cover image Sharon, Lois & Bram’s Skinnamarink

Sharon, Lois & Bram’s Skinnamarink

Sharon Hampson, Lois Lillienstein, and Bram Morrison, with Randi Hampson, illus. by Qin Leng. Tundra, $17.99 (40p) ISBN 978-0-735264-06-9

One of the world’s best-loved children’s songs is now a picture book, with extended verses that are as catchy and joyful as the original 1978 tune. The poignant, simple message of encouragement and love remains as resonant and pertinent as ever. Verses expand upon the theme of empathy, helping children to understand that love persists through transient moods and behaviors. Leng’s ink-and-watercolor illustrations are as effervescent as the melody, with a soft wit and charm reminiscent of Quentin Blake’s work. Each colorful spread bursts with life and inclusivity (families of all sorts show each other care; a child in a wheelchair dances alongside a hijabi girl), welcoming readers into detailed commotion and celebration. A joyful sing-aloud book that will have readers humming its tune long after its covers are closed. Ages 3–7. (Sept.)