Mr. Michael’s Favorite Books

December 14, 2011

Here are a selection of books from my bookshelf to yours. My kids love it when I read to them before bedtime. Night time books are usually a home run. I’ve listed my favorites here (mind you, I have many more) and I’ve tried to eliminate the ‘standard’ children’s books, unless I just could not resist!

*Be aware that each book may be available in paperback, hard cover, or special editions.

Heads by Matthew Van Fleet

This book has it all: moving parts, touch-n-feel, my four year old and baby girl love it!

Click here to order it from The Town Book Store in Westfield, NJ

Pat the Bunny by Dorothy Kunhardt

This woman was born in 1901! Released this book in 1940! I loved this book as a little boy and I still do. It’s a classic, you must have this in your home!

Click here to order it from The Town Book Store

Read about more about Dorothy Kunhardt here.

The Napping House by Audrey & Don Wood

This book is funny and my kids laugh out loud every time my wife reads it. You must make your own sound effects when everyone wakes up!!! Plus, the couple who wrote/illustrated it are adorable.

Click here to order it from The Town Book Store in Westfield, NJ

Quick as a Cricket by Audrey & Don Wood

I love this specifically because of the amazing illustrations. Gorgeous animal illustrations and a cool story too!

Click here to order it from The Town Book Store in Westfield, NJ

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

This story book is great for separation anxiety. The little raccoon goes off to school. Lovely little book equipped with stickers!

Click here to order it from The Town Book Store in Westfield, NJ

A Color of His own by Leo Lionni

This gentleman has written a slew of amazing children’s books. “A Color of His Own” and “Fish is Fish” are two of my favorites of all time. Amazing stories with simple (digestible) illustrations.

Click here to order it from The Town Book Store in Westfield, NJ

How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night by Jane Yolen & Mark Teague

Perfect book to get the children to nestle down. Short, cute and to the point. GO TO BED ALREADY!!!

Click here to order it from The Town Book Store in Westfield, NJ

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

You probably have this, but it has to be on my list. I can hardly get through this one without shedding a tear. It contains huge moral lessons which one can apply to their life every day.

Click here to order from The Town Shop Book Store in Westfield, NJ

Oh, the Places You’ll Go by Dr. Suess

This book is good for any aged child or college student 🙂 This one comes with simple yet crucial advice from Mr. Michael. When reading any Dr. Suess story read the rhymes as fast as possible and in good rhythm. It’s hilarious for all involved.

Click here to order from The Town Shop Book Store in Westfield, NJ

Van Gogh and the Sunflowers by  Laurence Anholt

Do you like art as much as I do? This is a great book that incorporates true stories of this famous artist. This book is part of a series which includes many books written about other amazing artists. We have many of these books on our shelf and they are enlightening to parents as well!

Click here to order it from The Town Book Store in Westfield, NJ

 New York State of Mind by Billy Joel & Izak Zenou

Do I even need to explain this one?! I’m from Jersey and I love music. This book is beautiful and comes with a CD.

Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae & Guy Parker-Rees

Last but not least! This is a fantastic book reminiscent of ‘The Little Engine That Could’. We learn that everyone can do whatever they set their mind to.

Click here to order it from The Town Book Store in Westfield, NJ