By Drew Bigelow, Library Aide, Kingstowne Library
Want to get a close look at some of these illustrators’ work? Check out these recommendations, available at Fairfax County Public Library, along with some other illustrators and graphic novelists with stand-out styles.
I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen
A desperate bear seems to have lost his hat. Someone must have seen it, right?
The Lion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney
A mouse proves her might as she rescues the lion that had previously spared her life in this wordless spectacle.
The Mitten by Jan Brett
A retelling of a Ukrainian folktale, a group of forest animals discover a discarded mitten to keep them warm during a wintry day.
The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend by Dan Santat
After not being selected to be a child’s imaginary friend, Beekle sets out from his island home into the real world to find his child himself.
Thunder Cake by Patricia Polacco
With a storm bearing down on them, a grandma decides it’s the perfect time to bake a “thunder cake” to help assuage her granddaughter’s fear.
Tar Beach by Faith Ringgold
Based on one of Ringgold’s story quilts, a young girl named Cassie takes off from the roof of her apartment building and flies over 1939 Harlem.
Narwhal and Jelly: Unicorn of the Sea by Ben Clanton
They may make an unlikely pair, but cheery Narwhal and down-to-earth Jelly explore, have fun and bond over waffles.
Yummy: A History of Desserts by Victoria Grace Elliott
A trio of pixie pals journey through the colorful history of some of the world’s favorite desserts, including ice cream, cake and pie.
Stepping Stones by Lucy Knisley
After moving from New York City to the countryside, Jen finds herself dealing with her new farm life, as well as her mom’s new boyfriend and his daughters.
Kerry and the Knight of the Forest by Andi Watson
A young boy named Kerry teams up with a talking waystone to find his way out of a magical, dangerous forest in order to return home to his sick parents.