Keaton's Kids Book Recommendations
This lesser-known work by Theodor S. Geisel is an incredible, thought-provoking children's book and the perfect introduction to socially-engaged fiction for kids. Written during the Cold War, THE BUTTER BATTLE BOOK is an anti-war parable about an arms race between two countries that can't agree over how to properly butter their bread. Yes, it's a trivial difference, and that's the point. No other children's book is better at highlighting the absurdity of war. Along with THE SNEETCHES (about discrimination) and THE LORAX (about environmentalism), this is a book I recommend to all parents starting a child's library.
IN THE NIGHT KITCHEN is my all-time favorite title by the late, great Maurice Sendak. And now I'm happy to say it's my son's favorite too! This whimsical dream tale is an incredibly fun bedtime story to share with your little one and is full of Sendak's beautiful, endearing illustrations. It's also a companion piece in the three-book cycle, including WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE and OUTSIDE OVER THERE. A classic!
Neil Gaiman's INSTRUCTIONS is a delightful little fairy tale adventure that parents can enjoy along with their kids! Written in the second person as a set of instructions for a journey to the farthest reaches of an imaginary realm, INSTRUCTIONS also doubles as a list of helpful hints on how to lead a kind, bold and fulfilling life. It's fun and touching in equal amounts, and Charles Vess' wonderful illustrations will capture your heart as well as your imagination! On a personal note, ever since I got my one-year-old son INSTRUCTIONS for Christmas, it's become an indispensable addition to our bedtime story rotation! The perfect read for adventurers of all ages!
Chris Van Allsburg’s JUMANJI was a personal favorite of mine growing up. And its beautifully detailed drawings and imaginative adventure story are still captivating even after all these years! JUMANJI is the perfect bridge for young readers who want more of a story than a typical picture book can provide, but who aren’t quite ready for chapter books yet. Full of adventure, JUMANJI is great for read-alongs, and this anniversary edition comes with a CD narration by Robin Williams!
This is the perfect book for the little radical in your life! It's a cool, playful and heartfelt manifesto that empowers kids to be themselves, even (and especially) when society tells you to do the opposite. While more conservative parents may have an initially adverse reaction to some of the advice given (i.e., staying up all night!), more than anything A RULE IS TO BREAK teaches children the importance of self-education, self-determination, self-expression, and democratic justice. You won't find another children's book like it!