With Autumn swiftly making its appearance among us, there is no better way to spend cold days than with a hot cup of tea and a good book. I decided to take my toddler on a book-finding mission to our local Powell’s Bookstore and stumbled on a cute little reading circle hosted in the children’s section. Storytimes hosted at local libraries and bookstores are a great way to discover new reads. Still, in case you can’t get to one of the “Storytime Resources in Portland” listed below, I’ve compiled a list of mine and my kiddo’s favorite fall new releases, found online and in person. So get cozy with the family, snuggle up next to a fire, or under a blanket late at night in bed. These stories will warm your heart and spread good vibes with friends and family near and far!
What’s Inside a Caterpillar Cocoon? By: Rachel Ignotofsky
My son loves butterflies and insects, so this was an obvious first grab for him. A new release from the creator of “What’s Inside a Flower?” This acclaimed author returns with an equally engaging answer to readers’ questions—this time, about caterpillars, moths, and butterflies. From egg to caterpillar, to pupa, to adult, this beautifully illustrated book takes little (and big) readers on a visual learning journey. What’s particularly attractive about this book is an invitation to look more closely at the natural world and learn from its patterns of life. Ignotofsky’s signature graphics, stylized illustrations, and thoughtfully organized information are arranged in short form with a background of descriptive images. To begin, the author/illustrator explains the stages of a caterpillar’s life and the transformation we call metamorphosis. The pages are so beautifully illustrated. The answer to the title question is great for young readers: What’s inside a caterpillar cocoon? A caterpillar’s body becomes gel-like, becoming a brand-new body…with wings, antennae, big eyes, and a different mouth. Learning with illustrations, the author goes on to describe the physical details and behavior of the adults that emerge. Her mission is to bring awareness to how important these insects are as pollinators and encourage her readers to help protect them.
Julie and The Mango Tree By: Sade Smith
Living in Miami for a few years, I learned how magnificent Mango Trees are, from their alluring scented flowers to the importance of the fruit as a food source in that region. I had a 40-year-old “Champagne Mango” tree in my front yard in North Miami Beach that would pelt my car with delicious fruits every day and cover my driveway. Neighbors, animals, and insects would gather to reap the harvest. The first fruit my son ate at three months old was one of those Champagne Mangos, so it’s no surprise that’s his favorite fruit now, and this book was a natural choice for both of us! “Julie and The Mango Tree” is a delightful story about a Jamaican girl learning patience and the joy of sharing with her Mango tree. One day, she begs and pleads with the Mango tree to drop its fruit, and without her papa around to use the ladder, she resorts to climbing, bartering, and begging. She learns the virtue of patience and wakes up one day to find the tree has dropped more fruit than she could possibly eat! She commences to share and spread joy with her diverse community over the magnificence of the Mango. This book also includes recipes for unique ways to enjoy Mango in salads, smoothies & more!
“The Skull” By: Jon Klassen
Escaped from danger and on the run, this story follows “Otilla,” the protagonist, who comes across a foreboding skull in an abandoned house with special needs. The finding takes them on a thrilling and mysterious adventure, and discoveries looming in the dark forest. Sweet and characterized by kindness and choice, this macabre fairytale by acclaimed author Jon Klassen has created another humorous tale steeped in shadows and mystery. This is a fantastic read for the whole family!
“The Artivist” By: Nikkolas Smith
This is a beautiful and unique tale of a young artist growing up and self-realizing his place amongst the inequities and injustices of the world. The young artist decides to balance the scales and speak out on injustices through his artwork and mural paintings in “The Artivist.” With inspiring text and illustrations, this book is a call to action for young readers to point out injustice in their lives and try to heal the broken systems of the world through their art. Art is a beautiful, non-violent expression that can invoke deep emotions and positive change in people. This book is beautifully illustrated by the author and hopefully inspiring to people of all ages.
“A Haunted Ghost Tour in Oregon” By: Louise Martin
Little Ghost, our main character, is going on a spooky Halloween tour around Oregon, and you’re invited to ride along and discover the history and landmarks of Oregon. Readers can take a trip with the Ghost family as they travel from Eugene to Portland and visit their favorite places, such as Hult Center and White Stag Sign, Riverfront Park Carousel, Astoria Column, Heceta Lighthouse & more. Little Ghost, who is a known trickster, loves tricking everyone until Little Ghost gets a fright of his own! This cute, not-so-scary, rhyming picture book will take you on adventures to local places you can actually visit and teach the whole family about. It’s a great way to warm your heart and explore your hometown!
We hope you enjoy these books as much as we have! Stay cozy this fall, and check in with us for more family favorites. Be sure to check out “Storytime Resources in Portland” listed here:
MULTNOMAH COUNTY LIBRARY/HOLLYWOOD
