Jazz Baby by Lisa Wheeler

This razzy, jazzy picture book will make you want to get up and dance. Daddy puts a record on and the tapping, and the snapping, and the clapping begin, with baby in the center of the action. The beat brings in the extended family and even the neighbors get in on the dancing. The illustrations are as energetic and joyful as the text. A great read aloud for pre-K-1 with lots of opportunities for audience participation.

The All-I'll-Ever-Want Christmas Doll by Patricia C. McKissack

Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney.
This beautiful picture book is set in the "poorest place in America" during the Depression. Laura wants a Baby Betty doll of her very own. however, Santa brings one doll for three sisters and the girls are told by their father to "work this out." Pinkney's rich watercolors portray a warm family life during a cold and challenging time. Based on a true story, McKissack' s telling provides a wonderful lesson on sharing.
Grades K-3.

Jesse Owens: Fastest Man Alive by Carole Boston Weatherford

Illustrated by Eric Velasquez
This is a well-researched, poetic, second-person tribute to Jesse Owens (Go Jesse, Go. Trounce Jim Crow). Details are provided about how he won four Olympic gold medals as well as the controversy surrounding his accomplishments. Nice pastel illustrations add to the story. The final pages provide a summary of his life and a bibliography of titles for further reading.
Grades 2-6.