My Dad Thinks He's Funny

My Dad Thinks He's Funny

Katrina Germein
Tom Jellett

Did your Dad ever make weak jokes and puns?  Did you moan and groan?  Did you do the "eye roll?"  If any of this rings a bell then you will find this book to be pretty funny and you will be able to pass on this character building to your children. You're welcome!

Julia's House for Lost Creatures

Julia's House for Lost Creatures

Ben Hatke

 Julia's House for Lost Creatures is the latest release from the author of the legendary Zeta the Spacegirl series of comics (essential reading).  Julia's has the same style of dreamy, imaginative illustrations as Zita but in a picture book format along with a simple story to boot.  Our toddler is so captivated by all the creatures that it is on heavy rotation at storytime and we love the signature Hatke strong female lead character.

That's Disgusting

That's Disgusting

Pittau/Gervais

 Another gem from Pittau/Gervais.  This time they explore all the disgusting things you perhaps shouldn't try at home.  My nephews thought this book was the best thing since sliced bread; my sister, not so much...

Zoom

Zoom

Istvan Banyai

Zoom is a wordless picture book which slowly "zooms" out of the original image in surprising and captivating ways.  It's the kind of book you will get out now and again and be entranced all over again at the detail and beauty of the illustrations.  There is a sequel too called Re-Zoom but we like the original best.

The Paper Bag Princess

The Paper Bag Princess

Robert Munsch
Michael Martchenko

 

Written in the '80's before The Spice Girls and "Girl Power" was a thing, The Paper Bag Princess is a fantastic story of a feisty princess who uses determination and clever wit to get what she wants.  Michael Martchenko's illustrations are bright and fun (I just love the dragon's smarmy grin) and bring a great story to life.

KICK!

KICK!

Rufus Butler Seder

This almost wordless book is made up of pages which animate when turned.  A very clever concept.  Kick! is the original book in a series of 'Scanimation' books of differing themes.  Simple but magical for kids of all ages.

My First Batman Book

My First Batman Book

David Bar Katz

 Your toddler needs to learn about one of the world's greatest super heroes ever and this book is a fantastic introduction.  From basic facts from his alter ego to his side kick it's all in here with interactive elements and super bright, simple illustrations. And if Batman isn't your cup of tea then check out Downtown Bookworks website for the full range of DC Superhero board books.

The Odd Egg

The Odd Egg

Emily Gravett

Another gem from this creative author/illustrator.  We love her watercolour drawings and the creative way she cuts up the page to create new drawings from existing ones.  And the punchline is very surprising!!

 

 

A Dragon in a Wagon

A Dragon in a Wagon

Lynley Dodd

 This simple rhyming book is a lot of fun as it plays with animal names and possible scenarios with said animal.  And you might learn something too!  We learned what a gnu was from "A gnu with the flu".  The punchline is a little weak but it's really the animals in the middle which are the fun of this book and the illustrations are colourful and clear.