Beloved characters help build a young reader’s world


My Very Big Little World
By Peter H. Reynolds
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
$15.95 – Ages 3-7

As a young child, you probably had your favorite literary character. Whether it was Nancy Drew or Clifford the Big Red Dog, these characters help create a connection with children and turn them into avid readers. For the younger set, Peter Reynolds has created a new picture book series featuring an endearing the endearing SugarLoaf. My Very Big Little World is the first in the new series, and it offers readers a chance to celebrate this young, spunky tot's many talents and humorous adventures.

Thomas the Tank Engine Story Collection
By The Reverend W. Awdry
Random House Books for Young Readers
$29.95 – Ages 3 and up

For decades, young boys and girls have been enraptured with trains. For 60 years, Thomas & Friends has been a favorite of preschoolers. The Thomas the Tank Engine Story Collection has been created to honor the blue tank's 60th anniversary. In addition to 55 of the most popular titles and stories within the Railway Series, the book features 508 illustrated pages of tales - making this a must-have addition to any train lover's collection.

Adventures of Riley: Mission to Madagascar
By Amanda Lumry & Laura Hurwitz
Illustrated by Sarah McIntyre
$15.95 – Ages 4-8

Looking for a fun way to teach your young reader environmental conservation? Adventures of Riley is a picture book series that discusses global topics and offers kid-friendly environmental facts. The most recent addition to the series, Mission to Madagascar, follows Riley as he explores the African island of Madagascar with a documentary film crew. While there, he learns of the various unique species of wildlife who call this island home. Proceeds from the series benefit conservation efforts worldwide.

The Perfect Distance
By Kim Ablon Whitney
lfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
$15.95 – Ages 12 and up

The love of all things horses is paramount in this new novel for young adults. The Perfect Distance celebrates the profound determination of a 17-year-old girl's love of horses and her willingness to ride and compete in a horse competition - even though she lacks the necessary funds to work with the best trainer in the country. With tremendous effort, she overcomes the obstacles and proves to herself and her immigrant father that a lot of hard work goes a long way.