 4 - 8


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The Real Riley Mayes By Rachel Elliott, Rachel Elliott (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Rachel Elliott, Rachel Elliott (Illustrator)
$12.99
ISBN: 9780062995742
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Balzer + Bray - May 3rd, 2022

Who is Riley Mayes, really? She's an artist, a jokester, and a self-proclaimed "dude-ish girl", just to name a few things. She's also totally obsessed with her favorite comedian, Joy Powers. Humor is embedded into Riley's fifth-grade growing pains that include (but aren't limited to) discovering identity, forging new friendships, and finding your passion-- which all combines into a meaningful and memorable graphic novel perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Kayla Miller.

Recommended by Andrew for readers ages 8 - 12


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If You Come to Earth By Sophie Blackall (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Sophie Blackall (Illustrator)
$18.99
ISBN: 9781452137797
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Chronicle Books - September 15th, 2020

If this book does not draw you in on the gorgeous art alone, just open it and randomly read any page. Read the author's notes for bonus cry! 

Recommended by Mary for kids ages 5-8


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Wildoak By C. C. Harrington Cover Image
$18.99
ISBN: 9781338803860
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Scholastic Press - September 20th, 2022

In this world where one's voice can't always be heard, Maggie and Rumpus tentatively form an unlikely friendship that will change both of their lives. This engaging and heartfelt novel is perfect for fans of Pax and other stories that explore the bonds between animals and people.

Recommended by Andrew for ages 8 - 12


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This Is Our Rainbow: 16 Stories of Her, Him, Them, and Us By Katherine Locke (Editor), Nicole Melleby (Editor) Cover Image
By Katherine Locke (Editor), Nicole Melleby (Editor)
$8.99
ISBN: 9780593303979
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Yearling - April 11th, 2023

What an incredible era we're in for children's literature, to have an uplifting and informational anthology for LGBT kids of all kinds. This Is Our Rainbow brings so many influential and bestselling authors into one book, one of hope, camaraderie, and spirit. Friendships, family, identity, and first crushes are all focal points in this collection, just as they are in real life. A must-have for personal and professional libraries.

 

Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 10 and up


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In a Jar By Deborah Marcero, Deborah Marcero (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Deborah Marcero, Deborah Marcero (Illustrator)
$18.99
ISBN: 9780525514596
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers - January 21st, 2020

Not only are the illustrations in this book vivid - the story will also draw you in. Evelyn and Llewellyn are collectors of the right kind of "things" - including friends. 

Recommended by Mary for kids ages 3 to 7


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Temple Alley Summer By Sachiko Kashiwaba, Avery Fischer Udagawa (Translator), Miho Satake (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Sachiko Kashiwaba, Avery Fischer Udagawa (Translator), Miho Satake (Illustrator)
$18.00
ISBN: 9781632063038
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Yonder - July 6th, 2021

I loved this little slice-of-life taste of summer in Japan. It's a ghost story with a fantasy story within the story. A book with a ton of heart and humor and a cast of delightful characters. 

Recommended by Becky for kids ages 8-12


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Mina By Matthew Forsythe, Matthew Forsythe (Illustrator) Cover Image
$17.99
ISBN: 9781481480413
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books - February 15th, 2022

When Mina's father says he has a surprise, it's usually not a good one. Her dad's new pet squirrel seems peculiarly... feline. Surely nothing could go wrong for these mice, right? This might very well be one of my favorite picture books of the year already-- the art is gorgeous, the characters are charming, and the humor is delightful. Readers of all ages will adore Mina!

 

Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 4 - 8


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Stretchy McHandsome By Judy Schachner, Judy Schachner (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Judy Schachner, Judy Schachner (Illustrator)
$17.99
ISBN: 9780803741218
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Dial Books - October 8th, 2019

I think Stretchy McHandsome just stole my heart and won the honor of being my favorite picture book of the year. Stretchy the butterscotch boy is one of nine cats in the McHandsome clan-- the youngest, in fact! He sets off on a vacation from his loving but crowded home, and that's only the beginning. My favorite thing of all is how the illustrations truly capture the physics-defying reality of how cats seem to occupy their bodies. He stretches, melts, curls, and makes all the shapes a cat can make. Stretchy McHandsome (and his whole family) will charm your socks off!

Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 3 - 7


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I Can Make This Promise By Christine Day Cover Image
$9.99
ISBN: 9780062872005
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Heartdrum - December 8th, 2020

Edie is a bright, creative twelve year old girl that harbors a secret question she's ready to find answers for... "Where am I from?" She knows she's Native American, but her mother was adopted by a white family-- and she's always shied away from telling Edie about their cultural heritage. When Edie discovers a memory box of photos and letters from her namesake, Edith Graham, she's determined to learn her truth. A glorious novel of emerging identity, friendships, and many kinds of family. I was glued to this book, filled with so much emotion I actually cried. Award worthy.

Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 12


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Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch By Julie Abe Cover Image
$7.99
ISBN: 9780316493895
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers - July 6th, 2021

Eva is a semi-magical witch who uses creativity and imagination in tandem with what magic she does have to help the people of her town. Another great read-aloud for the family. My son and I are anxiously awaiting the sequel! 

Recommended by Becky for kids ages 8-12

 


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The Silver Arrow By Lev Grossman Cover Image
$7.99
ISBN: 9780316539548
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers - August 31st, 2021

First kid's book by Lev Grossman, author of the Magicians trilogy. This was such a fun read aloud adventure. My six-year-old absolutely loved it and we both laughed our way through most of it. Two kids are gifted a magical train by their uncle and embark on an adventure that teaches them responsibility - both for their own choices and for the environment. It's delightful, and not a bit heavy-handed. 

Recommended by Becky for kids ages 8-12


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The Golden Swift (The Silver Arrow) By Lev Grossman Cover Image
$16.99
ISBN: 9780316283540
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers - May 3rd, 2022

The sequel to "The Silver Arrow" is here and it is as delightful and funny as the first book. Kate and Tom go off the rails as they search for missing Uncle Herbert and meet some new friends along the way. These books are fantastic family read-alouds and I'm sure will become classics in their own right. 

For readers of all ages, recommended by Becky 


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Too Bright to See By Kyle Lukoff Cover Image
$8.99
ISBN: 9780593111178
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Dial Books - June 7th, 2022

Lukoff captures grief and pre-teen growing pains in such a realistic but ultimately healing way. I needed this book as a kid, and even reading it now as an adult has moved and mended me during my time with it.

Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 12


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Kitty By Rebecca Jordan-Glum, Rebecca Jordan-Glum (Illustrator) Cover Image
$18.99
ISBN: 9781250768049
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Roaring Brook Press - April 12th, 2022

Granny is supposed to be catsitting Satsuki the tabby, but when the ink on her instructions get smudged, she mistakes a local raccoon for the family kitty. This new kitty turns out to be quite the handful! Don't worry, everything will work out for Granny, Satsuki, and Kitty... even if they leave behind a mess. A humorous and whimsical story!

 

Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 4 - 8


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The Water Bears By Kim Baker Cover Image
$6.99
Email or call for price.
ISBN: 9781984852236
Published: Yearling - September 14th, 2021

On Murphy Island, everything is eccentric. But Newt Gomez just wants to be normal...shake the bad dreams that persist about the bear attack he survived, to not be the only Latinx in his town. And then there's the bear statue that might grant wishes... 

A new novel by our long-time friend and Ballard author, Kim Baker! 

Recommended by Christy for kids ages 9-12


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Root Magic By Eden Royce Cover Image
$16.99
ISBN: 9780062899576
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Walden Pond Press - January 5th, 2021

Set in the South in the 1960's - this middle grade book hits all the high notes. It's educational, full of magic, and delightfully spooky. Jez is one of the best kid characters that I've encountered in a long time. This book celebrates family, empathy, and kindness. 

Recommended by Becky for kids ages 8-12


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Housecat Trouble: (A Graphic Novel) By Mason Dickerson Cover Image
$12.99
ISBN: 9780593173459
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Random House Graphic - February 22nd, 2022

Buster the housecat is expecting a typical quiet day when his human goes out, but the strange, blob-like spirits invading his home ensure there's a lot more in store. With the help of street cats Chauncey and Nova, it's up to these fierce felines to defeat the spirits before Buster's human comes back! The art style in Housecat Trouble is so bright, round, and adorable, and there's a purr-fect mix of adventure and humor! I'm looking forward to more adventures featuring these fur-ociously brave kitties!

 

Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 12


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Spindlefish and Stars By Christiane M. Andrews Cover Image
$7.99
Email or call for price.
ISBN: 9780316496032
Published: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers - October 19th, 2021

A middle-grade read (ages 8-12) and one that definitely does not condescend to it's readers. The writing was stunning, poetic, and a delight to read aloud to my son. It's a book that creates a whole new mythology about the creation and maintenance of the world. Full of puzzles and mystery. 

Recommended by Becky for kids ages 8-12


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The Beast and the Bethany By Jack Meggitt-Phillips, Isabelle Follath (Illustrator) Cover Image
$7.99
ISBN: 9781534478909
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Aladdin - December 14th, 2021

This book is an absolute riot! Roald Dahl meets Lemony Snicket. It's a battle of wills and wits. A fantastic read-aloud for the whole family. Recommended by Becky for readers 8-12


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Hazel Bly and the Deep Blue Sea By Ashley Herring Blake Cover Image
$8.99
ISBN: 9780316535472
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers - May 24th, 2022

This book cracked my heart wide open and brought the pieces together again-- just like Hazel's family, still full of love, but different than things once were. Hazel Bly and the Deep Blue Sea is a novel that will resonate with readers of all ages with tenderness, strength, and even a little bit of mermaid magic.

Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 12


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Of a Feather By Dayna Lorentz Cover Image
$7.99
Email or call for price.
ISBN: 9780358547693
Published: Clarion Books - December 14th, 2021

Reenie has never met her great-aunt Bea before, but after her mom is admitted to the hospital again, she's moving in with this familial stranger. This new territory takes flight when Bea demonstrates her falconry skills, inviting Reenie into a beautiful and lofty new world. Neither of them expected to ensnare a juvenile great-horned owl, especially one in dire need of rehabilitation! Frazzled young fowl Rufus has also been separated from his mother, and feels out of place in the forest-- certainly not like the king of the night that he wants to be. Reenie and Rufus have more in common than they know, and these kindred spirits form a sweet friendship that doesn't need words... but what will happen when Rufus is ready to return to the wild? Of a Feather swept into my heart as softly and quietly as an owl's primary feathers; a feel-good contemporary novel that manages to feel magical in its warmth and bravery.

Recommended by Andrew for kids ages 8 - 12


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Sky Song By Abi Elphinstone Cover Image
$8.99
ISBN: 9781534438569
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Aladdin - November 16th, 2021

If you love "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" then check out this new stand-alone fantasy epic by Abi Elphinstone. This book was so much fun from start to finish. It had us on the edge of our seats. 

Recommended by Becky for kids ages 8-12


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Mouse's Wood: A Year in Nature By Alice Melvin Cover Image
$19.95
Email or call for price.
ISBN: 9780500652701
Published: Thames & Hudson - June 7th, 2022

This charming book about Mouse and his friends in spreads about each month is so much fun to read.  You will pour over all the details ~ especially the illustrations under each flap.

Recommended by Mary


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Maurice By Jessixa Bagley Cover Image
$17.99
ISBN: 9781797211732
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Chronicle Books - May 9th, 2023

This book is for anyone who loves Paris, or dogs, or music, or beautiful storytelling about how important it is to do what you love!

Recommended by Mary


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The Mouse Who Carried a House on His Back By Jonathan Stutzman, Isabelle Arsenault (Illustrator) Cover Image
$18.99
ISBN: 9781536216790
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Candlewick - August 30th, 2022

With cutouts and illustrations to keep both children and their adults turning the page, this picture book has it all!  So beautiful!

Recommended by Mary


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The Rock from the Sky By Jon Klassen, Jon Klassen (Illustrator) Cover Image
By Jon Klassen, Jon Klassen (Illustrator)
$18.99
ISBN: 9781536215625
Availability: Usually Ships in 1-5 Days
Published: Candlewick - April 13th, 2021

So fun with illustrations to make you giggle.  This charming book by the great Jon Klassen reminds us of the benefit of listening to the viewpoint of others.

Recommended by Mary