Board Books

SNOW! by Leslie Patricelli, Candlewick, Sept. 12, 2023, Board Book, $8.99 (ages 0-3)

Bundle up in snowsuits and boots, and out we go . . . Whump! Right into the fluffy, soft snow. We don’t care! There’s a hill to climb up and sled down, a snowperson to build, and skis to try out. Swish! Then—brrr—inside, please! What better way to warm up than a bubbly tub and a snuggle on the couch to watch the storm? Everyone’s favorite baby joins an adorable pal to revel in a seasonal adventure that will have little listeners eager to explore their own white, wintry world. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick

BUNDLE UP, LITTLE PUP, by Dori Elys and Elena Comte, Little Simon, Sept. 12, 2023, Board Book, $7.99 (ages 0-3)

Is there anything better than waking up next to your furry best friend? Together, child and puppy pals put on their winter gear: jackets to keep warm, boots to protect their feet, and scarves to snuggle into. Then, they’re ready to explore the snowy world outside! —Synopsis provided by Little Simon

WHOSE PRINTS? by Kari Allen and Kim Smith, Little Simon, Sept. 19, 2023, Board Book, $8.99 (ages 0-3)

Go on a snowy adventure through the woods and match animals to their tracks in this beautiful board book with die-cuts throughout!

Who tiptoed across the snow? Who scurried and skittered? Who slink-slink-slinked along? Little readers will love looking at different tracks in the snow and figuring out which animal made each one. —Synopsis provided by Little Simon

Ages 3 and up

THE SNOW MAN: A TRUE STORY, by Jonah Winter and Jeanette Winter, Beach Lane Books, Oct. 3, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 3 and up)

Meet the man living alone in the mountains whose hobby of measuring snowfall led to a global understanding of climate change in this nonfiction picture book from celebrated mother-son team Jonah and Jeanette Winter.

When Billy Barr came to the mountains as a young man, his only companions were a skunk and a pine marten. He needed something to fill the hours. So, he began measuring the snow that fell. Day after day, and year after year, he measured.

As he grew older, he noticed something: the snow was disappearing. It arrived later, melted sooner, and there wasn’t as much of it. He shared his records with a local scientist, who shared them with other scientists, until his measurements were used by scientists all over the world studying climate change. Thanks to his curiosity, groundbreaking data was gathered that still helps us today! —Synopsis provided by Beach Lane Books

Ages 4 and up

SLOWLY SLOWLY, by Toni Yuly, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Sept. 12, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

A persimmon branch takes its time creating a wonderful gift for the community around it in this charming picture book celebrating the beauty that can be found in slowing down.

In this this simple yet stunning picture book, a persimmon tree stretches across every page, changing with the seasons. In the world beyond its branches, a boy and his puppy delight in the wonders they see around them. All the while, the tree is slowly growing, blooming, and creating fruit to be enjoyed. —Synopsis provided by Atheneum Books for Young Readers

WINTER: A SOLSTICE STORY (THE SOLSTICE SERIES), by Kelsey E. Gross and Renata Liwska, Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, Oct. 10, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

Tonight is the longest night of the year—solstice is here! Deep in the forest, the dark, cold, and quiet of winter is all around. Owl, Mouse, and Deer all watch the light fades and dark surrounds them, but they have a gift of hope to share with their neighbors. The moon and stars shine down on a lone tree in the forest, and the animals gather around to bask in its light. Winter Solstice arrives as the winter sky brings magic for all to share. —Synopsis provided by Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books

BRAVE LITTLE BEAR, by Steve Small, Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, Oct. 24, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 4-8)

It’s time for Arlo the bear and his family to leave their winter den and journey to Spring Valley, but he doesn’t feel ready for the big departure from the home he likes just the way it is. Sometimes Arlo wishes he could be brave like his sister, Eva. But when a snowstorm hits and separates the family as they travel through the Great Wood, Arlo finds that being brave when you’re afraid is the bravest brave of all. —Synopsis provided by Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books

IF I HAD A POLAR BEAR (If I Had A…Series), by Gabby Dawnay and Alex Barrow, Thames & Hudson, Oct. 24, 2023, Hardcover, $15.95 (ages 4-8)

A boldly illustrated bedtime story that imagines what it would be like to have a snuggly and super-strong polar bear for a pet.

If I Had a Polar Bear imagines what it would be like to have a polar bear as a pet. It might be an unconventional choice, but it would be sure to give the best bear hugs . . .

Polar bears are cuddly but they’re also very strong. As marine mammals, they can swim for days at a time―that’s serious perseverance! So, if Santa ever needed help delivering his presents, guess who he would call? Join our funny female protagonist as she wonders, “What would life be like . . . if I had a polar bear?”­ —Synopsis provided by Thames & Hudson

Ages 7 and up

DO PENGUINS LIKE THE COLD? by Huw Lewis Jones and Sam Caldwell, Thames & Hudson, Oct. 10, 2023, Hardcover, $18.95 (ages 7-10)

Do Penguins Like the Cold? takes readers on a tour of the Southern Hemisphere to meet eighteen species of penguin and to witness the conservation work underway to protect these incredible birds and their native habitats.

By observing penguins firsthand, readers will discover whether penguins truly like the cold, how their diving skills make up for the fact that penguins can’t fly, and how to tell what a penguin had for dinner based on the color of its poo!

Along with zoological facts, field guide Huw Lewis Jones has some helpful tips on how to track penguins’ movements from space, on what prehistoric penguins can tell us about their descendants, and advice on what we can to do help penguins faced with a warming world.

Packed with information about penguins living in Argentina, Australia, Chile, the Galápagos Islands, Namibia, New Zealand, Peru, and South Africa, Do Penguins Like the Cold? also gives readers a hands-on look of what it’s like to work in the wild. —Synopsis provided by Thames & Hudson

WHO WILL MAKE THE SNOW? by Taras Prokhasko (Author), Marjana Prokhasko (Author, Illustrator), Jennifer Croft (Translator), Boris Dralyuk (Translator), Elsewhere Editions, Dec. 12, 2023, Harcover, $22 (ages 7-11)

The two newest moles in the forest learn to dig themselves out of their comfort zones and experience the boundless, unpredictable world around them—a Social Emotional Learning adventure

Twin moles, Purr and Craw, are born on the first day of spring. The newest members of their woodland world, they’re curious about everything. What is swimming? Why does mother speak French as she makes pancakes? What does father scrawl in his notebook? Do animals live in the sea? Why do grownups eat smelly cheese? How do we get better when we’re sick? What happens when we die?

As they start to grow up, every day is filled with another adventure as they explore the peculiar characters that surround them in the forest. Home is always waiting for them, filled with the clacking of father’s typewriter, the sound of mother playing her upright bass, and the smells of quince jam and medicinal moss brews.

During their adventures outside the home, they learn that the world is sometimes scarier, stranger and more dangerous than it seemed from the pocket of their father’s coat. Each new encounter leaves Purr and Craw a little braver and wiser and with a few extra friends.

Beautifully illustrated with scenes of mischief and discovery by Marjana Prohasko, Who Will Make the Snow? reminds us that the world is always larger and more wonderful than we can see from our own corner of the woods. —Synopsis provided by Elsewhere Editions

Copyright © 2023 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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I’M A LITTLE SNOWMAN, by Hannah Eliot and Anna Daviscourt, Little Simon, Sept. 13, 2022, Board Book, $6.99 (ages 0-3)

This board book is a winter-themed twist on the classic “I’m A Little Teapot.”

I’m a little snowpal,
head to toes.
Here are my buttons,
here is my nose.

With snowpeople and animal characters, this snowy story sets the tone for a fun wintertime read. This cute board book features chunky pages and charming characters. It’s a fun one to read aloud that little ones will love.

ANIMAL FAMILIES: SNOW, by Nosy Crow and Jane Ormes, Candlewick Press, Aug. 23, 2022, Board Book, $9.99 (ages 2-5)

Find out the different names for mother and father animals that live in snowy climates — then lift the flap to find the babies and learn what they are called. This striking, satisfying introduction to animal families features screen-printed artwork and bold neon ink to capture the attention and imagination of babies and toddlers. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick Press

This interactive board book features sturdy pages with fun flaps that are easy for little hands to navigate. Sweet illustrations accompany simple text that is informative and fun.

STOPPING BY WOODS ON A SNOWY EVENING, by Robert Frost and P.J. Lynch, Candlewick, Nov. 8, 2022, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 2-9)

Just in time for its centennial, Robert Frost’s cherished poem is showcased in a keepsake edition illustrated by the award-winning P.J. Lynch.

The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.

Whether memorized by schoolchildren or used to eulogize a president, “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening,” written in 1922 and published in 1923, has found a place as one of the best-loved and best-known American poems of the last hundred years. Now, six decades after the passing of its author, Robert Frost, celebrated artist P.J. Lynch brings this classic to new life, evoking its iconic moments and wintry setting on the outskirts of a small village. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick

This gorgeous picture book is exquisitely illustrated, with artist P.J. Lynch allowing for pauses and reflection. This isn’t a book you rush through, rather you savor it. Any of the illustrations could be hung on your wall. It’s a lovely book to read aloud and contemplate alone or with a little one. It truly transports you.

THE WINTER BIRD, by Kate Banks and Suzie Mason, Candlewick, Oct. 11, 2022, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 3-7)

Forest animals help an injured nightingale survive the winter in a story of friendship and resilience.

As the days grow shorter and the air becomes colder, the spring birds fly south for winter — all except for a nightingale with a broken wing. Unable to fly, the nightingale worries about how to prepare for weather it’s never had to experience before. Luckily, the forest animals who are used to frosty conditions help the nightingale navigate the cold as its wing heals. Though the unfamiliar season proves challenging, and even a little scary at times, the nightingale discovers there’s beauty to be found in even the harshest weather — and with that comes newfound gratitude for the return of spring. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick

This charming story helps little readers learn how to adapt when faced with adversity. It’s a tender tale of perseverance, kindness and friendship. Suzie Mason’s charming illustrations immediately draw you in. Little ones will love the cute characters and parents will love the message.

Copyright © 2022 Cracking the Cover. Unless otherwise noted, all books — digital and physical — have been provided by publishers in exchange for honest and unbiased reviews. All thoughts and opinions are those of the reviewer.

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AGES 2 AND UP

CONSTRUCTION SITE: MERRY AND BRIGHT: A CHRISTMAS LIFT-THE-FLAP BOOK (GOODNIGHT, GOODNIGHT CONSTRUCTION SITE), by Sherri Duskey Rinker and AG Ford, Chronicle Books, Nov. 2, 2021, Board Book, $12.99 (ages 2-4)

Celebrate the holidays with the construction crew from the bestselling Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site series!

When Christmas Eve arrives, there’s just one job left for the big trucks to do—get their construction site ready for a festive night of fun! Lift the flaps on every sturdy page to reveal what each truck is bringing to the celebration, while discovering that the best Christmas present of all is the gift of being together.

This fun, interactive board book features rhyming text and familiar characters as they prepare for Christmas. It includes 7 sturdy flaps that will delight little ones. This is a fun one for parents to read aloud, too.

THE LITTLE OWL & THE BIG TREE: A CHRISTMAS STORY, by Jonah Winter and Jeanette Winter, Beach Lane Books, Oct. 19, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 2-8)

There once was an owl who lived in a tree. Until one day her home was uprooted and she was taken far away from what she knew. Follow Rockefeller (“Rocky”) the owl as she journeys to the bustling center of New York City and she’s discovered among the branches of the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. With human kindness and a dash of holiday spirit, can this brave little owl find a new home?

 This simple, but heartwarming, Christmas story will intrigue young readers, who will likely want to know more about Northern Saw-whet Owls after reading it. Bright, bold illustrations give a sense of scale while still conveying emotion.

THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS, by Clement C. Moore and Antonio Javier Caparo, Little Simon; Reissue edition, Oct. 5, 2021, Hardcover, $9.99 (ages 1-6)

Enjoy the classic Christmas tale as never before with stunning illustrations by Antonio Caparo, who brought another holiday legend to life in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Rudolph Strikes Again.

Since it was first published nearly 200 years ago “The Night Before Christmas” has enchanted readers young and old with the story of St. Nicholas landing on a snowy roof, climbing down the chimney, and filling all the stockings with gifts before riding off in his sleigh, wishing “Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”

With bold colors and crisp lines, this modern take on a familiar tale has an almost animated feel to it. Kids could definitely see this Santa sneaking into their own homes.

‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS, by Clement C. Moore (Author), P.J. Lynch, Candlewick, Nov. 2, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 1-6)

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house . . .

P.J. Lynch brings his rich and atmospheric art to the well-loved holiday poem. Children will pore over every cozy detail in these warm, sweeping watercolor illustrations — from snug mice to stockings hung by the chimney with care to toys in the bundle flung over merry St. Nicholas’s back.

 P.J. Lynch’s expressive illustrations in more muted tones bring a different, more sophisticated feel to this holiday classic. His sense of movement really brings the tale to life.

‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS (STORIES FROM THE MUSIC BOX), by Clement C. Moore and Raquel Martin Peinado, Magic Cat, Oct. 5, 2021, Hardcover, $29.99 (ages 1-6)

Bring the spirit of Christmas into your home with this unique sound book, which incorporates a windup music mechanism that sounds just like a musical jewelry box. Simply turn the crank and let the nostalgic carol “Deck the Halls” set the scene as you settle down to share Clement C. Moore’s classic story ’Twas Night Before Christmas.

The music box element of this book is what sets it apart from the many, many other versions of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. The box part is quite substantial, but the illustrations are sweet. Kids will love reading/playing it over and over again.

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AGES 3 AND UP

THE ROBIN AND THE FIR TREE, by Hans Christian Andersen and Jason Jameson, Templar, November 16, 2021, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 3-7)

In a forest far away from the hustle and bustle of town grows the Fir Tree. The meadow he lives in is beautiful and serene, but the Fir Tree yearns for the excitement of the outside world. His friend the Robin brings him gifts and tells him stories of the places she’s been, the people she’s flown over, and the many things men construct out of wood. The Fir Tree dreams of adventure and wishes to be something more. He imagines a new life as a ship’s mast, traveling the world by sea. When men come to the meadow with axes one day and cut him down, the Fir Tree is eager to be chosen for a new purpose. But the Robin worries. What will become of her strong, beautiful friend?

 This retelling of the Hans Christian Andersen story The Fir Tree is one of my favorite holiday offerings this year. I could spend an hour just gazing at the exquisite illustrations. Each one has beautifully stylized details that truly make them special. And there’s a lovely touch of hope that runs throughout.

12 DAYS OF PRINCESS, by Holly Rice and John Bajet, Disney Press, Sept. 7, 2021, Hardcover, $12.99 (ages 3-5)

Inspired by the famous song “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” a new holiday tradition is here: the twelve days of princess! Countdown to Christmas with Tiana, Rapunzel, Merida, Cinderella, Belle, Aurora, Snow White, and Ariel. Each day brings a new magical gift, like two glass slippers or seven singing dwarfs, from one of your favorite Disney Princesses to help get you into the holiday spirit.

Though a bit silly, I can definitely see young readers singing along with princess-centric book. If your child loves Disney Princesses, then this will be right up their alley.

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AGES 4 AND UP

THE FIRST CHRISTMAS, by Phillips Brooks, Lewis H. Redner, et al., Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, Sept. 28, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages  4-8)

From the great-grandson of renowned folk art painter Grandma Moses comes a picture book about the first Christmas. Based on the lyrics of the beloved carol “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” this picture book in Will Moses’s acclaimed folk art style is unlike any other.

The First Christmas is a great choice for families that want to focus on the religious side of Christmas. Moses’s illustrations pair perfectly with the carol, giving readers a sense of the place where Jesus was born.

RED AND GREEN AND BLUE AND WHITE, by Lee Wind and Paul O. Zelinsky, Levine Querido, Oct. 19, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 4-7)

Inspired by a true story, this is a tale of a community that banded together to spread light. It’s a holiday season that both Isaac, whose family is Jewish, and Teresa, whose family is Christian, have looked forward to for months! They’ve been counting the days, playing in the snow, making cookies, drawing (Teresa) and writing poems (Isaac). They enjoy all the things they share, as well as the things that make them different. But when Isaac’s window is smashed in the middle of the night, it seems like maybe not everyone appreciates “difference.”

Too often, we see separate religions as the things that divide us. Red and Green and Blue and White shows how they can unite us. This heartfelt story celebrates the true spirit that can permeate the holiday season — if we let it.

ROBIN ROBIN, by Dan Ojari, Mikey Please, et al., Red Comet Press, Nov. 2, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 4-8)

A chirpy young robin is adopted by a family of mice in the joyful retelling of the new animation holiday musical special from Netflix and Aardman Animation.

When her egg fortuitously rolls into a garbage dump, Robin is raised by a loving family of mice. As she grows up, her differences become more apparent. Robin sets off on the heist to end all heists to prove to her family that she can be a really good mouse – but ends up discovering who she really is.

Robin Robin may also be a Netflix special, but the book stands on its own. This charming tale about a somewhat clumsy robin and her adventures in the who-man’s house is one that will have readers giggling aloud. Kids will be drawn to the sweet illustrations and parents will enjoy reading it aloud.

Though set at Christmas, the holiday is never specifically mentioned. Rather it’s the themes of diversity, community, inclusion and acceptance throughout that celebrate the spirit of the holiday.

A CHRISTMAS TOO BIG, by Colleen Madden, Two Lions; Bilingual edition, Nov. 2, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 4-8)

Kerry’s family goes completely berserk with Christmas every year. Starting the day after Thanksgiving, her home becomes a whirlwind of lights, music, and elves, elves, elves! Sometimes it gets a little overwhelming.

This year, Kerry is desperate for some peace and quiet. Heading outdoors, she realizes a lot of her neighbors are having a Christmas too big. But not Mrs. Flores. She’s having a much quieter Christmas, complete with decorations and music from the country where she used to live. It sparks an idea: maybe there’s a way for Kerry to create her own Christmas traditions. But will anyone in her crazy Christmas house understand? 

A Christmas Too Big feels a bit overwhelming at first. As author/illustrator Colleen Madden follows the family merrymaking, you, as the reader, get a very true sense of how Kerry feels. Then, everything changes. With one turn of the page, you enter a quiet, calm place. You can take a breath.

With one simple transition, Madden conveys a host of emotions. It’s a fantastic juxtaposition. As Kerry returns home, she realizes that by creating her own tradition, she can take back some of Christmas for herself.

CARLA AND THE CHRISTMAS CORNBREAD, by Carla Hall and Cherise Harris, Denene Millner Books/Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, Nov. 2, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 4-8)

Christmas is Carla’s favorite holiday of the year. She goes to her grandparents’ house and eats grandma’s special recipe — a perfectly delicious cornbread. She listens to her grandpa Doc’s marvelous stories about traveling the world. And, best of all, she spends lots of time with her family.

But when Carla accidentally takes a bite out of Santa’s sugar cookie, she thinks she’s ruined Christmas. How will Santa know to stop at their house if they don’t leave him a midnight snack? With her grandmother’s help, Carla comes up with a plan, but will it be enough to save Christmas?

In a season where there are a lot of Christmas on-offs, Carla and the Christmas Cornbread feels like a complete story. Characters are developed, and the story — written by a trained chef — has a point to it. It’s lovely to read about one family’s Christmas traditions and the inclusion of the cornbread recipe at the end is a nice touch.

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AGES 5 AND UP

WHERE’S WALDO? SANTA SPOTLIGHT SEARCH, by Martin Handford, Candlewick, Sept. 24, 2021, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 5-9)

Christmas is coming, and Santa with it—if you can only find him! Luckily, Waldo fans have a cool wand to help them spotlight the jolly old guy in the dark.

Shake your sleigh bells, pull on your holiday sweater, and join in the festive madness! These night-time scenes are bustling with Santas getting ready for Christmas Eve. With the help of a magic slider to light up one spot at a time, can you find some very specific Santas—like the one whose stocking is threadbare? Or the ones who are slimmer than most? And by the way, where are Waldo and all his friends—Wenda, Odlaw, Wizard Whitebeard, and Woof?

If there’s one holiday book that my 7-year-old has been eyeing more than others this year, it’s this one. I mean, Waldo, with a searchlight. What more could a kid want? This interactive book features super-challenging searches as well as puzzles and games. It’s a bit gimmicky, but that’s exactly what kids want in a Where’s Waldo? book.

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RED SLED, by Lita Judge , Little Simon, Nov. 5, 2019, Board Book, $7.99 (ages 1-5)

Find out what happens when a cast of unlikely woodland friends discover a well-loved sled outside a cozy cabin in this wintertime classic board book.

When a bear finds a child’s red sled, it decides to take it and his friends for a crazy nighttime ride. The book unfolds almost wordlessly — except for some delightful sound effects. The whimsical watercolor illustrations are delightfully expressive. This is one book the whole family will enjoy.

THE BOY AND THE BEAR, by Sarah Massini, Nosy Crow, Nov. 5, 2019, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 2-5)

When a lonely little boy receives an invitation to play written on a paper boat, it seems that he has finally found the best friend he’s been longing for. But Bear isn’t quite the playmate the boy had imagined. Bear may not know how to play games, but when he starts to build a tree house, the boy is intrigued and a magical summer begins. As autumn passes and the first winter snowflakes start to fall, the boy is left alone. Only then does he truly realize how much he misses Bear. It’s a happy reunion when Bear finally returns in the spring. — Synopsis provided by Nosy Crow

Though not specifically a “winter” book, The Boy and the Bear is still a perfect wintertime read. It’s a charming read that young readers will love cuddling up with.

SNOWY RACE, by April Jones Prince and Christine Davenier, Margaret Ferguson Books, Nov. 26, 2019, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 3-5)

This timeless seasonal classic captures the thrill of snow and the warmth of family. In the midst of a whirling snowfall, a girl and her father pile into their big red snow plow. Through slippery streets, up winding hills, they race — clearing the snow and heading for the train station to meet a very special traveler.

Simple, rhyming text makes Snowy Race a delight to read out loud, especially for burgeoning new readers. The story plays out through beautiful paintings by illustrator Christine Davenier.

THE SHORTEST DAY, by Susan Cooper and Carson Ellis, Candlewick, Oct. 22, 2019, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 4 and up)

As the sun set on the shortest day of the year, early people would gather to prepare for the long night ahead. They built fires and lit candles. They played music, bringing their own light to the darkness, while wondering if the sun would ever rise again. — Synopsis provided by Candlewick

Susan Cooper’s poem The Shortest Day is the perfect match for Carson Ellis’ lovely illustrations. The book is beautiful and will appeal to children as well as adults.

SNOW LEOPARD: GHOST OF THE MOUNTAINS, by Justin Anderson and Patrick Benson, Candlewick, Oct. 8, 2019, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 5-8)

The people who live among the high peaks of the Himalayas tell stories of a mysterious animal called the gray ghost. To see one, you’d have to be very lucky indeed. Join a zoologist in the Himalayan mountains as he searches for the elusive creature. With her pale gold and silver-gray coat painted with black rosettes, she blends so well into the boulders, it’s no wonder she’s thought of as a ghost of the mountains. But the fortunate few who spot her are rewarded with a sight they will never forget. — Synopsis provided by Candlewick

Written by zoologist Justin Anderson, The Snow Leopard is based on firsthand experience. Patrick Benson’s detailed illustrations make readers feel as if they’re in the Himalayan mountains themselves.

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The reading part of that routine always includes three books — the Mommy book, the Daddy book and the family book. I read one book, my husband another, and then all three of us read one together. When our daughter was younger, the family book was more of the parents trading off, but as our daughter has grown, she’s taking a more active role.

Our nightly reads often follow a theme — all Dr. Seuss books, books about animals, books about colors, and recently, books about snow. The following three books have recently entered our nighttime routine.

FIRST SNOW, by Nancy Viau and Talitha Shipman, Albert Whitman & Company, Sept. 1, 2018, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 3-5)

First Snow is all about the excitement felt when experiencing the first snow of the season. The book follows a brother and sister as they join friends sledding, building igloos, drinking hot chocolate, and making the most of a windy, wintry day.

“Perky faces. Scrambling feet. Snowflakes falling! What a treat! Puffy Jackets. Scarves in place. Extra mittens, just in case.”

First Snow is our “family book.” Its short, rhythmic sentences are perfect for my beginning reader. While some words were familiar, other words like “scrambling” and “neighbors” stretched abilities, adding a challenge to a book I would otherwise say was too young for my almost-5-year-old daughter. First Snow is a great example of how you create an early reading book that’s not repetitive and features charming illustrations.

LITTLE OWL’S SNOW, by Divya Srinivasan, Viking Books for Young Readers, Dec. 4, 2018, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 3-5)

Little Owl’s Snow is the “Mommy book.” It’s a follow-up to Little Owl’s Night and Little Owl’s Day, and focuses on the changing of the seasons from autumn to winter.

Little Owl is excited for winter to come. He’s a little sad that some of his friends will sleep through the fun, but that doesn’t stop him from enjoying the crisp air, watching fish swim underneath ice or romp through the snow.

Little Owl is another book that I would say we’re starting to outgrow, except for the reading possibilities. It has more text and challenging words than First Snow, but the charmingly stylized illustrations skew a little younger. There are some great sensory words at play in Little Owl — honking, rustled, crackled, glinting — that elevate the reading experience.

GOOD MORNING, SNOWPLOW!, by Deborah Bruss and Lou Fancher and Steve Johnson, Arthur A. Levine Books, Oct. 30, 2018, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 3 and up)

Good Morning, Snowplow! is our “Daddy book.” It follows a man, his dog and a snowplow as they get ready for a night’s work. While the rest of the city sleeps, the driver gets to work clearing all the roads.

The book’s rhythmic text — “Waves of white curl off the blade. In its wake a trail is laid. How’s the road? A little slick? Salt and sand mix does the trick.” — makes for an enjoyable out-loud read and helps little ones predict following text.

Illustrations created by using acrylic paint, colored pencil, pen and collage have a textured feel that at times reminds of Ezra Jack Keats’ Snowy Day.

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“CAN’T WE SHARE? (Little Snowman Stan),” by Guido van Genechten, Clavis, Sept. 26, 2012, Hardcover, $16.95 (ages 3 and up)

In Freezland, it’s always cold and snowy. Snowmen of all shapes and sizes live in the land. Some wear scarves, some have black buttons. They all wear hats.

Little Snowman Stan loves his blue plaid hat, but when he meets Dimitri, who lost his own hat during a blizzard, he decides to let his new friend borrow his blue head topper.

After 10 days, Stan asks for his hat back and Dimitri refuses. Stan doesn’t know what to do, but his friend Alfred does — they can all share their hats.

This winter tale is a bit predictable and a little in-you-face about sharing, but it works perfectly for its intended audience of 3-year-olds. The illustrations are charming and the story is simple and engaging.

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“FLICKA, RICKA, DICKA AND THEIR NEW SKATES,” Updated Edition with Paperdolls, by Maj Lindman, Albert Whitman, Aug. 1, 2011, $14.99 (ages 5 and up)

It’s Christmas morning in Sweden and Flick, Ricka and Dicka can’t wait to open their presents. Under their tree are three pairs of skates, one set for each girl.

With skates in hand, the girls and their dog set off for their aunt and uncle’s house. Near the house is a frozen pond and the girls are excited to try it out. It looks perfect, but Uncle Jon warns them to stay away from the other shore where the ice is thin and they could fall through.

Flicka, Ricka and Dicka have an enjoyable day as they race and play follow the leader. They even make friends with Bertie, a little boy who lives in the area. The new friends happily play together until Bertie sees their dog, Mike, and starts to chase him over the ice. The pursuit is on until the boy nears the other side of the pond and the ice cracks with Bertie and Mike tumbling into freezing water. Bertie can’t get out alone, and it’s up to the three sisters to save the day.

First published in 1950, “Flicka, Ricka, Dicka and Their New Skates” has an innocent charm to it that is missing in its counterparts of today. It serves as a nice transition from the buildup of receiving presents to the appreciation of them after the holidays.

Though the tale is more than 60 years old, it’s still relevant. Parents and grandparents will love revisiting characters from their own childhoods and children will relate to the excitement of trying out new gifts and the adventures that can come seemingly out of nowhere.

A special bonus to this book is the addition of paper dolls found inside the back cover. Little girls will love playing with these sweet characters. Most of the dolls and clothes punch out easily, however there are a few items, including the dog Mike, that will require adult supervision as they’re cut out with scissors. Also, please keep in mind there are two versions of this book available. One does not include the paper dolls. If you want them, make sure you get the updated version. You can find them through the above link.

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“RAZZLE-DAZZLE RUBY,” by Masha D’yans, Scholastic Press, Oct. 1, 2011, $17.99 (ages 4 and up)

Ruby wakes up to a sparkling world of snow. With her dog, Rocket, Ruby ventures out into a winter wonderland where she becomes a queen and Rocket, her knight in barking armor. Every fairy tale needs a villain, and in this case, that’s a snowman. As Ruby is skating on a shimmering pond, nobleman Sir Zac makes an appearance. The two slide on a sled and create snow angels. But soon it’s time for the queen to return to her castle where she must rest up for her next day’s adventure.

Masha D’yans captures a child’s exuberance as she romps through the snow. Imagination is the name of the game as everyday activities become a Ruby-sized fairy tale.

Watercolor illustrations are enhanced by paper engineering. Pages become interactive spreads that sparkle, spin, pop and twirl. Children will love manipulating the images, however, the stiffness of some of the interactive elements may be hard for little fingers to manage. “Razzle-Dazzle Ruby” is a charming picture book that children will enjoy time and time again.

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“STARRY NIGHT, HOLD ME TIGHT,” by Jean Sagendorph and Kim Siebold, Running Press Kids, Oct. 11, 2011, $12.95 (ages 4 and up)

Baby Bear is growing up under the protective watch of his Momma. Her love is what helps Baby Bear become independent. She watches over him as he plays in the snow, sliding and making snow angels with his friends. Momma Bear teaches Baby Bear many lessons, including being a good friend by sharing. And at night, when mother and son are alone together, they look at the stars and say prayers and “sleep in heavenly peace.”

“Starry Night, Hold Me Tight” is a simple book — sparse text and muted, line illustrations that center on the same color family. It’s that simplicity that makes the book work so well. Anything else would be too busy, too distracting in nature. The illustrations are sweet in tone and the bears are adorable figures on their own. And the accompanying verse has a calming effect, making this a perfect bedtime story for the winter months.

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