friends

Hush Little Turtle

Under the dark night sky, a group of friends rests cozily in their sleeping bags—except for Turtle. Though his pals are quick to offer suggestions to help him snooze, warm milk, a lullaby and rocking provide no relief. The techniques to placate him cross species boundaries, to often humorous effect; Octopus’ suggestion that the reptile stuff a pacifier into his mouth is sheer delight. Turtle’s own idea for napping satisfaction requires some creative planning on his pals’ part but finally turns restlessness into relaxation. The dialogue successfully captures the good-hearted banter, and repetitive statements enhance the deadpan fun. “Turtle turns over. Again. And again, and again, and again. ‘Oh great,’ he sighs after a while. ‘Now I’m all tangled up.’ ” There’s folksy flair throughout as black backgrounds showcase animals comprised of intricately detailed patterns on shells and fur. Bat’s polka-dotted face, striped body and flowered wings are representative of the ebullient design.

Bizzy Bear: Let’s Go And Play

Introducing Bizzy Bear, the busiest bear on the block! With chunky sliders to push and pull, these robust little board books are perfect for active toddlers. Rich in visual detail and with touches of humor, they are set to become firm favorites in the family library. Bizzy Bear has a lot going on today! He calls his friend Rabbit and invites him to the park, where they play soccer, have fun on the slide and the seesaw, and even have time for a bike ride and an ice cream!

Maisy Goes To The City

It’s another first for Maisy! The intrepid mouse is off to the big city with Charley. A perfect story for young children going on an urban adventure.Broom, vroom, beep! Maisy and Charley are in the city visiting their friend Dotty, and there are many things to get used to – noisy traffic, enormous buildings, and sidewalks so crowded they have to walk very slowly (all the better for looking in store windows). Riding the escalator and elevator – and hanging on tight in the subway – are almost as much fun as exploring the giant toy store and eating pizza in a cafe. Even the playground is busy in the city!

The Busy Beaver

The busy but careless beaver spends his days following random impulses, rarely thinking things through and leaving in his wake a devastated forest filled with stumps, half-nibbled trees and injured, homeless animals. But then one day the beaver finds himself on the wrong side of a falling tree, which as it turns out, is just the thing to knock some sense into him. After reflecting on his behavior, he decides to make some changes. Soon, the now wiser and gentler beaver is getting down to the business of making things right, much to the delighted surprise of his forest friends.

Charlie & Lola

Lola is going to Lotta’s house for her first sleepover–but everything is just a bit too different. Lola misses home. How will she ever get to sleep?

The Bear Who Shared

Norris the bear has been waiting patiently for the last ripe fruit to fall from the tree. But Tulip the raccoon and Violet the mouse have too, although maybe not so patiently. In fact, Tulip and Violet sniff, listen to, and even hug the fruit. Norris catches the fruit when it finally falls, and because he is a wise bear, he shares it and makes two new friends. A lovely simplicity of language and gorgeous artwork make this story of one of life’s first lessons perfect for the youngest listeners.