Here at Cincinnati Moms Blog, we are passionate about literacy and children’s books! (Not only do we all read to our children, but we’ve got one contributor who’s a children’s book author, one contributor who’s a reading teacher, one contributor who’s a consultant for an independent children’s book company, and two who work at a children’s bookstore!) We pride ourselves on choosing high-quality books for our children that are engaging and contain themes and topics that children both enjoy and need. We use books to empower, encourage, and educate our children, and we are pleased to share our favorite children’s books with all of you!
Zombelina
“Zombelina is exactly what it appears to be. A cute, well-written, whimsical book about a little zombie girl who loves to dance. But, it is more than that. It is also a story about a loving family and the importance of pursuing your dreams, even when some might say you shouldn’t. I highly recommend this book for Halloween because it certainly goes with the theme of the holiday, but remains more endearing than scary, so it’s good for even the younger kids. And I love that it is not your typical pumpkin story.” -Sarah
Frankenstein Makes a Sandwich
“One of the things that attracts me to children’s books is the artwork, and these days nobody comes close to Adam Rex’s illustrations. They’re a perfect blend of silliness with a little hint of creepy, perfect for a kid who loves monsters but hates being afraid. As far as the book itself, it is jam-packed with goofy poems about monsters and creatures. They’re cute and goofy enough to appeal to children, but as an adult reading the book to a kid, there are a lot of clever lines and references that appeal to the parents as well. It’s sequel, “Frankenstein Takes the Cake,” is just as good.” -David
The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything 
“This book could be a bit scary for wee ones, but it’s super funny, and an enchanting read-aloud. It has great sound effects and a very non-scary ending.” -Kelli
The Legend of Spookley the Square Pumpkin
“I found this book on the clearance rack at Barnes & Noble a few years ago and was so surprised when it became the very first favorite book in our house. Spookley is such a sweet and practical story with so many possible conversation topics for kiddos. There’s the obvious focus on each person being unique and special (and that being different is ok), but my favorite part is Spookley USES what makes him special and different to help others. It’s a great reminder that we are each created with unique gifts and for a specific purpose.” -Casey
Little Bat: Finger Puppet Book (Little Finger Puppet Board Books)
“We love this book because although it is small and quick, the finger puppet makes it really interactive! Audrey is 2 years old and loves it!” -Chrissy
“My husband brought this book home a couple of weeks ago and I immediately loved it. Not only are the stark black, white, and orange illustrations unique and beautiful, but the story is sweet! A clever little witch finds many uses for the ghosts haunting her new house, including making them into curtains, sofa covers, and bed sheets. In the end, everyone is happy, including the ghosts, and it demonstrates problem-solving and not giving up when faced with a challenge!” -Jesika
Duck and Goose Find a Pumpkin
“Ian just read this book at daycare this week and loved it! The pictures are beautiful and the story is very simple and engaging for children under 3. I’m pretty sure Ian liked this one so much because it asks a series of questions about if the pumpkin is here, or there, and the answer to each is “no!” until the very end (which happens to be one of his favorite words). Duck and Goose is a great series!” -Beth
Room on the Broom
“This is a great Halloween book for all ages! The rhyming tale is engaging and kindness and generosity are the overreaching themes in the story.” -Christina
