Flora and the Flamingo by Molly Idle

Available in Print and eBook.

A few words on the wordless book, “Flora and the Flamingo.” What did you say, a wordless book? Nothing but pictures? Huh? Can it be? Yes, it can.

A flamingo lands into view on the title page, and takes a regal stand. But then, we see a swim flipper peak out and the story between the two characters begins. Mimicry and antics prevail, until one gets their feelings hurt. All ends well, however, as the new fast friends cannonball into a gigantic splash of water. Each bows to the other in mutual respect on the acknowledgement page.

Many times illustrations in a picture book begin and end on pages we aren’t used to, even on end papers of a book. It is always good to read a book from cover to cover, literally. You never know how an author wants their children’s story to flow. And Molly Idle is no exception in this book.

In 2015, the wonderful Flora and her Flamingo buddy was selected as a Caldecott Honor Book for that year. I’m not always a fan of pink; but this lift-the-flap book is the real-deal feel-good book on the 101 Picture Book Challenge list! Apple blossoms, pink, flamingos, and the magic of children prevail in this magnificent story; with no words. No words. Who knew?

The Farmer and the Clown by Marla Frazee

A baby clown is separated from his family when he accidentally bounces off their circus train and lands in a lonely farmer’s vast, empty field. The farmer reluctantly rescues the little clown, and over the course of one day together, the two of them make some surprising discoveries about themselves—and about life! A terrific wordless picture book from two-time Caldecott Honor medalist Marla Frazee.

“Mr. Wuffles” by David Wiesner

In a near wordless masterpiece that could only have been devised by David Wiesner, a cat named Mr. Wuffles doesn’t care about toy mice or toy goldfish. He’s much more interested in playing with a little spaceship full of actual aliens.

Also available in eVideo.

“Bluebird” by Bob Staake

In his most beautiful and moving work to date, Bob Staake explores the universal themes of loneliness, bullying, and the importance of friendship. In this emotional picture book, readers will be captivated as they follow the journey of a bluebird as he develops a friendship with a young boy and ultimately risks his life to save the boy from harm.