Simms Taback is a gifted illustrator and author, and I was introduced to his work via his version of 'I Know An Old Lady..." This book is a hilarious collection of old Yiddish folk tales, that introduces youngsters to Yiddish and another culture, and will make adults and children laugh out loud.

Peter Farrelly is known primarily for giving the world motion pictures of really low-brow humor. So, I was surprised to discover this well-written tale for children of the dangers of polluting the oceans and beaches. The writing style is not too complicated for a youngster but it is written as if intelligent children will read the story. It's a very wonderful surprise.

My daughter received this book as a birthday gift, and opened our world to the talent of Leo Lionni. His illustrations are utterly charming, and his stories are simple enough for youngsters but with a deep, universal lesson. We look forward to exploring more of this talented author.

Gennifer Choldenko is one of the best children's authors around. She writes for young adults and their younger siblings. You can introduce the younger kids to the shorter books and work your way up. It's nice that there are smart authors like Choldenko who write for young people as if they have brains.

What can be said about Dr. Seuss that hasn't already been said a million times? I read this book when I was my daughter's age, so it's one of those cross-generational things we can share. Dr. Seuss knew exactly how many times a child needed to hear and see words repeated, how to get them to learn vocabulary and rhyme, and so much more.