Catching Up with Some Recent Reads

Random House Children's Books
Published 1990

Show of hands... how many of you know Dr. Seuss's annual bestseller, 
OH, THE PLACES YOU'LL GO? It is classic Seuss in every respect, and is a perennial NYT bestseller as a perfect book gift during the spring season of graduations, leaving-for-college (or camp), or even beginning a new job. It appeals to the youngest in rollicking verse and colorful images, but the undeniable truth is that the message it contains resonates as much or more with those transitioning and facing new challenges.
I've "gifted" it to more people than I can count. 

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, May, 2015

As soon as WHEREVER YOU GO released, my advance order copies showed up in my mailbox.
This brilliant new picture book release with words by Pat Zietlow Miller and art by Eliza Wheeler has nudged my old favorite aside. Miller's minimal but fluid text spins across the pages like the hum of bicycle wheels, rising and falling, twisting and turning the reader on a journey of  joyful possibilities. It glows, it gleams, it promises both unexpected surprises and familiar comforts. 
Wheeler's illustrations achieve the magic of scaffolding, elevating, and enhancing that text with similarly fluid grace. Her details carry countless "subplots" throughout while never distracting from the central character's magical experiences. 
It's already a favorite and a genuine "keeper", but I'll also be "gifting" it countless times.

In the coming days (weeks?) I'll catch up some other recent reads here. For now, spend a few minutes exploring what others have said about the wonders of WHEREVER YOU GO. Artist Eliza Wheeler describes the process she used to create her art in this post on Picture Book Builders blog, here.
Then read this Kirkus starred review, here, and Publishers' Weekly starred review here.
You'll be hopping on your own wheels to get to the library and check it out. 
Then buy a copy for yourself or for someone you love.