This and That

Winter has officially arrived in New York City.

Though the actual solstice is still about a week off, it is brisk out there – we’ve even had some snow this week!  There’s really nothing like the winter weather to get you full steam ahead into the holiday season!

And it is that time, after all.  The days are getting shorter, which means even less time to pick up the perfect gift for your little ones!  Luckily, New York City is teeming with present ideas, and the internet is always just a click away.  

At Wise Wonder, of course, we are big believers that books make the best presents.  These days, there are endless picture books to choose from – so where do you start?  We’ve made a little list for you based on timeless classics and our personal favorites.


If you like…
Gaston by Kelly DiPucchio
You’ll love…
Antoinette by Kelly DiPucchio

{Did you know there’s a sequel to Gaston?!  It’s one of our most beloved modern classics at Wise Wonder and we were thrilled when the new book came out!  It follows Antoinette, one of the poodle pups readers meet in Gaston, on her own adventure!  Don’t have either book yet?  Check out the box set at Barnes & Noble!}

If you like…
I Wish You More by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
You’ll love…
Here We Are by Oliver Jeffers

{By now, you’ve most certainly heard of Oliver Jeffers – he’s left an indelible mark on the world of children’s literature over the past few years with breakout hits like The Day the Crayons Quit.  His most recent book was written to help his son figure out the world around him, and in doing so, help other kids understand our planet as well.  It’s beautifully written and illustrated – and was an instant bestseller.}

If you like…
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
You’ll love…
The Night Gardener by Terry and Eric Fan

{The Night Gardener was one of our favorite books last year.  It pairs the whimsical with the ordinary – much like the beloved classic also mentioned above.  It’s proven to be a huge hit with our students as well.  They love discovering what magnificent creation the Night Gardener crafts from page to page.  We’re not publishing experts, but we’ve got a sneaking suspicion this will be a classic in the years to come.}

If you like…
Love You Forever by Robert Munsch
You’ll love…
Love Is by Diane Adams and Claire Keane

{This is a touching story about the things we care about – and the importance of patience, kindness, and finding something to love entirely.  It is embedded with a wonderful message that all children should learn.  Plus, it’s illustrated by Claire Keane who used to do animation at Disney – so the pictures are stunning.}

If you like…
Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin and Daniel Salmieri
You’ll love…
Don’t Forget Dexter by Lindsay Ward

{If you have a little one, you’ve most likely read Dragons Love Tacos… more times than you can count.  Well, get ready for your child’s new favorite book: Don’t Forget Dexter.  It is a hilarious tale about a toy dinosaur who fears he’s been forgotten by his owner!  Filled with silly dinosaur neuroses and boisterous dinosaur noises, it’s a book that will tickle parent and child alike.  This book isn’t released until January 1st – but you need it on your radar, so pre-order it today!}


There you have it!  Whether you prefer to stick to the classics or are looking for a new cast of characters to add to your shelf, we hope our list provides some inspiration.  

Merry everything, readers!  We hope you have a happy, healthy, and bookish holiday season!  🙂

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