Picture books and powerful tales

There’s a wealth of new books this month, celebrating discarded treasures, love of family, the importance of inclusion and so much more. Head to your library or visit your favorite bookstore for a new addition or two.

“The Day Moon and Earth Had an Argument”

by David Duff, illustrated by Noemi Vola (Princeton Architectural Press, ages 4-8)

If you want an engaging, multilayered picture book that can spark all sorts of discussion, this is a great place to start. There’s fun science – learn all about the planets, plus poor Pluto – and talk about getting angry and apologizing too. The illustrations here a so much fun. (Parents, look for a familiar alien face.)

“Gifts from the Garbage Truck”

by Andrew Larsen, illustrated by Oriol Vidal (Sourcebooks, ages 4-8)

This is the true story of Nelson Molina, who wrote the forward and who started the Treasures in the Trash Museum featuring more than 50,000 items he collected during his 34 years as a sanitation worker in New York City. Molina repaired and recycled items and gave them new life, something he learned from his mother. Far more than just an encouragement for a sustainable life – though it is that – this tale is a delightful look at how to see the world a little differently and imagine a better future.

“Construction Site: Garbage Crew to the Rescue!”

by Sherri Duskey Rinker, illustrated by AG Ford (Chronicle Books, ages 4-8, available Sept. 24)

In addition to a sweet story about renovating a beloved, proud neighborhood, this book has enough garbage truck and construction vehicle details to satisfy even the biggest truck fan. This would be great fun to read together before visiting a touch-a-truck event, but it is also perfect for a bedtime story.

“The Gale”

by Mo Yan, adapted by Xiaoxiao Guan, illustrated by Chengliang Zhu, translated by Ying-Hwa Hu (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, ages 4-8)

In 2012, Mo Yan was awarded the Nobel Prize, becoming China’s first Nobel Laureate for literature, and in this captivating story, it is easy to see why. With beautiful, moving illustrations, there is much to unpack here in this tale of generational love, respect, perseverance and hard work.

“Black Girl, Black Girl: Celebrate the Power of You”

by Ali Kamanda and Jorge Redmond, illustrated by Amanda Quartey (Sourcebooks, ages 3-7)

From the authors of “Black Boy, Black Boy” – “Dear girl, Black girl, this one is written for you. There’s no one on earth who can do what you do.” The beautiful pages of this picture book show Black girls examples of role models page by page, as a quilt comes together representing connection across generations. This is a book worth treasuring in any home or classroom library.

“All About U.S.:  A Look at the Lives of 50 Real Kids from Across the United States”

by Matt Lamothe with Jenny Volvovski (Chronicle Books, ages 8-12)

A most unique glimpse at the lives of kids offers diversity and inclusion for places and people and the everyday-ness of all sorts of families. What a wonderful, creative idea – everyone has a story and this is a delightful way for kids to “meet” someone in every state. And maybe in getting to know someone whose life is different from theirs, children can be inspired to welcome and celebrate all people.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Picture books and powerful tales