Anyone in the know about modern picture books and the market would tell you that the majority of picture books are increasingly geared to a younger and younger audience as chapter books are expected to be a part of a child’s life sooner than ever before. But I’m here to tell you (as the mother of a bright kindergartener) that this may be a mistake.
My 5 year-old daughter can appreciate reading a chapter or two per night of “James and the Giant Peach,” but it just breaks her heart if we don’t also read one or two picture books. She still lights up as those page turns unfold and the pictures tell a different story that’s not always mentioned in the text.
Picture books are a sweet part of her childhood. I don’t want to take that away too soon. Or ever for that matter. They grow up quickly enough. I want the fun to stay. Sure, we’ll finish “James and the Giant Peach” and I’m sure we’ll remember it fondly, but I’m not going to rush into another chapter book just yet.
Me and my girl have had 5 years of wonderful adventures together through picture books! Here are some of our recent favorites that are especially great for (bigger) kids:
“Chloe and the Lion” by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Adam Rex
“Super Hair-O and the Barber of Doom” by John Rocco
Any in the Lady Bug Girl adventures or Pinkalicious series
“Unicorn Thinks He’s Pretty Great” by Bob Shea
“Creepy Carrots” and “My Teacher Is a Monster! (No, I Am Not.)” by Peter Brown
“Sam and Dave Dig a Hole” by Mac Barnett, illustrated by Jon Klassen
“Sleeping Cinderella and other Princess Mix-ups” by Stephanie Clarkson, illustrated by Bridgette Barrager
“Iggy Peck Architect” and “Rosie Revere Engineer” by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts
So, Publishers, please keep making picture books for my (big) kid, and we’ll keep reading them!
-Shanda
