Young Jenna’s Favorite PICTURE BOOKS

Library Director Jenna Dauer reminisces about five memorable books from her childhood.

Giving Tree | Shel Silverstein

Summary: A young boy grows to manhood and old age experiencing the love and generosity of a tree which gives to him without thought of return.

Reminisce: I tested on this book for Accelerated Reader and I remember reviewing the story with my mom.  The version I read was well-loved and just made me feel like I was holding something precious and important. It’s amazing how books can make you feel.

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Are You My Mother? | P. D. Eastman

Summary: A little bird asks animals, planes, and boats, “Are you my mother?” until he finds his own mother.

Reminisce: I remember thinking how funny the homonyms were in this book.  The crane pages were the most humorous to me.

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Wacky Wednesday | Theo LeSieg (Dr. Seuss)

Summary: Drawings and verse count the many things that are wrong one wacky Wednesday.

Reminisce: This was the silliest book that I remember owning.  I usually requested it at bedtime on a Wednesday, which I found to be extra fun.

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The Foot Book | Dr. Seuss

Summary: Beginner’s text describes all sorts of feet doing all sorts of things.

Reminisce: This is the first book (and only) book that I memorized word for word, much to the delight of my uncle. (ha)

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The Lady with the Alligator Purse | Nadine Bernard Westcott

Summary: The old jump rope/nonsense rhyme features an ailing young Tiny Tim.

Reminisce: The rhythm to this book is so fun and easy to learn.  I remember liking the claw-foot tub. And the lady’s purse.

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