#52: Books of Wonder

I believe the children are the future…

Books of Wonder

Flatiron District, Manhattan: 42 W 17th

I first encountered Books of Wonder in my days producing events and slinging tee shirts for the Story Pirates— we chose this famously fantastic kids bookstore to launch the first SP book Stuck in the Stone Age and it was a blast. Since then, Books of Wonder has moved to a smaller but equally charming locale. Books of Wonder is a kids exclusive bookstore. They’ve got books for all ages of child, from picture books to early readers to the treasured chapter books of elementary school, plus more crafty fare as well. It’s a cornucopia of kids lit, plus a great place to kill an hour or two with some young book lovers (you will need to buy them something though.) My favorite part of this store is the glass cases filled with first editions and other vintage children’s books. Those old school Oz series covers are mesmerizing! 

What I Got

That is Not a Good Idea

Witty Mo Willems is the current king of kids books. His simple, humorous, often repetitive style is the secret to his success. Every kid in my class has memorized each volume of Elephant and Piggie as well as the Pigeon books, so I was excited to find a book of his my kids haven’t devoured yet. Plus I love the stylistic homage to silent films!

Angry Me

As a special ed teaching assistant, getting hit and/or cursed out by 3rd graders is an unfortunate but regular part of my job. You won’t be surprised to hear I’m on the look out for texts to help my students regulate their feelings and broaden their emotional vocabulary. I think my students will connect with this book through its relatable plot and fantastic illustrations.