The Little Engine That Could

My son is obsessed with trains right now. I stumbled across this classic at the library and knew he would love it. I had read it as a child, and likely my parents and grandparents had to. The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper was first published in 1930!

We first read the original version and later found this one with updated illustrations by Loren Long. My son loved them both. But I ended up purchasing the book with Loren Long's illustrations. I gave it to my son for his third birthday. He had a train party, of course, so it was very appropriate.

Now he makes me read this book to him almost every day. And why not. It has a great message, reminiscent of the Biblical good Samaritan story. It's one he'll hopefully remember the rest of his life...help others and climb those mountains one puff at at time. I think I can...I think I can...I think I can...I think I can...

Llama, Llama, Red Pajama

Moms will love the lesson that this book teaches. Patience. Little llama is tucked into bed but decides he needs a drink of water. When his mama doesn't come right away he fears perhaps she is gone. Over time his fears escalate and his "llama drama" becomes quite entertaining to the kids. They laugh probably because they know they've done it too.

Of course, the problem is resolved and mama reassures him that she is "always near, even if she's not right here". Llama, Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney is one of our favorite bedtime or anytime reads. The author subsequently wrote more Llama books. But her first one is still my favorite. Check it out!

The Big Hungry Bear

Who wouldn't love to pick a red, ripe strawberry? Little mouse does. But an unseen narrator puts words in the reader's mouth and together you try to persuade him to share. Will little mouse share his strawberry with you? He just may...if you tell him there is a big hungry bear out there. Maybe he'll hide with you and cut it in two.

I've never met a child that didn't like this book. Don and Audrey Wood have become one of my favorite literary teams. I've loved every book I've ever read that was written and illustrated by them. Start your youngest reader out with The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry, and the Big Hungry Bear. Then move onto Silly Sally, Alphabet Mystery, and more!