In the midst of summertime, we are all dreaming of faraway places and destinations. Transport yourself and your child to another place with one of our July book picks!

“Seashells, Crabs and Seastars” by Christiane Kump Tibbitts and Illustrated by Linda Garrow
A wave of inviting information washes ashore with “Seashells, Crabs and Seastars” written by Christiane Kumb Tibbitts that will help you discover more than just sand between your toes during your next trip to the shore. Find out more about the exciting sea world by learning to identify seashells, crabs and sea stars in this take-along educational guide.

“The Old Pirate of Central Park” by Robert Preist
In this quirky story, two stubborn souls, a retired pirate and a retired queen, do battle in the sailboat pond in Central Park. Inspired by memories of his past, the Old Pirate has built a replica of his sailing ship, the Laughing Dog. But when he takes it to the park to launch it in the pond, he finds the waters are not so friendly. The S.S. Uppity Duchess is unwilling to share the seas and takes aim at the Laughing Dog. Find out who will rule the waves in this tale of adventure and friendship found in New York City.

“All the Water in the World” by George Ella Lyon and Illustrated by Katherine Tillotson
From the lush ocean swirls to the pelting streaks of rain, “All the Water in the World” takes the reader through the water cycle, teaching about the familiar subject in a way that relays passion and artistry.

“Press Here” by Herve Tulle
Press the yellow dot on the cover of this book, follow the instructions and embark upon a magical journey! Each page of this surprising book instructs the reader to press the dots, shake the pages, tilt the book and more. Children and adults will giggle with delight as the dots multiply, change direction and grow in size. This unique picture book about the power of imagination and interactivity will provide read-aloud fun for all ages!

“The Duckling Gets a Cookie?!” By Mo Willems
The Pigeon is back! And his most recent story centers around an adorable little Duckling who gets a cookie just by asking – politely. Just by asking?! Politely reminds the Duckling, but the Pigeon is already off on a hilarious rant about all the things he asks for (many of which readers of the earlier Pigeon books will remember) and ending with the all-too-familiar refrain, “It’s not fair.” This book has a great message about the power of politeness and the rewards of sharing (warning: cookies are involved), but the story never loses the jovial, high-spirited quality that makes the Pigeon books so popular with kids and adults alike.