Little rabbit cannot seem to get free of a big black rabbit that follows his every move. As he tries to escape, the suspense grows and rabbit ends up in the deep dark woods where at last he appears to have escaped. But wait! What are those two big eyes that glow in the darkness? With a clever twist, little rabbit is saved. A delightful mix of page-turning humor, mystery, and Science, too.

Age: Early School Years. Award Year: 2013. Click here to purchase the product on Amazon.com.

In this tenth epic, how will George and Harold be saved from roaming forever as evil zombie nerds? Will Captain Underpants save them? My nine-year old neighbor and his buddies are thrilled that the beat goes on. For reluctant readers this is a sure fire series that can turn the tide.

Age: Later School Years. Award Year: 2013. Click here to purchase the product on Amazon.com.

Emma's dog, Toby does not like cats, especially the cat from next door. So, when Pandora arrives for a visit poor Toby is an unhappy camper in his own home. In a nicely paced and lively story that snooty cat ends (spoiler alert) up a tree and it’s Toby who ends up the hero. 

Age: Preschool. Award Year: 2013. Click here to purchase the product on Amazon.com.

You may have borrowed books from the book mobiles that traveled to small towns all over the country. But did you know that in the 19th century when the Erie Canal carried people and supplies westward that book boats travelled the river roads bringing books to faraway places that had no libraries. Illustrated with a folk art look, this little story speaks to a boy's love of books and reading as well as giving young readers a glimpse into the history of libraries. 6 & up.

Age: Early School Years. Award Year: 2013.

Though it's hard to believe, there was a time when there were no children's rooms in public libraries; in fact, children were not welcome inside. But, Anne Carroll Moore, a spunky young woman who loved books thought otherwise. This wonderful biography for young listeners combines history with good storytelling that children can relate to and enjoy. 6-9

Age: Early School Years, Later School Years. Award Year: 2013. Click here to purchase the product on Amazon.com.

Just one word and a plaintive playful dog carry this otherwise wordless book on a delightful romp. From the moment he wakes, dog interacts with family and his own lively imagination seeking someone who will play ball! Reading the pictures and telling what's happening is an excellent way to develop comprehension as well as storytelling skills. 4-8

Age: Early School Years. Award Year: 2013. Click here to purchase the product on Amazon.com.

Meet Dodsworth, a sophisticated traveler, who is off to Japan with his duck. Will duck behave? That is the question. On his whirlwind tour of Japan, Dodsworth introduces duck to many seemingly strange customs, using a Japanese word for each as he explains. Illustrations, language, and humor give a new look to this relatively mid-level easy to read story. 2nd grade.

Age: Early School Years. Award Year: 2013. Click here to purchase the product on Amazon.com.

Three of our favorite Pigeon stories come scaled down and packed in a cardboard book case. Easy-to-read and lively, these are a great choice for beginning readers. Wry humor, action, and limited text instill a love of reading and a sense of success for first graders.

Age: Preschool, Early School Years. Award Year: 2013. Click here to purchase the product on Amazon.com.

As a boy, great-grandfather could not write, but he kept a diary of small items that fit in little matchboxes. Each contained a reminder of a story that he now tells to his little great grandchild. This immigrant book gives young listeners a glimpse into the world that so many Italians and others ethnic groups went through. 7 & up.

Age: Early School Years. Award Year: 2013. Click here to purchase the product on Amazon.com.

We like books you can sing with babies and toddlers. This metallic covered cardboard book is sturdy enough for repeated sharing and little hands that will want to turn the pages with independence. The familiar Rain, Rain Go Way rhyme needs no introduction to grownups and children alike. 1 & up

Age: Infants, Toddlers. Award Year: 2013. Click here to purchase the product on Amazon.com.