Olive and the Great Flood by Connie Arnold and illustrated by Kathleen Bullock

A few years ago I met through my blog the author of today's book.  Well I didn't actually meet her but through the years we have had a nice correspondence  through our blogs.  I really liked her first book Animal Sound Mix-up because I thought it had a great concept and cute illustrations.  She recently asked me to be part of her blog tour for her most recent book.  I was so happy to say yes to her request.  Her newest book is the kind of book I always like.  A new version of an old story.  In this case it is a clever take on Noah's Ark.

Olive and the Great Flood by Connie Arnold and illustrated perfectly by Kathleen Bullock tells the story of Noah's Ark from the perspective of the Dove (aptly named Olive) who is sent from the ark to see if the waters have receded.   I love the beautiful way Ms Arnold tells the story.  It makes a great read aloud that is engaging and sweet.  It is a faith based book that would make a great read aloud for a Sunday School classroom.  When reading about Noah's Ark as a child I always wondered about the Dove....which was my favorite part of the story.  This makes a great addition to any child's bookshelf....

Planting a Kiss by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and illustrated by Peter H Reynolds

Planting a Kiss by Amy Krouse Rosenthal with lovely illustrations by Peter H Reynolds is the perfect book for Valentines Day.  I love the whimsical nature of the text and the sweet spare illustrations.  This book is really about sharing love and goodness with the world.  I love how it takes a literally the age old expression "to plant a kiss" on someone.  I also love how this book can teach children how to be kind and loving without being preachy.  This is a Valentines Day book that can be read at any time of year.  

Flashback Tuesday: Bunny Hopwell's First Spring by Jean Fritz

It might seem weird to write about a book for spring in February; but I thought it would be nice to think about spring while waiting for the next snow storm.  At this point I am tired of winter and shoveling. Although I am not as tired as my friends in Massachusetts.

One of the books we will be selling this spring at my new job at the Historic Hudson Valley Gift Shop is today's selection.  I remember this book growing up.  I think it was my sister's originally or was it my cousins....I am not sure I just know that I remember reading it as a child.  Reading it again I realized it is a perfect book to help with the winter blues.

Bunny Hopwell's First Spring by Jean Fritz (this beloved author's very first book) tells the story of a little bunny who can't understand what the hype is about spring. Bunny has only known the cold winter  and can't imagine anything different.  This is such a sweet story. I am so happy that it is being reissued.  This is a story that brings the joy and beauty of spring alive for the youngest reader.  A must have book that is perfect to read on a cold a blustery winter's day.