Children’s Services Librarians from The Seattle Public Library have selected our ten favorite picture books of the year. Though it’s a challenge to limit ourselves to ten titles (check out our longer list of favorite 2017 picture books), we all responded to the joy in these ten books – each is a celebration: of home and family; of being yourself; of caring for others; and of a fresh haircut! Enjoy!
Quiet! by Kate Alizadeh
Keep your ears open for the wonderful array of delightful sounds in life as you journey through the day with this kiddo.
Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut
by Derrick D. Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C. James
There’s nothing quite like the feeling after getting a fresh hair cut at the barbershop; see how it makes this boy soar with confidence and pride!
Shelter by Céline Claire, illustrated by Qin Leng
In a story about generosity to warm your heart this winter, a storm forces all the forest animals into their burrows and caves, but one animal family cannot find shelter in time.
I Love My Purse by Belle DeMont, illustrated by Sonja Wimmer
Nothing will keep a young boy from proudly and joyfully carrying his favorite purse – and his irrepressible joie de vivre is contagious!
Stack the Cats by Susie Ghahremani
Fun with cats and math!
All Around Us by Xelena González, illustrated by Adriana M. Garcia
A grandfather and his granddaughter find circles all around them, in this lovely meditation on the cycles of life and nature.
Muddy: The Story of Blues Legend Muddy Waters
by Michael James Mahin, illustrated by Evan Turk
Vivid writing and striking art paint a vibrant portrait of the legendary American blues musician. New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book.
Danza! by Duncan Tonatiuh
Get your dancing shoes! It’s time to follow in the masterful footsteps of Amalia Hernández and her founding of El Ballet Folklórico de México.
The World is Not a Rectangle by Jeanette Winter
Learn about world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, a female architect born in Baghdad who went on to envision and build innovative structures across the globe.
Meow! by Victoria Ying
When a little gray kitten wants to play, but everyone is too busy – “meow” says it all!
Shelf Talk 