Board Books That Wow

There is something so fun, so “childhood” about board books and every kid should have a big collection to love, read and play with. These sturdy books make fabulous gifts, whether for a baby shower, birthday or special event. Some even make great gifts for adult girlfriends and book lovers. All the books on this list have the big “wow factor,” sure to impress anyone.

Timeless Classics

The Going to Bed Book by Sandra Boynton

Sandra Boynton is the queen of board books. This fun bedtime story is only one of her many too-much-fun books. No children’s library is complete without at least five of her books. Give a few together for a great gift.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

We all know and love this book about the caterpillar that eats everything in sight. A must-have book that kids love to read and explore. Another well-loved Eric Carle book is Brown Bear, Brown Bear.

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown and illustrated by Clement Hurd

For over 60 years this book has been one of the most beloved bedtime stories. It’s simple and beautiful. Every kid should have this book read to them again and again.

Goodnight Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann

Although there is very little actual text to read in this classic book, kids come back to it over and over and over. The rich illustrations and quirky story make this a perfect bedtime or anytime read.

Boy-Approved

Star Wars ABC by Scholastic

For the little Star Wars fan in your life this book and its companion Star Wars 123 are a must, both with vibrant pictures from the movies. Trust me: hearing a 3 year old say “Obi-Wan Kanobi” is hilarious.

Quiet LOUD by Leslie Patricelli

All of Patricelli’s board books will wow little boys (and girls). They are short, funny and awesome. This one is all about the things in life that are quiet and those that are loud.

Dinosaur VS. Bedtime by Bob Shea

What little boy doesn’t love dinosaurs? In this crazy book the dinosaur battles a tall slide, a bowl of spaghetti, taking a bath and even bedtime. An instant favorite.

Oh, David! Pocket Library by David Shannon

This fun set of all the Diaper David board books makes a great baby shower or new baby boy gift. And when the little boy gets bigger he will love the weirdness and boyishness of David.

New Favorites

The House in the Night by Susan Marie Swanson and illustrated by Beth Krommes

A truly stunning book, The House in the Night, the Caldecott winning picture book, is now available as a board book. The beauty and simplicity of this book make it memorable and timeless. A must-have book.

Not a Box by Antoinette Portis

Childhood is all about imagination and this little book expertly captures the magic of turning an ordinary thing into something extraordinary. Kids love the little rabbit that takes a simple box and makes it a not-a-box.

It’s a Little Book by Lane Smith

This companion to the popular picture book, It’s a Book, by favorite children’s author/illustrator, Lane Smith, is also a fast favorite. One little animal asks another what a book is for: “Is it for building?” “Is it for emailing?” Kids love it.

Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle and illustrated by Jill McElmurry

Kids love animals and this fun story of all the farm animals coming to the rescue of their friend the Little Blue Truck is beautifully illustrated and a fun tale of friendship.

BabyLit Board Books

These are the most adorable board books ever. Seriously. Local Utah publisher Gibbs Smith, local author Jennifer Adams and talented illustrator Alison Oliver have struck literary gold with these gorgeous books. Each one is based on a literary classic that both boys and girls love. These also make great gifts for adult friends and book lovers.

Pride and Prejudice: A Counting Primer by Jennifer Adams and art by Alison Oliver

Romeo and Juliet: A Counting Primer by Jennifer Adams and art by Alison Oliver

Alice in Wonderland: A Colors Primer by Jennifer Adams and art by Alison Oliver

Jane Eyre: A Counting Primer by Jennifer Adams and art by Alison Oliver

Dracula: A Counting Primer by Jennifer Adams and art by Alison Oliver

A Christmas Carol: A Colors Primer by Jennifer Adams and art by Alison Oliver

BabyLit just launched a website complete with book-related products like dolls, totes, and art prints. Find it all at babylit.com. And for a chance to win these cool products and books, see below.

GIVEAWAY with BabyLit

The wonderful people at Gibbs Smith sent me a whole box of swag to giveaway. There are five chances to win BabyLit products and books.

To see the five prize packages go to: www.book-matters.com.

To enter to win go to my author Facebook page, www.facebook.com/AuthorTeriHarman

All new Likes will automatically be entered to win. If you already Like my page just leave a comment letting me know you want your name in the pool. It’s that easy!

The giveaway is open until Friday, September 21, 2012. Winners announced Monday, September 24, 2012.