The holiday season is fast approaching, and Santa’s helpers from Fairfield Public Library’s Youth Services staff have some of the best picks for the season. Come give them a test read before choosing your favorites for far-flung friends and family.
For Littles
The Bakery Dragon by Devin Elle Kurtz. Dragon lovers and carb consumers rejoice! A dragon discovers the joy of community and breadmaking in this cozy book you can almost smell and taste.
I Am Stuck by Julia Mills. A wonderful and slow-paced exploration of frustration, empathy, and friendship that children (and adults) of all ages can relate to.
Nell Plants a Tree by Anne Wynter and Danial Miyares. This warm, intergenerational story celebrates the lasting gifts provided by a tree.
Oh Panda by Cindy Derby. A panda explores themes of perseverance in this dazzling, frosty quest.
Trucks by Johnny Dyrander. For the young truck enthusiast in your life. Build fine motor skills driving trucks and vehicles around built-in tracks in this fun, sturdy board book.
You’ll Always Be My Chickadee by Kate Hosford. Budding naturalists will delight in this heartwarming celebration of love and the outdoors.
First Chapters & Graphic Novels
Orris and Timble: the Beginning by Kate Dicamillo. Dicamillo has long created memorable stories for kids of all ages. This introspective series opener is ideal for listeners or budding new readers ready to blaze a trail into a book with real chapters in a manageable 72 pages.
Charlie & Mouse by Laurel Snyder. Lovingly paired with Emily Hughes’s heartfelt illustrations, this book follows the joyful adventures of two brothers as they dig up rocks, instigate a neighborhood party at the playground, and enjoy their bedtime bananas. The everyday magic of childhood is on display in this charming, illustrated, 36-page “chapter” book.
One Smart Cookie by Mika Song. Goofy and cute, these squirrel ninjas are on a mission—for cookies. Song’s graphic novel series is full of squirrel shenanigans and is sure to delight and engage young readers.
Rescue on Turtle Beach by Jen Marlin. An intrepid duo races to rescue sea turtles in this environmentalist adventure. Families with an interest in conservation and nature are sure to enjoy.