Chicago is lucky to have many fabulous children's book authors, but this month we'd like to highlight one of our favorite Chicago illustrators, Tom Lichtenheld. Some of my family's favorite picture books have found their way into our hearts because of his illustrations. They always add humor and playfulness to the text, and many are simple enough that kids can recreate the drawings themselves.
One of my all-time favorites is Shark Vs. Train. Shark and Train try to see who is tougher with more and more outrageous feats of strength. Lichtenheld's illustrations tell the real story behind the frenemies' competition.
More outrageous fun can be found in This Is A Moose. Watch for the chipmunk (Or is he a squirrel?) who steals the show in this "documentary" picture book.
Looking for something for bedtime? Try Steam Train, Dream Train and Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site to calm even the most rambunctious toddler.
Steam Train, Dream Train is available in multiple formats.
Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site is available in multiple formats.
And for something that will start a hot debate, try Duck! Rabbit! Is it a duck or is it a rabbit? This is a great book for discussion about perspective and for kids to make their own duck-rabbit.
Duck! Rabbit! is available in multiple formats.
Lichtenheld has also written several picture books of his own! Some of my favorites are:
What would happen if "E" suddenly couldn't do her job anymore? It would be an E-mergency!
Meet Cloudette the little cloud that had big dreams.
Bridget is an artist, but when her beloved beret blows away, will Bridget be able to create art without it? Find out in Bridget's Beret.
Want to enjoy Lichtenheld's books even more? Check out these fun activities based on these and many more of his books.
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