Grade: K

Katz has got kids’ number in this sweet counting book that taps into the air of anticipation on Christmas Eve. Three children and their parents prepare for a celebration with all the fixin’s-10 lights, nine presents, eight cookies for Santa, etc., which help add up to “one magical day for families and children to share.” A mix of collage, gouache and colored pencil creates a kaleidoscope of hues and patterns. With their large heads and minimalist features, Katz’s rosy-cheeked, smiling figures have the appealing semblance of sweet-faced baby dolls.

A youngster gets a memorable bedtime send-off with Grandma, Dad, and even the family cat teaming up to provide old-fashioned tender loving care just when he needs it most. This endearing read-aloud, with bright, pattern-filled art and a countdown of kisses from ten to one, gently invites preschoolers to practice their numbers.

Twelve million cars are recycled in the United States and Canada every year. This book shows the recycling process from the moment the car is hauled to the junkyard until its crushed chassis is delivered to a recycling shredding center. A glossary of terms and recycling facts are included.

Curious George and the man with the yellow hat visit the zoo. A hungry Curious George snatches a pail of bananas from the zoo keeper. Though he shouldn’t have taken the bananas, George soon changes the zookeeper’s shouts to praise with his clever, helpful ways.

What could be sweeter than adorable baby animals snuggling with their daddies? This simple board book with warm illustrations feature a variety of animals and celebrate the affection between fathers and children. Cuddles and kisses will surely abound when reading this aloud!

What could be sweeter than the relationship between a daddy and his little girl? With his signature wit and warmth, beloved radio host and writer Garrison Keillor turns ordinary daily events — from diaper-changing and eating favorite foods to a walk through the neighborhood — into celebrations. And for those times when daddy and baby just have to dance, the book includes a CD of Keillor’s live performances of the songs — plus bonus tracks.

A child writes a letter to the zoo, requesting a pet. The zoo sends back a parade of animals, all of them unsuitable for one reason or another. Each colorful spread depicts a container (a basket, a crate, a cage, etc.), revealing just enough of the mysterious contents to encourage fun-filled guessing. But the real enjoyment is watching the delight on children’s faces as the last shipment arrives with (ta-da!) the perfect pet. A perennial family favorite, Dear Zoo continues to captivate — even a quarter century after its original publication!

Children will be cheered just contemplating the outrageous array of troubles they’re lucky they don’t have.