Picture Book Authors A to Z: "H" is for Henkes
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I didn’t even have to think about whom to select to represent the letter “H.” Kevin Henkes is one of my favorite authors for children. Both his picture books and chapter books are always delightful. He has received the Caldecott Award for “Kitten’s First Full Moon” in 2005, and a Newbery Honor for “Olive’s Ocean.”
I trekked up to Santa Rosa when I heard Henkes (Pronounced Henk-us) was going to appear at a reading and book signing a few years ago. As I was getting out of my car, I recognized Mr. Henkes crossing the parking lot. I meekly followed behind, not knowing what to say… and he turned, smiled, and held the door open for me. So, not only is a gifted writer and illustrator, he is a true gentleman.
You can take a look at the official Kevin Henkes website here.
Here are some Kevin Henkes picture books available in our library system:
Chester’s Way
Chester and Wilson share the same exact way of doing things, until Lilly moves into the neighborhood and shows them that new ways can be just as good. This was my first introduction to Henkes, and I have followed Lilly’s continuing adventures with joy.
A Good Day A bird, a fox, a dog, and a squirrel overcome minor setbacks to have a very good day.
Julius, the Baby of the World
My go to book on the arrival of a new sibling. Lilly is convinced that the arrival of her new baby brother is the worst thing that has happened in their house, until Cousin Garland comes to visit.
Kitten’s First Full Moon
When Kitten mistakes the full moon for a bowl of milk, she ends up tired, wet, and hungry trying to reach it. Charming, and deserving of the sought after Caldecott Medal.
Jessica
Ruthie does everything with her imaginary friend Jessica; and then on her first day at kindergarten, she meets a real new friend with the same name.
Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse
Lilly loves everything about school, especially her teacher, but when he asks her to wait a while before showing her new purse, she does something for which she is very sorry later.
Little White Rabbit
As he hops along, a little rabbit wonders what it would be like to be green as grass, tall as fir trees, hard as rocks, and flutter like butterflies.
Owen
Owen's parents try to get him to give up his favorite blanket before he starts school, but when their efforts fail, they come up with a solution that makes everyone happy.
Shhhh
A little girl quietly explores her sleeping house before she wakes everyone up.
Author Bio:
DeAnn O. has been a children’s librarian for over 15 years; she is a long time bibliophile, children’s advocate, and book reviewer for School Library Journal.
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