friday's five

Well folks, this is it. The final round-up of Cybils-nominated picture books. In just two days, the finalists will be announced. I believe I can speak for the rest of the Round One Judges when I say we had a lovely time emailing about the nominated titles over the last couple months, and our final online chat was awesomely smooth. The shortlist of seven books that will be announced on 1/1 includes some truly terrific books that will bring many smiles to book bloggers' faces. I've been thrilled to be involved with the Cybils for a third year, and I hope you've been enjoying my short mini-reviews over the last twelve weeks!

For the final round-up, here are five books that are sweet and cute for young readers and the grown-ups in their lives.

1. Shoes for Me! by Sue Fliess and illustrated by Mike Laughead -- With feet that have outgrown her old shoes, the hippo on the cover is allowed to pick her own shoes. But, the choices are overwhelming, and she is soon struggling to find which ones are the best for her. After trying more types of shoes than I even thought existed, will she finally find the right pair? With rhymes on each page that aren't too sticky sweet, this is a cute one for young children who have their own favorite pair of shoes.

2. Bug and Bear: A Story of True Friendship by Ann Bonwill and illustrated by Layn Marlow -- Even friends get grumpy sometimes, and that's what happens in this story about the ups and downs of friendships. Bear just wants to be left alone, but Bug doesn't seem to be getting the message. When Bear says something harsh out of frustration, he soon comes to regret it. Real friends know how to say sorry, and the resolution of this one is gentle and just right for little ones.

3. I Like You the Best by Carol Thompson -- Here's another similar story, though this time both friends get a bit angry with each other. Soon enough, they both realize that they miss each other, and the way in which they reach out to each other is cute. Preschoolers are often prone to outbursts of "You're not my friend!" or "You're not invited to my birthday party!", so I think this is just the type of book for this set.

4. The Big Snuggle-Up by Brian Patten and illustrated by Nicola Bayley -- I have to admit to being surprised by this one, for my expectation was surpassed when I opened it up. The somewhat cartoonishly drawn scarecrow is outshone by the beautifully rendered wild animals who ask to come in out of the cold. I love the variety of animals, and the quiet nature of the book makes it a perfect read aloud before  nap or bed time.

5. Mr. Duck Means Business by Tammi Sauer and illustrated by Jeff Mack --  Poor Mr. Duck, just looking for some peace and quiet in which to swim about leisurely. The other farm animals have different ideas one hot summer day, and he is disturbed by the splashing and jumping and noise to the point that he soon gets the message across in a loud quacking manner. But several days in a row of nothing but quiet may bring a change of opinion to Mr. Duck. Will he be able to find a good balance? (Mr. Duck, how I envy your quiet times!)

As always, all opinions expressed here are mine alone, and not representative of the other judges or the Cybils Awards. I encourage you to watch the Cybils Awards site throughout the day on January 1 for the shortlist announcements across all categories. Okay, Round Two folks, now your job begins!




Hundreds of picture books later,