Splat the Cat, written and illustrated by Rob Scotton

Seymour the Cat greets his first day of school with much trepidation, but Mother Cat accepts no excuse for not going to kindergarten. So, Seymour slips his pet mouse into his lunchbox for moral support, triggering rousing results. Hilarious illustrations of adorable, ink-black Seymour at home and in school make this a fine choice for kindergarten-bound children. - Sue Parsons, Children's Librarian

Ocean Wide, Ocean Deep by Susan Lendroth, illustrated by Raul Allen – NEW E LEN

Waiting for Papa to return from a year at sea with the China trade is very hard for Mama, Baby and Sister. But the seasons change, and the children grow, and Papa returns at last! Exquisitely illustrated in styles reminiscent of Homer and Wyeth, this succinct story-in-rhyme set in 19th-century Cape Cod touches the heart. The family’s love, longing and dreams are as deep and as wide as the ocean. Submitted by Sue Parsons, Youth Services Librarian

I Don’t Like to Read! by Nancy Carlson – NEW E CAR

First-grader Henry likes stories and read-alouds but cannot make sense of letters. Help from his teacher and family, however, pushes him over the hump - everything clicks, and he can read! With illustrations bright and bold, this is the perfect story for a child who needs reassurance about taking the monumental step towards reading. Submitted by Sue Parsons, Youth Services Librarian

Twenty-one Elephants and Still Standing by April Jones Prince - E PRI

Upon completion of the Brooklyn Bridge, P.T. Barnum and his twenty-one elephants parade across to prove to everyone that the bridge is safe. Submitted by Pam Phillips, Youth Services Assistant