Leonardo the Terrible Monster

by Mo Willems




Rating: 4 stars

Comments: Both my son and I dig this book. The artwork is simple but effective, and the story has a great message: don't succumb to peer pressure and be a jerk just because others around you are -- be your own person. Mo Willems has a funky, offbeat style that I love. It's a book that entertains both the adult and the child reader alike.

Once Upon a Banana

by Jennifer Armstrong (Author), David Small (Illustrator)

Rating: 4.5 stars

Comments: This is a charming story about what happens when a street performer's monkey escapes and steals a banana from a nearby fruit stand. The story is surprisingly fast paced and witty, considering there are no words in the book. The illustrations alone are more than enough to convey plot, character, and more. In fact, I think words would detract from the story.

My three year old son adores this book. It became an instant favorite with the very first reading.