Upcoming Children's Books - For January 2016

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With December quickly passing us by, I have my eyes set towards 2016 - and the new books that will be released soon. Here's a preview of 5 exciting books to keep an eye out for.

"Star Wars: I Am A Droid"
A Little Golden Book illustrated by Chris Kennett

Release Date: January 6th, 2016
Formats: Kindle - $4.99   Hardcover - $3.80
For ages 2-5

From the Amazon product page: 
"Meet R2-D2, C-3PO, and all the loyal droids from the epic Star Wars space saga! Featuring stunning retro illustrations, this book is perfect for Star Wars-and Little Golden Book-fans of all ages."

With Star Wars Episode 7 hitting theaters December 18th, 2015, the merchandise and product offerings of this brand have exploded - in a big way. You can't go anywhere without seeing a reference, and the Kindle store is no exception. Offered by Little Golden Books, this Star Wars book is the perfect choice for your pint sized fan.

"I Am Martin Luther King Jr." (Ordinary People Change the World Series)Written By: Brad MeltzerIllustrated by: Christopher Eliopoulos

Release Date: January 5th, 2016
Formats: Kindle - $9.99  Hardcover $10.43
For ages 5-8

From the Amazon Product Page:
"Even as a child, Martin Luther King, Jr. was shocked by the terrible and unfair way African-American people were treated. When he grew up, he decided to do something about it—peacefully, with powerful words. He helped gather people together for nonviolent protests and marches, and he always spoke up about loving other human beings and doing what’s right. He spoke about the dream of a kinder future, and bravely led the way toward racial equality in America."

The value of this series of books cannot be understated. Kid friendly and approachable, this series presents historical characters in a way children can relate to - and want to learn about. Releasing in time for Martin Luther King Jr. day, this book will make a fabulous addition to your growing bookshelf.

"Wonder Woman To the Rescue!" (DC Super Friends) Written By: Courtney CarboneIllustrated By: Erik Doescher

Release Date: January 5th, 2016
Formats: Kindle - $4.99  Library Binding - $11.04  Paperback - $4.99
For ages 4 - 6


From the Amazon Product page:
"Wonder Woman and the DC Super Friends star in this all-new Step into Reading book. Girls and boys ages 4 to 6 will love learning about the most iconic heroine of all time in this Step 2 leveled reader!"

I am including this one on the list because I know I will be buying it for my eldest daughter. She loves all things Wonder Woman and it's refreshing to see the Publishers increasing the line offering this iconic heroine. 

"Heart Picked: Elizabeth's Adoption Tale"Written By: Sara CrutcherIllustrated by: Romney Vasquez

Release Date: January 5th, 2016 (released early, on sale now)
Formats: Hardcover - $12.27
For ages: 3 - 8


From the Amazon Product Page:
"Six-year-old Elizabeth is excited to have her dad visit school today but worries some of her classmates might notice they don't look alike. How will Elizabeth respond when her friend says, That's your dad? You don't look like him."

Books about real families and real situations are hitting the market with more frequency these days, which is a blessing and a boon for families of all creeds. This delightful little book presents the love and reality of adoption and race in a beautiful way, making it treasure both you and your child are sure to adore. 

"Silly Wonderful YOU"Written By: Sherri Dusky RinkerIllustrated By: Patrick McDonnell

Release Date: January 5th, 2016
Formats: Kindle - $9.99  Hardcover - $13.49
For ages 4 - 8

From the Amazon Product Page:

"Before YOU came along, so many things were different! But now . . .There's laughter, a house full of adventures and toys, a million little surprises. . . . And so much love."

From the Bestselling Author of "Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site" comes a new tale of acceptance and uniqueness - this one highlighting the joy and love of early childhood. I have already pre-ordered and I can't wait to read this one to my girls! 

This is just a small sampling of the books coming out early next year, I will try to post more soon!

Update! - Review: "Twas the Night Before Christmas - Edited by Santa Clause for the Benefit of Children of the 21st Century."

Please be aware that this post contains affiliate links, all opinions expressed are my own.

Twas The Night Before Christmas: Edited by Santa Claus for the Benefit of Children of the 

21 Century

By: Clement C. Moore

Illustrated By: Elena Almazova & Vitaly Shvrov

Available:

Kindle: $0.99

Hardcover: $13.26

Paperback: $7.95

When I was a kid my mother read us the "Twas the Night Before Christmas" EVERY Christmas Eve. We had hot coca, snuggled in to our new pajamas and listened to a tale we could recite by heart. These moments forged lasting memories that I want to be able to help my children form as well - in much the same way.

During one of my frequent deal hunting expeditions on the Amazon Kindle page, I came across this book and noted the sub-title: "Edited By Santa Claus for the Benefit of the Children of the 21st Century." Picturing a new take on the old rhyme, I giggled and bought it, imagining mentions of iPads or computer screens. Alas, this is not the case - this book IS the classic tale, right down to the reindeer and new fallen snow.

UPDATE:
I made a mistake in my original post, one I noticed when I was reading this book to my girls tonight. While this is the classic tale, they have removed all mention of a pipe or smoke, hence the 'Edited' aspect of the title, and book. My apologies.

Pros:
This book will never get old, though some of the references in it will. It is a familiar tale and will entertain your kids as much as it entertained you. The update revolves around the illustrations - they are lively and very kid friendly with a colorful Santa that resembles everything a young child could hope for.

Cons:
Honestly, there aren't any - save for the fact I really hoped this was a new version and truly updated for a modern generation. That said, it is a classic for a reason and this Kindle version should definitely make it's way into your eBook library.

Final:
A buy. 5 stars.