Barefoot Books,  NorthSouth Books, and Green Tiger Press are all offering beautiful and well written picture books for children of all ages.

The selections from Barefoot Books are for older children, and are great for both reading out loud and reading silently in bed, or on a windowseat, or under a tree. The first one, Indian Tales by Shenaaz Nanji, showcases stories from the Punjab, Utter Pradesh, Rajasthan – each one different. All of the stories are introduced with an explanation of the origin of the tale, and a succinct and interesting overview of the region. Christopher Corr’s illustrations capture the colors of the world’s largest democracy. (978-1-84686-083-6)

Fireside Stories: Tales for a Winter’s Eve is another fabulous anthology, this time of winter stories from around the world. Sumptuous illustrations by Helen Cann and elegant writing by Caitlin Matthews make this one a pleasure for readers and listeners.

The illustrations in NorthSouth Books’ retelling of Anderson’s Fairy Tales are more restrained, but certainly no less imaginative. Silke Leffler’s choice of what to put on the page will keep the attention of lap-sitters, while the timeless stories unfold. Originally published in Austria, author Friederun Reichenstetter lives outside of Munich and writes briskly, and with poise. (978-0-7358-2141-5)

Ludwig van Beethoven: A Musical Picture Book was also first published in Austria. An amazing story, detailed illustrations, a chronology on the back endpage and a packaged CD of compositions all make this the perfect gift of knowledge and joy. (Written by Lene Mayer-Skumanz, illustrated by Winfried Opgenoorth, 978-0-7358-2123-1)

These last two books, from Green Tiger Press, will certainly entertain children, but they’ll also delight adults. Their version of The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse looks just like something my mom used to read me. (In fact, it is. It’s a reprint of the 1947 edition.) The cut-out shape, primary colors, the pink cake, and the cook’s dairy cheeks. The sensational expressions on the faces of the mice! You’ll have so much fun reading it out loud, the kids won’t be able to resist. (Illustrated by Ethel Hays, 978-1-59583-1-927)

Another nostalgic Green Tiger volume is their Make It Yourself: Paper & Cardboard Projects for Kids. Old fashioned illustrations and pretty projects are guaranteed to be irresistible to anyone over the age of forty. (Those who can wield a pair of scissors with more grace than a Wii, e.g.) Don’t they get to have fun over the holiday as well? (978-1-59583-188-0)

Cheers!