Besos for Baby by Jen Arena and Bianca Gomez (Infant, Toddler)
Spanish
Everyone in the family has a kiss for baby, even the perro and gato. This appealing story will delight readers whether or not you speak Spanish. ▸ Get it at the Library
Picking Berries by Hanna Lindoff (Preschool)
Tlingit, Haida, Tsimshian
Enjoy beautifully illustrated pages as you follow along and learn about the many different types of berries that grow in Southeast Alaska. ▸ Get it at the Library
Ang Mahiyaing Manok (The Shy Rooster) by Rebecca Añonuevo (Preschool)
Tagalog
In this story, a young rooster can’t seem to crow in the same way as the others do. With help and encouragement from his friends, can he learn to overcome his shyness? This is an optimistic tale about conquering one’s insecurities through the patience, love and acceptance of the community. ▸ Get it at the Library
Leej Twg Nyob Ntawm Nod? Tsiaj Nyeg (Who Lives Here? Pets) by Kathleen Rizzi (Infant, Toddler)
Hmong
Many little ones share their homes with animal friends, from dogs and cars to fish or hamsters. Babies and toddlers will enjoy this lift-the-flap book all about our family pets and their home-within-a-home. *Not currently sold online. ▸ Get it at the Library
These resources were recommended by Samantha Blanquart, an Early Literacy Outreach Librarian with Ready to Read Resource Center. Visit their website for more info about early literacy or to check out one of their reading kits for young children.
Imagination Library Picks:
Abuela by Arthur Dorros (Preschool)
English with Spanish phrases
Come join Rosalba and her grandmother, her abuela, on a magical journey as they fly over the streets, sights, and people of New York City which sparkles below. The story is narrated in English, and sprinkled with Spanish phrases as Abuela points out places that they explore together. The exhilaration in Rosalba’s and Abuela’s story is magnified by the loving bond that only a grandmother and granddaughter can share. ▸ Get it at the Library
Hooray, a Pinata! by Elisa Kleven (Toddler, Preschool)
English/Spanish
Clara picks an adorable dog pinata for her birthday party. She names him Lucky, and he becomes her constant companion. When the big day finally comes, she doesn’t want to let everybody break him. But if Clara keeps Lucky as a pet, she won’t have a pinata at her party. Luckily her friend, Samson, comes to the rescue with a wonderful solution — and a different pinata that nobody will mind breaking. ▸ Get it at the Library
Baby Signs by Joy Allen (Infant)
English/American Sign Language
Long before they’re able to talk, babies have a whole lot to say. With this adorable board book of essential signs, babies and toddlers can easily learn how to communicate their needs, wants, and feelings and even make basic observations with a simple gesture. Just point to a sign in the book, say the word while making the sign, and the baby will soon be signing. ▸ Get it at the Library
