I adore children’s books. In fact, I have to remind myself whenever I’m in the children’s section of a book store to temper myself. Of course, that doesn’t mean I don’t buy books –only that I’m extremely picky. I don’t often blog about books written by others, but today is different as I share two new books I adore.

First, though, a look back at my own love of kids’ books. I’ve blogged about and shared stories in both my memoirs about this commmitment and love. Most recently, in From First Breath to Last:

And yes, now I have that grandchild. And oh, do we read books! Leading me to my recommendations of two recent book purchases. Both books are delightful for kids and adults alike; informative too.

It’s always a joy to buy a wonderful book from a friend! And that is the case with my purchase of The Birds That Wish They Were Fish by Jay Schauer.

Jay and family have been neighbors of ours for years. In fact, our daughter was a long ago babysitter of theirs. We’ve followed and shared the various touchpoints of our lives; sadnesses and joys. Earlier in the year, Jay and I had coffee and contemplated the challenges and thrill of getting a new book into the world. I tried to share a few tips, knowing I am still learning. Our next visit was over tea as he shared this remarkable book. What makes it remarkable? Beyond the beauty of the illustrations? Beyond the rhymes, facts and learning captured within this small package? To me, I love its collaboration: Jay, a now retired public educator, invited twelve prior students to illustrate two pages each of the book. Or more simply, a bird apiece. From tufted puffins to common murres, marbled murrelet to common loon, and more. Dear to my heart is how Jay, a longtime science and statistics teacher at Wilsonville High, invited these artists who represented Wilsonville High classes of 2000-2022, Yes, this a high school built within the forests of my youth.

Of course, what I was most eager for was sharing the book with the Little Guy. I prepared myself for all of the “why” questions. This book is a wonderful example, too, of a book that grows with you: it contains something for everyone. Learn more about Jay and the book, or order the book directly. The book can also be purchased at the wonderful Bold Coffee and Books, Bird Alliance of Oregon Nature Store, Backyard Bird Shop, and Grass Roots Books and Music. Or order from the website above. Nice work Jay and team!

Okay, moving on to my other favorite children’s book that’s also awesome for adults. While in Whittier, Alaska last month, I came upon Working Boats: An Inside Look at Ten Amazing Watercraft by Tom Crestodina.

Now, at first I found myself poring over the photo of the King Crabber. Yes, since writing the crab fishing scenes with Celia in A Map of Her Own you could say I’ve been a bit obsessed learning details about all kinds of crab fishing. Instantly I knew this was a book to share with our grandson. (Yes, I knew there would be many more “why” questions. The good news is books like this give us many of the answers! The Little Guy now knows a phone answers every question, and so I prefer it when we can find answers in books.)

Yes, we have spent a lot of time with this book! We’ve also spent many hours building boats on couches and furniture, done our share of pretend fishing, crabbing and swimming. Yes, the imagination is a wonderful thing. And oh, the places these special books can take us!

What have been some of your favorite recent books to share with a little?

Looking for a book for just you or other adults? Explore my books, including my soon to release A Map of Her Own. Also, I am now scheduling book groups for 2026 for those who like local authors to join (and sometimes including virtual). This is one of my favorite things: learning what others uncover from my books. Yes, now is a very good time to read.

Book group discussion with Seattle friends and colleagues.