5 Fabulous Read-Aloud Picture Books

There Might Be Lobsters

Carolyn Crimi, author

Laurel Molk, illustrator

Publisher Summary:  

Sukie is afraid of everything.  But with her faithful girl, Eleanor, and her beloved stuffed monkey by her side, maybe—just maybe—she can overcome her fears.

Why It’s Fabulous:

Eleanor helps her dog Sukie overcome her fears—both rational and irrational.  Sukie realizes she is much braver than she realizes.

Escargot

Dashka Slater, author

Syndney Hanson, illustrator

Publisher Summary:

Bonjour!

I am Escargot.

I want only two things:

1.      To be your favorite animal.
2.      To get to the delicious salad at the end of the this book.

Are you ready?

On your mark…Get set…Go!

Why It’s Fabulous:

Witty and interactive, readers will fall in love with Escargot the snail.  The soft watercolor paintings and French phrases add to the charm. Escargot lays out several arguments why snails should be the reader’s favorite animal, using the audience’s anticipated objections. Teachers can use this story as a mentor text for teaching argument.   Finally, the story illustrates the importance of self-acceptance.

The Rabbit Listened

Cori Doerrfeld, author and illustrator

Publisher Summary:

When something sad happens to Taylor, all the animals think they know how to help.  One by one they come, but nothing they say makes Taylor feel better. Until the rabbit arrives…and the rabbit knows just what to do. 

Why It’s Fabulous:

The sweet illustrations and poignant storytelling reveal what people often need when they are feeling sad.  A wonderful story to teach children about their and others’ feelings. 

How to Find an Elephant

Kate Banks, author

Boris Kulikov, illustrator

Publisher Summary:

What to do on a dull gray day? Head into the wilds and look for elephant.  You will need a pair of binoculars, a blanket, a flute, some food, a little imagination, and a lot of curiosity.

Why It’s Fabulous:

A typical backyard becomes an imaginary romp through the jungle.  At every turn, readers catch a glimpse of a camouflaged elephant in the lush mixed-media illustrations. 

The Scariest Book Ever

Bob Shea, author and illustrator

Publisher Summary:

Boo!  This is the scariest book EVER, narrated by a ghost who lives near a scary dark forest. The woods are probably crawling with hungry monsters with smelly breath, sharp fangs, and pointy claws.  If you want to check them out, go ahead and turn the page.  Just don’t expect the ghost to join you.

Why It’s Fabulous:
Retro graphics, colorful pictures, and clever text make this book a humorous ghoul time.  The ghost narrator interacts with the readers, inviting them onto a scary journey that is everything but frightening.  Ironic twists and an unexpected ending make this book a read-aloud favorite for Halloween or anytime.