While the days of my reading picture books with the kids are on the way out (*sniff*), as they now prefer to find and read books of their own choosing, I remain passionate about, and committed to, the wonders of picture books. Here are some choices for Christmas.

The Wild One by Sonya Hartnett, illustrated by Lucia Masciullo, $20.90

The Wild One crosses over ground we’ve seen in picture books before – of being mindful of the inner ‘wild’ child within us all, and the importance of not forgetting this over age and time – but what sets this apart is the beautiful illustrations of Mascuillo.

Once a Shepherd by Glenda Millard and Phil Lesnie, $22.50

I’ve noticed a lot of books about war this year, and not just picture books, but for younger and older readers too – no doubt because of the 100th anniversary of the start of World War One. I liked Once a Shepherd because it’s told a little unconventionally; the reader comes to understand the causality of war, and its potentially shattering implications, through the connections of the characters in the story. It’s not sentimental, but is compassionate. This is Lesnie’s first illustrated book, I think we’ll see many more in the future.

Open this Little Book by Jesse Klausmeier and Suzy Lee, $16.25

This is a very cute book, something fun. A handling warning for children less than preschool years – the pages get smaller as the book progresses. Delicacy is required! If I’m not being clear, here’s a video.

Keira loved it.

Dave Dig a Hole by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen, $20.90

I admit I’ve not read this book (yet), but as I’m a card carrying Jon Klassen fan, I’m going to see it out, even if it’s just for myself! Here’s the synopsis:

Sam and Dave are on a mission. A mission to find something spectacular. So they dig a hole. And they keep digging. And they find … nothing. Yet the day turns out to be pretty spectacular after all. Attentive readers will be rewarded with a rare treasure in this witty story of looking for the extraordinary – and finding it in a manner you’d never expect.

Anzac Ted by Belinda Landsberry, $15.95

Another book I’ve not read, and another of the ‘war’ titles (in to the ‘ANZAC/Gallipoli’ sub-group), Anzac Ted might be a starting point for parents who would like to talk about the 1915 Gallipoli landing (I’m lucky to be attending the 100th anniversary celebrations next year). This is from the website:

While several children’s picture books cover the world wars, none has ever made the conflict so accessible to children by telling the story of a bear who went to war. Belinda’s exquisite watercolour illustrations combine with her rhyming text to create a book that, while perfect for parents and teachers to share with children, is also guaranteed to touch the heart of every adult.

Note: Affiliate links and quoted prices are from Booktopia. Important information: order in stock titles by the 10th of December for delivery by Christmas. Non stocked items ordered after the 1st of December will be delivered in the New Year.