Is the Picture Book Really Dead?

Some of you may have read the article in the New York Times recently stating that the day of the picture book is over.  As I read the article I thought to myself, “It’s not dead at LREI, that’s for sure!” There are picture books being published for every age; from the very young throughout the teens and into adulthood.  Each year we read and review books that are too sophisticated for our youngest readers and happily find readers in upper elementary and even the middle school grades and high school grades. Picture books brings a whole different kind of literacy to the reader.  From sequencing and visual literacy to rich vocabulary and lush illustrations, older readers can find plenty to dig their teeth into by reading picture books. Please enjoy the following titles that the LREI librarians think your older readers will enjoy!

Tan, Shaun.  The Arrival.

Thayer, Ernest L and Christopher Bing.  Casey at the Bat.

Van Allsburg, Chris.  The Mysteries of Harris Burdick.

Bird, Eugenie.  Fairie-ality: The Fashion Collection from the House of Ellwand.

Van Allsburg, Chris. The Garden of Abdul Gasazi.

Lowry, Lois.  Crow Call.