Picture books hold a special place in the hearts of children and adults alike. They combine stunning artwork with captivating stories that can capture the imagination and inspire the love of reading in young minds. As we eagerly anticipate the new releases for 2018, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most anticipated picture books that promise to enchant children everywhere.
1. The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld
The Rabbit Listened is a beautifully illustrated, heartwarming story about empathy and friendship. When a child’s tower of blocks comes crashing down, several animals try to help by offering advice and solutions. However, it’s ultimately Rabbit’s quiet presence and attentive listening that brings solace to the child.
2. The Word Collector by Peter H. Reynolds
This delightful picture book follows Jerome, a young boy who loves words like no other. He collects them in every form – overheard conversations, scribbled notes, words from favorite songs – you name it! As his collection grows, Jerome learns powerful lessons about self-expression and how words can be used to create magic on a page.
3. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson
In this touching story, a young girl named Angelina starts school and feels like she doesn’t fit in with her classmates. Acclaimed author Jacqueline Woodson explores themes of identity, diversity, and courage as Angelina discovers the value of her own uniqueness and the commonalities that bring people together.
4. Hello Lighthouse by Sophie Blackall
This stunning picture book transports readers to a lighthouse on a remote island where they’ll follow the daily life of its steadfast keeper. From maintaining the light to battling harsh storms, Blackall’s lyrical language and beautiful illustrations create an immersive experience that captures the magic of lighthouses.
5. Julián is a Mermaid by Jessica Love
This groundbreaking picture book recounts the story of a boy named Julián who discovers his newfound love for mermaids. With vibrant illustrations showcasing the power of imagination, Jessica Love’s debut captures the heart and spirit of self-expression and encourages readers to embrace their own identities.
These are just some of the exciting picture books that await us in 2018. With stories of friendship, courage, and self-discovery, these tales are sure to engage young readers and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy reading!
