Author Interview: Ame Dyckman

This month, we’re delighted to welcome Ame Dyckman to our Author Interview series! Ame is a New York Times bestselling, award-​winning author renowned for her humorous and heartwarming picture books. She burst onto the scene with her debut Boy + Bot (2012), a charming tale of friendship between a boy and a robot. She continued to captivate young readers with Tea Party Rules (2013), Wolfie the Bunny (2015), and Horrible Bear! (2016). Ame’s witty storytelling shines in You Don’t Want a Unicorn! (2017) and its sequel You Don’t Want a Dragon! (2020). Her recent works include Dandy (2019), That’s Life! (2020), How Dinosaurs Went Extinct: A Safety Guide (2023), Don’t Blow Your Top! (2023), Campingland (2024), Silly Boobies: A Love Story (2024), and others.

Residing in New Jersey with her family and a yard full of wild critters that often inspire her stories, Ame is known for her energetic and goofy personality. We’re excited to chat with her about her writing journey, the picture book industry, and the creative process behind her enchanting stories.


RVC: You’ve got a name that is potentially mis-​pronounceable. Help us out, please! (This is coming from “Ryan Cleave,” “G. Van,” Van Cleave,” “Dr. GCleaveRyan,” and a host of other almost-​there-​but-​not-​quite ones!)

AD: Hi, Ryan! Thanks for the terrific intro, and thanks for having me! “Ame” is pronounced just like “Amy,” but it’s spelled differently ’cause… I’m actually an Amelia—like the Amelia Bedelia books! And “Dyckman” rhymes with “Bikeman.” (My Husband Guy’s ancestors were Dutch. Dunno if they sold bikes, but it they did, I hope one was known as Dyckman the Bikeman! Ha!)

RVC: Hah indeed–thanks for the clarifications. Now, please share how you first became interested in writing children’s picture books.

AD: As a kid, I thought about becoming a writer, but grown-​ups said, “You’ll starve!” Starving sounded uncomfortable, so I pursued other employment. But when I worked as teacher, and after my own kiddo was born, I realized reading picture books together is the best thing ever, and I wanted to be a picture book author! But I didn’t know how. So I asked my smartest friend, “How do I learn to write for kids and get published?” And Google said: “Join SCBWI!” (Society of Book Writers and Illustrators.) I did. And it worked!

RVC: SCBWI is the path taken by so, so many authors I interview here. I’m glad it worked for you, too. Tell us the story behind your first published picture book.

AD: I’ve always loved friendship-​despite-​difference stories—and robots. So I squished these two loves together in my first book, Boy + Bot. I pitched it to Super Agent Scott Treimel at a “Pitch The Agent” session at a SCBWI conference, and that was the start of everything! Together, we’ve sold 36 kidlit titles—and counting!

RVC: What’s the best lesson that book taught you?

AD: Boy + Bot taught me a lot about Big Picture Messages in books. When I wrote it, I wasn’t consciously thinking about Big Picture Messages—I thought I was just writing a friendship story! But once it was published, I heard from lots of folks who enjoyed my book in part ’cause they saw different Big Picture Messages and topics in it: inclusivity, kindness, caretaking, STEM, etc. It made me realize first-​hand how multi-​layered picture books can be, and now I absolutely consider Big Picture Messages when I write!

RVC: Some readers and writers don’t realize that the final picture book text is often missing things that were there earlier in the process. What’s something fun that didn’t make the final cut with this book?

AD: Word about words! There’s often lots of text that gets cut during Revisions, and again when you get sketches and the art shows what you no longer need to tell. Boy + Bot was a really tight text from the start—just 150ish words or so—but with other books I’ve cut multiple pages, “killed” characters entirely (sorry, darlings!), and dramatically shortened narratives and dialogue. I actually love Revisions, especially after sketches, ’cause that’s when things get really collaborative with the editor, illustrator, art director and/​or designer, and copywriter. When everyone’s brainstorming together to make the very best book we can? Nothing beats that!

RVC: Please walk us through your writing process. How do you go from an initial idea to a finished manuscript?

AD: Coffee! And I’m constantly jotting down ideas for stories—on my phone, napkins… even my arm! (“Oh, no! I just washed my plot!”)

RVC: HAH!

AD: And then I wait for characters to speak to me. Sometimes this happens immediately, but sometimes it takes years before I feel who a character is, how they sound, and what they say and do. (One of my latest projects, the Bat, Cat & Rat series with the legendary Mark Teague, took over a decade before the first book, The Cozy Home, was published!) After all this simmering, once characters “click,” I’m itching to write their story! Things usually move pretty quickly from there. For picture books, lately this means two weeks of drafting and reading dialogue aloud. (Walk by my house and you will hear voices! Ha!) Then I’ll carry the printed story around for another week or two, scribbling on it and making small tweaks, followed by a few days of “Am I ready to send?!” before I actually hit Send. Then my agent and I chat about it and who we want to send it to, I make more coffee… and repeat!

RVC: How does your everyday life and the “wacky wild critters” in your yard inspire your stories?

AD: Little bits of my Real Life definitely show up in my writing! (Like in the upcoming Bat, Cat & Rat #3: The Beach Day, when Bat tries to share his snack with hungry gulls—and it goes terribly wrong! This actually happened to me!) Almost all my book characters are autobiographical or based on someone in my family—or our “tenants.” We’ve had bunnies, deer, groundhogs, squirrels, birds, skunks, etc. make themselves a little-too-comfortable in our yard and shed, and on our deck and porch. (And that “etc.” includes a fox who’d come running every time we ordered rotisserie chicken! We had to tip our driver extra!) But watching lots of different animals—at a park, a zoo, or right at home—and imagining what they’d talk about is one of the best ways to practice writing funny picture book dialogue, and what I “hear” these furred-​or-​feathered goofballs say often shows up in my books.

RVC: How has your writing process evolved since your first books were published?

AD: Starting with You Don’t Want a Unicorn! (with the phenomenal Liz Climo), I started mapping out the layouts for my books—page turns, etc.—right at my first draft stage. Of course these layouts aren’t written in stone, and we often make layout changes along the way, but thinking about what could go on each picture book page from the very start has, I think, made “awww” moments resonate better and jokes “hit” funnier!

RVC: Your books are known for their humor and goofiness. How do you tap into that playful side when writing for children?

AD: Kids are humorous and goofy—and there’s no such thing as “too silly!” to a kid. So when I write for kids, I try to remember that. (And then I get to be a kid again, too!)

RVC: Here’s a critter story (which I hope isn’t from your backyard!). Misunderstood Shark flips the script on the typical shark stereotype. What’s the funniest misconception about sharks you’ve come across, and how did you incorporate humor into debunking these myths in your book?

AD: Making the Misunderstood Shark books (Misunderstood Shark and our “sequel,” Misunderstood Shark: Friends Don’t Eat Friends) with the spectacular Scott Magoon was a riot! We loved showing that sharks really aren’t interested in eating people. (Like when our Shark smells a drop of blood in the water, races towards the beachgoers, bursts out of the water—and offers “boo-​boo strips!” instead.) And my favorite “Fun Fact” we included is that a person is thousands of times more likely to be bitten by another person than bitten by a shark! (You should’ve seen all the little hands shoot up in the air at school visits when I asked who’d ever been bitten by a classmate! Ha!)

RVC: Let’s take a recent case study, like Silly Boobies: A Love Story. Give me the story pitch please!

AD: Silly Boobies: A Love Story is The Sneetches meets Romeo and Juliet meets modern politics meets Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom!

RVC: Wow, what a logline. Love it.

AD: In Silly Boobies (brilliantly-​illustrated by the brilliant illustrator/​political cartoonist Christopher Weyant), red-​footed boobies and blue-​footed boobies are pretty similar—but they each think they’re the superior boobies! Until a young female red-​footed booby and a young male blue-​footed booby (the book readers in their groups, naturally) meet and fall in love. Their families don’t approve, but they get married anyway—and then, something truly beautiful happens!

RVC: I’ve read the (many) reviews, so I know what readers like. But what do YOU like most about this book?

AD: I love that Silly Boobies: A Love Story shows that even set-​in-​their-​ways people can change and embrace difference, and I love that we got to include real facts about all the real kinds of boobies in the back of our book. (Like that the collective noun for a group of boobies is “a Congress!” I was rolling on the floor when I learned that one! Ha!)

RVC: You’ve mentioned that you prefer writing over creating a fancy website. How important is it for authors to focus on their craft versus self-promotion?

AD: It’s so easy to get stuck on the self-​promo treadmill—it can become a career in itself! (At various times I was doing a blog, too much social media, every print and online interview that asked, bookstore visits, book festivals, virtual school-​visits, in-​person school visits, SCBWI volunteering and presenting at conferences and events, and producing/​printing/​packaging/​shipping many, many tens-​of-​thousands of “swag” items: bookmarks, stickers, buttons, bracelets, squishies, mini Frisbees, etc.! Whew!) But when the world paused during the Pandemic, I paused, too! I looked at all my book ideas and works-​in-​progress and realized if I couldn’t successfully clone myself—which hadn’t gone well—that I’d better write more and self-​promote less. Now I just do the promo opportunities I really want to do—like this one! And since adopting my write more/​promote less philosophy, the number of new books I’ve written/we’ve sold has skyrocketed! (And if you see a vaguely-​Ame-​shaped creature roaming New Jersey… that’s just your imagination!)

RVC: I’ll have to keep an eye out for that vaguely-​Ame-​shaped creature! Now, how has social media influenced your interaction with readers and the promotion of your books?

AD: I’ve “met” and even met so many super-nice readers thanks to social media! And social media is excellent for sharing new book news, doing giveaways, and just letting folks get to know the person behind the books. My favorite thing when I meet someone in Real Life that I know from social media is when they say, “You talk just like you post, and you post just like you talk!” Ha!

RVC: Does your often-​funny social media voice influence your funny kidlit writing? How so?

AD: Thank you! And… sometimes! Sometimes I’ll post an idea or a little poem. Sometimes these will go on to become a story idea, or illustrators will illustrate these posts just for fun. (I love when this happens!) And sometimes-sometimes, I get to then actually work with one of my illustrator-​pals-​I-​met-​via-​social-​media on actual books! (Like the fantastic Charles Santoso of Dandy and the fantastic James Burks of Campingland and the fantastic Elio of the Monster Og series!) Publishing works in mysterious ways!

RVC: With so many books published and more on the way, how do you stay inspired and avoid burnout?

AD: I read! Reading what other folks have created is the Ultimate Collective Brain Hug and boost!

RVC: One last question for this part of the interview. What’s next for you? Can you share any upcoming projects or books you’re especially excited about?

AD: For 2025, Duckie & Snaps #1: We Cannot Be Friends with the genius Tim Miller pubs in February. Bat, Cat & Rat #3: The Beach Day pubs in April. Bat, Cat & Rat #4: A Great Fall pubs in July. In 2026, there’s Duckie & Snaps #2: We Cannot Be Brave in the Spring, and the rest of the year will see two more Monster Og Ready-​To-​Read titles, two more Bat, Cat & Rat books, and I believe a total of three stand-​alone picture books so far, including the just-announced To The Actual Moon And Back with the dynamic duo of Dan & Jason in the Fall! We’re gonna need a bigger coffee!

RVC: Okay, Ame…now it’s time for you to bring out your speedy wit. It’s the ZIPPY SKIPPY SUPER ZOOM SPEED ROUND! Quick-​ish questions and blazingly brisk answers please. Are you ready?

AD: Ready!

RVC: If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

AD: Multiplication! (Of me, I mean. Not like, 9 x 13. Which is…) Okay, next question!

RVC: What’s your go-​to karaōke song?

AD: “Little Room” by The White Stripes.

RVC: Favorite pun or dad joke?

AD: What kind of cheese isn’t yours? Nacho cheese!

RVC: If you want to LOL with a picture book, name a book you’re likely to pull from your shelves.

AD: I’d Really Like To Eat A Child by Sylviane Donnio, illustrated by Dorothée de Monfreid. (Kids who see you reading it run away so fast!)

RVC: If you could give your younger self one piece of picture-​book advice, what would it be?

AD: Create more, promote (and worry) less!

RVC: What are you most grateful for in your career?

AD: Coffee—I mean, my family, agent, editors, and readers! Truly.

RVC: Thanks so much, Ame!

AD: Thanks again for having me, Ryan! This was fun!

Picture Book List: 15 Picture Books About Books

Calling all bookworms and bibliophiles!

Today, we’re turning the pages on a delightful collection of picture books that celebrate the magic of stories. From heartwarming tales about libraries to whimsical journeys into the world of words, these 15 gems are sure to spark a love of reading in young hearts.

So snuggle up with your little ones, open a book, and let the adventure begin!

**If I missed your favorite picture book that’s about books, tell me in the comments!**


Book Fiesta!: Celebrate Children’s Day/​Book Day by Pat Mora, illustrated by Rafael López (March 2016)

From Goodreads: “Take a ride in a long submarine or fly away in a hot air balloon. Whatever you do, just be sure to bring your favorite book! Rafael López’s colorful illustrations perfectly complement Pat Mora’s lilting text in this delightful celebration of El día de los niños/​El día de los libros; Children’s Day/​Book Day. Toon! Toon!

Includes a letter from the author and suggestions for celebrating El día de los niños/​El día de los libros; Children’s Day/​Book Day.”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak (Sept 2014)

From Goodreads: “Warning! This book looks serious but it is actually completely ridiculous!

A book with no pictures?

What could be fun about that?

After all, if a book has no pictures, there’s nothing to look at but the words on the page.

Words that might make you say silly sounds… In ridiculous voices…

Hey, what kind of book is this, anyway?

At once disarmingly simple and ingeniously imaginative, ‘The Book With No Pictures’ inspires laughter every time it is opened, creating a warm and joyous experience to share—and introducing young children to the powerful idea that the written word can be an unending source of mischief and delight.

If a kid is trying to make you read this book, the kid is playing a trick on you. You will end up saying silly things and making everybody laugh and laugh!

Don’t say I didn’t warn you…”

  • 48 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

Charlie Cook’s Favorite Book by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler (June 2006)

From Goodreads: “Charlie Cook has a favorite book. It’s about a pirate, who also has a favorite book … about Goldilocks, who also has a favorite book … about a knight, who also has a favorite book .… This hilarious pattern continues throughout the story, right to the satisfying and surprising end.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 2–4 years

Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris LessmoreThe Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce, illustrated by Joe Bluhm (June 2012)

From Goodreads: “Morris Lessmore loved words.
He loved stories.
He loved books.
But every story has its upsets.

Everything in Morris Lessmore’s life, including his own story, is scattered to the winds.
But the power of story will save the day.”

  • 56 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

How Rocket Learned to Read by Tad Hills (July 2010)

From Goodreads: “Learn to read with this New York Times-bestselling picture book, starring an irresistible dog named Rocket and his teacher, a little yellow bird. Follow along as Rocket masters the alphabet, sounds out words, and finally … learns to read all on his own!

With a story that makes reading fun—and will even help listeners learn to read—this book is ideal for kindergarten classrooms and story hour or as a gift for that beginning reader. Fresh, charming art by Tad Hills, the New York Times bestselling author/​illustrator of Duck & Goose, will make this a favorite.”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–6 years

How to Read a Story by Kate Messner, illustrated by Mark Siegel (May 2015)

From Goodreads: “Step One: Find a story. (A good one.)
Step Two: Find a reading buddy. (Someone nice.)
Step Three: Find a reading spot. (Couches are cozy.)
Now: Begin.
Accomplished storytellers Kate Messner and Mark Siegel chronicle the process of becoming a reader: from pulling a book off the shelf and finding someone with whom to share a story, to reading aloud, predicting what will happen, and—finally—coming to The End . This picture book playfully and movingly illustrates the idea that the reader who discovers the love of reading finds, at the end, the beginning.”

  • 36 pages
  • Reading Age: 5–7 years

The Incredible Book Eating Boy by Oliver Jeffers (April 2007)

From Goodreads: “Like many children, Henry loves books. But Henry doesn’t like to read books, he likes to eat them. Big books, picture books, reference books … if it has pages, Henry chews them up and swallows (but red ones are his favorite). And the more he eats, the smarter he gets—he’s on his way to being the smartest boy in the world! But one day he feels sick to his stomach. And the information is so jumbled up inside, he can’t digest it! Can Henry find a way to enjoy books without using his teeth? With a stunning new artistic style and a die-​cut surprise, Oliver Jeffers celebrates the joys of reading in this charming and quirky picture book. It’s almost good enough to eat.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–7 years

Let Me Finish! by Minh Lê, illustrated by Isabel Roxas (July 2016)

From Goodreads: “When our young hero settles in to read, the last thing he wants is for some noisy animals to ruin the ending of the story.

But ruin it they do.

And as it turns out, the boy is quickly approaching a surprise ending of his own! Maybe he should have listened to the animals after all.…

This silly, timeless picture book with a clever meta twist introduces debut author Minh Lê’s witty text and Isabel Roxas’s eye-​catching illustrations.”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–6 years

The Library by Sarah Stewart, illustrated by David Small (April 1995)

From Goodreads: “Meet an unforgettable bibliophile.

Elizabeth Brown doesn’t like to play with dolls and she doesn’t like to skate. What she does like to do is read books. And now that she’s grown up, her collection has gotten so big all the shelves are collapsing. Her front door has disappeared entirely. What in the world will she do? The reclusive Elizabeth Brown surprises everyone wit her splendid solution.

In charming verse and elegant watercolors Sarah Stewart and David Small celebrate one of America’s grandest institutions.”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 5–9 years

Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes (July 2006)

From Goodreads: “An affectionate storybook tribute to that truly wonderful place: the library.

Miss Merriweather, the head librarian, is very particular about rules in the library. No running allowed. And you must be quiet. But when a lion comes to the library one day, no one is sure what to do. There aren’t any rules about lions in the library. And, as it turns out, this lion seems very well suited to library visiting. His big feet are quiet on the library floor. He makes a comfy backrest for the children at story hour. And he never roars in the library, at least not anymore. But when something terrible happens, the lion quickly comes to the rescue in the only way he knows how. Michelle Knudsen’s disarming story, illustrated by the matchless Kevin Hawkes in an expressive timeless style, will win over even the most ardent of rule keepers.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 1–3 years

Little Red Reading Hood and the Misread Wolf by Troy Wilson, illustrated by Ilaria Campana (July 2019)

From Goodreads: “A retelling of the classic Little Red Riding Hood, starring our bookish heroine Red and a misunderstood, book-​loving wolf desperate for a good story.

Little Red Reading Hood loves–you guessed it–reading! She applies everything she learns from books to the real world. So, when she sets off to take her sick grandmother a homemade treat, she’s prepared for anything that comes her way. In keeping with the original story, Red is in for a surprise when she arrives to find a wolf disguised as her grandmother. But this is no ordinary wolf… This is the Misread Wolf, who’s after something more delicious than your average snack. He’s desperate for a bedtime story and knows Little Red Reading Hood might just be his only hope.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

Lola at the Library by Anna McQuinn, illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw (June 2006)

From Goodreads: “Learn about the library, checking out books, and story time with Lola.  Every Tuesday Lola and her mommy go to the library. Lola meets her friends there. They share books and don’t have to be quiet all the time. The nice librarian tells stories. There is a big machine that buzzes Lola’s books in and out, and she can take any books she wants home with her. Lola and her mommy always stop for a treat on the way home. No wonder Lola loves the library.

This gentle story of growing with books encourages little ones to discover the joy of reading as well as getting them ready and excited to visit the library.

Sweet, bright illustrations are from a kids-​eye point of view. Perfect for a lap read or story time, the first in Lola series, LOLA AT THE LIBRARY is a book young readers will fall in love with.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 1–3 years

Read the Book, Lemmings! by Ame Dyckman, illustrated by Zachariah OHora (Nov 2017)

From Goodreads: “Aboard the S.S. Cliff, First Mate Foxy reads an interesting fact: “Lemmings don’t jump off cliffs.” But Foxy can’t get the lemmings on the Cliff to read his book, too. They’re too busy jumping off.

After a chilly third rescue, exasperated Foxy and grumbly polar bear Captain PB realize their naughty nautical crew isn’t being stubborn: The lemmings (Jumper, Me Too, and Ditto) can’t read. And until Foxy patiently teaches his lemmings to read the book, he can’t return to reading it, either!”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 2–8 years

Tomás and the Library Lady by Miranda Paul, illustrated by Nate Wragg (Feb 2000)

From Goodreads: “Tomás is a son of migrant workers. Every summer he and his family follow the crops north from Texas to Iowa, spending long, arduous days in the fields. At night they gather around to hear Grandfather’s wonderful stories. But before long, Tomás knows all the stories by heart. “There are more stories in the library,” Papa Grande  tells him.  The very next day, Tomás meets the library lady and a whole new world opens up for him.

Based on the true story of the Mexican-​American author and educator Tomás Rivera, a child of migrant workers who went on to become the first minority Chancellor in the University of California system, this inspirational story suggests what libraries–and education–can make possible.  Raul Colón’s warm, expressive paintings perfectly interweave the harsh realities of Tomás’s life, the joyful imaginings he finds in books, and his special relationships with a wise grandfather and a caring librarian.”

  • 40 pages
  • Reading Age: 3–7 years

Wolf! by Becky Bloom, illustrated by Pascal Biet (March 1999)

From Goodreads: “A wolf learns to read in order to impress a group of farmyard animals he has met.”

  • 32 pages
  • Reading Age: 4–8 years

Only Picture Books’ 23 Favorites of 2023

Well, we’re now fully into 2024, which means I now have 100% of the picture book options from 2023 available to read and rave about. In no particular order (save alphabetical!), here are OPB’s 23 favorite picture books from 2023.

People sometimes ask how I pick these books. I have the following listed on the SUBMIT PBs tab above as my overall criteria for including a book on the blog:

  • Books that have heart.
  • Books that resonate.
  • Books that are skillfully done.
  • Books that matter.

To be a Best of 2023, though? I’m looking for even more, such as:

  • Engagement of the Imagination: Books that spark creativity and wonder, inviting young minds to explore new worlds and ideas.
  • Emotional Detail and Complexity: Stories that navigate a spectrum of feelings with nuance and depth, resonating with both young hearts and mature minds.
  • Exceptional, Vivid Writing: Narratives that are not only beautifully penned but also vibrant and evocative, creating lasting impressions.
  • Interplay Between Text and Image: A harmonious and enriching balance where words and illustrations enhance and echo each other, creating a unified storytelling experience.
  • Relevance and Timelessness: Something that speaks to the present moment while holding enduring appeal for future generations.
  • Re-​readability: Titles that invite repeated enjoyment, revealing new layers and joys with each reading.
  • Visual Storytelling: Illustrations that don’t just accompany the text but enrich the narrative, adding dimensions of meaning and engagement.

Yeah, that’s a tall order. I quite agree. But doing so many good things at once is how you get on a Best of list.

Now, any list like this is wildly subjective despite my lists above, so plenty of worthy books won’t appear here. If I missed your favorite, my apologies! Feel free to note those in the comments on this post. Perhaps I’ll be able to work them into a future roundup or list of one type or another.

Since this is running in OPB’s usual monthly Picture Book Review slot, I’m including my own 5‑word reviews for each title along with a link to the appropriates Goodreads page.

Here we go!


Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior by Carole Lindstrom, illustrated by Bridget George (19 September 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Tidal wave of change inspires.

Goodreads Reviews


Beneath by Cori Doerrfeld (17 January 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Hidden depths, revealed with love.

Goodreads Reviews


The Book from Far Away by Bruce Handy, illustrated by Julie Benbassat (15 August 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Wordless wonder: cosmic book connection.

Goodreads Reviews


Butt or Face? by Kari Lavelle (11 July 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Guessing game with cheeky charm.

Goodreads Reviews


Cape by Kevin Johnson, illustrated by Kitt Thomas (20 June 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Grief, memories, and hope entwined.

Goodreads Reviews


Friends Beyond Measure by Lalena Fisher (28 February 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Friendship visualized through graphic design.

Goodreads Reviews


Grief Is an Elephant by Tamara Ellis Smith, illustrated by Nancy Whitesides (23 October 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Metaphorical, empathetic exploration of grief.

Goodreads Reviews


Hidden Gem by Linda Liu (11 July 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Rock’s reflections, profound self-​acceptance lesson.

Goodreads Reviews


How Dinosaurs Went Extinct: A Safety Guide by Ame Dyckman, illustrated by Jennifer Harney (18 April 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: “Safety Guide,” dino style. UpROARious!

Goodreads Reviews


How to Write a Poem, by Kwame Alexander and Deanna Nikaido, illustrated by Melissa Sweet (4 April 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Poetry’s dance in everyday moments.

Goodreads Reviews


Invisible Things by Andy J. Pizza, illustrated by Sophie Miller (18 July 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Unveiling life’s unseen wonders…poetically.

Goodreads Reviews


Jumper: A Day in the Life of a Backyard Jumping Spider by Jessica Lanan (11 April 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Arachnid adventure–jumping into action.

Goodreads Reviews


Mae and Gerty and the Matter with Matter by Elaine Vickers, illustrated by Erica Salcedo (17 October 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Sibling scientists bond through chemistry.

Goodreads Reviews


Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar by Mojdeh Hassani and Samira Iravani, illustrated by Maya Fidwai (19 July 202)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Under chador, a world unfolds.


Mother of Sharks by Melissa Cristina Márquez, illustrated by Devin Elle Kurtz (30 May 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Shark magic fuels STEAM dreams.


Our Pool by Lucy Ruth Cummins (13 June 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: City pool: splashtastic summer delight.

Goodreads Reviews


Paula’s Patches by Gabriella Aldeman, illustrated by Rocío Arreola Mendoza (11 July 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Heartwarming tale of mending friendships.

Goodreads Reviews


Remember by Joy Harjo, illustrated by Michaela Goade (21 March 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Nature’s wisdom in poetic embrace.

Goodreads Reviews


The Skull by Jon Klassen (11 July 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Cozy chills: eerie, tender, captivating.

Goodreads Reviews


Spicy Spicy Hot! by Lenny Wen (19 July 2022)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Cultural connection through fiery sambal.

Goodreads Reviews


The Search for the Giant Arctic Jellyfish by Chloe Savage (5 October 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Enchanting storytelling reveals hidden marvel.

Goodreads Reviews


A Vaccine Is Like a Memory by Rajani LaRocca, illustrated by Kathleen Marcotte (20 June 2023)

OPB Five-​Word Review: Inoculating minds with vaccine knowledge.

Goodreads Reviews


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Picture Book List: 20 Great Books About Sharks

I’ve been watching a lot of SHARK WEEK reruns, and wow, sharks are pretty amazing. Clearly, kids agree because there are a lot of sharkcentric picture books out in the literary waters.

Here are a few that swim above the rest. See what you think! And if I missed any of your favorites, please tell me about them in the comments section.


Baby Shark: Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo Doo (December 2018)

From Goodreads: “Baby Shark! Doo doo doo doo doo doo! Baby Shark! Doo doo doo doo doo doo! Baby Shark! Doo doo doo doo doo doo! Baby Shark! Baby Shark has become well-​known and well-​loved by teachers, parents, and children everywhere. And with hilarious and adorable under-​the-​sea art of Baby Shark, Mama Shark, Daddy Shark, Grandma Shark, and more ocean creatures, kids won’t be able to get enough of this silly illustrated story of a shark family! Children will delight in this silly sing-​along story with funny, eye-​popping illustrations and informative picture guides to help readers to mimic and act out the hand/​foot movements and develop their fine motor skills. By the end of the singalong story, little ones will be laughing, singing, and dancing their way to fun and reading success! Are you up for the Baby Shark reading challenge?”

Pages: 24

Reading Age: 1–3

 

Carnivores by Aaron Reynolds, illustrated by Dan Santat (November 2013)

From Goodreads: “The lion is king of the jungle!
The great white shark is sovereign of the seas!
The timber wolf is emperor of the forests!

But…it’s lonely at the top of the food chain. It’s difficult to fit in when plant eaters can be so cruel–just because you ate a relative of theirs that one time! What’s a carnivore to do?

Aaron Reynolds’s roaringly funny text is perfectly paired with Dan Santat’s dynamic illustrations, creating a toothsome picture book that’s sure to stand out from the herd.”

Pages: 40

Reading Age: 4–8

 

Clark the Shark by Bruce Hale, illustrated by Guy Francis (June 2013)

From Goodreads: “Clark the Shark is a great read-​aloud picture book, with fun rhythm and rhyme, from the ever-​popular Bruce Hale and Guy Francis.

Clark is a shark with zingbang, and BOOM. Clark zooms into school, crashes through the classroom, and is rowdy at recess. Clark loves life—but when his enthusiasm is too much for his friends, Clark’s teacher, Mrs. Inkydink, helps him figure out a way to tone it down.

Clark the Shark celebrates boisterous enthusiasm—and knowing when it’s time for indoor voices!”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: 4–8

 

Dude! by Aaron Reynolds, illustrated by Dan Santat (April 2018)

From Goodreads: “Aaron Reynolds, the author of Nerdy Birdy and Creepy Carrots! teams up with Dan Santat, the Caldecott–winning illustrator behind The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend to create the hilarious, gnarly summer adventure picture book, Dude!

Dude! You have to read this book.

It’s totally about this platypus and this beaver who are friends. They want to go surfing but dude, there’s this shark who’s in the ocean, too.

But don’t worry. This shark approaches and you’ll never guess what happens.”

Pages: 40

Reading Age: 4–8

 

Hark! A Shark! by Bonnie Worth, illustrated by Aristides Ruiz and Joe Mathieu (January 2013)

From Goodreads: “In this latest installment of the Cat in the Hat’s Learning Library, the Cat introduces beginning readers to all kinds of sharks! From the smallest (the dwarf lantern) to the largest (the whale shark), the most notorius (the great white) to the most obscure (the goblin), the Cat explains why sharks have lots of teeth but no bones; how their tough skin helps them swim fast and stay clean (inspiring scientists–and bathing suit manufacturers!); how pores along the sides of their bodies help them sense prey; that they have more to fear from us than we do from them, and much, much more! Perfect for shark and Cat (in the Hat) fanciers, fans of the new PBS Kids preschool science show The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! will sink their teeth into this new addition to the series!”

Pages: 48

Reading Age: 3–6

 

How to Spy on a Shark by Lori Haskins Houran, illustrated by Francisca Marquez (September 2019)

From Goodreads: “Spend a day at sea tracking sharks—with the help of a robot! Join a team of marine biologists as they head out in their boat to study mako sharks. Simple, entertaining text and bright, accurate illustrations bring science and technology to life, and additional pages of facts about sharks follow the story. This book is bound to make a splash with young minds!”

Pages: 24

Reading Age: 4–8

 

How to Survive as a Shark by Kristen Foote, illustrated by Eric Salcedo (September 2017)

From Goodreads: “Ahoy, me mateys! Upset your Mom swam away after you were born? Cry me an ocean. You’ve got ME to show you the ropes! Well, at least until I get a craving for baby shark. Swim along and I’ll teach you how to hunt using all six senses (a whole sense more than a human), why you can NEVER stop moving (blimey, no — not even to sleep!), and what your most dangerous threat is (here’s a hint: those sneaky landlubbers don’t even live in our waters!). Aye, me hearties, learning How to Survive as a Shark is not as easy as it sounds! How to Survive as a Shark provides a unique take on fish science that will entertain and educate in and out of the classroom. Full of opportunities for extended learning, this book includes fun facts hidden throughout the hilarious illustrated story — and after, a glossary of important terms and some real great white shark photos. If you’ve ever wondered how to think and swim like a shark–and you like to laugh while you learn–this book is for you!”

Pages: 44

Reading Age: 5–10

 

If Sharks Disappeared by Lily Williams (May 2017)

From Goodreads: “A healthy ocean is home to many different kinds of animals. They can be
big, like a whale,
tiny, like a shrimp,
and even scary, like a shark.

Even though sharks can be scary, we need them to keep the oceans healthy. Unfortunately, due to overfishing, many shark species are in danger of extinction, and that can cause big problems in the oceans and even on land.

What would happen if this continued and sharks disappeared completely?

Artist Lily Williams explores how the disappearance would affect other animals across the whole planet in this clever book about the importance of keeping sharks, and our oceans, healthy.”

Pages: 40

Reading Age:  4–8

 

Land Shark by Beth Ferry, illustrated by Ben Mantle (August 2015)

From Goodreads: “The only thing Bobby wants for his birthday is a pet shark. So you can imagine his disappointment when his parents get him…a puppy. Everyone knows shark lovers can never become dog lovers. Or can they? Full of humor and heart, this book explores the idea that sometimes, getting exactly what you don’t want turns out to be exactly what you need.”

Pages: 36

Reading Age: 3–5

 

Misunderstood Shark by Ame Dyckman, illustrated by Scott Magoon (April 2018)

From Goodreads: “Every beachgoer knows that there’s nothing more terrifying than a… SHARRRK! But this shark is just misunderstood, or is he? In a wholly original, side-​splittingly funny story, New York Times bestselling author Ame Dyckman and illustrator Scott Magoon take this perennial theme and turn it on its (hammer)head with a brand-​new cheeky character.

The filming of an underwater TV show goes awry when the crew gets interrupted by a… SHARRRK! Poor Shark, he wasn’t trying to scare them, he’s just misunderstood! Then he’s accused of trying to eat a fish. Will Shark ever catch a break? After all, he wasn’t going to eat the fish, he was just showing it his new tooth! Or was he? Explosively funny, extraordinarily clever, and even full of fun shark facts, this surprisingly endearing story gets to the heart of what it feels like to be misunderstood by the people around you. With a surprise twist ending, our Misunderstood Shark will have kids rolling with laughter!”

Pages: 48

Reading Age: 3–5

 

Nugget & Fang: Friends Forever–or Snack Time? by Tammi Sauer, illustrated by Michael Slack (March 2015)

From Goodreads: “In the deep ocean, tiny Nugget and big, toothy Fang get along swimmingly—until Nugget’s first day of minnow school. There Nugget learns that minnows are supposed to be afraid of sharks! To regain Nugget’s trust, Fang takes desperate (and hilarious) measures. But it’s not until his big sharp teeth save the entire school that minnows learn this shark is no foe. Fantastically stylized artwork adds even more humor to this undersea story of unlikely friendship.”

Pages: 40

Reading Age: 4–7

 

Sharkabet: A Sea of Sharks from A to Z by Ray Troll (February 2002)

From Goodreads: “Sharkabet: A Sea of Sharks from A to Z is a thrilling, chilling book for children of all ages. Featuring Ray Troll’s spectacular fishy art, this book portrays sharks both living and extinct.”

Pages: 40

Reading Age: 7–9

 

Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist by Jess Keating, illustrated by Marta Álvarez Miguéns (June 2017)

From Goodreads: “At 9 years old, Eugenie Clark developed an unexpected passion for sharks after a visit to the Battery Park Aquarium in New York City. At the time, sharks were seen as mindless killing machines, but Eugenie knew better and set out to prove it. Despite many obstacles in her path, Eugenie was able to study the creatures she loved so much. From her many discoveries to the shark-​related myths she dispelled, Eugenie’s wide scientific contributions led to the well-​earned nickname ‘Shark Lady.’ ”

Pages: 40

Reading Age: 4–8

 

Shark vs. Train by Chris Barton, illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld (April 2010)

From Goodreads: “Shark VS. Train!
WHO WILL WIN?!

If you think Superman vs. Batman would be an exciting matchup, wait until you see Shark vs. Train. In this hilarious and wacky picture book, Shark and Train egg each other on for one competition after another, including burping, bowling, Ping Pong, piano playing, pie eating, and many more! Who do YOU think will win, Shark or Train?”

Pages: 40

Reading Age: 4–8

 

Sharks: And Other Dangers of the Deep by Roger Priddy (October 2005)

From Goodreads: “Close-​up photographs of sharks and other fascinating creatures. Large format book Great for school projects.”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: 4–7

 

Slickety Quick: Poems About Sharks by Skila Brown, illustrated by Bob Kolar (March 2016)

From Goodreads: “Fourteen shark species, from the utterly terrifying to the surprisingly docile, glide through the pages of this vibrantly illustrated, poetic picture book.

From the enormous whale shark to the legendary great white to the enigmatic goblin shark to the small cookie-​cutter shark, Slickety Quick is a delightful frenzy of shark mayhem. Mysterious species such as the camouflaged wobbegong and the elusive frilled shark share the waters with better-​known blue and nurse sharks, each commemorated in a poem by Skila Brown and illustrated by Bob Kolar. Sneaky shark facts ripple through each spread to further inform the brave and curious young reader intrigued by the power — and danger — of these amazing creatures.”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: 6–9

 

Smiley Shark and the Great Big Hiccup! by Ruth Galloway (May 2013)

From Goodreads: “Oh no! Smiley Shark has the biggest hiccups ever! Hic, Hic, Hicuuuuuup! Soon he is doing roly-​polies with Starfish, being tickled by Octopus, and holding his breath with Pufferfish. But nothing’s working! Will his friends ever put a stop to his big and bothersome hiccups? This hilarious sequel to the best-​selling Smiley Shark by Ruth Galloway will soon have you in fits too! The perfect picture book for any three to six year-​old who loves sea-​creatures, sharks and silliness!”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: 2–6

 

Surprising Sharks by Nicola Davies, illustrated by James Croft (April 2005)

From Goodreads: “Why does a swell shark blow up like a party balloon? What does a lantern shark use its built-​in lights for? Full of fun facts, here’s a surprising book about sharks that kids can really get their teeth into.

SHAAAARRRKK!” That’s probably the last word anyone wants to hear while swimming in the warm blue sea. But most sharks aren’t at all what people expect. In fact, those who think all sharks are giant, man-​eating killers are in for a surprise! The compelling narrative, colorful illustrations, and captivating facts in SURPRISING SHARKS reveal that sharks come in all shapes and sizes — and probably should be more afraid of humans than we are of them.”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: AGES 3–7

 

Swimming with Sharks: The Daring Discoveries of Eugenie Clark by Heather Lang, illustrated by Jordi Solano (December 2016)

From Goodreads: “Before Eugenie Clark’s groundbreaking research, most people thought sharks were vicious, blood-​thirsty killers. From the first time she saw a shark in an aquarium, Japanese-​American Eugenie was enthralled. Instead of frightening and ferocious eating machines, she saw sleek, graceful fish gliding through the water. After she became a scientist an unexpected career path for a woman in the 1940s she began taking research dives and training sharks, earning her the nickname “The Shark Lady.”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: 4–8

 

The Three Little Fish and the Big Bad Shark by Ken Geist, illustrated by Julia Gorton (May 2007)

From Goodreads: “A hilarious retelling of THE THREE LITTLE PIGS, with foil on the cover!

Little fish, little fish, let me come in.” “Not by the skin of my finny fin fin!” “Then I’ll munch, and I’ll crunch, and I’ll smash your house in!” Mama tells her three little fish that it’s time to make their own homes. Jim builds his house of seaweed, but the big bad shark munches it up. Tim builds his house of sand, but the shark crunches it up. It’s smart Kim who sets up house in an old sunken ship! Children will delight in this silly story with funny, eye-​popping illustrations. And there’s foil on the cover!”

Pages: 32

Reading Age: 3–6