Marvelous Adventures in Illustrative Read-Alouds!

Call up your zest and zeal! Let's enjoy stories of fun and play in picture books all about trying things — from a witch who decides to eat candy instead of children, a pup's very brave encounter with the biggest slide around, a girl who shares her special culture with new friends, and trucks upon trucks to encounter anew!

This event includes the imaginations of MELISSA de la CRUZ, DANIEL KIRK, COSTANTIA MANOLI and NIK HENDERSON in a wonderful Picture Book Panel that's designed to offer delightful read-aloud moments, as each author and artist swaps stories about their diverse inspirations!

Dona Esmeralda, Who Ate Everything, by MELISSA DE LA CRUZ! There once lived a lady from the Philippines named Doña Esmeralda. She had a big bouffant hairdo and was much smaller than you. Yet she was always hungry to eat kids just like you, until she learned all about snacks...

The Big Slide, by DANIEL KIRK! Little Pup isn't as little as he used to be, and he'd love to try out the playground's big slide. Day after day he eyes it, but he just can't seem to work up the nerve. Learn who helps him out in this adorable adventure!

Trucks on Trucks, illustrated by NIK HENDERSON! Trucks on Trucks hits the highways and the byways while exploring basic concepts such as size, shape, colors, and more! This picture book is perfect for truck and vehicle lovers everywhere!

Tomatoes in My Lunchbox, by COSTANTIA MANOLI! Sometimes, all it takes is one friend and one connection to bring two worlds together. Gradually, one girl, her tomato, and her true name start to feel at home with her new country and new community.

Picture Book Delights!