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Picture Books from 2021 That Would Make Great Gifts

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I am one of those librarians that always gives books for gifts. And there have been some pretty good books this past year—okay so there are always good new books—and I have a few that I think are especially good if you are looking for a book to give away this holiday season. Just don’t tell my family what is on this list—or they might not be surprised as to what is coming their way… 

Written by Hannah Carmona 
Illustrated by Anna Cunha
Oxford, United Kingdom: Lantana Publishing Ltd., 2021.

This is a good book to give kids who aspire to being brave. In the story, Anita must face her fear of moving away and flying in an airplane (dragon). 

Written by Jonathan Stutzman
Illustrated by Dan Santat 
New York, NY : Balzer + Bray, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, 2021.

This is a book that I just gave to my newest nephew. It is a sentimental story about how specific treasured toys can impact a child—and be impactful for multiple generations. 

By Bob Shea
New York : Little, Brown and Company, 2021.
 
If you have someone who needs a good book that is funny but also sweet at the same time, then this is the book for you. Bob wants to make a bird restaurant so he doesn’t have to go find dinner—until he realizes dinner might be friends. 

Written by Joanna Ho 
Illustrated by Dung Ho
New York, New York : Harper, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, 2021.

This is one of those powerhouse books that tells readers that they are of value and how value and strength can come from themselves and their relatives. So powerful! 

By Jessica Young 
Illustrated by Rafael López 
New York : Little, Brown and Company, 2021.

This is a sweet book that talks about how even though people may be far apart—they can still be together in spirit or in their dreams. A great book to give to those loved ones who live far away. 


By The Fan Brothers
New York : Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2021.

If you know someone who loves beautiful illustrations, then this is the book to give. The Fan Brothers are known for some breathtaking illustrations, and this book is no exception. 

Written by Shelly Anand 
Illustrated by Nabi H. Ali 
New York : Kokila, an imprint of Penguin Random House, 2021.

This is another book about self-worth—particularly about body image. If you know a young reader who would benefit from a sweet story about being excited about their body, then this is the book to give. 

Written by Kim Norman
Illustrated by Pierre Collet-Derby 
Somerville, Massachusetts : Candlewick Press, 2021.

I have a dinosaur fan at my house. This is a clever and silly book that is full of counting and dinosaur fun. 

By Andrea Wang
Illustrated by Jason Chin 
New York : Holiday House, 2021.

Every now and then there comes along a book that makes me think about my ancestors and how I am better off because of the sacrifices that they made for me. This is one of those books. 

By Leo Timmers 
Wellington, New Zealand : Gecko Press, 2021.

If you know someone who loves to laugh and likes dragons and clever stories and illustrations, then you may want to gift this book. I already gave this one as a gift multiple times this year, and it has been a hit every time with my dragon-loving nephews!
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Ramona said…
How delightful to find your post and head to my library site to put the books on hold! I have grandsons who love dinosaurs and dragons. And this grandma loves any book that celebrates family.
December 24, 2021 at 5:13 AM
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