As the holiday season gets underway, November invites us to express gratitude for things in our lives, such as family, friendship, and nature! Our November Book Corner features warm and exciting reads for little ones and adults with books that promote creativity, acceptance and unity.
When Bella Lost Her Buzz
By Theodora “Teddi” Bear, illustrated by Julianne De La Cruz
Theodora’s, or “Teddi” Bear’s debut children’s book, “When Bella Lost Her Buzz”, follows the charismatic bee, Bella, and her friends Gwendolyn and Cleo. One day, Bella loses her buzz. Bella and her friends decide to venture through various habitats to find her buzz. Along the way, Bella discovers that imperfections don’t make her any less worthy. Instead, Bella learns that her positive attributes are what her friends admire about her. This uplifting book highlights the power of self-love and friendship.
From the Pocket of an Overcoat
Written and illustrated Robert Vincent
Local L.A. author and illustrator Robert Vincent’s new children’s book, “From the Pocket of an Overcoat”, is inspired by the real-life story of a black cat who gets rescued by a homeless woman in Dallas. The story follows a cat named Max Buckles who heads on journey to find his new home and family. From Sally in the city to Farmer Buckles and his dogs in the countryside, Max discovers a sense of belonging along the way. This book touches on themes such as self-identity, acceptance and adoption.
Grandude’s Green Submarine
By Paul McCartney, illustrated by Kathryn Durst
Author of the best-selling children’s book, “Hey Grandude!,” musician Paul McCartney releases the sequel, “Grandude’s Green Submarine.” Grandude and his grandchildren, the Chillers’ decide to build a submarine and head on a surprise-filled adventure to find Nandude, the Chillers’ grandmother. With vivid and colorful illustrations by Kathryn Durst, “Grandude’s Green Submarine” reminds readers the importance of love and family. Ages 4-6.
Home: A Peek-Through Picture Book
Written and illustrated by Britta Teckentrup
Author and illustrator of over twenty children’s books, Britta Teckentrup engages families with her new picture book, “Home.” A family of bears wander through the forest. Along the way, readers are introduced to different places animals call home, including a beaver lodge and a maze of rabbit burrows. When the snow falls, the bears come home to their cave to hibernate. Just in time for the holiday season, “Home” captures the love of science and nature, while cuddled up at home. Ages 3-7.
Cold Turkey
By Corey Rosen Schwartz and Kirsti Call, illustrated by Chad Otis
Want a good laugh? “Cold Turkey” by Coren Rosen Schwartz follows a turkey sharing clothes with some animals during the holiday season. However, the animals have a hard time fitting into the item of clothing the turkey has gifted. With humorous rhyming text and giggle-inducing illustrations, this heartwarming picture book about kindness is the perfect read for the little ones around the holidays, and all-year-round! Ages 4-8.
Have You Seen My Friends? The Adventures of Creativity
By Monica Kang, illustrated by Khadeeja Qureshi
The founder and CEO of InnovatorsBox®, Monica Kang publishes her very first children’s book, “Have You Seen My Friends? The Adventures of Creativity.” The book follows the main character who is looking for their friends Curiosity, Courage and Creativity. As the main character searches for their friends, they describe their characteristics. This children’s book explains to children in a whimsical way why these friends are important to have throughout life. The animated and colorful illustrations by Khadeeja Qureshi only further engage readers and reiterate the importance of creativity to children and adults.
Rethink Creativity: How to Innovate, Inspire, and Thrive at Work
By Monica Kang
Kang’s mission on sparking creativity for all ages continues with an accompanying book for adults, “Rethink Creativity: How to Innovate, Inspire, and Thrive at Work.” Kang’s updated version takes immense world changes into account as she shares personal stories, team-building strategies, and asks questions that challenge readers to think differently. Kang’s approach to creativity and innovation transcends beyond the work force, and can be used in all areas of life.
For more book suggestions, check out the October Book Corner and our Fall Into Reading roundup.
