Spring is the season of growth and renewal. It's also the time when we honor our mothers for all they've done and continue to do for us. There are a number of excellent picture books available that celebrate these important women. Below are some of the latest books to come to bookstores.
“MY MOTHER IS SO SMART,” by Tomie dePaola, Putnam Juvenile, $16.99 (ages 3-7)
"My mother is so smart she can stand on her head." It might seem like a little thing, but to a child, every little thing is a big thing.
Author Tomie dePaola looks at those little things with beautiful artwork and simple text.
A mom becomes a hero as she makes the best cookies, teaches the neighborhood to sing "Row, Row, Row Your Boat," dances the polka and, yes, stands on her head.
Told from a young boy's point of view, this is a heartfelt look at the awe and admiration he has for his mother.
DePaola's lovely illustrations are instantly recognizable and their soft and warm tones tell a story of their own.
Spring, summer, winter, fall. No matter the season, Mommy's there for them all.
Whether planting seeds or making her daughter wiggle, taking a nap or reading a book, Mommy makes everything better. There's nothing like splashing in the rain or making snow angels.
The bond between a mother and daughter unfolds through rhyming text and vibrant illustrations. A special greeting card of appreciation for children to give their moms is also included.
It's time for bed, but Mommy just needs five more minutes …
When she finally tears herself away from the computer, it's not easy to get Mommy up the stairs. She does like taking her bath, though.
Next it's time to pick out tomorrow's outfit, a bedtime tale and a drink of water.
It takes a lot of patience, but Mommy's fast asleep. Now if only we can get Daddy to bed …
This charming tale is reversal of the bedtime routines that play out every night around the world. Simple vignettes perfectly illustrate the bedtime battle, giving parents and children alike something to giggle at.
“TAKING CARE OF MAMA,” by Mitra Modarressi, Putnam Juvenile, $16.99 (ages 3-7)
Mama always takes care of everyone. But what happens when Mama is sick and needs someone to take care of her?
It's time for Papa raccoon and the kids to take charge. Household chores are much harder than they thought they'd be, and it seems the family is taking steps backward as they create bigger messes than there were to begin with.
Just in the nick of time, however, Papa and the kids are able to clean up, and Mama comes down from her rest to a sparkling house and a tasty stew.
Through fun illustrations and rhyming text, youths will learn the value of teamwork and how much work their moms really do.
“THE REALLY USEFUL GRANDPARENTS’ BOOK,” by Eleo Gordon and Tony Lacey, Broadway Books, $24.99
Are the grandkids coming this summer and you're wondering how to entertain them after that obligatory trip to the zoo? Or maybe you're a tired baby-sitting grandma who hears a constant "I'm bored" because you've run out of ideas.
"The Really Useful Grandparents' Book" lives up to its name with ideas and activities that range from the sedate to the rigorous for all age levels — of child and grandparent.
This "encyclopedia" includes games, projects, crafts, recipes, facts that appeal to kids and hundreds of other activities that can help bridge the generation gap. Each chapter has simple directions and illustrations for activities such as a backyard campout, a treasure hunt, kite-making, card tricks, cooking and holiday fun.
Interspersed throughout the book are stories and facts on topics such as The Wild West, Famous Explorers and even Shakespeare.
Also included are reading lists of children's books for different age categories plus lists of popular movies and songs aimed at children.
Can't remember any nursery rhymes? The words to some popular ones are in this volume.
Have a curious little grandson who asks about the deadliest animal in the world? A polar bear? A crocodile? An African lion? A Great White Shark? An Asian Cobra? No. 1 is the tiny mosquito. It's responsible for more than 2 million deaths annually because of the deadly diseases it can carry.
If you're looking for a way to enhance your relationship with those loved little ones — and build lasting memories — this might be the book for you. — Angelyn N. Hutchinson
e-mail: jharrison@desnews.com