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Thinking Big

Understanding the sophisticated cycle of ideas, trying, failing and trying again

Bravery, Thinking Big

The award–winning creators of The New York Times best sellers What Do You Do With an Idea? and What Do You Do With a Problem? return with a captivating story about a child who isn't sure what to make of a chance encounter and then discovers that when you have courage, take chances, and say yes to new experiences, amazing things can happen. In this story, a child is visited by his first chance and unsure what to do with it, he lets it go. Later on, when a new chance arrives he reaches for it, but this time he misses and falls. Embarrassed and afraid, he begins ignoring each new chance that comes by, even though he still wants to take them. Then one day he realizes that he doesn't need to be brave all the time, just at the right time, to find out what amazing things can happen when he takes a chance… The final addition to the award-winning What Do You Do With…? picture book series created by New York Times best-selling author Kobi Yamada and illustrator by Mae Besom, What Do You Do With a Chance? inspires kids of all ages and parents alike to find the courage to go for the opportunities that come their way. Because you never know when a chance, once taken, might be the one to change everything.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 2439 votes, reviews

Kobi Yamada

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Mae Besom

Thinking Big, Nostalgia

One of the most beloved children's stories ever—the classic Little Golden Book tale of Scuffy, an adventurous little tugboat. Meant for "bigger things," Scuffy the Tugboat leaves the man with the polka-dot tie and his little boy and sets off to explore the world. But on his daring adventure down the river, Scuffy realizes that home is where he'd rather be, sailing in his bathtub. Generations of parents and children have cherished this classic Little Golden Book, originally published in 1946.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 1772 votes, reviews

Gertrude Crampton

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Tibor Gergely

Classics, Thinking Big, Perseverance

Make family reading a regular and cherished activity with The Little Engine That Could and READ TOGETHER, BE TOGETHER, a nationwide movement developed by Penguin Random House in partnership with Parents magazine. The kindness and determination of the Little Blue Engine have inspired millions of children around the world since the story was first published in 1930. Cherished by readers for ninety years, The Little Engine That Could is a classic tale of a little engine that, despite her size, triumphantly pulls a train full of wonderful things to the children waiting on the other side of a mountain. Now parents and educators can introduce the importance of determination and kindness to younger readers with this classic picture book!
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 1761 votes, reviews

Watty Piper

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George Hauman

Music, Thinking Big

One day, a bear cub finds something strange and wonderful in the forest. When he touches the keys, they make a horrible noise. Yet he is drawn back again and again. Eventually, he learns to play beautiful sounds, delighting his woodland friends. Then the bear is invited to share his sounds with new friends in the city. He longs to explore the world beyond his home, and to play bigger and better than before. But he knows that if he leaves, the other bears will be very sad . . . This gorgeously illustrated tale of following one’s dreams reminds us of the value of friendship, wherever we go.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 1543 votes, reviews

David Litchfield

Caldecott Medal, Thinking Big

From bestselling and award-winning author Mac Barnett and illustrator Jon Klassen comes Extra Yarn, a Caldecott Honor Book, Boston Globe-Horn Book Award winner, and a New York Times bestseller. A young girl and her box of magical yarn transform a community in this stunning picture book. With spare, gently humorous illustrations and a palette that moves from black-and-white to a range of color, this modern fairy tale has the feel of a new classic.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 1095 votes, reviews

Mac Barnett

Jon Klassen

Thinking Big

Gerald is careful. Piggie is not. Piggie cannot help smiling. Gerald can. Gerald worries so that Piggie does not have to. Gerald and Piggie are best friends. Today, I Will Fly! is the funny introduction to the characters. Piggie is determined to fly. But Gerald the elephant knows that's impossible--isn't it?
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 1029 votes, reviews

Mo Willems

Celebrity Authors, Thinking Big

Imagine all the people living life in peace. You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one. I hope some day you'll join us, and the world will be as one. Join one little pigeon as she sets out on a journey to spread a message of tolerance around the world. Featuring the lyrics of John Lennon’s iconic song and illustrations by the award-winning artist Jean Jullien, this poignant and timely picture book dares to imagine a world at peace. Imagine will be published in partnership with human rights organization Amnesty International.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 984 votes, reviews

John Lennon

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Jean Jullien

Graduation, Thinking Big

With his stunning watercolors -- and text that resounds with universal truths, award-winning artist Jon J Muth has transformed a story by Tolstoy into a timeless fable for young readers. A perfect gift for graduation--or any occasion--by a Caldecott Honor Book Artist!"Quietly life changing..." --The New York TimesYoung Nikolai is searching for the answers to his three questions: When is the best time to do things? Who is the most important one? What is the right thing to do?But it is his own response to a stranger's cry for help that leads him directly to the answers he is looking for. This profound and inspiring book is about compassion and being engaged in each moment. With his stunning watercolors -- and text that resounds with universal truths, Jon J Muth has transformed a story by Leo Tolstoy into a timeless fable for readers of every age!
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 970 votes, reviews

Jon J. Muth

Thinking Big

From Emmy-nominated science TV star and host of Netflix’s hit series Emily’s Wonder Lab Emily Calandrelli comes an inspirational message of love and positivity. From the moment we are born, we reach out. We reach out for our loved ones, for new knowledge and experiences, and for our dreams! Whether celebrating life’s joyous milestones, sharing words of encouragement, or observing the wonder of the world around us, this uplifting book will inspire readers of every age. A celebration of love and shared discovery, this book will encourage readers to reach for the stars!
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 776 votes, reviews

Emily Calandrelli

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Honee Jang

Thinking Big, Celebrity Authors

From Academy Award–winning actress, founder, and bestselling author, Reese Witherspoon, comes Busy Betty, a story about a creative, curious, and exuberant young girl who has big plans and an even bigger heart. Busy Betty has always been busy . . . even when she was just a baby! When Betty gives Frank a big hug, she realizes he needs a bath, PRONTO! Her best friend, Mae, is coming over, and Betty can’t have the smelliest dog in the whole world! But giving Frank a bath is harder than she thought and just when everything seems impossible, with Mae’s help, Betty learns she can accomplish anything with perseverance, teamwork, and one great idea. From Reese Witherspoon comes a smart and larger-than-life character who encourages young readers to celebrate what makes them unique and realize that anything is possible!
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 735 votes, reviews

Reese Witherspoon

Xindi Yan

Strong Female Leads, Diverse Leads, Thinking Big

When Grace's teacher reveals that the United States has never had a female president, Grace decides to be the first. And she immediately starts off her political career as a candidate the school's mock election! Author Kelly DiPucchio not only gives readers a fun introduction to the American electoral system, but also teaches them the value of hard work, courage, and independent thought--and offers an inspiring example of how to choose our leaders.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 721 votes, reviews

Kelly DiPucchio

LeUyen Pham

Thinking Big

Here comes another heartfelt picture book from bestselling author Nancy Tillman, this time about resilience and reaching one's goals. I knew you could do it! I knew that you could! Of everyone out there I knew that you would. A celebration of everyday accomplishments as well as life’s milestones, I Knew You Could Do It applauds anyone who has overcome hurdles and challenges, and also cheers them into the future. And for anyone who needs an infusion of support or reassurance, it tells them, "I believe in you."
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 698 votes, reviews

Nancy Tillman

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Music, Thinking Big, African American Leads, Caldecott Medal

The Caldecott Honor and Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award-winning picture book biography from Grammy-nominated musician Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews and celebrated illustrator Bryan Collier “Who’s that playing out there?” Bo Diddley asked the New Orleans crowd. It was a small child who’d been nicknamed “Trombone Shorty” because his trombone was twice as large as he was. Trombone Shorty was lifted in the air and carried through the audience until he reached the stage with Bo Diddley. He has been onstage ever since. Hailing from the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, where music always floated in the air, Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews didn’t always have the money to buy an instrument, but he did have the dream to play music. This is the story of how he made his dream take flight. Today, Troy Andrews is a Grammy-nominated musician who tours the world with his band, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue. He continues to inspire hope for the next generation in New Orleans and for music lovers everywhere.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 624 votes, reviews

Troy Andrews

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Bryan Collier

Thinking Big, Celebrity Authors, Diverse Leads

Based on supermodel Georgie Badiel’s childhood, a young girl dreams of bringing clean drinking water to her African village With its wide sky and warm earth, Princess Gie Gie’s kingdom is a beautiful land. But clean drinking water is scarce in her small African village. And try as she might, Gie Gie cannot bring the water closer; she cannot make it run clearer. Every morning, she rises before the sun to make the long journey to the well. Instead of a crown, she wears a heavy pot on her head to collect the water. After the voyage home, after boiling the water to drink and clean with, Gie Gie thinks of the trip that tomorrow will bring. And she dreams. She dreams of a day when her village will have cool, crystal-clear water of its own. Inspired by the childhood of African–born model Georgie Badiel, acclaimed author Susan Verde and award-winning author/illustrator Peter H. Reynolds have come together to tell this moving story. As a child in Burkina Faso, Georgie and the other girls in her village had to walk for miles each day to collect water. This vibrant, engaging picture book sheds light on this struggle that continues all over the world today, instilling hope for a future when all children will have access to clean drinking water.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 620 votes, reviews

Susan Verde

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Peter H. Reynolds

Thinking Big, Black History

A New York Times Best Illustrated Book Critically acclaimed author Jabari Asim and Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator E. B. Lewis give readers a fascinating glimpse into the boyhood of Civil Rights leader John Lewis. John wants to be a preacher when he grows up—a leader whose words stir hearts to change, minds to think, and bodies to take action. But why wait? When John is put in charge of the family farm’s flock of chickens, he discovers that they make a wonderful congregation! So he preaches to his flock, and they listen, content under his watchful care, riveted by the rhythm of his voice. Celebrating ingenuity and dreaming big, this inspirational story, featuring Jabari Asim’s stirring prose and E. B. Lewis’s stunning, light-filled impressionistic watercolor paintings, includes an author’s note about John Lewis, who grew up to be a member of the Freedom Riders, chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, and demonstrator on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama. John Lewis is now a Georgia congressman, who is still an activist today, recently holding a sit-in on the House floor of the U.S. Capitol to try to force a vote on gun violence. His March: Book Three recently won the National Book Award, as well as the American Library Association's Coretta Scott King Author Award, Printz Award, and Sibert Award.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 594 votes, reviews

Jabari Asim

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E. B. Lewis

Thinking Big

Learn more about each of your favourite dreamers with new in-depth stories, facts and figures in this beautifully crafted compendium.Each story is rewritten to be appropriate for an older audience. Revisit best-loved figures from the series and some new ones, too, including Frida Kahlo, Coco Chanel, Maya Angelou, Amelia Earhart, David Attenborough, Greta Thunberg, Elton John, John Lennon, Malala Yousafzai, Mindy Kaling, and Prince. From inspiring artists and passionate climate activists to intrepid explorers and groundbreaking musicians, this collection goes further than the original series into the lives of these iconic figures, perfect for curious minds who always want to know more! Printed with gold gilded page edges and with an interior reading ribbon, this luxury keepsake treasury makes the perfect gift for holidays, birthdays, and more. Each of the beautifully written biographies is accompanied by a timeline, featuring extra information, important dates and real photos. Little People, BIG DREAMS is a bestselling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream. This empowering series offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardback versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. Boxed gift sets allow you to collect a selection of the books by theme. Paper dolls, learning cards, matching games and other fun learning tools provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children. Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 478 votes, reviews

Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

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Caldecott Medal, Nature Lovers, Thinking Big

From the New York Times best-selling author behind The Quiet Book comes a mindful contemplation on the many ways nature affects our everyday lives, even when we're stuck inside. Five starred reviews! Perfect for fans of Joyce Sidman and Julie Fogliano, Outside In reminds emerging readers of the ways nature creates and touches our lives in homes, apartments, and cars, and is the perfect homeschooling tool to reflect on the world's connectedness. Outside is waiting, the most patient playmate of all. The most generous friend. The most miraculous inventor. This thought-provoking picture book poetically underscores our powerful and enduring connection with nature, not so easily obscured by lives spent indoors. Rhythmic, powerful language shows us how our world is made and the many ways Outside comes in to help and heal us, and reminds us that we are all part of a much greater universe. Emotive illustrations evoke the beauty, simplicity, and wonder that await us all . . . outside.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 407 votes, reviews

Deborah Underwood

Cindy Derby

Art, Thinking Big

This is a story of an artist who, from his earliest years, draws. The artist draws a star! Then, the tree, house, flowers, clouds, rainbow, and night. In drawing, he discovers not only his art, but his life. Holding on to his star, he creates a world of light and possibility. With his brilliant collage, poignant and powerful in its simplicity, Eric Carle creates an unforgettable story that celebrates imagination and the artist in us all.
average rating is 4.6 out of 5, based on 389 votes, reviews

Eric Carle

Thinking Big

Powerhouse team Douglas Wood and Jon J Muth present a sequel to Old Turtle, the award-winning wisdom tale of peace and love for the earth. Seekers of all ages have been inspired by the stirring message of Old Turtle, the beloved, award-winning wisdom tale of peace. Now Old Turtle returns in a timeless story about love, acceptance, and the nature of truth.Long ago, as truth descended onto earth, it split in two: one piece landing among the people and the other blazing through the sky. When the people discover the piece of truth, it gives them strength and happiness. But over time, it turns them arrogant and greedy. They do not share their truth with others, wars rage on, and the earth begins to suffer. Then a Little Girl eager for change journeys to find Old Turtle, seeking the precious piece of wisdom that will mend the people's broken truth, making it -- and them -- whole once again.Douglas Wood's stirring and eloquent fable, soulfully illustrated in luminous watercolor by Jon J Muth, offers readers of all ages inspiration, hope, and a healing vision of peace.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 306 votes, reviews

Douglas Wood

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Jon J Muth

Thinking Big, Diverse Leads

From debut author Antwan Eady and artist Gracey Zhang comes a glowing tale about the young dreaming big. A perfect story to demonstrate how pride in where we come from can bring a shining confidence. When Nigel looks up at the moon, his future is bright. He imagines himself as…an astronaut, a dancer, a superhero, too! Among the stars, he twirls. With pride, his chest swells. And his eyes, they glow. Nigel is the most brilliant body in the sky. But it’s Career Week at school, and Nigel can’t find the courage to share his dreams. It’s easy to whisper them to the moon, but not to his classmates—especially when he already feels out of place. * A Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year * Kids' Indie Next List Pick * A SLJ Best Book of 2022 *
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 270 votes, reviews

Antwan Eady

Gracey Zhang

Thinking Big

Sometimes being small can have its advantages. If you're a little cloud like Cloudette, people call you cute nicknames, and you can always find a good spot to watch the fireworks. But what about when you want to do something big, like help a giant garden grow, or make a brook babble? This charming book gets at the heart of what it means to make a difference no matter your size. Young children will find much to relate to in Cloudette as they follow her on her pursuit for greatness.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 265 votes, reviews

Tom Lichtenheld

Gardening, Thinking Big, Diverse Leads

Discover the incredible true story of Harlem Grown, a lush garden in New York City that grew out of an abandoned lot and now feeds a neighborhood. Once In a big city called New York In a bustling neighborhood There was an empty lot. Nevaeh called it the haunted garden. Harlem Grown tells the inspiring true story of how one man made a big difference in a neighborhood. After seeing how restless they were and their lack of healthy food options, Tony Hillery invited students from an underfunded school to turn a vacant lot into a beautiful and functional farm. By getting their hands dirty, these kids turned an abandoned space into something beautiful and useful while learning about healthy, sustainable eating and collaboration. Five years later, the kids and their parents, with the support of the Harlem Grown staff, grow thousands of pounds of fruits and vegetables a year. All of it is given to the kids and their families. The incredible story is vividly brought to life with Jessie Hartland’s “charmingly busy art” (Booklist) that readers will pore over in search of new details as they revisit this poignant and uplifting tale over and over again. Harlem Grown is an independent, not-for-profit organization. The author’s share of the proceeds from the sale of this book go directly to Harlem Grown.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 242 votes, reviews

Tony Hillery

Jessie Hartland

Thinking Big, Being Yourself

This all-new board book primer—from the multimillion-copy best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series—introduces the youngest dreamers to the world’s best-loved leaders. “Hello little leader! Let’s learn about braveness, and boldness, and kindness. There’s plenty of leaders who were once young like you.” Including cherished favorites, as well as some new, leaders from the series, introduce your baby to great leaders from history and today. With all-new lyrical text that is fun to read out loud to baby, this inspiring board book includes colorful, captivating illustrations of Rosa Parks, Greta Thunberg, Martin Luther King Jr., Malala Yousafzai, Harriet Tubman, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Mahatma Gandhi, and Corazon Aquino. Leaders is the perfect first empowerment primer for babies and toddlers.
average rating is 4.6 out of 5, based on 102 votes, reviews

Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

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Lisbeth Kaiser

Graduation, Thinking Big

A perfect gift for every milestone and big moment―from graduation to new beginnings―You Will Do Great Things is a lyrical, magical picture book about the great possibilities that lie ahead for our little ones. A young boy's imagination takes off as he gazes at family photos, whisking him off on a fantastical journey. Along the way, the boy tries exciting and bold new things, ventures into unexplored worlds, and forms deep connections with his multicultural heritage and the ancestors who imbue him with the strength and courage to make a difference. Amerie has written a moving, sweeping, and deeply loving story that is inspired by her own family. It is a celebration of everything our little ones have yet to do: the great, the amazing, the strange, and the new. It's also a lasting reminder that the loved ones in our lives will always be right there beside us―and in our hearts―cheering us on. An absolutely perfect gift for special moments from baby showers and new baby celebrations, to graduations, and everything in between.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 91 votes, reviews

Amerie

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Raissa Figueroa

Diverse Leads, Thinking Big

Help your little one dream big with a Little Golden Book biography about President Barack Obama! The perfect introduction to nonfiction for preschoolers! This Little Golden Book about Barack Obama--the 44th President of the United States and the country's first Black president--is an inspiring read-aloud for young girls and boys.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 80 votes, reviews

Frank Berrios

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Kristin Sorra

Folktales, Thinking Big

Cordelia can fly. Over the ocean and up with the birds. Until one day, she hears the whispers: people can't fly; it's impossible. And suddenly, Cordelia can't. Or can she? Cordelia is a modern-day fable about believing in yourself - and flying wherever you want to go.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 66 votes, reviews

Michelle Nelson-Schmidt

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Thinking Big, Perseverance

Do you love thinking up new ideas? Do you jump from one idea to the next? Would you rather start tomorrow? Or is your brain just brimming with ideas, ready to burst? Join Sozi, the enthusiastic star of The Best Book in the World, as she experiences the elation, struggle, and triumph of making ideas happen. It won't be easy, but Sozi is ready for any obstacle that may stand in her way. Her Idea is a story for all ages and a tale about getting to THE END. Featuring immersive illustrations and bold colors, Her Idea is sure to captivate and inspire readers of all ages, encouraging creativity, and bringing the fruits of imagination to life.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 8 votes, reviews

Rilla Alexander

Thinking Big

meaningful additions

Children learn and hear more than we think.  Books provide context for new and potentially confusing topics, and give caregivers a way to approach complex topics.

Balanced Rocks
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