Best Children's Books of 2012: Picture Books

by Robert Byrd & illustrated by Robert Byrd

A work of breadth and energy, just like its subject; engaging and brimming with appeal for a wide audience. Full review >

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by Gary Golio & illustrated by Rudy Gutierrez

Lyrically narrated, resplendently illustrated, and deeply respectful of both subject and audience. Full review >

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by David Macaulay with Sheila Keenan & illustrated by David Macaulay

And will a young scholar read it again and look for more? You bet—it’s great fuel for the imagination. Full review >

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by Joe McKendry & illustrated by Joe McKendry

Just like Times Square itself, the pages are filled to the brim. Full review >

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by Amy Novesky & illustrated by Yuyi Morales

Accessible, unfussy and visually charming. Full review >

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by Leda Schubert & illustrated by Gérard DuBois

An exceptional life; a stunning achievement. Full review >

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by Molly Bang ; Penny Chisholm & illustrated by Molly Bang

Readers will want to visit more than once to capture both the science and the abundant sense of celebration here. Full review >

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by Jason Chin & illustrated by Jason Chin

Another superb contribution to scientific literature by Chin. Full review >

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by Christy Hale & illustrated by Christy Hale

This extraordinary new picture book masterfully tackles the complex task of contextualizing seemingly complex architectural... Full review >

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by Steve Jenkins & illustrated by Steve Jenkins

Otherwise, distinguished both as natural history and work of art. Full review >

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by Elin Kelsey & illustrated by Soyeon Kim

A remarkable achievement. 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 Aesop & retold by Helen Ward & illustrated by Helen Ward

A visual stunner. 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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