November is Picture Book Month!

    November is Picture Book Month, when schools, libraries, and book lovers celebrate the picture book and the joy of the read-aloud experience. Reading aloud is one of the most important things parents and teachers can do with children. Reading aloud builds many important foundational skills, introduces vocabulary, provides a model of fluent, expressive reading, and helps children recognize what reading for pleasure is all about.

The Caldecott Medal is awarded annually by the Association for Library Service to Children to the artist of the most distinguished American picture book for children.Visit this division of the American Library Association to see current and past award winners.

There are many great Blogs and Websites that can help you in your search for quality picture books. Here are just a few: The Picture Book Review, New York Times Best Sellers, and Children, Books and Reading. 

I also strongly encourage you to check out Inkygirl: Illustrated blog for writers, where the author lists just some of the reasons that picture books are important. She also includes the covers of just a few of the many wonderful 2013 picture books and other important resources.

Pick up a picture book and enjoy the wonderful story and beautiful illustrations~