Explore the latest books of this year!
Bookbot

Kevin Henkes

    November 27, 1960

    Kevin Henkes is a celebrated author and illustrator of picture books and novels for children. His work is characterized by a distinctive style and a deep understanding of the child's psyche. Through his stories, he explores themes of friendship, family, and the discovery of the world. His ability to capture the essence of childhood experiences makes him one of today's most beloved authors.

    Sheila Rae, the Brave
    Chester's Way
    Bonjour, Babar!
    Chrysanthemum
    I Can Read! - 1: Penny and Her Marble
    Lilly & Friends
    • Lilly & Friends

      • 312 pages
      • 11 hours of reading

      Lilly, Chrysanthemum, Owen, Wemberly, Sheila Rae, Julius, Chester, and Wendell-all the beloved characters and stories in one lavish volume featuring brand-new jacket artwork, fun family reading tips, story activities to do at home, and an afterword by #1 New York Times-bestselling author Kevin Henkes.

      Lilly & Friends
      4.7
    • I Can Read! - 1: Penny and Her Marble

      • 48 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      Caldecott Medalist Kevin Henkes’s award-winning Penny returns in the third I Can Read story about a sweet and curious mouse, perfect for fans of Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse, Owen , and Chrysanthemum . When Penny spots a marble in Mrs. Goodwin's front yard, she picks it up, puts it in her pocket, and takes it home. It's a beautiful marble—it's big, shiny, blue, smooth, and fast, and Penny loves it. But does the marble really belong to Penny? Penny and Her Marble was named a 2014 Geisel Honor book by the American Library Association. This annual award, given to the most distinguished books for beginning readers, is named for the world-renowned children's author Theodor Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss. Kevin Henkes is a master at creating beautifully illustrated books that resonate with young children. The Penny books are new classics for beginning readers and will appeal to fans of Frog and Toad, Little Bear, and Henry and Mudge. Penny and Her Marble is a Level One I Can Read book, which means it's perfect for children learning to sound out words and sentences. Whether shared at home or in a classroom, the short sentences, familiar words, and simple concepts of Level One books support success for children eager to start reading on their own. Don't miss Penny's newest adventures in Penny and Her Sled !

      I Can Read! - 1: Penny and Her Marble
      4.4
    • Written and illustrated by Kevin Henkes, the nationally bestselling and celebrated creator of Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse, Owen, and Kitten's First Full Moon, Chrysanthemum is a funny and honest school story about teasing, self-esteem, and acceptance to share all year round. This picture book is an excellent choice to share during homeschooling, in particular for children ages 4 to 6. It's a fun way to learn to read and as a supplement for activity books for children. Chrysanthemum thinks her name is absolutely perfect-until her first day of school. You're named after a flower! teases Victoria. Let's smell her, says Jo. Chrysanthemum wilts. What will it take to make her blossom again? This popular picture book has sold more than a million copies and was named a Notable Book for Children by the American Library Association. Perfectly executed in words and illustration, Chrysanthemum exemplifies Henkes's talent for creating true picture stories for young audiences. -The Horn Book

      Chrysanthemum
      4.4
    • Bonjour, Babar!

      The Six Unabridged Classics by the Creator of Babar

      • 276 pages
      • 10 hours of reading

      In 1931 Jean de Brunhoff created Babar, a little elephant who walked out of the jungle and into the hearts of civilized readers the world over. Widely recognized as the father of the picture book, Jean de Brunhoff wrote and illustrated six Babar stories before his early death in 1937. Every word and every picture of these classics is included in this big, inviting gift edition.

      Bonjour, Babar!
      4.3
    • Chester's Way

      • 32 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      The story centers on Chester and Wilson, two inseparable friends who share a unique bond and a specific routine in their daily activities. Their harmonious world is disrupted when Lilly, a strong-willed girl with her own distinct approach to life, moves into the neighborhood. This introduces a new dynamic to their friendship, challenging their established ways and prompting them to navigate the complexities of change and individuality.

      Chester's Way
      4.3
    • Sheila Rae, the Brave

      • 32 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      Sheila Rae, the Brave   is a warm, humorous, and loving story of sibling sympathy and support. Just because Sheila Rae is older, she doesn't always know better! This classic picture book about overcoming fear is written and illustrated by Kevin Henkes, the nationally bestselling and celebrated creator of Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse , Owen , and Kitten's First Full Moon. "I am very brave," Sheila Rae said, patting herself on the back. She wasn't afraid of anything—not thunder, not lightning, not the big black dog at the end of the block. And when she wanted to walk home a new way and Louise wouldn't, she called her sister a scaredy-cat and set out alone. But all the bravado in the world failed to help when Sheila Rae found herself lost. Luckily, her sister was not far behind. "Children will love it."— School Library Journal

      Sheila Rae, the Brave
      4.3
    • A beautiful hardcover gift package of Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse  and  Lilly's Big Day. Includes a limited edition print (of Lilly, of course) that's suitable for framing. The sturdy slipcase features art by Kevin Henkes, and the package includes these two beloved picture books, both New York Times bestsellers. A great gift for the picture book fan in your life, for birthdays, baby showers, and other special events. Lilly's Purple Plastic Lilly loves all sorts of things. She loves school, she loves dressing up, she even grows to love her stinky baby brother, Julius. In fact, Lilly loves everything! At least, she loves everything most of the time. Even Lilly has some bad days, but when you have movie star sunglasses and a purple plastic purse, how bad can it be? If you love life, then you’ll love Lilly! Lilly's Big Mr. Slinger has big news. He’s getting married. Married! Lilly has big plans. She’s going to be the flower girl. (Lilly has always wanted to be a flower girl. Even more than a surgeon or a diva or a hairdresser.) But what’s the biggest, the best, the most perfect thing of all? You’re invited to the wedding—so start reading!

      A Box Full of Lilly
      4.3
    • Wemberly Worried

      • 32 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      A mouse named Wemberly, who worries about everything, finds that she has a whole list of things to worry about when she faces the first day of nursery school.

      Wemberly Worried
      4.3
    • Owen had a fuzzy yellow blanket. "Fuzzy goes where I go," said Owen. But Mrs. Tweezers disagreed. She thought Owen was too old for a blanket. Owen disagreed. No matter what Mrs. Tweezers came up with, Blanket Fairies or vinegar, Owen had the answer. But when school started, Owen't mother knew just what to do, and everyone -- Owen, Fuzzy, and even Mrs. Tweezers -- was happy.

      Owen
      4.3
    • Still Sal

      • 256 pages
      • 9 hours of reading

      Focusing on Sal, the little sister of Billy Miller, this humorous school story captures her experiences on her first day of school. It explores themes of family, friendship, and resilience, making it a relatable read for young audiences. As a stand-alone companion to a Newbery Honor book, it appeals to fans of beloved characters like Ramona and Ivy + Bean, offering a delightful blend of laughter and life lessons.

      Still Sal
      4.2
    • The story revolves around Mr. Slinger, who is set to share exciting news that promises to change the dynamics of his world. As anticipation builds, the narrative explores the reactions of those around him, revealing their hopes and fears. Themes of community, communication, and the impact of significant announcements come to the forefront, making it a compelling tale of connection and change.

      Lilly's Big Day
      4.2
    • Lilly loves everything about school, especially her cool teacher, Mr. Slinger. But when Lilly brings her purple plastic purse and its treasures to school and can't wait until sharing time, Mr. Slinger confiscates her prized possessions. Lilly's fury leads to revenge and then to remorse and she sets out to make amends. Lilly, the star of Chester's Way and Julius, the Baby of the World, is back. And this time she has her name in the title - something she's wanted all along. If you thought Lilly was funny before, you are in for a treat. So hurry up and start reading. Lilly can't wait for you to find out more about her.

      Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse
      4.2
    • I Can Read! Penny and Her Doll

      • 32 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      Penny loves her new doll. The doll is absolutely perfect, from her head to her toes. But Penny's doll needs a name. What should Penny call her?

      I Can Read! Penny and Her Doll
      4.2
    • An unforgettable night unfolds with unexpected twists and vibrant characters, each facing their own challenges and revelations. As the story progresses, themes of connection, self-discovery, and the unpredictability of life emerge, leading to transformative moments for the characters involved. The atmosphere is charged with excitement and tension, capturing the essence of a night that changes everything for those who experience it.

      Kitten's First Full Moon
      4.1
    • A Weekend with Wendell

      • 32 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      Wendell was spending the weekend at Sophie's house. Wendell shone his flashlight in Sophie's eyes when she tried to sleep. But when he gave her a new hairdo with shaving cream, it was the last straw, and Sophie made up a game that left Wendell speechless for a time -- and won the day for friendship.

      A Weekend with Wendell
      4.1
    • Penny and Her Sled

      A Winter and Holiday Book for Kids

      • 56 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      The story unfolds as Penny gazes out her bedroom window, expecting a winter wonderland but finding none. This unexpected turn sets the stage for her exploration of imagination and reality. As she navigates her feelings and the world around her, themes of hope and creativity emerge, encouraging readers to find beauty and magic in everyday moments. Penny's journey becomes a heartwarming reminder of the power of perspective and the joy of discovery.

      Penny and Her Sled
      4.1
    • Waiting

      • 32 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      Caldecott Honor and Geisel Honor Book What are you waiting for? An owl, a puppy, a bear, a rabbit, and a pig—all toys arranged on a child’s windowsill—wait for marvelous things to happen in this irresistible picture book by the New York Times –bestselling and Caldecott Medalist Kevin Henkes. Five friends sit happily on a windowsill, waiting for something amazing to happen. The owl is waiting for the moon. The pig is waiting for the rain. The bear is waiting for the wind. The puppy is waiting for the snow. And the rabbit is just looking out the window because he likes to wait! What will happen? Will patience win in the end? Or someday will the friends stop waiting and do something unexpected? Waiting is a big part of childhood—waiting in line, waiting to grow up, waiting for something special to happen—but in this book, a child sets the stage and pulls the strings. Timeless, beautiful, and deeply heartfelt, this picture book about imaginative play, the seasons, friendship, and surprises marks a new pinnacle in Caldecott Medalist Kevin Henkes’s extraordinary career. “The short sentences of the text flow with the precision one would expect from a master picture-book creator like Henkes. Little ones, to whom each experience is new, will know what it’s like to dream and wait.”—ALA Booklist

      Waiting
      4.0
    • Oh, Sal

      • 192 pages
      • 7 hours of reading

      A stand-alone companion to two-time Newbery Honor author Kevin Henkes's award- winning, bestselling, and acclaimed The Year of Billy Miller and Billy Miller Makes a Wish.

      Oh, Sal
      4.0
    • Little Houses

      • 40 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      Exploring themes of nature, family, and wonder, this beautifully illustrated work combines lyrical prose with stunning artwork. The collaboration between the award-winning author and acclaimed painter creates an enchanting experience, making it an ideal choice for family sharing and story time throughout the year.

      Little Houses
      3.9
    • Egg is a graphic novel for preschoolers about four eggs, one big surprise, and an unlikely friendship, by Caldecott Medalist and New York Times-bestselling author Kevin Henkes.

      Egg
      3.9
    • A House

      • 32 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      Where is the door to the house? Do you see any clouds? What does the house look like when it is sunny outside? When it is raining? And what will the house turn into when its family returns? A home.Kevin Henkes employs interactive questions, declarative sentences, basic shapes, and a limited color palette in this picture book. A House introduces young readers to shapes, numbers, the weather, and the parts of a house.

      A House
      3.9
    • Winter Is Here

      • 40 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      From Caldecott Medalist and Newbery Honor author Kevin Henkes and acclaimed painter Laura Dronzek, the bestselling and award-winning creators of seasonal favorites When Spring Comes and In the Middle of Fall.Snow falls, animals burrow, and children prepare for the wonders winter brings.

      Winter Is Here
      3.9
    • Penny and Her Song

      • 32 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      When Penny comes home from school, she is ready to sing her song. But the babies are sleeping, and Mama and Papa are worried that Penny will wake them up. Oh, but it is a good song, a really wonderful song . . . and Penny wants more than anything to sing it. What do you think will happen?

      Penny and Her Song
      3.9
    • The year of Billy Miller

      • 240 pages
      • 9 hours of reading

      A 2014 Newbery Honor Book A New York Times Bestseller Award-winning, nationally bestselling author Kevin Henkes introduces second-grader Billy Miller in this fast-paced and funny story about friendship, sibling rivalry, and elementary school. The Year of Billy Miller includes black-and-white art by Kevin Henkes and is perfect for fans of the Ramona books; Frindle, by Andrew Clements; and the Clementine series. The New York Times declared: "Henkes's delightful story is restrained and vivid . . . forgoing the overdramatic or zany, it shows the substance, warmth and adaptability of beautifully common family love." When Billy Miller has a mishap at the statue of the Jolly Green Giant at the end of summer vacation, he ends up with a big lump on his head. What a way to start second grade, with a lump on your head! As the year goes by, though, Billy figures out how to navigate elementary school, how to appreciate his little sister, and how to be a more grown up and responsible member of the family and a help to his busy working mom and stay-at-home dad. Newbery Honor author and Caldecott Medalist Kevin Henkes delivers a short, satisfying, laugh-out-loud-funny school and family story that features a diorama homework assignment, a school poetry slam, cancelled sleepovers, and epic sibling temper tantrums. This is a perfect short novel for the early elementary grades.

      The year of Billy Miller
      3.9
    • Lilly's Chocolate Heart

      • 24 pages
      • 1 hour of reading

      Lilly's affection for her chocolate heart explores themes of love and attachment, showcasing how a simple treat can hold deep emotional significance. The story delves into her experiences and feelings, highlighting the joy and comfort that chocolate brings to her life. As Lilly navigates her world, the chocolate heart symbolizes her connections and memories, making it a cherished part of her journey.

      Lilly's Chocolate Heart
      3.8
    • Protecting Marie

      • 195 pages
      • 7 hours of reading

      Relates 12 year old Fanny's love-hate relationship with her father, a temperamental artist, who has given Fanny a new dog.

      Protecting Marie
      3.7
    • Sweeping Up the Heart

      • 192 pages
      • 7 hours of reading

      "Amelia Albright dreams about going to Florida for spring break like everyone else in her class, but her father--a cranky and stubborn English professor--has decided Florida is too much adventure. Now Amelia is stuck at home with him and her babysitter, the beloved Mrs. O'Brien. The week ahead promises to be boring, until Amelia meets Casey at her neighborhood art studio. Amelia has never been friends with a boy before, and the experience is both fraught and thrilling. When Casey claims to see the spirit of Amelia's mother (who died ten years before), the pair embarks on an altogether different journey in their attempt to find her."--Amazon.com

      Sweeping Up the Heart
      3.8
    • Summer Song

      • 40 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      "A vibrant and sophisticated ode to nature." --Kirkus (starred review) From Caldecott Medalist and Newbery Honor author Kevin Henkes and acclaimed painter Laura Dronzek, the bestselling and award-winning creators of Winter Is Here, When Spring Comes, and In the Middle of Fall, this book about summer celebrates the sights, sounds, and smells of the season. Bees buzz, birds sing, and children roll in the grass and feel the heat of the summer sun. With striking verbal imagery, repetition, and alliteration, Kevin Henkes introduces basic concepts of language and the summer season. Laura Dronzek's glowing paintings beautifully illustrate the wonders of summer. In the Middle of Fall, Winter Is Here, When Spring Comes, and Summer Song make for a beautiful quartet of seasonal-theme picture books to share at home or in the classroom. Ideal for introducing the season, for story time, and for bedtime reading.

      Summer Song
      3.8
    • "Olive Barstow was dead. She'd been hit by a car on Monroe Street while riding her bicycle weeks ago. That was about all Martha knew." Martha Boyle and Olive Barstow could have been friends. But they weren't -- and now all that is left are eerie connections between two girls who were in the same grade at school and who both kept the same secret without knowing it. Now Martha can't stop thinking about Olive. A family summer on Cape Cod should help banish those thoughts; instead, they seep in everywhere. And this year Martha's routine at her beloved grandmother's beachside house is complicated by the Manning boys. Jimmy, Tate, Todd, Luke, and Leo. But especially Jimmy. What if, what if, what if, what if? The world can change in a minute.

      Olive´s Ocean
      3.8
    • Billy Miller Makes a Wish

      • 192 pages
      • 7 hours of reading

      The stand-alone companion to two-time Newbery Honor author Kevin Henkes's award-winning, acclaimed, and bestselling The Year of Billy Miller, Billy Miller Makes a Wish is a laugh-out-loud funny and accessible story about summer, family, and wishes that (almost) come true.

      Billy Miller Makes a Wish
      3.8
    • A Parade of Elephants

      • 40 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      New York Times–bestselling and Caldecott Medalist Kevin Henkes follows five joyful elephants as they march from dawn to dusk. Where are they going? Read and find out! This engaging picture book is just right for the youngest reader and is a perfect choice for story time and bedtime sharing. Up and down, over and under, through and around . . . five big and brightly colored elephants are on a mission in this picture book for young children by Caldecott Medalist Kevin Henkes. Where are they going? What will they do when they get there? It’s a surprise! With a text shimmering with repetition and rhythm, bright pastel illustrations, large and readable type, and an adorable parade of elephants, Kevin Henkes introduces basic concepts such as numbers, shapes, adjectives, adverbs, and daytime and nighttime. A Parade of Elephants is an excellent choice for story time as well as bedtime sharing.

      A Parade of Elephants
      3.8
    • Owen's Marshmallow Chick

      An Easter and Springtime Book for Kids

      • 24 pages
      • 1 hour of reading

      Owen's excitement over a marshmallow chick reveals his playful nature and fondness for sweet treats. This moment captures the innocence of childhood and the joy found in simple pleasures, highlighting the emotional connection children have with their favorite snacks. The story promises to explore themes of nostalgia and the delightful experiences that come with growing up.

      Owen's Marshmallow Chick
      3.7
    • The World and Everything in It

      • 32 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      And everything in between-including you!A timeless and wholesome picture book from Caldecott Medal winner and #1 New York Times bestseller Kevin Henkes, The World and Everything in It explores concepts such as curiosity, self- awareness, belonging, and size.

      The World and Everything in It
      3.7
    • Julius's Candy Corn

      • 24 pages
      • 1 hour of reading

      Exploring the theme of anticipation, this book delves into the emotional and psychological aspects of waiting in various contexts. It examines how waiting shapes our experiences and relationships, offering insights into patience, hope, and the passage of time. Through engaging narratives and thought-provoking reflections, readers are invited to consider the significance of waiting in their own lives, ultimately revealing its transformative power and the lessons it can impart.

      Julius's Candy Corn
      3.6
    • Sun Flower Lion

      • 40 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      Sun Flower Lion introduces emerging readers to short chapters, action verbs, and adjectives, while bright illustrations transform simple shapes into something magical. Sun Flower Lion will shine at story time and bedtime and for young children just learning how to read on their own.

      Sun Flower Lion
      3.5
    • Finding Things

      • 32 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      An invitation to find joy in the simple things that are all around, if you know how to notice them.

      Finding Things
      3.5
    • Im Mittelpunkt steht der zehnjährige Nick, dessen Mutter vor fünf Jahren gestorben ist. Ängste und Albträume erinnern an dieses Erlebnis, das er aus eigener Kraft nicht verarbeiten kann. Da trifft Nick die unbekümmert und draufgängerisch wirkende Joselle. Ihr sinnlicher Umgang mit der Welt, ihre Einfälle, mit Farben, Gerüchen und Musik zu spielen, ermöglichen Nick Zugang zu seinen Gefühlen. Allmählich lernt er, diese für sich zu beschreiben. Wie wichtig Nick und Joselle füreinander sind, weiß nur der Leser, der beide Perspektiven kennen lernt.

      ... und dann kam Joselle
      3.9
    • Bérengère n'a peur de rien

      • 32 pages
      • 2 hours of reading

      Bérengère n'a vraiment peur de rien. Louise, sa petite sœur, la trouve beaucoup trop courageuse pour elle. Pourtant, un jour, en rentrant de l'école, par un chemin inconnu, Bérengère découvrira la peur.

      Bérengère n'a peur de rien