November is Picture Book Month! But what does that mean in an age when even hot dogs have their own day? Picture Book Month is an international celebration of printed picture books. With countless digital materials and resources crowding our timelines, notifications and inboxes, what could be more important than celebrating the books that introduced nearly all of us to the joy of reading?
Many of us fondly reminisce about Where the Wild Things Are or The Cat in the Hat. We giggle when remembering Everyone Poops and Caps for Sale, or find ourselves solemnly remembering The Fall of Freddie the Leaf or The Giving Tree. Picture books aren’t just things. They’re memories to share, to enjoy, to revisit, to inspire, to cherish and to love. These books teach us to read and introduce us to new ideas. They make us laugh, gasp, cry and think.
November Celebrations
We feel there isn’t a better month to honor picture books than November. The days grow shorter, darker and colder, and it’s the perfect time to curl up with a cup of cocoa and a beautiful picture book. Numerous cultures celebrate other holidays and events in November.
On Thanksgiving in the United States we acknowledge what we’re thankful for with friends and family. And in countries around the world, people join together in other celebrations. In England, Guy Fawkes Day is a time to celebrate with friends. In Japan, Shichi-Go-San is a rite-of-passage for young children ages 3, 5 and 7, focusing on their future growth and well-being. In Cambodia, the rainy season causes the Tonle Sap River to overfill and reverse its flow. And in November, they celebrate Bon Um Touk as the the river returns to normal by spending time with friends and family at festivals.
Storytimes at Fountaindale
Much like these November holidays, picture books celebrate children, friends and family. And we too can come together over our shared experiences with picture books.
Looking for the perfect opportunity to inspire reading and creativity with your child? Look no further than our diverse selection of storytimes available both inside the library and around our community. Whether you have a newborn, fifth grader or a child somewhere in between, we have a storytime that they’re sure to love! Visit our events calendar for dates, times and registration information.
Reading Recommendations
In the spirit of honoring these wonderful works, please enjoy the 25 most popular picture books at Fountaindale this year. You can also find these books on display in the library this month.