Bonus Books: December

“Whose Prints?” by Kari Allen, illustrated by Kim Smith (Little Simon, preschool)

This clever board books has animal prints to follow through the snow. Who made them? Little ones will learn while having fun with this one. It’s perfect for a snowy winter in the forecast

“Brave Little Bear” by Steve Small (Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, ages 4 – 8)

It’s hard to try new things and leave our comfortable, settled spots. But as little Arlo’s mother tells him, “Being brave when you feel afraid is the very bravest brave of all.” This is a sweet story that makes for a great winter bedtime read, but it can reassure children all year long.

“The Snow Man” by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Jeanette Winter (Beach Lane Books, ages 4 – 8)

This is interesting for anyone, including adults. It is the true story of a mountain loner whose work is incredibly valuable for scientists studying climate change. When he became bored in the wilderness alone, he started measuring and taking notes and documenting the depth and breadth of climate data accumulating all around him. And he’s still doing that more than 50 years later.

“Monsters Never Get Haircuts” by Marie-Hélène Versini, illustrated by Vincent Boudgourd (Union Square & Co, ages 3 – 6)

Here’s a wonderful, vividly illustrated story about why those monsters aren’t really under the bed. Kids will giggle at the silly things monsters don’t do.

“Let Her Be” by Mackenzie Porter, illustrated by Katie Cottle (Little Simon, preschool)

That little girl? She can be anyone and anything she wants to be. This board book is a lovely way to emphasize that for all children right from the start.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Bonus Books: December