If there’s one piece of information a kid has on hand, it’s what their favorite animal is. Whether it’s a dinosaur — a brontosaurus, perhaps — or one of the feline variety — a calico, specifically — kids are emphatic about what their favorite is, and will request a book in that particular variety. And animal books can provide a great service of teaching children empathy towards animals and the natural world — or for simply telling a zany tale of a wilderness adventure. Here we cover five animal protagonists, both cuddly and those that are less so, and what their compelling stories can impart upon young readers.
CAT: Rectangle Time by Pamela Paul, illustrated by Becky Cameron
It’s our feline protagonist’s favorite time of the day — Rectangle Time! At every Rectangle Time, the cat and his human best friend curl up together to look at a strange, squiggle-covered rectangle. The cat is, of course, a vital part of Rectangle Time; until suddenly the rectangles start to get smaller, the boy stops speaking aloud and even stops snuggling with the cat! This simply won’t do, and the cat devises a way to still make himself useful at Rectangle Time, despite its strange new changes.
A love letter to the joys of reading aloud with children, Rectangle Time is the perfect book to pore over with your little ones. The story gently instructs young readers how to cope with change and shows them that while their favorite routines may be modified with time, they can still be just as special as before.
DOG: My Adoption: A Max Brown Adventure by Andrea White and Lauren White, illustrated by Mike Forshay
We’ve all heard stories of friends or family adopting a dog. Some of us have even adopted one ourselves! But have you ever heard it from the perspective of the dog?
Well, Max is here to help in that regard. This scrappy pup — based on the author’s real-life dog! — tells his own life story to young readers, sharing with them what things were like before he found his forever family. From roaming the streets to staying at the shelter, Max is honest about his experiences while still maintaining his signature enthusiasm and hope. And once he’s finally adopted, Max doesn’t even consider any differences between him and his new family — all he cares about is the love they share with each other. By demonstrating curiosity and open-mindedness, Max encourages young readers to share empathy and kindness with those around them, with both dogs and fellow humans alike.
To see more about the book My Adoption, read our full review here.
RABBIT: Willow and Bunny by Anitra Rowe Schulte, illustrated by Christopher Denise
Bunny needs a new home, and Willow’s long, sweeping branches and knotty roots provide just the perfect place. That is, at least, until a storm rages through the forest, as Bunny and all the woodland creatures shelter within Willow’s boughs. And shelter them, Willow does, even as she’s thrashed by the winds. When the storm finally settles, Bunny and the other animals see that many of Willow’s branches are snapped or bent and worse for wear. And after all that Willow had done for them through the storm, they know that it’s now their turn to help.
Rich with lush illustrations and tender emotion, Willow and Bunny helps readers understand the balance between helping oneself and helping others, and how fostering community can help create a better world for us all — especially in the face of difficult times, and in the hope of a brighter future.
BIRD: Mel Fell by Corey R. Tabor
This Caldecott-winning, outside-the-box picture book tells the story of Mel, a brave little bird who’s still learning how to fly. On her first attempt out of the nest, things don’t exactly go perfectly; readers will turn the book sideways and upside down as they track Mel’s less-than-stellar flight path downwards. But despite her initial struggles, Mel is determined to try again. This time, her journey sends her soaring skywards, showing her just how correct she was to believe in herself even in the face of difficulties. Her courage and perseverance will have readers cheering for her as she flies high, and will be inspired to take on the challenges in their own lives. With a whole cast of charming woodland animals and a vitally important life lesson, Mel Fell is a book worthy of a spot on every bookshelf.
Check out more books that we think would go well with Mel Fell.
BEAR: Bear Came Along by Richard T. Morris, illustrated by LeUyen Pham
Undoubtedly the least domestic of the animals we’ve covered, the main protagonist of Bear Came Along nonetheless provides a positive, playful energy one might not at first associate with the notorious grizzly. This Caldecott Honor book celebrates the art of going with the flow (literally) as our titular protagonist comes across a log that seems perfect for a river ride. As more animal companions come aboard, they make discoveries about their impromptu ride; Bear wasn’t really planning on having an adventure, that day, nor did Froggy realize she had made friends. But friends they become and an adventure they have as the log careens downstream — towards quite a sharp drop, actually! And the group soon realizes that their log flume is a lot more fun when they work together. Full of campy fun, Bear Came Along reminds readers young and old to seize the day and to keep an eye out for their next adventure.
