Best Children's Books of 2012: Books for Animal Lovers

by Bobbie Pyron

Terrifying, life-affirming and memorable. Full review >

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by Aesop & retold by Helen Ward & illustrated by Helen Ward

A visual stunner. Full review >

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by Katherine Applegate illustrated by Patricia Castelao

Utterly believable, this bittersweet story, complete with an author’s note identifying the real Ivan, will inspire a new... Full review >

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by Kelly Bingham & illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky

Just label it F for funny. Full review >

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by Elisha Cooper & illustrated by Elisha Cooper

Soothing and satisfying; perfect for reading on the porch on a summer evening, preferably next to a dog. Full review >

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retold by Lari Don & illustrated by Melanie Williamson

An excellent addition to both the folk tale genre and the early-reader shelf. Full review >

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by Robyn Eversole illustrated by Scott Campbell

This primer on friendship wrapped in hijinks is paced for maximum pleasure. Full review >

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by Candace Fleming & illustrated by Eric Rohmann

Oh, yes! This is a terrific new picture book. Full review >

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by Marla Frazee & illustrated by Marla Frazee

Read unhurried, in a lap, again and again. Full review >

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by Helen Frost & photographed by Rick Lieder

A dazzlingly poetic photo album of the insect world for tots on up. (Picture book. 2 & up) Full review >

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by Susan Gal & illustrated by Susan Gal

A luminous celebration of family, food and home. Full review >

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by Michael Garland & illustrated by Michael Garland

From the beaver’s coat to the tiger lily’s petals to the snakeskin, this fish tale is a keeper. Full review >

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by Debi Gliori ; illustrated by Debi Gliori

There is much to enjoy here, and the illustrations and allusions beg for repeat readings. Full review >

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by Michael Hall & illustrated by Michael Hall

Smart and accessible, charming and witty, this is one for educators and adventurers alike. Full review >

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by Kevin Henkes & illustrated by Kevin Henkes

A doll of a beginning reader. Full review >

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